How to Choose the Right Bedside Tables for Your Space and Style
Choosing the right bedside tables comes down to three main factors: the size and layout of your bedroom, the storage you need, and the overall style you want to achieve. Get these elements right and your tables will feel like a natural part of the room rather than an afterthought.
Measure Your Space First
Start by looking at the gap between your bed and the nearest wall or furniture. In most UK bedrooms a clearance of at least 50 cm on each side allows you to move around comfortably and open drawers without banging into anything. For smaller rooms, a slim table or even an integrated design can prevent the space from feeling cramped.
Consider the height of your mattress and bed frame. The top of the bedside table should sit roughly level with the top of the mattress so you can easily reach a glass of water or your phone. If you have a tall headboard or a deep mattress, look for taller tables or models with adjustable legs where possible.
Decide What You Need to Store
Think about your nightly routine. Do you need space for a lamp, alarm clock, glasses, books, charging cables and perhaps a small drawer for earplugs or hand cream? A single drawer may be enough for some, while others prefer two or three drawers to keep the surface clear.
If you like to keep the top tidy, choose a design with a lower shelf for books or a basket. For those who prefer a completely clear surface, a chest-style table with multiple drawers offers hidden storage that keeps the bedroom looking calm and ordered.
Match the Style to Your Bedroom
Your bedside tables should complement the rest of your furniture. If you have a wooden bed frame, tables in a similar wood tone create a cohesive look. For a modern scheme, ribbed or geometric designs add texture without overwhelming the room.
Popular choices include the SOLACE+CO Velmor 2 Drawer Ribbed Bedside Table Walnut which pairs beautifully with many contemporary beds, or the Flair Calista 2 Drawer Cloud Detail Ribbed Bedside Table for a softer, more textured finish. If you prefer a marble-effect top, the SOLACE+CO Marcel Walnut Bedside Table with Marble Effect Top brings a touch of luxury while remaining practical.
Consider Integrated or Set Options
In smaller bedrooms or for a streamlined look, beds with integrated bedside tables can be a smart solution. These designs save floor space and create a hotel-style feel. The SOLACE+CO Vera Hotel Bed Frame with Integrated Bedside Tables Cream Chenille is one example that keeps everything in proportion.
Buying a pair of matching tables is often the easiest way to achieve balance on both sides of the bed. The SOLACE+CO Velmor 2 Drawer Ribbed Bedside Tables Set of 2 offers exactly that, with consistent colour and finish so the room feels symmetrical and well planned.
Bedside Tables for Children’s Rooms
Kids’ rooms need sturdy, low tables that are easy to clean and safe for little hands. Avoid sharp corners and opt for designs with rounded edges and stable bases. Bright colours or simple white finishes work well and can grow with the child if chosen carefully.
Explore the range of Kids Bedside Tables for options that suit both toddlers and older children. Pairing them with practical Kids Bedroom Accessories helps create a calm, organised space that encourages good bedtime routines.
Coordinate with the Rest of Your Bedroom Furniture
Bedside tables do not have to match every piece exactly, but they should feel connected. If you have a chest of drawers or wardrobe in the same wood family, look for tables that pick up similar tones or details.
For a complete look, browse the full Bedroom Furniture collection which includes Wardrobes, Chest of Drawers and Bedroom Sets that can help you build a unified scheme. If you need extra surface space elsewhere in the room, consider how Dressing Tables or Bedroom Mirrors work alongside your chosen tables.
Practical Tips for a Balanced Layout
Place tables so that lighting falls evenly on both sides of the bed. If one side has less floor space, a wall-mounted lamp or a narrower table can maintain visual balance. Keep the surface uncluttered by using a small tray for jewellery or remotes.
In guest rooms, a simple table with one drawer offers enough space for visitors to place their essentials without making the room feel busy. For main bedrooms, two tables of identical size and style usually give the most restful result.
Once your bedside tables are in place, think about the bed itself. A comfortable mattress makes all the difference to how well you rest. Ranges such as Memory Foam Mattresses or those from brands like Maxitex and Noomi can complete the room once the furniture layout feels right.
Take time to walk around your bedroom and imagine opening drawers, reaching for a book or setting down a cup of tea. The best bedside tables are the ones you barely notice because they simply work with the room, your habits and the style you love.
← Back to the Bed Kingdom blog