Choosing a bedside table might seem straightforward, but getting it right can transform your bedroom from merely functional to genuinely comfortable. A well-chosen nightstand serves as your command centre for the night—holding your phone, a glass of water, your current read, and that lamp you need for late-night reading sessions.
This guide walks you through everything you need to consider when selecting your first (or next) bedside table, from practical measurements to style considerations specific to Australian homes.
Getting the Height Right
The single most important measurement when choosing a bedside table is height. Get this wrong, and you'll be reaching awkwardly every time you want to grab your phone or turn off the lamp.
📏 The Golden Rule
Your bedside table should be within 5-10 centimetres of your mattress top height. This allows for comfortable reaching while lying down and ensures your lamp illuminates at the right angle for reading.
To measure correctly, place a book or rigid object on your mattress (accounting for any compression from bedding) and measure from the floor to that surface. Most Australian beds with standard mattresses fall between 55-65cm, which conveniently matches the most common nightstand heights.
What If Your Bed Is Non-Standard?
Platform beds, Japanese-style low beds, and extra-high ensemble bases each require different nightstand heights. For very low beds under 45cm, consider:
- Floor cushions with a small tray
- Low-profile Japanese-style nightstands
- Wall-mounted floating shelves at the right height
For tall beds over 70cm, look for nightstands specifically marketed as "tall" or consider adding risers to a standard unit—though this can look awkward if not done carefully.
Understanding Width and Depth
Beyond height, the footprint of your nightstand matters significantly, especially in Australian apartments where bedroom space is often limited.
Width: Standard bedside tables range from 40-60cm wide. Consider leaving at least 5cm clearance between the nightstand and your bed frame for easier bed-making and to prevent that frustrating gap where things fall and disappear.
Depth: Typically 35-50cm. Deeper nightstands offer more surface area but can make narrow bedrooms feel cramped. If your bedroom door swings inward near the bed, measure carefully to ensure clearance.
Key Takeaway
Before shopping, measure your available space with the bed in position. Account for walking clearance (minimum 60cm) between the nightstand and any walls or wardrobes.
Storage Options: What Do You Actually Need?
Bedside tables come in several storage configurations, each suited to different needs:
Open Shelving
Best for minimalists and those who want easy access to a few items. Books, a small plant, or decorative objects display nicely. The downside: everything is visible, so clutter shows immediately. Dust also accumulates faster on open surfaces.
Single Drawer
The most popular configuration for good reason. A drawer hides everyday essentials—medications, phone chargers, hand cream—while the top surface handles your lamp and current items. Look for smooth-running drawer slides; soft-close mechanisms are worth the upgrade.
Multiple Drawers
Ideal if your bedroom lacks a dresser or you have extensive bedside storage needs. Consider whether you'll actually use multiple drawers, though—many people find the lower drawers become dumping grounds for forgotten items.
Cabinet Style
Doors hide everything, creating a cleaner look. These work well in traditional or farmhouse-style bedrooms but can feel bulky in smaller spaces.
Material Considerations for Australian Conditions
Australia's climate varies dramatically, and this affects furniture more than many people realise. Humidity in Queensland, extreme dryness in parts of Victoria and South Australia, and temperature fluctuations everywhere impact how materials perform over time.
💡 Pro Tip
If you live in a humid climate, avoid untreated solid timber and MDF with poor edge sealing. These materials can swell, warp, or develop mould issues. Look for properly sealed finishes or naturally resistant timbers.
Solid Timber
The premium choice for durability and character. Australian hardwoods like Tasmanian oak, jarrah, and blackwood are excellent but expensive. Imported options like oak, acacia, and mango wood offer good value. Solid timber develops a patina over time and can be sanded and refinished if damaged.
Engineered Wood and Veneer
A timber veneer over MDF or particleboard offers the look of wood at lower cost. Quality varies enormously—cheap veneer chips and peels, while quality products last years. Check edge banding carefully; exposed particleboard edges are the first failure point.
Metal
Powder-coated steel is durable and works well for industrial or modern aesthetics. It's easy to clean and unaffected by humidity. Brass and gold finishes suit contemporary and glam styles but may show fingerprints.
Style: Matching vs. Complementing
Here's a secret that interior designers know: your bedside tables don't need to match your bed frame exactly. In fact, a subtle contrast often creates more visual interest than a perfectly matched set.
The key is visual weight. A chunky timber bed frame pairs well with lighter nightstands—perhaps a slimmer design or open shelving. Conversely, a minimal platform bed can handle more substantial bedside furniture.
Consider these proven combinations:
- Scandinavian bed + mid-century nightstand: Similar clean lines create harmony
- Upholstered bed + timber nightstand: The texture contrast adds warmth
- Dark bed frame + light nightstand: Creates depth without heaviness
- Modern bed + vintage nightstand: The contrast tells a story
For more on combining different furniture styles, see our guide to matching bedroom furniture from different eras.
Budget Expectations
Bedside tables in Australia span a wide price range:
- Budget ($40-100): Flat-pack MDF or particleboard, basic finishes. Fine for rentals or temporary use.
- Mid-range ($100-300): Better construction, veneer or engineered wood, smooth drawer runners. The sweet spot for most buyers.
- Premium ($300-600): Solid timber, quality hardware, designer styling. Built to last decades.
- Luxury ($600+): Australian-made solid hardwood, custom pieces, or designer brands.
For most Australian homes, the mid-range offers the best value—solid enough to last, stylish enough to enjoy, and affordable enough that you won't stress over every water ring.
Final Checklist
Before making your purchase, confirm:
- Height matches your mattress top (within 5-10cm)
- Width and depth fit your available space with clearance
- Storage configuration suits your actual needs
- Material is appropriate for your climate and lifestyle
- Style complements (not necessarily matches) your existing furniture
- Budget allows for quality at your price point
Take your time with this decision. Unlike a coffee table hidden in the living room, your bedside table is something you interact with every single day. Getting it right pays dividends in daily comfort and bedroom satisfaction.