This updated guide explains how to pick a bedside table that fits your needs and room. It covers placement, common styles and materials, useful modern features (like cable management and built-in charging), and practical buying tips such as measuring, checking joinery, and reading reviews. The emphasis is on matching functionality - storage, accessibility, and tech - to your bedroom's scale and design.
Why a bedside table matters
A bedside table does more than hold a lamp. It keeps essentials - phone, glass of water, medications, a book - within reach and helps organize your bedroom. It can also add to a room's aesthetic, complementing your bed, lighting, and overall style.
Uses and placement
Place the table next to the bed or beside a sofa in a living area. In healthcare settings, bedside tables serve patients and often include wheels or locking drawers for easy access and safety. For bedrooms, center the table so the top surface is level with or slightly below the mattress surface for comfortable reach.
Common styles and sizes
Bedside tables range from minimalist floating shelves to multi-drawer chests. Popular styles include modern, mid-century, industrial, and traditional. Heights and widths vary - choose a size that balances storage needs and room scale. Consider proportionality: a small apartment may suit a narrow or wall-mounted option, while a large master bedroom can handle a wider, more substantial piece.
Materials and durability
You'll find bedside tables in solid wood, engineered wood (like MDF), metal, glass, and molded plastics. Hardwoods such as oak, walnut, and teak are valued for durability and grain; engineered woods offer lower cost and consistent finishes. Metal frames give an industrial look and strong support. Sustainable and reclaimed materials are increasingly available for eco-conscious buyers.
Features to consider
- Storage: single or multiple drawers, shelves, or enclosed cabinets. Drawers keep small items out of sight; open shelves work for books and baskets.
- Cable management: many modern tables include cutouts or channels for charging cables.
- Built-in tech: look for units with USB-A/USB-C ports or Qi wireless charging pads if you charge devices overnight.
- Lighting: some designs integrate a lamp or have a surface suitable for bedside lamps.
- Mobility and assembly: caster wheels or flat-pack assembly may affect placement and long-term use.
Buying tips
Measure the height of your mattress and the available floor space before you shop. Check finish and joinery - dovetail joints and solid drawer glides are signs of quality. Read user reviews for stability and longevity. Compare local retailers and online marketplaces for selection and delivery options, and factor in assembly and return policies.
Final thought
A good bedside table blends function and style. Prioritize the features you use nightly - storage, charging, or lighting - then choose a material and design that fits your room and budget.