How Tall Should a Bedside Table Be?

A bedside table is useful and stylish. But its height is often ignored. The correct height lets you reach things easily. The wrong height can feel awkward and spoil your room's look. Finding the right height is simple. Just measure your bed and pick a matching style.

What Is a Bedside Table?

A bedside table sits next to your bed. It holds items like a phone, lamp, or book. It makes your night routine easier. You don’t have to get up for small things. It also improves the room's look. It balances the bed’s appearance. Tables come in many styles. Some have drawers. Some are simple tops. Height matters most for use. A good table feels like part of the bed. A bad one stands out.

Measure the Bed’s Dimensions

First, measure your bed’s height. Measure from the floor to the top of the mattress. Do not include the headboard. If you have a mattress topper, include it. For example, a 16-inch mattress with a 2-inch topper is 18 inches tall. If your bed adjusts, measure it in your usual sleep position. This step is important. A table that is too short makes you bend down. A table that is too tall makes you reach up. Matching heights brings comfort.

Confirm the Bedside Table’s Dimensions

The best table height is 1–2 inches from the mattress top. Most mattresses are 16–24 inches tall. So most tables are 15–25 inches tall. This puts the tabletop near your elbow when you sit. For thin mattresses, pick a shorter table. For thick ones, pick a taller table. It is better to pick a slightly short table than a tall one. Width matters too. The table should be one-third to half the mattress width. A queen bed needs a 20–30 inch wide table. Depth should be 16–22 inches. This gives space without blocking the room.

Confirm the Bedside Table’s Proportion

Proportion is about balance. The table should match the bed and room size. A large bed needs a larger table. A small bed needs a smaller one. The table should also match the bed’s style. A low bed fits a light table. A tall bed fits a sturdy table. Leave 2–4 inches between the bed and table. This space helps movement and looks better. Good proportion makes the room feel planned.

Storage Needs

Think about what you will store. This affects your choice. If you dislike clutter, pick a table with drawers. Drawers hide small items. For more storage, pick a table with a cabinet or shelves. Open shelves give easy access but gather dust. If you only need space for a lamp and phone, a simple tabletop works. Do not sacrifice height for storage. A good height is more important than extra storage.

Material Choice

The table’s material affects its look and care. Wood is strong and classic. It fits many styles. Metal is modern and easy to clean. Glass or acrylic looks light and suits small rooms. But glass scratches easily. Laminate or MDF is affordable and durable. It resists stains. Choose a material that fits your lifestyle. Wood needs polishing. Glass needs frequent cleaning. Pick what works for you.

Style Matching

The table should match your bed’s style. Traditional beds go with wooden tables. Modern beds fit metal or glass tables. Rustic rooms suit distressed wood. Bohemian styles allow creative choices like rattan or colorful tables. You can mix styles if they share a color or material. But keep the height right. Matching style makes the room feel united.

Bed and Bedside Table Matching Tips

If you are unsure, buy a matching set from a wholesale bed supplier. These sets are designed to fit together. They save time and money. If you only need a table, try a wholesale bedside table supplier. Tell them your mattress height and style. They can suggest a good match. When shopping alone, test the height. Your elbow should line up with the tabletop when you sit. For double beds, use two identical tables. For single beds, place one table on the side you use.

The main rule is this: match the table height to your mattress. Keep it within 1–2 inches. This ensures comfort. Also consider proportion, storage, material, and style. Start by measuring your mattress. Then choose a table that fits. If it’s hard, ask a wholesale supplier. A good bedside table is both useful and beautiful. Pick the right height, and your bedroom will work better and look better.