Choosing the perfect bedside table
It’s a fact of life that you need something next to your bed to hold your bedtime essentials. Somewhere to put a clock or phone, reading lamp, book. And that’s just on top. What about a drawer to stash medication, glasses, chargers, hand cream and other life necessities?
Choosing the best bedside table for your room comes down to your size, style, and storage requirements. Perhaps you need a small bedside table because space is limited or you’d like a modern bedside table to match your contemporary décor. Our bedside table buying guide gives you a rundown of the types and styles available at Amart and how to choose one that’s right for you.
Types of bedside tables
Which type of bedside cabinet suits you? Do you need something with storage or are you looking for something pared back? Bedside tables are available in the following types:
Without drawer - perfect if you don’t require storage and would like a minimalist look.
Shelf - a shelf instead of a drawer located underneath the tabletop allows you a little extra space to put a book and other bedtime essentials.
Drawer & shelf combo - creates visual interest and flexibility for storage and decoration.
Single drawer - one drawer allows you to store some items but keeps the lower section of the bedside table open, giving a more spacious look.
Multiple drawers - ideal for extra storage.
Consider the available space in your other bedroom storage pieces to work out how much storage you’ll need from your nightstand. Or if you’re after an entirely new bedroom suite, start from scratch in our bedroom furniture section where you’ll find a huge range of bed, dresser, tallboy and bedside table styles.
Size does matter
The old sewing adage: “measure twice, cut once” is a good theory to apply to measuring bedside tables (or any furniture for your home). Only, we’re not cutting anything. But you get the idea. You don’t want to get your new bedside table home only to realise it won’t fit or that your cupboard door bumps into it. So, when shopping for the perfect bedside table, measure your room, measure your bed frame, and work out the best width for your bedside table/s based on the remaining space available.
The right height for your bedside table
Your bedside table should be the same height as the top of your mattress or a couple of inches taller than it. To have the bedside table at this height means your body will be approximately level with the tabletop, making it easy to access. A nightstand that is too low will make reaching down from the side of your bed to open a drawer feel uncomfortable and awkward.
Surface area of bedside tabletop
If you’re like most people, you want a table lamp and alarm clock as a bare minimum on your bedside table. Plenty of people also want to keep a book, phone, glass of water and decorative pieces like a candle or trinket dish there too. With this in mind, work out how many items your bedside table needs to fit on top, then shop for the right size.
Storage space in your bedside table
If you like to keep night time items nearby or you’re short on space, bedside table drawers are the perfect place to squeeze in extra storage. Whether you use it for pyjamas and socks, or TV remotes and medication, that’s up to you. But storage options never go astray. Here at Amart, our range includes one, two and three-drawer designs so you can choose the look and functionality that’s perfect for you.
Bedside table materials - which to choose?
The right choice of material for your bedside table is influenced by the interior design style of your bed and other bedroom furniture. Warm up your room with timber or timber-look materials in mid-century, industrial, scandi and Hamptons styles or bring in sleek lines with metal, glass or high-gloss finishes for a modern look. Complete your bedroom styling with a bedside lamp and home décor accessories that complement the look.
Add personality with colour
Would you like your bedside tables to make a statement with colour or let something else be the hero piece in your room? Light-toned or white bedside tables in similar colours to your walls like the Rose Bay 3-Drawer Bedside can be subtle yet complementary to your other furniture choices. While the warm wood tones and rattan detailing of the Natural Nara 1-Drawer Bedside will look great with a Scandinavian, boho or coastal theme. And a pop of colour and gold trim from the Dorsey 2-Drawer Bedside will add plenty of personality to a glam luxe boudoir.
Design defines your space
Arguably one of the most important pieces of furniture in your bedroom, your bedside table works just as hard in the practicality and style department as your chest of drawers or dressing table. Different styles can make or break your intention for the functionality and look of your room. Refreshing your bedside tables can drastically change the look of your bedroom. Picture replacing dark timber 3-drawer bedside tables with a light-coloured minimalist style bedside featuring one drawer and a slim frame.
You could also play with the shape. An Archie Bedside introduces soft, curved lines while a silver Lozano Bedside will bounce light back into your space.
Amart makes it easy to choose an entire set for your bedroom with our range of bedroom suites. Browse it for inspiration or simply add your perfect bedroom package to the cart.
Do you need two bedside tables?
One or two bedside tables? That’s up to you. If your bed is used by only one person and your room is on the small side, then having one bedside table is totally fine. Just be mindful that a queen or king-size bed will have better symmetry with a bedside table on each side.
