Best Bedside Tables in the UK: Expert Guide to Stylish & Practical Choices

Dive into our friendly and humorous bedside table buyer’s guide. Discover the perfect nightstand with expert tips, creative ideas, and insights for your bedroom needs.

View UK Prices
1. Introduction: The Bedside Table Odyssey

Welcome, dear reader, to the whimsical world of bedside tables, where form meets function, and style meets necessity! Are you tired of fumbling for your phone in the dark, or perhaps you can never find that elusive glass of water at 3 a.m.? Fear not! Your quest for the perfect bedside table is about to get a whole lot easier—and funnier.

Bedside tables, also known as nightstands, are the unsung heroes of our bedrooms. They bear the brunt of our bedtime routines, hold our nighttime essentials, and occasionally serve as a perch for a precariously balanced stack of books. But not all bedside tables are created equal. That’s where this guide comes in, to illuminate your path to the perfect purchase.

2. Why You Need a Bedside Table

First things first, let’s address the elephant in the room: why do you even need a bedside table? Can’t you just stack everything on the floor? While that’s an option, a bedside table can elevate your bedroom game, both literally and figuratively.

Imagine this: You're comfortably cocooned in bed, but your phone alarm is blasting from the floor. You could perform a contortionist act to reach it, or you could simply extend an arm to your trusty bedside table. See the difference? Besides convenience, a well-chosen bedside table can add a dash of style and sophistication to your bedroom decor. Plus, it gives your room a more polished and organized look. Who doesn't want to feel like they've got their life together, even if it's just on the surface?

3. Size Matters (When It Comes to Bedside Tables)

Now that we’ve established the necessity of a bedside table, let’s talk size. Remember Goldilocks and her quest for the perfect fit? Your bedside table journey is similar. You don't want one that's too big, hogging all the space and making your room look cramped. Nor do you want one that's too small, leaving your belongings teetering on the edge.

A good rule of thumb is to choose a bedside table that's roughly the same height as your mattress. This ensures that reaching for your phone or a glass of water is a breeze. As for width, consider the space available beside your bed and your storage needs. If you have a lot of nighttime essentials, opt for something with drawers or shelves. Otherwise, a simple tabletop might suffice.

4. Style and Design: Get Creative with Your Nightstand

When it comes to style, your bedside table should be an extension of your personality. Are you a fan of modern minimalism, or do you prefer something more rustic and charming? Perhaps you're a vintage enthusiast or a lover of all things eclectic. The good news is, there's a bedside table out there for every aesthetic.

Consider the existing decor in your bedroom. If your room is filled with clean lines and muted tones, a sleek, streamlined nightstand might be the way to go. On the other hand, if your space is more bohemian, a vibrant, mismatched piece could be just the thing to tie it all together. Remember, your bedside table doesn’t have to match your other furniture perfectly—it just needs to complement it.

5. Material World: Choosing the Right Fabrication

In the wonderful world of bedside tables, materials matter. Wood, metal, glass, and even acrylic are all popular choices, each bringing its own unique flair to the table—pun intended.

Wooden bedside tables are classic and versatile, available in a plethora of finishes and stains. They can add warmth and texture to your space. Metal tables, on the other hand, offer a sleek, industrial vibe. If you’re aiming for a more contemporary look, glass or acrylic can give your room an airy, open feel. When choosing materials, consider durability, maintenance, and how each option aligns with your room’s overall style.

6. Storage Solutions: More Than Meets the Eye

Ah, storage—the pièce de résistance of any good bedside table. Whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist, it’s important to consider how much storage you need and what you plan to keep at arm’s length.

Drawers are fantastic for hiding clutter and keeping your essentials organized. If you prefer a more open look, shelves can display your favorite books or decorative items. Some tables even come with clever hidden compartments or built-in charging stations, perfect for tech lovers. Ultimately, the best storage solution is one that caters to your specific needs and lifestyle.

7. Budget Basics: Finding the Right Price

As with any purchase, your budget plays a significant role in your bedside table search. The good news is, bedside tables come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to luxury pieces that cost more than your first car.

If you're on a tight budget, don’t fret. There are plenty of affordable options that still offer style and functionality. Consider shopping at thrift stores or online marketplaces for unique, cost-effective finds. On the other hand, if you’re ready to splurge, investing in a high-quality piece can be a rewarding decision, adding value and elegance to your space.

8. The Perfect Pair: Matching vs. Mismatching

When it comes to bedside tables, the age-old question arises: should they match? The answer is, it depends! Matching nightstands can create a cohesive, symmetrical look, which is great for traditional or formal settings.

However, mismatched tables offer a more eclectic, personalized vibe. They allow you to mix and match styles, colors, and materials, adding character and charm to your room. If you choose to go this route, aim for a common element, such as color or height, to tie the two pieces together.

9. Placement Perfection: Positioning Your Nightstand

Believe it or not, where you place your bedside table matters. Ideally, it should be within easy reach of your bed, making it convenient to grab your phone, book, or midnight snack. If space is tight, consider a wall-mounted option or a slender, narrow table that won’t overwhelm the room.

Additionally, consider the lighting in your bedroom. If your table needs to hold a lamp, make sure there's ample space for it without sacrificing room for other essentials. Proper placement can make a world of difference in the functionality and aesthetics of your space.

10. Conclusion: Your Nightstand, Your Way

In conclusion, your bedside table is more than just a piece of furniture—it’s a reflection of your style, a keeper of your secrets, and a trusty sidekick in the theatre of dreams. Whether you opt for something sleek and modern or quirky and colorful, the perfect bedside table awaits you.

Remember, the key is to balance practicality with personality. So go ahead, treat yourself to a nightstand that makes you smile every time you crawl into bed. After all, bedtime should be a joyful affair, and your bedside table is here to make it even better.

By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to find a bedside table that not only meets your needs but also enhances the beauty and functionality of your bedroom space. Sweet dreams await with the perfect nightstand by your side!

Experts Choice
A complete guide to bedside tables