How to Choose the Right Bedside Tables for Your Bedroom
Choosing the right bedside tables for your bedroom means finding the right balance between size, functionality, proportion, style and available space. Bedside tables may seem like small pieces of furniture, but they have a big impact on everyday practicality and on the overall visual balance of the sleeping area.
They are not only a surface next to the bed: they can store personal items, complete the bedroom scheme, improve organisation and help the room feel tidier and more relaxing. That is why they should be chosen together with the bed, wardrobe and the overall bedroom layout.
In this guide, we explain how to choose bedside tables for your bedroom, starting with measurements and proportions, then looking at types, materials, heights, storage capacity, how to match them with the bed, and the most common mistakes to avoid.
How to choose bedside tables based on space, bed size and daily habits
The first thing to consider when choosing bedside tables is the space available beside the bed. Before looking at style, colour or finish, you need to understand how much room is left between the bed, walls, wardrobe, walkways and any other furniture in the bedroom.
A well-chosen bedside table should be easy to use, proportional to the bed and consistent with the rest of the room. It should not get in the way, but it should provide a practical surface for a lamp, books, smartphone, glasses or small personal items.
The best order of choice is: measurements first, then functionality, and finally style. This helps avoid choosing bedside tables that look good but are not practical in everyday use.
A functional bedside table should:
- be proportional to the bed in height, width and depth
- leave enough space to move around the bed comfortably
- offer the right amount of storage for your habits
- fit with the bedroom style without making the space feel heavy
Bedside tables should always be considered together with the bed, because the bed base height, mattress thickness, headboard and frame all directly affect the choice. You can also read our guide on how to choose the right bed.
To plan clearances and walking space correctly, you may also find our guide to bedroom dimensions and clearances useful.
Bedside table dimensions: ideal width, depth and height
Bedside table dimensions are essential for creating a balanced bedroom. A bedside table that is too large can make the bed area feel bulky and reduce walking space, while one that is too small may be impractical and look out of proportion with the bed.
The right size depends on the available space, the size of the bed and how you use the table every day. In general, there are three key measurements to consider: width, depth and height.
Bedside table width
The width of a bedside table usually ranges from around 35 to 60 cm. Compact sizes are suitable for small bedrooms or single beds, while wider models work well in larger double bedrooms or for anyone who wants more surface space.
- 35–40 cm: for small bedrooms, single beds or tight spaces
- 45–50 cm: a versatile size for most double bedrooms
- 55–60 cm and above: for spacious rooms and larger beds
Bedside table depth
Depth is just as important, because it affects how far the bedside table projects into the walkway. A depth between 40 and 50 cm is generally suitable for most bedrooms.
In small rooms, it is better to choose shallower bedside tables, with light lines or wall-mounted designs, so they do not restrict movement around the bed. In larger bedrooms, deeper models can be used, including designs with more spacious drawers.
It is also important to consider bedside table depth together with the thickness of the bed headboard. If the headboard is very thick and the bedside table is shallow, the top may sit too far back and become harder to reach. On the other hand, if the headboard is slim and the bedside table is very deep, the table may project too far forwards, creating an obstacle when getting out of bed or moving around it.
The aim is to maintain good continuity between the bed and bedside table, so the surface is easy to reach and does not interfere with movement in the room.
Bedside table height
The ideal bedside table height should be close to the height of the mattress. This keeps the surface easy to reach when lying down.
As a general rule, the bedside table should be:
- aligned with the mattress, for maximum comfort
- slightly lower, if you want a lighter visual effect
- not too high, to avoid an unbalanced look
If the bed has a low frame, as with many modern or minimalist beds, low or wall-mounted bedside tables are usually the best choice. If the bed is higher, with a thick mattress or storage base, the bedside tables should be proportioned to that height.
Pay attention to comfort and safety: a bedside table that is too high compared with the mattress can be uncomfortable and may increase the risk of knocks, especially at night. A bedside table that is too low, however, forces you into awkward movements, which can strain the shoulders and back.
| Measurement | Indicative size | When to consider it |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 35–60 cm | Based on the side space available |
| Depth | 40–50 cm | Based on the walking space around the bed |
| Height | Close to mattress height | For comfortable everyday use |
Types of bedside tables: drawers, wall-mounted, open or integrated designs
There are several types of bedside tables, each suited to different needs and bedroom styles. The right choice depends on how much storage you need, the space available and the visual effect you want to create.
Bedside tables with drawers
Bedside tables with drawers are the most practical and popular option. They help keep personal items, accessories, documents, chargers and small objects out of sight.
They are ideal for anyone who wants a tidy bedroom and needs extra storage next to the bed. They may have one, two or more drawers, depending on the available space and the style of the room.
Wall-mounted bedside tables
Wall-mounted bedside tables are fixed to the wall and do not rest directly on the floor. They are perfect for modern bedrooms, small rooms and light, minimalist schemes.
Their main advantage is their lighter visual impact: they leave the floor clear, make cleaning easier and help the sleeping area feel more open.
They are also practical for everyday cleaning: wall-mounted bedside tables make it easier to use a vacuum cleaner or robot vacuum, allowing the floor to be cleaned fully without obstacles.
However, they must be installed correctly and chosen according to the wall they will be fixed to.
Open bedside tables or open-shelf designs
Open bedside tables or designs with an open shelf are suitable for those who want a lighter and more decorative solution. They keep books, magazines or objects within easy reach, but require a little more attention to tidiness.
They suit modern, youthful or informal bedrooms, and also work well in small spaces, where a fully closed bedside table might look heavier.
Integrated bedside tables
Some beds include integrated bedside tables, side shelves or matching elements built into the headboard. This is a useful solution when you want a uniform, tidy bedroom scheme designed as one complete system.
Integrated bedside tables are particularly suitable for modern bedrooms, beds with fitted headboards or spaces where you want to reduce visual clutter.
| Type of bedside table | When to choose it | Main advantage |
|---|---|---|
| With drawers | When you need storage | Helps keep the room tidy |
| Wall-mounted | In modern or small bedrooms | Makes the space feel lighter |
| Open | For books or objects kept on display | Practical and decorative |
| Integrated with the bed | With fitted headboards or coordinated bedroom schemes | Creates visual continuity |
Matching or mismatched bedside tables: how to pair them with the bed
One of the most common questions is: should bedside tables match, or can they be different? The answer depends on the bedroom style, the space available and the look you want to achieve.
Matching bedside tables are the most classic and orderly choice. They create symmetry, balance and a more regular visual composition. They are especially suitable for traditional, elegant or highly coordinated double bedrooms.
Mismatched bedside tables, on the other hand, can make the bedroom feel more dynamic and personal. They work well in modern, contemporary or informal interiors, as long as they share at least one common element: colour, material, height, shape or style.
As a general guide:
- matching bedside tables: ideal for a tidy, symmetrical and coordinated look
- mismatched bedside tables: suitable for more personal and dynamic bedrooms
- bedside tables coordinated with the bed: perfect for a uniform scheme
- contrasting bedside tables: useful for highlighting the bed or adding a decorative detail
If you choose mismatched bedside tables, visual consistency is important. For example, two different shapes can work well if they have the same height or a similar finish. By contrast, differences that are too strong can make the room feel visually untidy.
Today, the idea of “mismatched bedside tables” has evolved: it does not only mean choosing two different models, but also combining completely different elements.
- a traditional bedside table on one side and a stool or small side table on the other
- a compact chest of drawers paired with a wall-mounted shelf
- a bedside table combined with a creative solution such as a stack of books or a decorative piece
These options make the bedroom feel more personal and contemporary, provided there is balance between proportions, heights and materials.
Materials, finishes and colours for bedside tables
The choice of materials, finishes and colours affects both the look and practicality of bedside tables. Materials should work with the bed, wardrobe, chest of drawers and overall bedroom style.
Wood or wood-effect bedside tables
Wood and wood-effect bedside tables bring warmth, natural character and a welcoming feel. They suit both classic and modern bedrooms, depending on the finish.
Light wood tones, such as oak or elm, make the room feel brighter and lighter. Darker finishes, such as walnut or textured wood effects, create a more elegant and distinctive look.
Lacquered bedside tables
Lacquered bedside tables are ideal for modern, minimalist or contemporary bedrooms. They can have either a matt or gloss finish:
- matt lacquer: elegant, understated and refined
- gloss lacquer: brighter and more reflective
Light colours help make the bedroom feel less heavy, while darker or more intense tones can create a stronger design statement.
Bedside tables with metal, glass or marble-effect details
Some bedside tables include metal details, glass tops, marble-effect inserts or textured finishes. These are ideal when you want to give the sleeping area more personality, but they should be used carefully so the room does not feel overloaded.
How to choose bedside table colours
The right colour depends mainly on the size of the bedroom and the palette already in use.
- Small bedrooms: choose light, wall-mounted or visually lightweight bedside tables.
- Large bedrooms: darker, textured or more substantial finishes can work well.
- Statement bed: choose simple, discreet bedside tables.
- Minimal bed: the bedside tables can become a more visible decorative detail.
Practical tip: if you want a bedroom that is easy to update over time, choose bedside tables in neutral finishes and add personality with lamps, textiles and accessories.
Storage and organisation: what to keep in a bedside table
The right bedside table also depends on what you want to keep next to the bed. If you only need a surface, a light or open model may be enough. If you need to store several items, bedside tables with drawers or closed compartments are usually more suitable.
A bedside table can typically hold:
- books or magazines
- glasses
- chargers and small devices
- tissues, creams or personal items
- light linen or accessories
To keep things tidy, avoid turning the bedside table into a cluttered storage unit. A few well-organised items make the sleeping area feel cleaner, more relaxing and more functional.
Practical tip: if you need plenty of storage, consider bedside tables with two drawers or pair them with a coordinated chest of drawers , rather than overloading the bed area.
Lighting and sockets near bedside tables
Bedside tables are closely linked to bedroom lighting. Table lamps, wall lights, pendant lights and power sockets all affect how practical the sleeping area is.
Before choosing a bedside table, it is useful to check:
- where the power sockets are located
- how much space a bedside lamp needs
- whether a table lamp or wall light would work better
- whether USB sockets or charging points are needed near the bed
If the bedside table is very small, a table lamp may take up too much space. In these cases, wall lights, pendant lights or lamps fixed to the headboard are more practical.
With wall-mounted bedside tables or modern bedroom schemes, you can also consider integrated lighting, sockets or charging points, for a tidier and more functional sleeping area.
More modern designs may include integrated cable management, technical compartments or shaped back panels, which help hide charging cables and keep the bedside area neater.
Mistakes to avoid when choosing bedside tables
When choosing bedside tables, the most common mistakes concern proportions, available space and consistency with the bed. Avoiding them helps create a bedroom that is more comfortable, tidier and visually balanced.
-
Choosing bedside tables that are too large
They can reduce side clearances and make the bed area feel heavy. -
Choosing bedside tables that are too low or too high
If the top is not close to mattress height, everyday use becomes less comfortable. -
Ignoring depth
A bedside table that is too deep can restrict movement around the bed. -
Thinking only about looks
A beautiful but impractical bedside table can quickly become inconvenient in daily use. -
Not considering lamps and sockets
Without space for lighting and charging, the bedside area becomes less functional. -
Matching everything too rigidly
The bed, bedside tables and chest of drawers do not have to be identical: what matters is that they work well together. -
Ignoring the real space beside the bed
Before buying, always measure clearances, walls and overall furniture dimensions.
FAQs: how to choose bedside tables
How high should bedside tables be?
Bedside tables should be a similar height to the mattress, so they are comfortable to use when lying down. They can be slightly lower, but it is best to avoid models that are much too high or too low.
How much space do you need for a bedside table?
It depends on the bedroom and the bed. In general, a compact bedside table can start from around 35–40 cm wide, but you should always leave enough space to move comfortably around the bed.
Are wall-mounted or floor-standing bedside tables better?
Wall-mounted bedside tables are lighter and more modern, ideal for small or minimalist bedrooms. Floor-standing bedside tables often offer more storage and are easier to include in traditional or classic bedrooms.
Do bedside tables have to match the bed?
Not necessarily. They can be coordinated, similar or even contrasting, as long as they remain consistent with the bedroom style, colours and proportions.
Can you use two different bedside tables?
Yes, especially in modern or personalised bedrooms. However, it is important to keep at least one element in common, such as height, colour, material or style.
What can I use instead of bedside tables in a small bedroom?
In a small bedroom, you can use shelves, wall-mounted bedside tables, fitted headboards or compact side elements, so you still have a practical surface without taking up too much space.