How to choose a bedside table: a complete buying guide

A bedside table might seem like a small piece of bedroom furniture, but it can make a big difference to how your space looks and feels. The right bedside table gives you a handy place for your bedtime essentials, adds a finishing touch to your décor, and helps create a calm, organised sleep sanctuary.

Whether you’re refreshing your whole bedroom or simply looking for somewhere to keep your favourite book, lamp and morning cuppa, choosing the right design is all about finding the perfect balance between style and practicality.

So, how do you choose a bedside table? From finding the right height to picking a style that complements your bed, we’ve put together everything you need to know.

A bedside table is a practical piece of bedroom furniture designed to keep your bedtime essentials close at hand. It’s the little companion beside your bed that helps make your bedtime routine feel effortless.

Common uses for a bedside table include:

• Keeping a lamp nearby for cosy evening reading

• Storing books, glasses and other bedtime essentials

• Providing a surface for your alarm clock, phone or a glass of water

• Adding extra storage with drawers or shelves

• Creating a more balanced and finished bedroom look

The best bedside tables combine functionality with style, helping your bedroom feel more organised and relaxing.

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a bedside table is the height.

Ideally, your bedside table should sit roughly level with the top of your mattress. This makes it easy to reach items while you’re lying down and creates a more balanced look alongside your bed.

So, how tall should a bedside table be? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, most bedside tables are around the same height as a standard bed frame and mattress combination. The best option will depend on your own bed height, so it’s always worth measuring before you buy.

A bedside table that is too high or too low can feel awkward to use, while the right height will make your bedroom feel effortlessly put together.

Low bedside tables are a popular choice for modern bedrooms, especially when paired with low-profile beds or minimalist interiors.

If you’re wondering how do you choose a low bedside table, consider:

• Your bed height: A low bedside table should still be easy to reach from your bed.

• Your bedroom style: Low designs often work beautifully in contemporary, Scandinavian and modern spaces.

• Storage needs: Choose drawers if you like to keep clutter tucked away.

• Proportions: A smaller bedside table can help a compact bedroom feel more open.

For a stylish low bedside table option, the Nordic Oak Finish 2 Drawer Bedside offers a simple, timeless design with useful storage.

Matching your bedside tables to your bed can create a beautifully coordinated look, but it’s not the only option.

For a classic bedroom style, choosing bedside tables from the same collection as your bed can help create a cohesive feel. However, mixing different materials, colours and shapes can add personality and make your bedroom feel more unique.

Can you do mismatched bedside tables? Absolutely. A pair of different bedside tables can work wonderfully when you keep one element consistent, such as:

• Similar colours
• Matching heights
• Complementary materials
• A shared design style

The key is creating a look that feels intentional rather than accidental.

French-inspired bedside tables are perfect for creating a soft, elegant bedroom with a timeless feel.

Look for features such as:

• Curved edges

• Painted finishes

• Delicate detailing

• Classic silhouettes

A French style bedside table works beautifully in romantic, traditional or vintage-inspired bedrooms, helping create a calm and inviting atmosphere.

The Bordeaux Oak 2 Drawer Bedside is a great choice for adding a touch of French-inspired charm, with its elegant design and practical storage space for your bedtime essentials.

Bedroom trends are continuing to focus on comfort, character and creating spaces that feel like a personal retreat.

Some popular bedside table trends include:

• Natural materials: Wooden finishes and earthy tones bring warmth and texture.
• Curved designs: Soft edges create a more relaxed, calming feel.
• Statement furniture: Unique bedside tables can act as a stylish feature rather than just a practical piece.
• Smart storage: More people are choosing designs with drawers to keep surfaces clutter-free.

The best trend to follow is the one that makes your bedroom feel like a place you love to unwind.

Choosing a bedside table is simple once you know what to look for, but a few common mistakes can affect how practical your choice is.

Avoid:

• Choosing a table that is too tall or too short for your bed
• Prioritising style over storage needs
• Buying a design that feels too bulky for your room
• Forgetting to consider lamp size and surface space
• Choosing a finish that doesn’t complement your existing furniture

A little planning before you buy can help you find a bedside table that looks beautiful and works perfectly for your routine.

The right bedside table should be practical, stylish and suited to your bedroom. Whether you prefer a modern low design, a rustic wooden finish or a glamorous art deco look, there’s a style to help complete your dream bedroom.

Explore the full range of bedside tables at Time4Sleep to find a design that helps your bedroom feel cosy, comfortable and beautifully finished.