Let’s be real—no bedroom is complete without a bedside table. They’re like the unsung heroes of your sleep sanctuary, keeping your late-night glass of water, alarm clock, or your phone within arm’s reach. And yet, picking the right one can feel more complicated than it should. Too big? It dominates the room. Too small? It’s practically useless.
At Homemart, we know the struggle. That’s why we’ve put together this no-nonsense guide to help you choose the perfect bedside tables for your bedroom. Whether you’re an avid reader, a chronic snooze-button hitter, or just someone who appreciates good design, we’ve got you covered.
Do You Really Need a Bedside Table?
The short answer: YES.
Ask yourself this:
- Do you set an alarm in the morning?
- Do you sip water at night?
- Do you scroll through your phone in bed (be honest)?
If you answered yes to any of these (and let’s face it, you did), then you need a bedside table. Plus, your bedroom needs them. From a design perspective, they create balance, symmetry, and a sense of completeness. A bed without a bedside table is like toast without butter—functional, sure, but missing something essential.
How Big Should a Bedside Table Be?
Size matters—big time. The ideal bedside table isn’t just about looks; it’s about practicality. It should have enough surface area to hold your essentials (lamp, book, phone, water) without feeling overcrowded.
- Height: Your bedside table should align with or be slightly higher than your mattress. Reaching down to grab something from a lower table is not just annoying—it’s impractical. Aim for something level or slightly above.
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Width: This depends on your bed size:
- Double Bed: 45-56cm wide works best.
- Queen Bed: Opt for 56-64cm.
- King Bed: Go bigger—64-74cm wide.
Pro Tip: Leave at least 5-10cm of space between the bedside table and the wall. Crowding your furniture is a surefire way to ruin your room’s vibe.
Can a Bedside Table Be Lower Than the Bed?
Technically, yes. Should it? Probably not.
Here’s the thing—when you’re lying in bed, reaching slightly up or across is natural. Reaching down feels awkward and kind of... wrong. So, while there’s no hard rule, stick to tables that are level with your mattress or slightly higher for maximum comfort.
One or Two Bedside Tables?
Ah, the symmetry debate. Ideally, two bedside tables create a balanced, harmonious look in your room. But let’s not pretend space grows on trees.
- Small Bedrooms: One bedside table is fine. Symmetry is nice, but it’s not worth cramming your space.
- Larger Bedrooms: Two tables. Always. Symmetry isn’t just aesthetically pleasing—it gives both sides of the bed equal functionality.
Real Talk: If your partner constantly steals your side of the bed and your bedside table space, getting two is non-negotiable.
Positioning: Where Should Your Bedside Tables Go?
Keep it simple: 2-5cm from the bed’s edge is ideal. Any further, and you’ll feel like you’re reaching across a football field to grab your phone.
What Should They Be Made Of?
Material matters, folks. Your bedside table isn’t just holding your stuff—it’s part of your room’s design. Hardwood is hands-down the best choice. It’s durable, timeless, and looks fantastic.
At Homemart, we swear by sustainably sourced hardwood for its long-lasting appeal. Other materials might look good for a while, but hardwood furniture ages gracefully.
Storage: Drawers or Open Space?
This one’s all about lifestyle. Ask yourself: What do I need this table for?
- Drawers: Great for hiding clutter. Store your nightwear, books, or even socks in there.
- Open Shelves: Perfect for showcasing pretty things—stacked books, plants, or decorative baskets.
- Combination: The best of both worlds. A drawer for the messy stuff and a shelf for the Instagram-worthy decor.
How to Style Your Bedside Table
This is where things get fun. A well-styled bedside table can tie your whole bedroom together.
- The Lamp: A must-have. Pick something proportionate—nothing worse than a lamp that dwarfs your table or vice versa.
- Books: Stack a few. Not only do they look good, but they also give your table purpose.
- Greenery: Add a small plant or flowers. It’s an instant mood booster.
- Personal Touches: A framed photo, a candle, or a quirky clock—whatever makes it feel like yours.
Pro Tip: Less is more. Don’t clutter it with random junk.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Measurements: Your bedside table should fit. Too big, and it’ll dominate the room. Too small, and it’ll look lost.
- Skimping on Quality: A cheap table might save you cash now, but it’ll cost you in the long run. Go for durable materials like hardwood.
- Overcrowding: Just because the surface exists doesn’t mean it needs to be covered in stuff. Keep it clean and functional.
Final Thoughts: Bedside Tables Are Non-Negotiable
Let’s face it—life without a bedside table is chaos. Where will your water go? Your phone? That book you keep pretending to read?
At Homemart, we’ve got a wide range of bedside tables to suit every style and budget. Whether you’re after something sleek and modern or classic and functional, we’ve got the perfect piece to complete your bedroom.
So, stop putting it off. Your bedroom deserves better, and so do you. Grab that measuring tape, pick your style, and make your space work for you. Trust us, your mornings (and your nights) will thank you.
