How to Choose the Best Bedside Table

Your bedside table is more than just a piece of furniture; it's an essential part of your bedroom that combines functionality with style.

The right bedside table can enhance the overall look of your room while providing convenient storage and surface space for your nighttime essentials.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to choose the perfect bedside table for your space, covering everything from style and size to functionality and decor compatibility.

1. Assessing Your Bedroom Space

Before you start shopping for a bedside table, it's crucial to understand the space you have available. Measure the area next to your bed to ensure the table will fit comfortably without making the room feel cramped. This is especially important when considering small wood bedside tables, which are ideal for compact bedrooms or minimalistic layouts. Their natural finish adds warmth and charm without overwhelming the space, offering both practicality and timeless style.

Consider the height of your bed as well—your bedside table should be roughly the same height as your mattress to make it easy to reach items while lying down. A well-proportioned table not only looks balanced but also improves functionality.

Important Tip: Use painter’s tape to outline the potential bedside table’s footprint on your floor. This simple visual guide helps ensure the table won't obstruct pathways, crowd your space, or disrupt the room’s flow, making it easier to choose a piece that perfectly fits your bedroom’s dimensions and style.

2. Considering Your Nighttime Routine

Think about what you typically do before bed and when you wake up. Do you need space for a lamp, alarm clock, books, or a glass of water? Identifying your nightly needs will help you determine the ideal features and size for your bedside table.

3. Matching Your Bedside Table to Your Bedroom Decor

The style of your bedside table should complement the overall decor of your bedroom. If your room has a modern look, opt for sleek, minimalist tables made from materials like metal or glass.

For a more traditional bedroom, dark wood bedside tables with ornate details might be a better fit. Think about the material and finish of the table as well. Wood, metal, and glass each bring a different vibe to a room, so choose one that aligns with your style.

4. Exploring Different Styles

• Modern Minimalist: Contemporary bedside tables with sleek designs and clean lines are perfect for uncluttered spaces. Often crafted from metal, glass, or smooth lacquered finishes, they bring a refined simplicity that complements modern interiors effortlessly.

  Rustic Charm: Rustic bedside tables, especially small wood bedside tables, add warmth and texture to your bedroom. Their distressed finishes and natural grains create a cozy, homely feel — ideal for countryside or farmhouse-inspired settings.

  Traditional Elegance: French style bedside tables exude timeless sophistication with ornate carvings, curved legs, and rich wood tones. Painted bedside tables in soft, muted hues can also capture this classic charm while adding a touch of romantic elegance.

  Scandinavian Simplicity: Scandinavian bedside tables focus on light woods, minimalist shapes, and practical functionality. They blend beauty with utility, making them perfect for calm, airy bedrooms that value both comfort and simplicity.

  Shabby Chic Style: Shabby chic bedside tables combine vintage appeal with soft pastel tones and distressed finishes. These pieces bring an effortlessly relaxed and feminine touch to your décor.

  Mid-Century Modern: Mid century modern bedside tables stand out with their tapered legs, geometric lines, and rich wooden tones. They offer a stylish nod to retro design while remaining timeless and versatile enough to fit contemporary bedrooms.

  Each of these styles brings its own unique character, allowing you to choose a bedside table that perfectly complements your taste and transforms your bedroom into a thoughtfully designed retreat.

Pro Tip: Create a mood board with images of your bedroom and potential bedside tables to see how different styles integrate with your existing decor.

5. Practical Features of Bedside Tables

Functionality is a key factor when choosing a bedside table. Think about what you need to store. Do you need drawers for personal items, or would open shelves work better for books and magazines?

Some tables come with built-in charging ports or lighting, adding extra convenience. Make a list of must-have features to ensure your new bedside table meets all your needs.

6. Common Functional Features:

• Drawers: Ideal for keeping personal items out of sight.

• Open Shelves: Perfect for displaying books or decorative items.

• Built-in Charging Ports: Keep your devices powered and within reach.

• Integrated Lighting: Provides a convenient light source without needing an extra lamp.

Tip: Look for bedside tables with cable management solutions if you have multiple electronic devices to charge.

7. Size and Proportion Considerations

The size of your bedside table should be proportional to your bed and room. A large, bulky table can overwhelm a small bedroom, while a tiny table might look out of place next to a king-sized bed.

Aim for a balance that feels right. If you have two bedside tables, ensure they are of equal size and style to create symmetry and balance in the room.

8. Balancing Scale and Proportion

• Small Bedrooms: Opt for compact tables with sleek designs to save space.

• Large Bedrooms: You can afford larger, more elaborate bedside tables that make a statement.

• Symmetry in Design: Matching bedside tables on either side of the bed can create a harmonious and balanced look.

Tip: Ensure your bedside table is not too low or too high compared to your mattress height, making it easier to reach items from your bed.

9. Investing Wisely in a Bedside Table

Your budget will be a key factor in your choice. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, consider investing in a high-quality table that will last longer and look better over time.

Look for quality indicators such as sturdy construction, durable materials, and good craftsmanship. Remember, a well-made bedside table is a worthwhile investment that adds value to your home.

10. Tips for Budgeting and Quality:

• Plan Your Budget: Figure out how much you want to spend and stick to your plan.

• Quality Indicators: Look for sturdy frames, high-quality materials, and smooth finishes.

• Warranty: Check if the bedside table comes with a warranty for added peace of mind.

Top Recommendations from The Bonnie Home

1. Chaya Dark Grey Pine Wood 3 Drawer Bedside Table

The Chaya Dark Grey Pine Wood 3 Drawer Bedside Table showcases a modern design with textured drawer fronts and sleek tapered legs. Made from dark grey pine wood and accented with gold metallic handles, it brings a touch of elegance and luxury to any bedroom.

2. Marca Sand Wash Acacia Wood and Black Metal Bedside Unit

The Marca bedside table combines sturdy acacia wood with sleek black metal for a contemporary appearance. The sand wash finish gives it a rustic feel, while the sturdy metal frame adds stability.

3. Fiji Black Acacia Wood and Natural Rattan Bedside Unit

 

This bedside table blends the classic beauty of black acacia wood with the rustic appeal of natural rattan. Expertly crafted, its sleek design brings a touch of elegance to any bedroom. Made from durable materials, it offers a perfect mix of style and practicality for long-lasting use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What material is best for a bedside table?

Choosing the best material for a bedside table depends on your style preferences and practical needs. Wood, such as oak or walnut, is popular for its durability and classic look. Metal tables offer a modern aesthetic and are easy to clean. Glass tables can add elegance and make a room feel more spacious. Consider mixed-material options for a unique blend of styles.

2. Should the bedside table be higher or lower?

Ideally, your bedside table should be about the same height as your mattress or slightly higher. This ensures convenient access to items like lamps, books, or a morning cup of coffee while lying in bed. Avoid tables that are too low or too high, as they can disrupt the balance of your bedroom and make reaching for essentials uncomfortable.

If you need extra storage space, consider a wide bedside chest of drawers as an alternative to a standard table. It offers ample room for storing nighttime necessities, clothing, or accessories while still providing a surface for décor and lighting. The wider design also adds visual balance beside larger beds, making it both a functional and stylish choice for bedrooms that prioritise comfort and organisation.

3. Do bedside tables have to match the bed?

While matching bedside tables and beds can create a cohesive look, they don’t have to match. Mixing styles can add visual interest and personality to your bedroom. Focus on complementing the overall decor by considering colors, materials, and design elements that harmonize well together.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect bedside table involves a balance of style, size, functionality, and quality. By considering your needs and the overall decor of your room, you can find a bedside table that not only enhances your bedroom's look but also provides the practical features you need. Measure your space, explore different styles, and invest wisely to find the ideal bedside table for your home.

Stylish Bedside Tables from The Bonnie Home

Enhance your bedroom's functionality and style with bedside tables from The Bonnie Home. Discover a range of designs to suit every decor, from sleek modern options to timeless classics.

Whether you prefer storage drawers, open shelves, or minimalist designs, our bedside tables combine quality craftsmanship with elegant finishes. Contact us today for expert assistance or inquiries about our bedside tables or any other products.