When you’re putting together the ultimate comfy bedroom vibe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the unsung hero of the setup: the bedside table. This little gem is just like the Swiss Army knife of bedroom furniture.
Just think about it: it’s late. You’re on night duty call for work. You can’t be far from that phone in case it buzzes with an urgent notification, right? Or you want to be close to the alarm that insists on waking you up at an ungodly early hour.
Feeling thirsty after that extra-salty Thai dinner you had last night? No problem, just reach for a glass of water, without the need to embark on a perilous midnight trek to the kitchen sink.
And let’s not forget about your favourite book that’s just asking for some late-night page-turning, or the need to have those reading glasses handy at the sweep of your hand, without risking stepping on them if they’re on the floor.
But really, your bedside table isn’t just a glorified catch-all for your nighttime essentials. It’s also a statement piece. You may be into sleek modern designs, charming rustic vibes, or classic elegance, and that table can be your functional sidekick and your bedroom’s style-setter. So, when you're out shopping for your bedroom furniture, give it the attention it deserves. It’ll be a reliable, practical partner in your sleeping sanctuary.
In this blog, we’ll explore practical aspects like how high a bedside table should be, some fun parts like how to decorate your bedside table, and importantly, where to buy the bedside tables of your (sweetest) dreams.
Why Your Bedside Table Setup Matters More Than You Think
Having a bedside unit is like having a personal assistant guarding your nighttime peace. Without it, your bedroom is likely to turn into a hot mess in a matter of minutes. Picture this: you reach for your phone at 2 AM, and instead of finding it on a sleek tabletop, you’re having to do a wild scavenger hunt on the floor. But with a nightstand in your corner, your bedroom transforms into a tranquil oasis, making you feel like a Zen master.
You'll be organised, tidy, and ready to tackle the day. Or at least find your glasses without the fumbling. Funny how such a little piece of furniture with a bit of storage can bring so much calmness to your bedroom.
Bedside Table Height and Size: Does it Matter How High Your Bedside Table Should Be?
In short, yes. Bedside table height really does matter. We're talking about hitting that ideal spot somewhere between 45–65cm. Basically, you want it to be the same (ish) height as your bed mattress. Trust us, a major height mismatch is a classic post-purchase facepalm moment, and you really don’t want to be that person regretting their choice.
While you're at it, think about the width and depth too. You wouldn’t want a bedside table that’s more of a clunky addition than a cosy companion next to your bed. So, take a moment to make sure you don’t end up with a bedside unit that’s either too short or tall to easily reach or too wide to fit.
Can a Bedside Table Be Lower Than the Bed?
When choosing the height of a bedside table, the sweet spot is right at mattress level. It’s that sweet spot where snacks aren’t too far away during late-night Netflix binges. You want to be able to just reach across without having to stretch like you’re trying to grab the last biscuit from a high shelf.
Now, if you decide to go with a nightstand that’s a tad lower, that’s cool. A few centimetres won't throw off your game too much. If you go too low, you might feel uncomfortable each time you need to grab your book or phone. Not ideal, right?
But hey, if you’re in a storage crunch and need a taller bedside table, go for it. Just remember, while you might be able to fit more stuff, you’ll be pulling off some awkward reaching, and who needs that extra cardio in the middle of the night? So, weigh your options and remember that it's your space and your rules, in the end.
Who Made Having Two Nightstands A Rule?
Sometimes, just sometimes, having two nightstands feels like an unnecessary extravagance. One nightstand is absolutely fine if your bedroom is on the compact side or if you’re the solo star of your own sleep drama. Plus, if your room has an asymmetric layout, one nightstand can be an intentional design statement, because symmetry isn’t always the be-all and end-all.
Let’s talk about mismatched tables for a sec, though. This is a great way to style bedside tables if you're feeling adventurous (or just want to go for a bit of an eclectic vibe). Still, try to keep their height, tone, or material somewhat cohesive so it doesn’t look like a random furniture sale in your room.
Alternatives When You Don’t Have Room for Two
For those tiny, teensy spaces, think outside the nightstand box. Floating wall shelves can be a cute way to keep your essentials and showcase your trinkets using wall space while keeping your floor free from clutter. Or perhaps a wall-mounted bedside unit is your thing.
If you’re trying to decide how to style bedside tables and you want your bedside game to be cute and quirky (and you just need a little stand-in), how about a little stool? It’s like a nightstand that’s ready to multitask as extra seating when guests come to your place.
What to Put On and In Your Bedside Table for Optimal Convenience
So, what do you store in your bedside table? This comes down to keeping all those convenient things you may need within reach while you’re lying in bed, like glasses, a phone charger, sleeping aids, your journal and even lip balm.
But as for what to put on your bedside table, now that’s more a matter of styling. Here, you can channel your inner interior designer and top it off with a lamp, book, small plant, candle, tray or photo. And maybe a glass of water, in case you’re someone who wakes up parched at 1 am.
Drawer vs Open Shelf: Which Is Better?
This is totally up to you and how you like things to look. Bedside tables with drawers help you hide clutter and keep your room calmer. If that movement of opening and closing the drawers prevents you from actually using them, though, then open shelves, with their easy access, are probably better for you.
How to Decorate a Bedside Table Aesthetically
Let’s now look at how to decorate a bedside table. But don’t go overboard. About three pieces are more than enough, so choose the ones you really need (and love to look at).
Styling Ideas by Aesthetic
Lean into that bedroom vibe that expresses you the best. Here’s a quick rundown for a bit of inspo to get those creative juices flowing.
- Scandinavian style: light wood, clean lines, soft textures
- Japandi style: minimal with earthy tones and curves
- Coastal style: white, rattan, or distressed finishes
- Contemporary style: bold silhouettes, darker finishes, metallics
Keep to your style, and everything will sing nicely together. Who doesn’t like a harmonious lullaby to go to sleep to?
Choosing the Right Lamp for Your Nightstand
So you’ve got your eye on that fabulous nightstand. It’s practically calling your name. Before you dive headfirst into subsequent lamp shopping, let’s chat about scale. You may find the ‘perfect’ lamp, only to realise it looks a little dinky and lost on your grand nightstand. Not a good look. On the flip side, if you choose a lamp the size of a small skyscraper on your dainty little bedside table, it will drown it out. So, don’t let such awkwardness prevail.
Match Your Lamp to Your Bedside Table To Get The Ambience You Want
Let’s keep things in perspective and keep those proportions right. If you choose a narrow nightstand, choose a small lamp. Wide nightstands *quietly* ask you for big lamps (please!). Keep that lamp and table combo between 55–70cm in total height. This keeps things feeling sweet and intimate, and not like you’re going to sleep beneath a street lamp. Lighting is also a way of adding visual layering to your space, giving your bedroom setup its own ‘beauty filter’.
Lighting Tips for Your Style and Nighttime Routine
Lighting can make or break the ambience of your bedroom. So here are three quick and easy ways to ‘make’ that ambience:
- Use warm-toned bulbs for bedtime
- The lampshade width shouldn’t exceed the width of your bedside table
- Consider installing wall lights to free up surface space
Best Features for Small Spaces
Feeling the squeeze of a small bedroom, but you still want it to look fabulous and organised? Then choose nightstands with these cool features:
- Drawers for hidden storage
- Slim legs for an open feel
- Built-in cable slots or USB ports
- Multipurpose tables (like stools)
BAM! Small space issues solved.
Here’s Where to Find a Bedside Table That Fits Your Style in New Zealand
Why go on an epic treasure hunt through the nooks and crannies of New Zealand to find where to buy bedside tables, when Urban Sales has already mapped out the ultimate bedside table paradise? We've got tables and bedroom goodies that are so good, they practically invite you to hit the snooze button one more time.
Our lineup has something for every taste. Scandi vibe? Cosy Japandi look? We’ve got it. And let’s face it, nobody wants to break the bank for some quality furniture.
So, why not check out our full collection? We've got everything from sleek bedside tables to dreamy headboards and upholstered beds that'll have you swooning. And remember that we deliver anywhere in NZ. Your bedroom makeover awaits.
