Choosing the Right Bedside Tables for Your UK Home

A bedside table is more than just a surface for your lamp and alarm clock. It’s a crucial piece of bedroom furniture that frames your bed, provides essential storage and completes the look of your personal sanctuary. Yet, finding the right one can be a challenge. With so many styles, sizes and materials available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the options. As the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to provide clear, practical advice to help you find a bedside table that not only suits your style but also meets your everyday needs, from storing your nightly reading to keeping your essentials within arm's reach.

How to Select the Perfect Bedside Table

Before you start browsing, considering a few key factors will help you narrow down your search and make a more informed decision.

1. Measure Your Space and Consider Scale

The first step is to measure the available space next to your bed. A common guideline is to choose a bedside table that is roughly the same height as the top of your mattress, or a few centimetres shorter. This makes it easy to reach for items without straining. Also, consider the width. If you have a large bed in a spacious room, you might opt for a wider table, whereas a small bedside table is often the ideal solution for more compact bedrooms or guest rooms, providing function without cluttering the space.

2. Decide on Your Storage Needs

Think about what you need to store. Do you prefer a tidy, minimalist surface, or do you need to tuck away books, chargers and other personal items?

• Bedside table with drawers: This is a popular choice for keeping clutter out of sight. Two or three drawers offer ample space for organising essentials.
• Open Shelving: A table with an open shelf provides easy access to items you use frequently, like a book or tablet.
• Bedside Cabinet UK: A model with a cupboard door offers concealed storage for larger items, combining the benefits of a cabinet with the convenience of a bedside unit.

3. Match the Material and Style to Your Décor

The material and colour of your bedside table play a significant role in your room's overall aesthetic.

• Oak Bedside Table: A timeless choice known for its durability and warm, natural grain. It works well in both traditional and contemporary settings.
• Grey or White Bedside Table: These neutral colours are incredibly versatile. A grey bedside table can add a touch of modern sophistication, while a white bedside table creates a bright, clean and airy feel.
• Modern & Rattan Bedside Table: For a more contemporary or bohemian look, a modern bedside table with clean lines or a rattan bedside table featuring natural textures can introduce a stylish focal point.

Our Recommended Product Picks

Here are a few recommendations that cater to different styles and functional needs, selected to help you find a suitable match for your bedroom.

Bedside Table Windermere 3 Drawers Oak Top Grey/Natural

Why It Stands Out: This piece combines classic design with practical storage. The two-tone finish, featuring an oyster grey painted base and a natural solid oak top, offers a sophisticated look that complements a range of interiors. Its sturdy, chunky frame ensures it is a durable addition to your bedroom.

Pros:

• Extensive Storage: Three spacious drawers provide plenty of room to keep your bedside organised.
• Durable Build: The solid oak and oak veneer construction, along with a protective oil finish on the top, is built for longevity.
• Classic Details: Traditional silver-finish cup handles add a touch of timeless charm.
• No Assembly: Arrives fully assembled, so you can use it straight away.

Who is it for? This is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a substantial, traditional bedside table with drawers. Its generous storage and robust build make it ideal for a primary bedroom where both style and function are priorities.

Vida Designs Bedside Table Arlington 2 Drawers White/Oak Effect

Why It Stands Out: The Arlington bedside table brings a clean, minimalist aesthetic with its Shaker-inspired design. The neutral finish, combining white with an oak-effect top, allows it to blend seamlessly into various bedroom decors, from modern to more traditional country styles.

Pros:

• Versatile Style: The clean lines and neutral colour palette make it easy to match with existing furniture.
• Functional Storage: Two drawers offer a good amount of space for bedside necessities.
• Compact Dimensions: With a width of 45cm, it’s a great fit for rooms where space is a consideration.
• Classic Hardware: Simple knob handles complete the understated and elegant look.

Who is it for? Ideal for those who appreciate minimalist design and need a functional, no-fuss storage solution. Its versatile appearance makes this white bedside table a fitting choice for guest rooms or anyone looking for a piece that won't overpower their existing décor. Note that this item requires self-assembly.

HOMCOM Bedside Table Rattan 1 Door Oak Effect

Why It Stands Out: This rattan bedside table taps into the trend for natural textures, adding a touch of bohemian flair to any room. The combination of a concealed cupboard, an open shelf and a flat top provides a variety of storage and display options in one compact unit.

Pros:

• Mixed Storage: Offers a cupboard for hidden storage and an open shelf for easy-to-reach items.
• Stylish Design: The decorative rattan weave panel on the door adds visual interest and a modern, natural feel.
• Safety Feature: Includes anti-tipping hardware to securely attach the unit to a wall, which is important for safety.
• Raised Base: The legs provide a 15cm floor gap, creating a sense of space and making it easier to clean underneath.

Who is it for? Perfect for someone looking to add a contemporary, on-trend piece to their bedroom. The mixed storage is great for those who want both concealed and open organisation, making this modern bedside table as practical as it is stylish. Assembly is required, and wall attachment is mandatory for safety.

Looking for More Options?

If these specific styles don't quite match what you're looking for, or if you're furnishing a room with a consistent theme, there are many other possibilities to explore. For those who appreciate the enduring quality and warmth of wood, our broader collection offers a variety of designs.

Discover more styles in our oak furniture beds category to find the perfect companion for your bed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good height for a bedside table?

A good rule of thumb is to choose a bedside table that is level with the top of your mattress or up to 5-10 cm shorter. This height ensures you can comfortably reach for a glass of water or your phone without having to sit up completely.

How do I choose a bedside table that matches my bed?

You can either aim for a perfect match or a complementary contrast. For a cohesive look, select a bedside table from the same furniture range as your bed frame. For a more eclectic style, choose a table in a contrasting material or colour. For example, a grey bedside table can look striking next to a metal bed frame, while a wooden table can add warmth to an upholstered bed.

How much storage is enough for a bedside table?

This depends entirely on your personal habits. If you only need a place for a lamp and your phone, a simple table with one shelf might suffice. If you like to keep books, medication, chargers and other items nearby but out of sight, a bedside table with drawers or a cupboard is a much better option to maintain a tidy space.