The right bedside table does more than just hold a lamp and your evening cuppa. It completes your bedroom's aesthetic, offering a final touch of personality and practical storage. The trend for natural textures has made the rattan bedside table a sought-after piece for UK homes, bringing a sense of warmth and relaxed style.
However, with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. You need a piece that not only looks good but also fits your space and meets your storage needs. As the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you navigate the choices. This guide offers practical advice and highlights a few standout options to help you find a table that you'll be happy with for years to come.
What to Consider When Choosing a Rattan Side Table
Before you add a table to your basket, a few key considerations will ensure you make the right choice for your home.
1. Material: Natural Rattan vs. Rattan-Effect
The term 'rattan' can describe both the natural material and a synthetic lookalike.
- Natural Rattan/Wicker: This is woven from the flexible stems of a climbing palm. It offers an authentic, textured finish that is lightweight yet durable. Each piece has unique, subtle variations, adding to its organic charm. A natural wicker bedside cabinet is perfect for creating a genuine boho or coastal feel.
- Rattan-Effect: This is typically a design printed or moulded onto materials like engineered wood. It provides the visual appeal of rattan, often at a more accessible price point, and can be easier to clean. It’s a practical option for achieving the look with consistent colouring and finish.
2. Storage and Functionality
Think about what you need to store. Do you prefer to keep things tucked away or on display?
- Drawers: A small bedside table with storage in the form of drawers is ideal for keeping clutter like charging cables, notebooks and hand cream out of sight.
- Open Shelves: These are great for displaying books, a small plant or decorative objects. They contribute to a more open, airy feel in the room.
- Combination: Many designs offer both, giving you a balance of concealed storage and display space.
3. Style and Colour
While often associated with bohemian interiors, rattan is surprisingly versatile.
- Boho & Coastal: Natural, light-toned rattan pairs beautifully with linen bedding, macrame and plenty of plants to create a relaxed, boho bedside table look.
- Scandinavian: A scandi side table often combines rattan with clean lines, pale wood or a crisp white finish. This blend of textures creates a look that is both warm and minimalist.
- Modern & Eclectic: Don't be afraid to mix materials. A rattan table with a black frame or a glass top can add an interesting, contemporary twist to your decor. This is where white and rattan furniture or darker wooden bedside table combinations truly shine.
Top Product Recommendations
Here are a few options from our collection that cater to different styles, spaces and needs.
Interiors by Premier Sherman 1 Drawer Bedside Table
- Why It Stands Out: This table is a fantastic example of modern white and rattan furniture. The combination of a clean white frame with a natural rattan drawer front and lower shelf creates a bright, airy feel that fits seamlessly into both Scandinavian and coastal-inspired bedrooms. It offers a generous amount of varied storage without appearing bulky.
- Pros:
- Excellent storage with one drawer and two open shelves.
- The H60 x L40 x W50cm dimensions provide a good surface area.
- The white wood and natural rattan combination is fresh and versatile.
- Who is it for? Anyone looking for a functional and stylish bedside table with ample storage. It’s particularly well-suited for those wanting to brighten their room with a piece that feels both contemporary and timeless.
Interiors by Premier Cebu Round Side Table
- Why It Stands Out: The Cebu table breaks away from the traditional square shape. Its round design, sleek black elm wood frame and clear glass top give it a distinct mid-century modern feel. The open-weave natural cane shelf adds that essential touch of organic texture, making it a sophisticated statement piece.
- Pros:
- Unique round design with a 57cm diameter.
- No assembly required.
- The mix of elm wood, glass and rattan creates a high-end, modern look.
- Who is it for? Those who want a rattan side table that feels more like a designer accent piece. It's perfect for modern or mid-century interiors and can be used as a bedside table or a stylish lamp table in the living room.
Galano Gio Bedside Table with Rattan Effect
- Why It Stands Out: The Gio table is designed with compact living in mind. Its slim profile makes it an excellent choice for smaller bedrooms or tight spaces next to the bed. The Oslo Oak finish combined with the rattan-effect drawer front provides the warm, natural aesthetic without the maintenance of real woven materials.
- Pros:
- Space-saving design with a width of just 32cm.
- Features a drawer for concealed storage.
- The rattan-effect finish offers a consistent and easy-to-clean surface.
- Who is it for? Anyone needing a small bedside table with storage for a compact space. It’s a practical and stylish solution for guest rooms, first-time homes or anyone who wants the rattan look in a slim, functional package.
Looking for More Options?
If these specific recommendations aren't quite what you're looking for, don't worry. There are many other styles, from minimalist designs to more substantial cabinets, that incorporate this beautiful material.
Explore our full collection of rattan side table options to find the perfect match for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rattan furniture durable enough for a bedroom?
Yes, rattan is a strong and durable material, especially when used for furniture like a bedside table that doesn't endure heavy, constant use. Both natural rattan and high-quality rattan-effect furniture are built to last for many years with proper care.
How do you clean a rattan bedside table?
For natural rattan, regular dusting with a soft brush or the brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner is usually sufficient. For spills, wipe immediately with a damp cloth and a mild soap solution, then dry thoroughly. For rattan-effect furniture, simply wiping with a dry or slightly damp cloth is all that's needed. Always avoid abrasive cleaners on any type of rattan furniture.
What interior design style is a rattan bedside table?
Rattan is incredibly versatile. It's a hallmark of bohemian (boho) and coastal styles due to its natural, relaxed vibe. However, when paired with clean lines and neutral colours like in white and rattan furniture, it fits perfectly into Scandinavian (Scandi) design. Darker frames or mixed materials can also make a rattan side table work well in modern, eclectic or even mid-century modern spaces.
