Choosing Your Perfect Bedside Table: Top Recommendations

A bedside table is more than just a surface for a lamp and an alarm clock. It’s a key piece of furniture that completes your bedroom’s look, provides essential storage and keeps your nighttime necessities within easy reach. But with so many styles, sizes and features available, finding the right one can feel overwhelming.

This guide is designed to simplify your search. We’ll walk you through the key considerations for choosing a bedside table and highlight a few of our top recommendations that balance style, function and value, helping you create a bedroom that is both organised and restful.

How to Choose the Right Bedside Table for Your Space

Before you start browsing, thinking about a few practical points can help you narrow down the options and find a piece that fits your room and your lifestyle perfectly.

1. Get the Proportions Right

The size of your nightstand is crucial for both aesthetics and function. A table that is too large can overwhelm a room, while one that's too small might look out of place and lack utility.

• Height: Aim for a bedside table that is roughly the same height as the top of your mattress, or perhaps 5-10 centimetres taller. This makes it easy to reach for a glass of water or turn off your alarm without stretching.
• Width: Consider the size of your bed and the available space. If you have a large bed, a wider table can look more balanced. For smaller rooms or tight spaces next to the bed, a small bedside table or a slim design is a more practical choice.

2. Assess Your Storage Needs

Think about what you need to store. Do you prefer a clean, minimalist surface or do you need space for books, electronics and other personal items?

• Drawers: A bedside table with drawers is an excellent option for keeping clutter out of sight. It’s perfect for storing charging cables, medication and other small items, maintaining a tidy appearance.
• Shelves: Open shelving offers easy access to items you use frequently, like books, magazines or a decorative object. Some designs offer a combination of both drawers and shelves for flexible storage.

3. Match Your Bedroom's Style

The right side table for your bedroom should complement your existing decor. Today’s popular interior trends offer plenty of inspiration.

• Modern & Minimalist: Look for clean lines, neutral colours and simple hardware. A modern bedside table often features smooth surfaces and an uncluttered design.
• Industrial: An industrial bedside table typically combines raw materials like metal and wood-effect finishes. Black metal frames paired with rustic brown wood tones are a hallmark of this style.
• Natural & Bohemian: For a softer, more organic feel, a rattan bedside table (or one with a rattan effect) can add warmth and texture to your space, fitting well with Scandinavian or coastal themes.

Top Bedside Table Recommendations

Here are a few standout options that cater to different needs and styles, selected for their design, functionality and overall value.

Galano Gio Bedside Table with Rattan Effect

Why It Stands Out: The Galano Gio table brings the popular rattan trend into the bedroom in a sleek, modern way. Its decorative rattan-effect drawer front, paired with a warm Oslo Oak finish, creates a light and airy feel. The slim, compact design makes it an ideal small bedside table for rooms where space is at a premium, without sacrificing style or storage.

Pros:

• Stylish rattan-effect design adds texture and visual interest.
• Space-saving dimensions (32W x 35D cm) are perfect for smaller bedrooms.
• A single drawer provides discreet storage for essentials.
• Versatile look complements modern, Scandinavian and bohemian decor.

Who is it for?: Anyone looking to add a touch of on-trend, natural texture to their bedroom, especially those with limited space.

HOMCOM Industrial Bedside Table with 2 Drawers

Why It Stands Out: This HOMCOM unit is a great example of an industrial bedside table done right. The combination of a rustic brown wood-effect finish and a sturdy, matte black metal frame creates a bold, contemporary look. It’s highly functional, offering mixed storage with two drawers for hidden items and an open shelf for books or display pieces. The adjustable feet are a practical touch, ensuring stability on any floor.

Pros:

• Striking two-tone industrial design.
• Excellent storage with two drawers and an open shelf.
• Durable metal frame provides a solid structure.
• Adjustable feet ensure the table remains level and stable.

Who is it for?: Those who appreciate industrial or urban design and need a good amount of organised storage by their bedside.

Ochama Set of 2 Nightstands with Charging Station

Why It Stands Out: This set of 2 bedside tables from Ochama is built for modern life. The standout feature is the integrated bedside table with charging station, which includes two standard sockets and two USB ports. This eliminates the need for messy extension leads and keeps your devices powered up within arm's reach. With three spacious drawers and a clean, minimalist black finish, this set offers incredible function and value.

Pros:

• Built-in power strip with 2 AC outlets and 2 USB ports.
• Sold as a set of 2 bedside tables, offering great value and a coordinated look.
• Ample storage with three deep drawers in each unit.
• Sleek, modern bedside table design with handle-free drawers suits contemporary decor.

Who is it for?: Anyone who wants the ultimate convenience of built-in charging and is looking for a complete, matching set for their bedroom.

Looking for a Different Colour or Style?

Our recommendations cover some of the most popular styles, but your perfect match might be something else entirely. A bold colour can transform a room and serve as a stunning focal point. If you're looking to add a pop of brightness to your space, why not explore our collection of yellow bedside tables for some vibrant inspiration?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between a bedside table and a nightstand? In the UK, the terms bedside table and nightstand are used interchangeably. Both refer to a small table or cabinet designed to be placed next to a bed. The choice of term is simply a matter of personal preference.

2. How tall should a bedside table be? For practical use, the ideal height for a bedside table is level with the top of your mattress, or just a few centimetres higher. This allows for easy access to anything on the table from a lying or sitting position in bed. We recommend measuring the height from your floor to the top of your mattress before you buy.

3. What should I keep on my bedside table? A well-organised bedside table holds your essentials without looking cluttered. Common items include a lamp, an alarm clock (or your phone), a glass of water and perhaps a book. A bedside table with drawers is particularly useful for stowing away less-used items like hand cream, charging cables and medication to keep the tabletop clear.