A bedroom is not just a place to sleep; it’s a sanctuary where comfort meets style. One essential piece of furniture that often gets overlooked, but plays a vital role in both aesthetics and convenience, is the bedside table. Whether you’re reaching for a book before bed, placing a glass of water, or simply looking to add a decorative touch, a bedside table offers both practical and stylish benefits.
Why You Need a Bedside Table
A bedside table is more than just an accent piece—it’s a highly functional component of your bedroom. It keeps essential items within arm’s reach, reducing the need to get out of bed once you’re all tucked in for the night. From holding lamps and alarm clocks to providing storage for reading materials and personal items, the bedside table serves as a go-to space for your night-time essentials.
Additionally, a well-chosen bedside table can enhance the overall look of your bedroom. Available in a variety of designs, materials, and sizes, this piece of furniture can complement your bed and other décor, adding cohesion and style to the room.
Types of Bedside Tables
When choosing a bedside table, it’s important to consider your needs and the layout of your bedroom. There are various types of bedside tables available, each offering different functionalities and styles.
- Classic Bedside Table with Drawers
A bedside table with drawers is perhaps the most popular option. Offering both surface space and concealed storage, it’s perfect for those who need a place to stash away items like books, electronics, and personal effects. The top surface provides enough space for a lamp, alarm clock, and other essential items you may want nearby.
This style is highly versatile and fits well in both modern and traditional bedrooms. Wooden bedside tables with drawers, for example, add a touch of warmth and classic charm to any room.
- Floating Bedside Table
If you’re tight on floor space or prefer a more minimalist look, a floating bedside table might be the perfect solution. Mounted to the wall, these tables take up no floor space and offer a sleek, modern appearance. Despite their compact size, many floating bedside tables include a small drawer or shelf for storage.
Floating tables are an ideal choice for smaller bedrooms where floor space is limited, or for those who want to maintain a clean, uncluttered aesthetic.
- Bedside Table with Shelves
For those who like to display their favourite books, plants, or décor items, a bedside table with shelves offers both function and style. These open designs provide easy access to items and allow you to showcase personal touches. While they lack the privacy of a drawer, they make up for it with ample display space, perfect for modern or eclectic bedroom styles.
This type of table works best for people who don’t mind keeping their night-time essentials visible and want to incorporate décor elements into their bedside space.
- Compact Bedside Table for Small Spaces
In bedrooms where space is at a premium, compact bedside tables are the perfect solution. These smaller tables are designed to offer just enough space for the basics, such as a lamp, phone, or small alarm clock. While they may not have the storage capacity of larger models, their slim design helps make the most of a small room without overcrowding the space.
- Bedside Cabinets
For those who need more storage, bedside cabinets are an excellent option. These offer more depth and height than a standard bedside table and often feature multiple drawers or shelves. Bedside cabinets are perfect for storing items like extra linens, books, or personal items that need to be out of sight.
These cabinets tend to be larger and bulkier than traditional bedside tables, making them ideal for larger bedrooms where there’s more space to accommodate furniture.
Considerations When Choosing a Bedside Table
Selecting the right bedside table requires more than just choosing a design that catches your eye. It’s essential to consider both practicality and the existing style of your bedroom. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
- Size
The size of your bedside table is crucial. It should be in proportion to your bed and the rest of the room. A table that’s too small can look awkward, while one that’s too large can overwhelm the space. The height of the table should also complement your bed’s height; ideally, the surface of the table should be level with the top of your mattress to make it easy to reach for items while lying down.
- Storage Needs
Think about what you’ll use the bedside table for. If you only need space for a lamp and a phone, a minimalist or floating bedside table will suffice. However, if you prefer to store books, electronics, or other items, choose a bedside table with drawers or additional shelves. Consider your lifestyle and storage habits when deciding between a more open design versus one with concealed storage.
- Material and Finish
The material of your bedside table can make a significant impact on the look and feel of your bedroom. Wood is a popular choice because of its versatility and warmth, fitting seamlessly into both traditional and modern settings. Metal or glass bedside tables offer a more contemporary, sleek aesthetic.
When choosing a finish, consider the other furniture in your bedroom. For a cohesive look, it’s often best to match your bedside table with the existing bed frame, dresser, or wardrobe. However, mixing finishes can also add an eclectic, stylish touch if done correctly.
- Style
Your bedside table should enhance the overall style of your bedroom. For a rustic or traditional room, wooden tables with antique finishes add warmth and character. In contrast, minimalist or contemporary bedrooms may benefit from sleek, simple designs with clean lines. A bedside table with a high-gloss or glass surface works well in modern spaces, while vintage-inspired tables can bring an elegant touch to a classic room.
Practical Uses of Bedside Tables
Bedside tables are not just for decoration—they serve a variety of practical purposes that make them a must-have for any bedroom.
- Lighting: A bedside table provides the perfect place to keep a lamp, which is essential for reading or creating a warm, cosy atmosphere in the evening.
- Storage: With drawers or shelves, a bedside table offers a convenient spot to store items you may need throughout the night, such as books, glasses, or electronics.
- Night-time Essentials: Keep essentials like your phone, water, or alarm clock within arm’s reach for easy access without having to leave the comfort of your bed.
- Decorative Elements: Bedside tables also allow you to add a personal touch to your bedroom, offering space for photos, plants, or other décor items that help make the space feel like your own.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bedside table can enhance both the functionality and style of your bedroom. With so many options available, from classic designs with drawers to minimalist floating tables, there’s something for every need and taste. When selecting a bedside table, consider factors like size, storage needs, material, and style to ensure it complements your room while serving your practical needs. A well-chosen bedside table can elevate your bedroom décor while keeping your essentials conveniently close.