According to our consumer research, it takes on average, 45 hours to choose the perfect bedside table. Here at ufurnish.com we want to give you back the gift of time and make choosing your perfect nightstand simple! In this guide we look at the following key considerations to keep in mind when shopping for your bedside table:
1. What height should my bedside table be?
2. How much storage does my bedside table need?
3. Should I have two bedside tables?
4. What colour should my bedside table be?
5. What style should my bedside table be?
6. Do I need a bedside table?
1. What height should my bedside table be?
One of the first considerations when choosing a bedside table is its height in proportion to your bed. Should a bedside table be higher or lower than your bed? The simple answer is that the top of your bedside table should be either level with your mattress or no more than 2-4 inches taller. This is because it's easier to reach for something at the same level as you or slightly higher when laying down compared to having to reach below to retrieve your item.
2. How much storage does my bedside table need?
You can never have enough storage! One of the most practical aspects of a bedside table is its storage function. Firstly, consider the surface space. If you want to display a large bedside lamp or add decorative items then you’ll need a much larger surface space but if you want a clean, less cluttered look then a smaller surface space will suffice. The next consideration is storage space within the nightstand. Consider what you’d like to store next to your bed - books, reading glasses, medication, an eye mask… The list is endless. A drawer option is convenient for easy access while laying in bed whereas an opening cupboard style storage space lends itself to storing items not required while in bed such as clothing, slippers or other miscellaneous items.
3. Should I have two bedside tables?
Whether or not you really need two bedside tables depends on a combination of style, space and function. Having two bedside tables brings balance to the look and feel of your bedroom while the use of a single bedside table can provide an accent feature to your bedroom as well as giving you more space.
The addition of two bedside tables is really a no-brainer when you share your bed with a partner as it allows you to both have a place to store your essential nighttime items. If space is an issue then the use of one bedside table can give you back valuable room. For beds that are placed against a wall, it makes total sense to just have one nightstand. However, to add function and equilibrium to your room we would suggest the addition of two bedside tables where possible. Choose matching nightstands to bring equilibrium to your space or opt for two different style bedside tables to add a unique look to your bedroom.
4. What colour should my bedside table be?
Strictly speaking, a nightstand can be any colour you desire but the colour choice must be made in consideration with the rest of the room decor and colour combinations. A great starting point for making this decision is to look at the colour of your headboard and duvet. If your bed and bedding are dark in colour then having a light white or silver nightstand will instantly complement the overall look. If your bed and bedding are lighter in colour then this opens up more colour options to you. You can opt for a traditional white or cream bedside table to complement the look or choose a contrasting dark wood or coloured nightstand.
The typical go-to nightstand colour is white as it easily blends in with most decor types. If deciding to choose a dark nightstand then consider the other furniture and furnishing choices in your room to ensure your room doesn’t start to feel too dark.
5. What style should my bedside table be?
The most common styles of bedside table are cabinet, open shelf, dresser, drum, trunk and x-based. However this is not an exhaustive list.
The style you choose will depend on a number of factors including space, the function your bedside table needs to fulfil and the overall style of your room decor.
We recommend choosing a cabinet style for low-maintenance design. It provides you with a hidden space to keep your clutter organised while providing a decent surface space for lamps and other accessories.
An open style nightstand is great for a contemporary, minimal space. This style bedside table is best used in a minimalist, no clutter space but to add an additional storage element you can add baskets to create a drawer like feeling.
Dresser style bedside tables are not actually a table at all but a small chest of drawers and tend to be longer and wider than traditional bedside tables. This style of dresser is most suited to large master bedrooms with plenty of space. They offer great additional storage but can often look cramped in a smaller bedroom.
Drum bedside tables are great for smaller bedrooms due to their compact size. The main downside to a drum style nightstand is its lack of storage space. Also bear in mind that they will need to be visually balanced with other, taller pieces of furniture such as a large floor lamp or tall standing mirror as too much low furniture can make the room feel heavy.
Trunk style nightstands are a great choice in a rustic style bedroom. They typically feature strap detailing or are made from leather giving them an industrial feel.
X-based nightstands have legs that form an X rather than the traditional 4 straight legs and offer a sophisticated look. This style bedside table works well in achieving a glam look as well as adding an unexpected element to the bedroom.
6. Do I need a bedside table?
Finally, ask yourself if you really need a bedside table. Although quite a common bedroom furniture item there is no requirement to have one! While you’ll likely need some form of surface close to your bed there are numerous alternatives to the traditional nightstand. Some of our favourite alternatives to bedside tables include bookcases, statement chairs, console tables, small desks, floating shelves or stools.
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