Finding Your Perfect Bedside Table: Top Recommendations

A bedside table is one of the most personal and practical pieces of furniture in a home. It’s the final resting place for your book at night, the first thing you reach for in the morning and a key element in defining your bedroom's style. Yet, finding one that perfectly balances function, aesthetics and your budget can be a challenge. Too often, we settle for something that doesn't quite fit the space or offer the storage we need.

This guide is designed to simplify your search. As the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you navigate the options and understand what to look for. We will explore a few key considerations before showcasing some of our top recommendations that combine style, utility and value, helping you find the ideal companion for your bed.

How to Choose the Right Bedside Table for Your Space

Before you start browsing, thinking about a few key factors will ensure you select a piece that you'll be happy with for years to come.

1. Assess Your Storage Needs

Consider what you need to keep within arm's reach. Do you prefer a clean, minimalist surface or do you need space for books, chargers and other essentials?

• Bedside table with drawers: Ideal for tucking away clutter like charging cables, medication and personal items, keeping your sleep space serene and organised.
• Open shelving: A great option for displaying books, small plants or decorative objects. It keeps items accessible and contributes to an open, airy feel.
• Cupboards: A bedside cabinet with a door offers the most concealed storage, perfect for hiding larger or less sightly items.

Many designs offer a combination, giving you the flexibility of both hidden and open storage.

2. Match the Style to Your Décor

A bedside table should complement your room's existing aesthetic. Today's designs go far beyond simple wooden boxes, embracing a range of popular interior styles.

• A rattan bedside table introduces natural texture and warmth, fitting perfectly with bohemian, coastal or Scandi-inspired interiors.
• An industrial bedside table, often featuring a mix of wood-effect finishes and black metal frames, brings a raw, urban edge to a room.
• A modern bedside table is characterised by clean lines, minimalist forms and neutral colours, creating a sleek and sophisticated look.

3. Measure Your Space Carefully

Size is crucial for both function and visual balance. A common guideline is to choose a nightstand that is roughly level with the top of your mattress, making it comfortable to reach from bed. For width, ensure there is enough space for the table to sit comfortably without crowding the bed or blocking walkways. If you have a compact room, a small bedside table or a slim end table can be an excellent space-saving solution.

Recommended Bedside Tables

Here are a few standout options that cater to different styles and functional needs. Each is a flat-pack product, designed for self-assembly.

HOMCOM Bedside Table Rattan 1 Door Oak Effect

• Why It Stands Out: This table masterfully combines a natural, on-trend aesthetic with highly practical storage. The decorative rattan weave on the cupboard door adds a layer of texture and visual interest that can soften a room's look, while the oak-effect finish provides a warm, versatile base.

• Pros:

  • Features three types of storage: a concealed bottom cupboard, an open top shelf and a flat tabletop.
  • The rattan panel is a stylish accent that elevates the design.
  • Includes mandatory anti-tipping hardware for secure wall attachment, enhancing household safety.

• Who is it for: This is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to introduce a touch of natural or bohemian style into their bedroom. It’s perfect for those who appreciate having both open display space and a concealed cupboard to keep things tidy.

HOMCOM Bedside Table Modern Ridged 2 Drawers

• Why It Stands Out: With its clean, boxy silhouette and subtle ridged drawer fronts, this piece is the epitome of understated modern design. The handle-free drawers maintain a seamless look, while the sturdy steel legs add a touch of contemporary elegance and provide a stable base.

• Pros:

  • Two deep drawers provide generous storage for a clutter-free surface.
  • The minimalist design and neutral white or black finish complement a wide range of modern interiors.
  • Steel legs are fitted with protective footpads to prevent scratches on your flooring.

• Who is it for: Ideal for those who favour a minimalist or modern bedside table. If your priority is concealed storage to maintain a tidy, uncluttered aesthetic, the two spacious drawers make this a highly functional option.

Interiors by Premier Bedside Table Sherman 1 Drawer White/Rattan

• Why It Stands Out: This table offers a light, airy feel by pairing a classic white finish with a natural rattan drawer front. Its design provides a thoughtful mix of storage options, making it a versatile side table with storage for any room.

• Pros:

  • Balanced storage with one drawer, an open top shelf and a lower shelf.
  • The combination of white and natural rattan creates a fresh, Scandi-inspired look.
  • Its compact dimensions make it suitable for smaller spaces.

• Who is it for: A great fit for individuals looking for a bright and charming piece that blends rustic and modern elements. Its multi-level storage is perfect for those who want to keep some items handy and others neatly tucked away.

HOMCOM Bedside Table Industrial 2 Drawers Rustic Brown/Black

• Why It Stands Out: This table makes a confident statement with its new-industrial design. The fusion of a rustic brown wood-effect finish with a stark, matte black metal frame creates a look that is both rugged and refined. It’s built to be a durable and hardworking piece of furniture.

• Pros:

  • Extremely robust construction with a metal frame and a high total weight capacity of 80 kg.
  • Offers a mix of storage with two drawers and a spacious open shelf.
  • Features adjustable feet to ensure the unit remains stable and level, even on slightly uneven floors.

• Who is it for: This industrial bedside table is designed for fans of urban, loft-style or rustic décor. Its sturdy build and generous load capacity make it a practical choice for anyone needing a truly robust and functional bedroom side table.

Looking for More Options?

If these particular styles aren't quite what you had in mind, our collection extends to a wide variety of designs, materials and sizes. Whether you need something ultra-compact, a specific colour or a different configuration of drawers and shelves, there are more choices to discover.

Explore our full collection of bedside tables and nightstands to find your perfect match.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal height for a bedside table?

A good rule of thumb is to choose a bedside table that is approximately the same height as the top of your mattress, or within 5-10 cm of it. This ensures that you can comfortably reach for items like a glass of water or your alarm clock without straining.

What's the difference between a bedside table and a nightstand?

In the UK, the terms bedside table and nightstand are largely used interchangeably to describe a small table placed next to a bed. Some may consider a bedside cabinet to be a unit with more substantial storage, such as multiple drawers or a cupboard, but for most purposes, the terms are synonymous.

Can I use an end table as a bedside table?

Absolutely. An end table can be a fantastic alternative to a traditional bedside table, especially if you are trying to match other living room furniture or require a specific height or width. As long as it fits your space and provides the functionality you need, it can serve as a stylish and practical bedroom side table.