What is the ideal height for a bedside table?

The ideal height for a bedside table should align with the top of your mattress or sit just slightly lower. Standard heights typically range between 24 and 28 inches, but adjustments may be necessary depending on your bed height.

How wide should a bedside table be?

The width of a bedside table depends on your bed size. For a single bed, 12–18 inches is ideal, while larger beds like queen or king benefit from tables that are 20–30 inches wide.

What material is best for a bedside table?

The best material depends on your style and needs. Solid wood offers durability and timeless appeal, while metal and glass suit modern aesthetics. For a luxurious look, consider marble or stone tops.

Should a bedside table have storage?

It depends on your preferences. If you like a minimalist look, open shelves or no storage may be ideal. For practicality, choose tables with drawers or cabinets to store essentials like chargers and medication.

How do I match a bedside table with my bedroom decor?

Match your bedside table to your bedroom’s design style. Traditional rooms suit wooden or antique-inspired tables, while modern spaces benefit from sleek, minimalist designs. Consider material, colour, and shape for a cohesive look.

What are some alternatives to traditional bedside tables?

Alternatives include floating shelves, nesting tables, vintage suitcases, wooden stools, repurposed crates, or rolling carts. These options offer both style and functionality, especially in small or uniquely styled rooms.

What colours work best for bedside tables?

Neutral tones like white or light wood create a calm, airy vibe. Darker colours like navy or black add contrast and sophistication. Metallic finishes can add elegance in small doses.

What is the recommended depth for a bedside table?

Depth matters for both functionality and space. A depth of 12–22 inches is recommended depending on your bed size and how many items you plan to keep on the table.

How to Choose a Bedside Table

Matthew Green
Mar 23
5 min read

Updated: Apr 1

A bedside table is more than just a convenient surface to place your book, alarm clock or favourite sleep aids. It’s an extension of your bedroom’s personality, a reflection of your taste, and, most importantly, a functional piece that makes life easier. The right bedside table should blend seamlessly with your decor while offering the right balance of storage, accessibility, and design harmony.

Lamp and glass bottle on black bedside table, beside a white pillow and sheets in a room with dark blue walls. Minimalist and calm setting. — A bedside table offers functionality and the perfect finish to your bedroom

The process of selecting the perfect bedside table isn’t as straightforward as picking the first one that catches your eye. Height, width, material, storage capacity, and how it complements your bed all play a crucial role in the decision-making process. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should opt for a sleek, minimal table or a more practical storage-heavy unit, this guide will take you through everything you need to consider before making a purchase.

How High Should a Bedside Table Be?

Modern bedroom with gray and blue tones. Features include a navy headboard, gray nightstand, agate lamp, and digital clock showing 4:23. — Aim to marry the height of your bedside table to your bed

Imagine reaching for your phone in the middle of the night, only to stretch uncomfortably because your bedside table is too low—or awkwardly knocking over your glass of water because it’s too high. The height of your bedside table should align with the top of your mattress or sit just slightly lower. Standard heights range between 24 and 28 inches, but if your bed is particularly high or low, you’ll want to adjust accordingly.

Width is another factor that depends on the size of your bed. A small, single bedside table may work fine for a twin or full-sized bed, while a queen or king-size bed benefits from larger tables—or even a pair for a more symmetrical, polished look. For smaller spaces, consider a narrow or wall-mounted design to avoid a cramped feel.

Depth is often overlooked but matters more than you think. A table that juts too far out can disrupt the flow of the room, while one that’s too shallow may not provide enough surface space for your needs. If you frequently keep a lamp, books, a water glass, and a charging station within arm’s reach, a deeper table will serve you better.

Recommended Bedside Table Dimensions

Bed Size	Ideal Height	Recommended Width	Suggested Depth
Single	20-24 inches	12-18 inches	12-16 inches
Double/Full	22-26 inches	18-24 inches	14-18 inches
Queen	24-28 inches	20-26 inches	16-20 inches
King	24-28 inches	24-30 inches	16-22 inches

Material Matters: Choosing the Right Look and Feel

Vase with white tulips on a wooden nightstand beside a bed with a patterned quilt. A book labeled "The Unsplash Book" lies nearby. Cozy mood. — Wood oozes warmth and offers a timeless appeal

The material of your bedside table should not only match your aesthetic but also suit your lifestyle. Wood remains a popular choice for its warmth and timeless appeal. Rich mahogany or walnut adds depth to a traditional bedroom, while light oak or pine complements a Scandinavian-inspired space. If durability is a concern, solid hardwood is your best bet, though MDF or veneer options can offer a similar look at a lower price.

For a modern touch, metal or glass tables bring an airy, contemporary feel to the space. Glass-topped tables, in particular, can make a small room appear more spacious, though they do require frequent cleaning to keep fingerprints and dust at bay. Metal frames with industrial accents suit urban, loft-style bedrooms, while rattan or wicker options lend themselves beautifully to bohemian or coastal aesthetics.

If you’re after a luxurious look, marble or stone-topped tables exude sophistication. They pair well with velvet or tufted headboards and work beautifully in rooms with high ceilings and dramatic lighting.

Storage: How Much is Too Much?

Do you prefer a clean, minimal surface with no clutter in sight? Or do you need drawers and compartments to keep nighttime essentials tucked away? Bedside tables come in various configurations, from sleek open shelves to multi-drawer options that can function as mini dressers.

For those who like an uncluttered aesthetic, a simple tabletop with an open shelf underneath allows for easy access to books or decorative elements. If practicality is a priority, opt for a model with at least one drawer to hide away items like chargers, medication, or hand cream.

Cabinet-style tables offer enclosed storage, perfect for those who want to keep personal items out of sight. Meanwhile, wall-mounted floating tables work wonders in small bedrooms, creating an illusion of space while still providing functionality.

Style and Inspiration: Matching Your Bedside Table to Your Decor

A cozy bedroom corner with a beige bed, wooden headboard, black lamp, and shelf with decor items. Soft sunlight and neutral tones. — Modern bedrooms deserve contemporary bedside tables

A bedside table should feel like an extension of your bedroom’s overall design rather than an afterthought. For a cohesive look, consider the style of your bed and other furniture pieces before making a decision.

If your bedroom leans towards a traditional aesthetic, classic wooden tables with decorative moldings, brass handles, or antique-inspired finishes will blend seamlessly. French country designs with curved legs and distressed paintwork add a touch of elegance, perfect for vintage-inspired spaces.

For modern and minimalist interiors, opt for sleek tables with clean lines and a neutral colour palette. High-gloss finishes, metal legs, or asymmetrical designs can inject a contemporary edge. Scandinavian designs, characterized by their light wood tones, rounded edges, and functional simplicity, work well for those who appreciate a balanced, fuss-free approach.

Rustic and farmhouse styles embrace natural materials and handcrafted details. Weathered wood, iron accents, and reclaimed elements create a cosy, lived-in charm. Pair these with warm lighting and neutral linens to enhance the inviting atmosphere.

If you prefer an eclectic or bohemian vibe, don’t be afraid to mix and match. A vintage wooden table with ornate carvings can sit beautifully next to a modern platform bed, while bold colours or hand-painted designs can add personality to an otherwise neutral space.

Modern bedroom with a tufted headboard, unmade white bed, and bedside table with a vase and book. Black wall lamps add moody ambiance.

Colour and Finish: Striking the Right Balance

The colour of your bedside table can influence the entire mood of your bedroom. A white or neutral-toned table creates a serene, airy feel, making it a great choice for smaller rooms. If you want to add contrast, consider deep navy, forest green, or even black for a more dramatic effect.

Natural wood finishes bring warmth and texture, effortlessly complementing most interiors. Light oak feels fresh and modern, while darker woods exude a more traditional and refined look. Metallic finishes, such as gold, brass, or silver, can add a touch of glamour when used sparingly.

Alternatives to Traditional Bedside Tables

Two wooden shelves on a blue wall hold decorative items: an elephant, shells, framed beach art, dried flowers, and anchor-themed prints. — Floating shelves are a great space-saving alternative to bedside tables

If conventional bedside tables don’t quite fit your style, there are plenty of creative alternatives to consider. Floating shelves offer a sleek, space-saving solution while still providing enough room for a lamp and a book. Nesting tables allow for flexibility—use the smaller table when needed and tuck it away when not in use.

Stacked vintage suitcases can serve as a quirky, storage-friendly alternative, adding character and charm to the room. Wooden stools, repurposed crates, or rolling carts can also make stylish substitutes, proving that a little creativity goes a long way.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Bedside Table

A bedside table should be more than just an afterthought—it’s an essential part of your bedroom’s design and functionality. When choosing the right one, consider not just aesthetics but also practicality, ensuring that it meets your daily needs while enhancing the overall look of the space.

Whether you opt for a sleek modern piece, a vintage-inspired design, or a practical storage solution, the key is to find a balance between form and function. Take your time exploring different styles, materials, and configurations to find the perfect bedside table that not only complements your bedroom but also makes your nighttime routine a little easier.

Now that you have a clearer idea of what to look for, start browsing for the perfect addition to your space—your ideal bedside table might be just a click away.