6 Best Side Tables for Bedroom (2026): Expert Picks

By Noah Fitzgerald

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If you need a small surface beside your bed for a lamp, a phone and a glass of water, this list is for you. The key buying factor is height: a side table for bedroom use should sit within a few inches of your mattress top so you can reach it without stretching or sitting up. Below, we compare six options across different styles and budgets, then walk through the specifications that matter most.

Quick Picks

How We Chose

This list is based on research, not hands-on testing. We compared manufacturer specifications for dimensions, weight capacity, materials and finish. We looked at brand reputation over time, including how consistently a company publishes clear measurements and assembly instructions. We also reviewed owner feedback patterns across retailer listings and independent discussion forums, paying attention to recurring comments rather than single standout reviews.

Several criteria shaped the final six:

• Height relative to a standard mattress. Many bedroom owners aim for a tabletop that lands roughly level with or slightly below the top of the mattress. Options that offered a range of heights were favored.
• Surface size. A usable top of about 15 to 20 inches square or round covers a lamp, a book and a charger without crowding.
• Storage. We included both open and drawer designs so readers with different habits have a fit.
• Stability and materials. Manufacturers’ stated materials, weight limits and construction details mattered more than marketing language.
• Consistency of owner feedback. We noted patterns such as wobbly legs, drawer alignment problems or finish complaints, and weighted products with fewer recurring issues more heavily.

Note that product details, availability and finishes can change. Always check the current spec sheet before you buy.

IKEA LACK Side Table

Who it’s for: Renters, first apartments, guest rooms and anyone who wants a low-cost surface next to the bed that can move easily between rooms.

Pros:

• Compact square top, roughly 18 inches on each side according to the manufacturer, which fits tight corners.
• Simple construction that works well with a range of bed heights and room styles.
• Easy to paint or pair with a removable tray if you want to change its look.

Cons:

• No drawers or shelves beyond the single open tabletop, so you will need a separate caddy for small items.
• Owners often report that the lightweight build can feel less solid than heavier wood tables when you lean on it.

IKEA MALM Nightstand

Who it’s for: Bedrooms where clutter builds up fast and you want a place to hide chargers, reading glasses and spare keys.

Pros:

• Two drawers give you enough room for everyday essentials without a separate organizer.
• The clean front and simple profile suit minimalist and Scandinavian-leaning bedrooms.
• Drawer runners are commonly described by owners as smooth once the unit is leveled properly.

Cons:

• Some owners report that drawers can stick slightly if the frame is not square during assembly, so take your time with the hardware.
• The top is a fixed surface, so it offers no height adjustment or hidden shelf for large items.

IKEA HEMNES Nightstand

Who it’s for: Owners who want solid wood rather than engineered board and a warmer, more traditional look.

Pros:

• Made from solid pine, which manufacturers describe as a durable material that can be refinished later.
• Two drawers and a sturdy frame handle daily use well, according to common owner comments.
• Fits farmhouse, cottage and transitional bedrooms without looking out of place.

Cons:

• Solid wood is heavier, so moving it or cleaning underneath takes more effort.
• Wood can show dents and scratches over time, and the finish is not as scratch-resistant as a glass or laminate top.

Round Glass-Top Nightstand

Who it’s for: Readers who like the airy look of glass and want a table that feels lighter in a small room.

Pros:

• A glass top reflects light and makes a compact bedroom feel more open, a point that comes up often in styling discussions.
• Round shape removes sharp corners, which helps in tight spaces or homes with young children.
• Pairs well with a lamp that has a warm bulb, since the glass shows off the light base.

Cons:

• Glass shows fingerprints and water rings quickly, so you will need to wipe it regularly.
• Owners sometimes mention that the glass can shift if the base is not fastened securely, so check the mounting hardware after delivery.

For background on how the glass is made and what to look for in safety labeling, see Tempered Glass Coffee Tables Explained. The same principles apply to glass bedside surfaces.

Mid-Century Walnut Nightstand

Who it’s for: Bedrooms with a warm modern or mid-century theme, especially where wood tones already appear in the furniture.

Pros:

• Tapered legs lift the body of the table off the floor, which many owners find makes vacuuming easier.
• A single drawer hides small items while keeping the silhouette slim.
• Walnut-finish veneers and solid-wood versions both work well when paired with brass or black lamp hardware.

Cons:

• Finish quality varies between sellers, so read product photos and material descriptions carefully.
• One drawer offers less storage than a two-drawer design, which may not suit every bedroom.

Wall-Mounted Floating Nightstand

Who it’s for: Small bedrooms, apartments with radiant heating or sloped floors, and anyone who wants a clear floor for cleaning or a robot vacuum.

Pros:

• Mounts to the wall, so the floor stays open underneath and cleaning is simpler.
• Its low visual weight suits minimalist rooms and helps small spaces feel less crowded.
• Some models include a shelf or drawer, which adds storage without extra footprint.

Cons:

• Installation requires drilling into studs or using rated anchors. If you rent or are unsure about wall construction, consult a professional or your landlord before mounting.
• Weight capacity is limited compared with a freestanding table, so avoid loading it with heavy books or a large lamp base.

Buying Guide: Factors That Matter Most

Choosing a side table for bedroom use is less about style and more about fit. These six factors will narrow your options quickly.

1. Height

Measure the top of your mattress from the floor, then compare it with the table height listed by the manufacturer. A table that sits 0 to 4 inches below the mattress top is a common target because it keeps items within easy reach from a lying position. Taller beds, platform beds with thick headboards, and adjustable bases may need a different height entirely. Measure before you order, not after.

2. Surface size and shape

A top of about 15 to 20 inches in diameter or width covers a lamp, a phone and a small tray. Round tops reduce bumped corners, while rectangular tops usually hold more with less depth. If you plan to use a larger lamp, check the base diameter against the usable surface. Round vs Rectangular Coffee Tables covers the same shape trade-offs in living rooms, and the logic carries over to bedrooms.

3. Storage style

Open tops suit people who keep only a few items within reach. Drawers help if you store chargers, medication, glasses or notebooks. A single drawer is slim and easy to fit in tight spaces, while two drawers offer more capacity but need more clearance from the wall and bed frame. Check that the drawer front does not hit the bed or a radiator when opened.

4. Material and surface durability

Wood, laminate, metal, and glass each behave differently. Solid wood is durable and repairable but can dent. Laminate and engineered board are easier to keep uniform in color but may chip at the edges. Glass gives an open look and is easy to wipe, but it shows fingerprints and needs a protective approach if it sits near heavy use. Living Room Table Materials Compared offers a broader comparison of these materials, and it is a useful reference when you are weighing finish durability.

5. Stability and weight capacity

Look for the stated weight capacity, especially if you plan to put a heavier lamp or a stack of books on the surface. Check how the legs are attached, whether the base is wide enough for the height, and whether the hardware is included. Freestanding tables with a narrow base can tip if a drawer is pulled out fully. Wall-mounted units need proper anchors and should be installed by someone confident with the wall type.

6. Style and lighting

A side table is part of the bedside lighting plan, so think about what sits on top. A glass top shows off a lamp base in a way that a dark wood top may not. For ideas on how light interacts with glass surfaces, see Using Lighting to Enhance a Glass Coffee Table. Matching finish tones across the bed frame, dresser and table usually creates a more cohesive room than matching everything exactly.

FAQ

What height should a side table for bedroom use be?

A common target is a table top that sits level with the mattress or up to about 4 inches below it. This keeps a phone, glass of water or lamp within easy reach from bed. Measure from the floor to the top of your mattress, then compare that number with the table’s stated height. Platform beds and thick mattresses may need a taller table.

How many side tables does a bedroom need?

Most couples use one table per side of the bed, which creates a balanced layout. Single sleepers may only need one, especially in a small room. If you have a reading chair or a second sleeping area, one extra small table can help hold books, water or a tray. Start with what you need within reach and add more only if the space allows.

Is a glass side table safe in a bedroom?

Glass tops are commonly made from tempered glass, which breaks into small pieces rather than sharp shards. Check the product listing for tempered or safety glass before buying. If you have young children or pets that jump, consider a protective edge or film and choose a rounded design. For specific guidance on glass safety, consult the manufacturer or a qualified professional.

Can I use a coffee table as a bedside table?

You can, as long as the height works for lying in bed and the surface size fits your lamp and daily items. Many coffee tables are too low, so check the measurement first. Tables designed for living rooms often sit lower than a mattress. If you are mixing pieces across rooms, Pairing a Glass Coffee Table with Side Tables explains how to match heights and finishes.

Which side table is best for a small bedroom?

A compact round or square table with a narrow base suits small rooms. Wall-mounted designs free up floor space, and a glass top adds a lighter visual footprint. If you want to compare smaller glass options in more depth, 12 Best Glass Side Tables looks at several glass designs for tight spaces. Choose the smallest surface that still holds your lamp and daily items.

About Noah Fitzgerald

Noah covers living-room tables, comparing specs, features and long-term owner feedback to help readers choose with confidence.