A bedside table is a small piece of furniture, but the wrong height or width can make a bedroom awkward to use. Start with the bed and the available space beside it.

Match the height to the bed

A bedside surface close to the height of the mattress is usually easier to reach. Measure from the floor to the top of the mattress and compare that with the product height.

Check the width and depth

Allow enough room for drawers or cupboard doors to open. In compact bedrooms, a narrow cabinet can provide useful storage without crowding the bed.

Choose the storage you actually need

Open shelves suit books and everyday items, while drawers and cupboards hide smaller belongings.

Browse bedside tables and cabinets or read our small-room furniture guide.