Choosing the Perfect Bedside Table
Your bedroom setup needs bedside tables more than you'd think. These furniture pieces keep everything you need at night close by and add by a lot to your bedroom's look. A good bedside table gives you convenience and style, whether you read before bed or charge your devices overnight.
Bedside tables come in designs of all types to match your needs and space. Small bedside tables work great in compact rooms. Narrow ones fit perfectly between beds and walls. Storage problems? A 3 drawer bedside table keeps your stuff organised with clutter-free surfaces. These versatile pieces aren't just for bedrooms - they improve living rooms and entryways with their practical charm.
A bedside table does more than you might think. It makes your bedroom work better and look good. People often overlook these useful pieces of furniture, but they do way more than their basic job. They make your personal space both practical and beautiful.
Why bedside tables are more than just storage
Your bedside table works as your "nighttime command centre," though it might look like just a place to put stuff. These pieces help you stick to your sleep routine. They keep everything you need close by and make your life better.
A good-looking, modern bedside table helps you wind down at night and sleep better. Designers say the best tables have smooth, round corners. They should sit lower than your bed frame or mattress to work well and look right.
Your bedside table becomes your personal spot that shows what you need and how you live. Here's what it can do:
- Keeps your nighttime must-haves like reading glasses, earplugs, books, and water right there
- Gives your gadgets and chargers a home
- Sets the mood with candles or special items you love
- Puts your medicines or health items within easy reach
These pieces of furniture help clear your mind too. Design experts say "a cluttered space leads to a cluttered mind," and this rings true for nightstands. A tidy bedside table helps you sleep better and feel more peaceful.
Bedside tables have changed as our lives have changed. New models now come with cool features like wireless charging, soft lighting, and drawers that open with a touch. These changes show how bedside tables keep up with what we need while still helping us stay organised.
How they influence bedroom functionality and design
Bedside tables do more than just work well - they pull your room's look together. They're not just extras anymore. These pieces now stand out, show off your style, and catch the eye.
Your choice of material sets your bedroom's mood. Dark wood feels traditional, metal looks industrial, and bright colours add fun pops. The style you pick, from simple to fancy, changes how your whole room feels.
You need to think about both looks and use when picking a bedside table. Small tables work great in tight spaces without taking over. Slim tables fit nicely between beds and walls while still doing their job.
If you want lots of storage, a 3-drawer bedside table works great and looks good too. These tables help keep your room neat by giving everything its place, which helps you rest better.
Bedside tables make your bedroom look balanced. Matching tables on both sides of your bed look planned and pulled together. This setup makes the room feel calm and organised without you even noticing.
You can also make these pieces your own. Put up family photos, art, or small plants - your bedside table shows who you are. These personal touches turn a useful piece into something that feels like you and makes your room cosy.
Don't forget about lights. Bedside tables give you the perfect spot for lamps or wall lights. These lights help you read and set the right mood. Where you put your lights can change how your whole bedroom feels and works.
Bedside tables really do give you the best of both worlds - they work hard and look good doing it. When you know all they can do, you can pick the right ones to make your bedroom just perfect.
Types of Bedside Tables and Their Uses
Let's take a closer look at bedside tables of all types and see how each design meets different needs and goes together with various bedroom layouts. Classic styles and innovative space-saving solutions give you plenty of options to pick what works best for your needs.
Standard bedside tables
Standard bedside tables are the go-to choice for bedrooms with enough space. These traditional pieces usually stand 55-70 cm tall, 40-60 cm wide, and 35-45 cm deep. Your bed's size often determines the ideal table width—bigger tables (55-65 cm) work well with king beds, while smaller ones (40-45 cm) are perfect for single beds.
These classic pieces come with a flat top for your essentials like lamps, books, or decorative items, and one or two drawers give you handy storage space. You'll find them in wood, metal, and engineered wood, so they can match any bedroom's style.
Standard bedside tables give you the best of both worlds with surface area and storage. They sit right at mattress height or a bit higher, which means you can easily grab what you need at night without stretching.
Floating bedside tables
Wall-mounted floating bedside tables bring a fresh take on bedroom furniture by skipping the legs and base entirely. This modern design creates several benefits you won't get from regular tables.
These tables save space in the most practical way. Without legs, you get extra floor space underneath. This design choice brings several perks:
- Small bedrooms look bigger and more spacious
- You can clean underneath with no obstacles
- Electrical outlets are much easier to reach
- The table height can match your exact needs
Floating bedside tables work just as well as traditional ones. Many styles include drawers or shelves while keeping their modern look. You might even save some money since these tables use less material than standard versions.
Just remember that installation needs some thought. Most tables need proper wall mounting, and you might need professional help or special tools. All the same, if you love minimalist style or need to save space, floating bedside tables could be your best choice.
3 drawer bedside table for extra storage
Storage-focused 3 drawer bedside tables help keep your bedroom tidy. These larger pieces stack three drawers of different sizes, giving you plenty of room for nighttime must-haves, personal items, and bedroom extras.
Quality materials like timber, metal, veneer, and sometimes mirrored glass or rattan make these tables both practical and stylish. They come in white, black, brown, grey, and gold, so they merge naturally with any bedroom's look.
The extra drawer space helps you sort your items better—one drawer for electronics and chargers, another for reading materials, and a third for personal items like medication, sleep masks, or pyjamas. This setup keeps your bedroom clutter-free and more peaceful for sleeping.
These tables usually stand taller than regular ones at about 79.5 cm. They give you lots of storage without taking up too much floor space, which makes them great for bedrooms where you need to build up rather than out.
Narrow bedside table for compact spaces
Tight spaces between your bed and wall? Narrow bedside tables might be just what you need. These slim designs keep all the important features while fitting into spaces where standard tables won't work.
These tables stay at mattress height but come in smaller widths and depths. You get the convenience of a bedside surface without crowding your room.
Smart storage solutions like slim drawers or open shelving make these compact tables surprisingly useful. They pack a lot of function into a smaller package.
These tables work great in:
- Small bedrooms that need every inch
- Guest rooms where space matters
- Kids' rooms where smaller furniture fits better
- City apartments where floor space is precious
Narrow bedside tables show how good design can solve space problems while looking great. They prove that even tiny bedrooms can have practical bedside furniture.
Your choice among these bedside table types comes down to your space, storage needs, and style preferences. Focus on what matters most to you—saving space, getting more storage, or matching your room's style—and you'll find the perfect table to make your bedroom both practical and beautiful.
Choosing the Right Style for Your Bedroom
The right bedside table can make your bedroom look extraordinary instead of just functional. Your bedroom's style, proportions, and layout should guide your choice.
Modern vs traditional designs
The style of bedside table you pick will shape your bedroom's atmosphere. Modern designs showcase clean lines, sleek finishes, and minimalist looks. These contemporary pieces often use glass, metal, or glossy surfaces that create a lightweight yet sophisticated appearance. Urban apartments and contemporary homes benefit most from these designs.
Traditional bedside tables showcase timeless elegance through rich hardwoods like oak, mahogany, or teak. These classic pieces feature carved legs, antique-style handles, and warm wood tones that add character to your bedroom. Period properties or rooms aiming for a cosy, established feel work best with traditional designs.
Different styles can boost your space in unique ways:
- Scandinavian bedside tables come with simple, minimalistic designs in solid woods like oak or walnut
- Coastal styles blend natural materials and textures with versatile, traditional designs
- Mid-century pieces show off geometric shapes, gold or brass elements, and mid-toned woods
Matching with your bed frame and headboard
A cohesive bedroom environment emerges when bedside tables complement your bed. You don't need to use similar materials for all pieces. Design experts suggest pairing fabric bed frames (velvet, linen, or leather) with bedside tables made of harder materials like timber or marble. This creates an appealing mix of soft and solid elements.
Your bed's main features should guide your choice. Simple bedside tables work best with ornate beds or bold upholstery. Plain bed frames allow for more decorative nightstands that add personality to the room.
Size matters too. Tables 50-60cm wide suit single, double, or queen beds perfectly. King-sized beds can handle larger nightstands up to 80cm wide. These proportions create visual balance throughout the room.
Using bedside tables to create symmetry
Matching bedside tables bring a sense of calm to bedrooms through symmetry. Double beds look great with identical tables on each side, giving equal style and function to both areas. This setup creates an intentional, peaceful design.
Modern design often embraces thoughtful asymmetry. Different bedside tables can work together if they stay at similar heights - a vital factor for visual balance. Even mixed styles create a purposeful look when their heights match.
Your personal taste determines whether you choose matching or complementary bedside tables. The secret lies in balance. Your bedside tables should boost your bedroom's overall look through smart choices in size, material, and placement.
Material and Colour Considerations
Your bedside table's materials and colours will shape your bedroom's look and your furniture's value. Smart choices here will give you a faithful companion for years.
Wood, metal, and rattan options
Wooden bedside tables never go out of style thanks to their strength, beauty, and classic appeal. You'll find them in finishes ranging from light to dark, and they fit any bedroom style. Oak, maple, pine, and mango wood stand out for their strength and character. Their knots and grain patterns bring nature right into your bedroom. Reclaimed pine adds an authentic, weathered look that blends well with modern interiors.
Metal bedside tables give you a modern, sleek look at a better price than wood. These tough pieces work great in busy areas because they're easy to clean and resist wear. Steel and iron tables last forever and add an industrial elegance to your room. They're perfect if you tend to spill things since their finish stays intact through daily accidents.
Rattan bedside tables have become a favourite because they mix beauty with function. These light yet strong pieces add warmth and style to bedrooms. People love rattan for its woven patterns that look great while staying sturdy. Many tables combine rattan with solid wood frames, like mango wood and cane combinations. This mix creates a relaxed, beachy feel in your space.
Popular colours: white, black, natural wood
Australian homeowners often choose white, black, natural wood tones, beige/cream, or metallic finishes for their bedside tables. Each colour creates its own mood in your bedroom.
White bedside tables create a clean, simple look that makes rooms brighter. They work great in modern, coastal, or Hamptons-style bedrooms. These versatile pieces match any colour scheme and keep your space looking fresh.
Black bedside tables make strong style statements. They add depth to lighter rooms and ground your design with their bold presence.
Natural wood finishes bring organic warmth to your bedroom. From light oak to dark walnut, these finishes show off wood's natural beauty and connect your room to nature.
How materials affect durability and maintenance
Materials determine how long your table lasts and how much care it needs. Wooden tables handle daily use well, making them great for master bedrooms where they see lots of action. Guest room tables can be more flexible since they don't get used as much.
Kids' rooms need tough furniture. Metal tables can take rough treatment and clean up easily - perfect for active spaces. Rental properties do well with stain-resistant veneers that last long and need little care.
Wood needs occasional dusting and should stay dry. Metal just needs quick wipes, while rattan works best with gentle dusting using a soft cloth or vacuum brush. A light coat of furniture wax now and then keeps rattan looking fresh.
Your choice should match both your style and how much time you want to spend on upkeep.
Size and Height: Getting the Proportions Right
The right bedside table height can turn everyday convenience into comfort you'll love. You won't have to stretch awkwardly for your alarm clock or struggle to reach a glass of water with proper measurements and smart placement.
Ideal height relative to your mattress
Your bedside table should be level with your mattress, plus or minus 5 cm. This creates a smooth visual flow and makes everything easy to reach. You should grab items from your table without any strain or awkward twisting while lying in bed.
Here are the height recommendations based on your bed type:
- Low-profile beds: 50-55 cm high tables
- Standard-profile beds: 55-65 cm high tables
- High-profile beds: 65-70 cm high tables
A standard mattress sits about 63.5 cm from the floor, so tables between 61-66 cm tall work best. The industry makes tables between 61-71 cm tall to match typical bed heights.
When to choose a small bedside table
Space limitations often make small or narrow bedside tables the best choice. One modest table is enough instead of two for single beds or compact rooms. This keeps the space open while giving you all the functionality you need.
Your bed size should match your table width. Twin beds work well with 17-20 inch wide tables. Queen beds look great with 20-26 inch tables. King beds can handle tables 24 inches or wider.
Small tables still need the right height relative to your mattress. Tables that sit way below mattress level throw off both comfort and visual balance.
Tips for measuring your space
Take these measurements before buying to get the perfect fit:
- Measure from floor to mattress top—this shows your ideal table height
- Include mattress topper height in your calculations
- Check the space between bed and wall for maximum width
- Note your headboard's depth—deeper headboards might need deeper tables
- Leave about 2 inches (5 cm) between mattress edge and table
- Keep at least 50 cm clear for walking paths around furniture
A quick measurement check now means your bedside table will look great and work perfectly in your space.
Styling and Decorating Your Bedside Table
Your bedside table creates a personal space that enhances your bedroom's look and nightly routine. This small surface can tell your story while serving a practical purpose.
Minimalist vs decorative setups
A minimalist bedside style keeps things simple with clean, uncluttered surfaces. You'll find just the basics here - a lamp, your current book, a clock, and maybe a glass of water on a coaster. This simple approach helps create a peaceful environment that leads to better sleep and mental clarity. Professional organisers say "a clear space is much more restful, and that's all the more important when it's so close to your bed".
Decorative approaches let your personality shine through carefully chosen items. Many designers use the "rule of three" - your lamp becomes the first piece, plus two decorative items that match your style. You might stack some books with a small ornament on top, add a framed photo, or display a special keepsake from your travels.
Using lamps, books, and plants
The lamp usually becomes the focal point of your bedside table. Design experts suggest using similar lamps on both bedside tables for balance, while other decorative pieces can be slightly different. This creates a connected look that doesn't feel too rigid or matched.
Books add a touch of class and keep your reading material close by. Stack different-sized volumes to create interest, but stick to books in good shape that match your room's colours. Plants bring a fresh feel to your bedside area - try easy-care options like succulents or snake plants that do well in bedrooms.
Avoiding clutter while adding personality
Decorative trays or small dishes help keep your style while organising smaller items like jewellery, watches, or hand cream. This simple trick keeps things tidy and creates a polished look.
You can add more personal touches with:
- A scented candle that fits your room's colour scheme
- A small art piece against the wall
- Natural items like shells or wooden objects
Take a step back now and then to look at your styling. Check if your eyes move smoothly around the table, taking in the different heights, textures, and colours. Note that "less is more" often creates the best look. Your bedside table should show who you are while keeping that peaceful vibe needed for good sleep.
Picking the perfect bedside table goes way beyond just finding an attractive piece of furniture. These bedroom companions substantially affect both function and style. The right bedside table creates harmony in your space and keeps everything you need close by, whether it's a standard design or a space-saving floating option.
Your bedside table's height is without doubt the most vital factor to think about. It should match your mattress level to avoid any awkward reaching or straining. Wood, metal, and rattan each bring their own benefits to durability, upkeep, and looks. Natural wood offers timeless warmth, metal brings sleek modernity, and rattan adds interesting texture. Your choice should match both your style and everyday needs.
Style deserves just as much attention. You might love contemporary minimalism or traditional elegance. Matching bedside tables look great and create symmetry, but different tables can work beautifully too as long as they're the same height. Whatever style you prefer, your bedside tables should work with your bed frame and overall bedroom design, not fight against it.
Styling your bedside surface needs the right mix of function and personality. A minimalist approach helps create mental clarity. Plants, books, lamps, and meaningful objects turn these practical pieces into personal statements that improve your sleeping space.
Your bedside table brings together style and practicality. It's a vital element that adds both order and beauty to your personal space. Smart choices now will create a bedroom sanctuary that looks beautiful and supports your comfort for years ahead.
Choosing the Perfect Bedside Table
Your bedroom setup needs bedside tables more than you'd think. These furniture pieces keep everything you need at night close by and add by a lot to your bedroom's look. A good bedside table gives you convenience and style, whether you read before bed or charge your devices overnight.
Bedside tables come in designs of all types to match your needs and space. Small bedside tables work great in compact rooms. Narrow ones fit perfectly between beds and walls. Storage problems? A 3 drawer bedside table keeps your stuff organised with clutter-free surfaces. These versatile pieces aren't just for bedrooms - they improve living rooms and entryways with their practical charm.
A bedside table does more than you might think. It makes your bedroom work better and look good. People often overlook these useful pieces of furniture, but they do way more than their basic job. They make your personal space both practical and beautiful.
Why bedside tables are more than just storage
Your bedside table works as your "nighttime command centre," though it might look like just a place to put stuff. These pieces help you stick to your sleep routine. They keep everything you need close by and make your life better.
A good-looking, modern bedside table helps you wind down at night and sleep better. Designers say the best tables have smooth, round corners. They should sit lower than your bed frame or mattress to work well and look right.
Your bedside table becomes your personal spot that shows what you need and how you live. Here's what it can do:
- Keeps your nighttime must-haves like reading glasses, earplugs, books, and water right there
- Gives your gadgets and chargers a home
- Sets the mood with candles or special items you love ...
Read more
Choosing the Perfect Bedside Table
Your bedroom setup needs bedside tables more than you'd think. These furniture pieces keep everything you need at night close by and add by a lot to your bedroom's look. A good bedside table gives you convenience and style, whether you read before bed or charge your devices overnight.
Bedside tables come in designs of all types to match your needs and space. Small bedside tables work great in compact rooms. Narrow ones fit perfectly between beds and walls. Storage problems? A 3 drawer bedside table keeps your stuff organised with clutter-free surfaces. These versatile pieces aren't just for bedrooms - they improve living rooms and entryways with their practical charm.
A bedside table does more than you might think. It makes your bedroom work better and look good. People often overlook these useful pieces of furniture, but they do way more than their basic job. They make your personal space both practical and beautiful.
Why bedside tables are more than just storage
Your bedside table works as your "nighttime command centre," though it might look like just a place to put stuff. These pieces help you stick to your sleep routine. They keep everything you need close by and make your life better.
A good-looking, modern bedside table helps you wind down at night and sleep better. Designers say the best tables have smooth, round corners. They should sit lower than your bed frame or mattress to work well and look right.
Your bedside table becomes your personal spot that shows what you need and how you live. Here's what it can do:
- Keeps your nighttime must-haves like reading glasses, earplugs, books, and water right there
- Gives your gadgets and chargers a home
- Sets the mood with candles or special items you love
- Puts your medicines or health items within easy reach
These pieces of furniture help clear your mind too. Design experts say "a cluttered space leads to a cluttered mind," and this rings true for nightstands. A tidy bedside table helps you sleep better and feel more peaceful.
Bedside tables have changed as our lives have changed. New models now come with cool features like wireless charging, soft lighting, and drawers that open with a touch. These changes show how bedside tables keep up with what we need while still helping us stay organised.
How they influence bedroom functionality and design
Bedside tables do more than just work well - they pull your room's look together. They're not just extras anymore. These pieces now stand out, show off your style, and catch the eye.
Your choice of material sets your bedroom's mood. Dark wood feels traditional, metal looks industrial, and bright colours add fun pops. The style you pick, from simple to fancy, changes how your whole room feels.
You need to think about both looks and use when picking a bedside table. Small tables work great in tight spaces without taking over. Slim tables fit nicely between beds and walls while still doing their job.
If you want lots of storage, a 3-drawer bedside table works great and looks good too. These tables help keep your room neat by giving everything its place, which helps you rest better.
Bedside tables make your bedroom look balanced. Matching tables on both sides of your bed look planned and pulled together. This setup makes the room feel calm and organised without you even noticing.
You can also make these pieces your own. Put up family photos, art, or small plants - your bedside table shows who you are. These personal touches turn a useful piece into something that feels like you and makes your room cosy.
Don't forget about lights. Bedside tables give you the perfect spot for lamps or wall lights. These lights help you read and set the right mood. Where you put your lights can change how your whole bedroom feels and works.
Bedside tables really do give you the best of both worlds - they work hard and look good doing it. When you know all they can do, you can pick the right ones to make your bedroom just perfect.
Types of Bedside Tables and Their Uses
Let's take a closer look at bedside tables of all types and see how each design meets different needs and goes together with various bedroom layouts. Classic styles and innovative space-saving solutions give you plenty of options to pick what works best for your needs.
Standard bedside tables
Standard bedside tables are the go-to choice for bedrooms with enough space. These traditional pieces usually stand 55-70 cm tall, 40-60 cm wide, and 35-45 cm deep. Your bed's size often determines the ideal table width—bigger tables (55-65 cm) work well with king beds, while smaller ones (40-45 cm) are perfect for single beds.
These classic pieces come with a flat top for your essentials like lamps, books, or decorative items, and one or two drawers give you handy storage space. You'll find them in wood, metal, and engineered wood, so they can match any bedroom's style.
Standard bedside tables give you the best of both worlds with surface area and storage. They sit right at mattress height or a bit higher, which means you can easily grab what you need at night without stretching.
Floating bedside tables
Wall-mounted floating bedside tables bring a fresh take on bedroom furniture by skipping the legs and base entirely. This modern design creates several benefits you won't get from regular tables.
These tables save space in the most practical way. Without legs, you get extra floor space underneath. This design choice brings several perks:
- Small bedrooms look bigger and more spacious
- You can clean underneath with no obstacles
- Electrical outlets are much easier to reach
- The table height can match your exact needs
Floating bedside tables work just as well as traditional ones. Many styles include drawers or shelves while keeping their modern look. You might even save some money since these tables use less material than standard versions.
Just remember that installation needs some thought. Most tables need proper wall mounting, and you might need professional help or special tools. All the same, if you love minimalist style or need to save space, floating bedside tables could be your best choice.
3 drawer bedside table for extra storage
Storage-focused 3 drawer bedside tables help keep your bedroom tidy. These larger pieces stack three drawers of different sizes, giving you plenty of room for nighttime must-haves, personal items, and bedroom extras.
Quality materials like timber, metal, veneer, and sometimes mirrored glass or rattan make these tables both practical and stylish. They come in white, black, brown, grey, and gold, so they merge naturally with any bedroom's look.
The extra drawer space helps you sort your items better—one drawer for electronics and chargers, another for reading materials, and a third for personal items like medication, sleep masks, or pyjamas. This setup keeps your bedroom clutter-free and more peaceful for sleeping.
These tables usually stand taller than regular ones at about 79.5 cm. They give you lots of storage without taking up too much floor space, which makes them great for bedrooms where you need to build up rather than out.
Narrow bedside table for compact spaces
Tight spaces between your bed and wall? Narrow bedside tables might be just what you need. These slim designs keep all the important features while fitting into spaces where standard tables won't work.
These tables stay at mattress height but come in smaller widths and depths. You get the convenience of a bedside surface without crowding your room.
Smart storage solutions like slim drawers or open shelving make these compact tables surprisingly useful. They pack a lot of function into a smaller package.
These tables work great in:
- Small bedrooms that need every inch
- Guest rooms where space matters
- Kids' rooms where smaller furniture fits better
- City apartments where floor space is precious
Narrow bedside tables show how good design can solve space problems while looking great. They prove that even tiny bedrooms can have practical bedside furniture.
Your choice among these bedside table types comes down to your space, storage needs, and style preferences. Focus on what matters most to you—saving space, getting more storage, or matching your room's style—and you'll find the perfect table to make your bedroom both practical and beautiful.
Choosing the Right Style for Your Bedroom
The right bedside table can make your bedroom look extraordinary instead of just functional. Your bedroom's style, proportions, and layout should guide your choice.
Modern vs traditional designs
The style of bedside table you pick will shape your bedroom's atmosphere. Modern designs showcase clean lines, sleek finishes, and minimalist looks. These contemporary pieces often use glass, metal, or glossy surfaces that create a lightweight yet sophisticated appearance. Urban apartments and contemporary homes benefit most from these designs.
Traditional bedside tables showcase timeless elegance through rich hardwoods like oak, mahogany, or teak. These classic pieces feature carved legs, antique-style handles, and warm wood tones that add character to your bedroom. Period properties or rooms aiming for a cosy, established feel work best with traditional designs.
Different styles can boost your space in unique ways:
- Scandinavian bedside tables come with simple, minimalistic designs in solid woods like oak or walnut
- Coastal styles blend natural materials and textures with versatile, traditional designs
- Mid-century pieces show off geometric shapes, gold or brass elements, and mid-toned woods
Matching with your bed frame and headboard
A cohesive bedroom environment emerges when bedside tables complement your bed. You don't need to use similar materials for all pieces. Design experts suggest pairing fabric bed frames (velvet, linen, or leather) with bedside tables made of harder materials like timber or marble. This creates an appealing mix of soft and solid elements.
Your bed's main features should guide your choice. Simple bedside tables work best with ornate beds or bold upholstery. Plain bed frames allow for more decorative nightstands that add personality to the room.
Size matters too. Tables 50-60cm wide suit single, double, or queen beds perfectly. King-sized beds can handle larger nightstands up to 80cm wide. These proportions create visual balance throughout the room.
Using bedside tables to create symmetry
Matching bedside tables bring a sense of calm to bedrooms through symmetry. Double beds look great with identical tables on each side, giving equal style and function to both areas. This setup creates an intentional, peaceful design.
Modern design often embraces thoughtful asymmetry. Different bedside tables can work together if they stay at similar heights - a vital factor for visual balance. Even mixed styles create a purposeful look when their heights match.
Your personal taste determines whether you choose matching or complementary bedside tables. The secret lies in balance. Your bedside tables should boost your bedroom's overall look through smart choices in size, material, and placement.
Material and Colour Considerations
Your bedside table's materials and colours will shape your bedroom's look and your furniture's value. Smart choices here will give you a faithful companion for years.
Wood, metal, and rattan options
Wooden bedside tables never go out of style thanks to their strength, beauty, and classic appeal. You'll find them in finishes ranging from light to dark, and they fit any bedroom style. Oak, maple, pine, and mango wood stand out for their strength and character. Their knots and grain patterns bring nature right into your bedroom. Reclaimed pine adds an authentic, weathered look that blends well with modern interiors.
Metal bedside tables give you a modern, sleek look at a better price than wood. These tough pieces work great in busy areas because they're easy to clean and resist wear. Steel and iron tables last forever and add an industrial elegance to your room. They're perfect if you tend to spill things since their finish stays intact through daily accidents.
Rattan bedside tables have become a favourite because they mix beauty with function. These light yet strong pieces add warmth and style to bedrooms. People love rattan for its woven patterns that look great while staying sturdy. Many tables combine rattan with solid wood frames, like mango wood and cane combinations. This mix creates a relaxed, beachy feel in your space.
Popular colours: white, black, natural wood
Australian homeowners often choose white, black, natural wood tones, beige/cream, or metallic finishes for their bedside tables. Each colour creates its own mood in your bedroom.
White bedside tables create a clean, simple look that makes rooms brighter. They work great in modern, coastal, or Hamptons-style bedrooms. These versatile pieces match any colour scheme and keep your space looking fresh.
Black bedside tables make strong style statements. They add depth to lighter rooms and ground your design with their bold presence.
Natural wood finishes bring organic warmth to your bedroom. From light oak to dark walnut, these finishes show off wood's natural beauty and connect your room to nature.
How materials affect durability and maintenance
Materials determine how long your table lasts and how much care it needs. Wooden tables handle daily use well, making them great for master bedrooms where they see lots of action. Guest room tables can be more flexible since they don't get used as much.
Kids' rooms need tough furniture. Metal tables can take rough treatment and clean up easily - perfect for active spaces. Rental properties do well with stain-resistant veneers that last long and need little care.
Wood needs occasional dusting and should stay dry. Metal just needs quick wipes, while rattan works best with gentle dusting using a soft cloth or vacuum brush. A light coat of furniture wax now and then keeps rattan looking fresh.
Your choice should match both your style and how much time you want to spend on upkeep.
Size and Height: Getting the Proportions Right
The right bedside table height can turn everyday convenience into comfort you'll love. You won't have to stretch awkwardly for your alarm clock or struggle to reach a glass of water with proper measurements and smart placement.
Ideal height relative to your mattress
Your bedside table should be level with your mattress, plus or minus 5 cm. This creates a smooth visual flow and makes everything easy to reach. You should grab items from your table without any strain or awkward twisting while lying in bed.
Here are the height recommendations based on your bed type:
- Low-profile beds: 50-55 cm high tables
- Standard-profile beds: 55-65 cm high tables
- High-profile beds: 65-70 cm high tables
A standard mattress sits about 63.5 cm from the floor, so tables between 61-66 cm tall work best. The industry makes tables between 61-71 cm tall to match typical bed heights.
When to choose a small bedside table
Space limitations often make small or narrow bedside tables the best choice. One modest table is enough instead of two for single beds or compact rooms. This keeps the space open while giving you all the functionality you need.
Your bed size should match your table width. Twin beds work well with 17-20 inch wide tables. Queen beds look great with 20-26 inch tables. King beds can handle tables 24 inches or wider.
Small tables still need the right height relative to your mattress. Tables that sit way below mattress level throw off both comfort and visual balance.
Tips for measuring your space
Take these measurements before buying to get the perfect fit:
- Measure from floor to mattress top—this shows your ideal table height
- Include mattress topper height in your calculations
- Check the space between bed and wall for maximum width
- Note your headboard's depth—deeper headboards might need deeper tables
- Leave about 2 inches (5 cm) between mattress edge and table
- Keep at least 50 cm clear for walking paths around furniture
A quick measurement check now means your bedside table will look great and work perfectly in your space.
Styling and Decorating Your Bedside Table
Your bedside table creates a personal space that enhances your bedroom's look and nightly routine. This small surface can tell your story while serving a practical purpose.
Minimalist vs decorative setups
A minimalist bedside style keeps things simple with clean, uncluttered surfaces. You'll find just the basics here - a lamp, your current book, a clock, and maybe a glass of water on a coaster. This simple approach helps create a peaceful environment that leads to better sleep and mental clarity. Professional organisers say "a clear space is much more restful, and that's all the more important when it's so close to your bed".
Decorative approaches let your personality shine through carefully chosen items. Many designers use the "rule of three" - your lamp becomes the first piece, plus two decorative items that match your style. You might stack some books with a small ornament on top, add a framed photo, or display a special keepsake from your travels.
Using lamps, books, and plants
The lamp usually becomes the focal point of your bedside table. Design experts suggest using similar lamps on both bedside tables for balance, while other decorative pieces can be slightly different. This creates a connected look that doesn't feel too rigid or matched.
Books add a touch of class and keep your reading material close by. Stack different-sized volumes to create interest, but stick to books in good shape that match your room's colours. Plants bring a fresh feel to your bedside area - try easy-care options like succulents or snake plants that do well in bedrooms.
Avoiding clutter while adding personality
Decorative trays or small dishes help keep your style while organising smaller items like jewellery, watches, or hand cream. This simple trick keeps things tidy and creates a polished look.
You can add more personal touches with:
- A scented candle that fits your room's colour scheme
- A small art piece against the wall
- Natural items like shells or wooden objects
Take a step back now and then to look at your styling. Check if your eyes move smoothly around the table, taking in the different heights, textures, and colours. Note that "less is more" often creates the best look. Your bedside table should show who you are while keeping that peaceful vibe needed for good sleep.
Picking the perfect bedside table goes way beyond just finding an attractive piece of furniture. These bedroom companions substantially affect both function and style. The right bedside table creates harmony in your space and keeps everything you need close by, whether it's a standard design or a space-saving floating option.
Your bedside table's height is without doubt the most vital factor to think about. It should match your mattress level to avoid any awkward reaching or straining. Wood, metal, and rattan each bring their own benefits to durability, upkeep, and looks. Natural wood offers timeless warmth, metal brings sleek modernity, and rattan adds interesting texture. Your choice should match both your style and everyday needs.
Style deserves just as much attention. You might love contemporary minimalism or traditional elegance. Matching bedside tables look great and create symmetry, but different tables can work beautifully too as long as they're the same height. Whatever style you prefer, your bedside tables should work with your bed frame and overall bedroom design, not fight against it.
Styling your bedside surface needs the right mix of function and personality. A minimalist approach helps create mental clarity. Plants, books, lamps, and meaningful objects turn these practical pieces into personal statements that improve your sleeping space.
Your bedside table brings together style and practicality. It's a vital element that adds both order and beauty to your personal space. Smart choices now will create a bedroom sanctuary that looks beautiful and supports your comfort for years ahead.
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