No bedroom would be complete without bedside tables. These practical space-savers are the underrated all-rounders that can make or break your bedroom feng shui, so it’s important you choose the right set for your space. There are a few important considerations to keep in mind when selecting a design that suits your needs and complements your interior style; namely size, positioning, quality, and functionality. So gather round, all you nighttime readers, snooze button punchers, and interior addicts; we’ve got the ultimate guide to bedside table sizing and styling. Your bedroom will thank you.
Do You Need a Bedside Table?
First things first: do you actually need a bedside table? Ask yourself if you ever set yourself an alarm to begin the day, if you like a drink of water when you wake up in the night, if you spend time reading or scrolling through social media before bed, or if you’d like to improve your sleep routine. If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those (and we’re guessing you did), then you need bedside tables - and from a stylist’s point of view, your bedroom needs them too.
The perfect bedside tables are not too big, not too small, but just right (Goldilocks knew what she was talking about). They are functional, with the right amount of storage for your needs, and positioned within an easy distance from your bed, without overwhelming your space. With all these factors to consider, striking the right balance isn’t easy. So grab your measuring tape, and let’s take a closer look.
Paris Hardwood Bedside Table | Walnut
What Size Should Bedside Tables Be?
It’s no secret; size matters. The bedside table dimensions should accommodate the surface area needed to store and display the items you use often, because we all need a little extra storage in our lives! The side tables for your bedroom are the perfect place to store your nightwear and delicates, and to display inviting lamps, flowers, and books. Choose designs with two or more drawers and a wide top, and say goodbye to bedroom clutter and a cramped wardrobe.
To make sure that your bedside tables harmonise with your available space, ensure there is around five inches of free space between the tables and the outer edge of the wall.
How Tall Should Bedside Tables Be?
The bedside table height should roughly align with the top of your mattress. At this level, the items on top of the tables will be within reach.
Can My Bedside Table Be Lower Than the Bed?
As a general rule, bedside tables should be the same height or slightly higher than the top of your mattress, but shouldn’t be lower. When you’re laying in bed, reaching across or slightly upwards to grab something is easy, while reaching down can be uncomfortable and impractical.
Finn Bedside Table | Natural Hardwood
How Wide Should a Bedside Table Be?
The optimal width of a bedside table will vary depending on the size of your bedroom and your bed. The perfect design will complement your space without overwhelming it.
The standard width of a bedside table is between 45 and 56cm, which is well suited to a double bed in a small to medium sized bedroom. For a queen size bed in a medium sized bedroom, a wider bedside table between 56 and 64cm is best, while a king size bed in a large bedroom is best suited to bedside tables with a width of 64 to 74cm.
Rome Bedside Table | Natural Hardwood
More Tips to Consider for Bedside Tables
Once you’ve determined the perfect bedside table size, you’ll want to think about style, positioning, and overall quality - and how to bring all of these factors together to imbue your bedroom with a cohesive flow and the ultimate visual appeal.
Do I Need Two Bedside Tables?
While it’s preferable to have two bedside tables to achieve symmetry and flow, sometimes less is more. A single nightstand can work beautifully in smaller spaces. Considerate bedroom styling allows each piece of furniture room to breathe and contributes to a peaceful state of mind. Whether your space allows for one bedside table or two, ensure you leave at least five inches of free space between the table and the outer edge of the wall.
How Far Should Bedside Tables Be From the Bed?
Your bedside tables should be within reach of your bed. One or two inches from the side of your bed makes for the best positioning.
Types of Bedside Table Materials
The material your bedside tables are made of will significantly impact their durability, as well as the overall feel of your room. For furniture with the longest lifespan, choose pieces made from hardwood. No other material offers the same long-lasting value and timeless visual appeal. That’s why B2C Furniture’s range of bedside tables are made from sustainably harvested timber.
Myer White Bedside Table | Hardwood Frame
Functional Bedside Tables
Form and function are equally important. Consider what you’re likely to store and display on your bedside tables, and choose pieces accordingly. Do you have large lamps or a collection of books you’d like to showcase? Or perhaps you’d like to free up some much-needed closet space and store some of your clothes in drawers? The right bedside tables will help you reduce clutter and manage your space effectively.
Explore B2C Furniture’s Collection of Bedside Tables
Be inspired by our range of hardwood bedside tables. Sustainably harvested and expertly crafted, our furniture combines style and function. Your Pinterest board is waiting.
