Choosing a side table: a practical guide for your living room, bedroom and hallway

A side table may seem like a simple purchase, but small differences can determine whether you enjoy using it every day. A table may look spacious in photos, yet in reality there may barely be room on the top for a lamp and a glass. Some models may also feel less stable on an uneven floor, or lack the storage space you need.

Look out for these three common pitfalls:

• Focusing only on style: a modern side table may complement your décor beautifully, but it could be too large for the space beside your sofa or bed.
• Overestimating the storage space: an open shelf, basket and drawer each serve a different practical purpose. Check the internal dimensions, not just the appearance.
• Ignoring stability: a narrow console table or lightweight bedside table may wobble if the floor isn’t completely level. Adjustable feet or wall fixings may be important.

What size will suit your space?

Start by measuring the available space. Allow for skirting boards, radiators, doors and walkways. A round side table takes up less visual space in a corner, while a rectangular model often provides a more usable surface.

These checks are useful for everyday use:

1. Height: beside a sofa, a table top around the same height as the armrest is practical. Beside a bed, the top should be easy to reach without stretching too far.
2. Width and depth: a compact 45 x 50 cm model, such as the JOYFURNOS table, is suitable for a smaller corner. Check that there’s still enough room to walk past it.
3. Weight capacity: check the stated maximum weight for the table top. According to the product specifications, JOYFURNOS models have a maximum table-top load of 35 kg.
4. Storage space: a side table with a basket is handy for throws, magazines or remote controls. A bedside table with drawers keeps belongings more protected from dust and small items out of sight.

A console table serves a different purpose. Its shallow depth makes a model such as the 160 cm-wide, 30 cm-deep Tribesigns table a good fit for a hallway or behind a sofa. Measure the available wall space first and check that doors and walkways will remain clear.

Assessing materials, stability and assembly

Your choice of material affects the weight, upkeep and stability of a table. Chipboard is generally a practical choice for affordable living room and bedroom furniture, but the quality of the finish and construction is still important. Steel legs can provide extra support, while a fabric basket is lightweight and flexible.

Look out for these points:

• Construction: check whether the frame is made up of separate parts or forms a continuous structure. The U-shaped steel legs form the base of the JOYFURNOS table.
• Floor contact: adjustable feet help compensate for small uneven patches and can reduce the risk of scratches on your floor.
• Assembly: check the number of parts, whether instructions are included and the stated assembly time. The round JOYFURNOS table is listed as taking around 5 to 10 minutes to assemble; the 5five bedside table is listed as taking around 20 minutes.
• Safety: a taller or shallower bedside table may tip if there’s a lot of weight at the front. According to the product information, the vidaXL model must be secured to the wall using the materials provided.
• Lighting: if you’re pairing the table with a floor lamp, check the bulb fitting, maximum wattage and cable length. The Atmosphera Keli has an E27 fitting, a maximum wattage of 60 W and a 2-metre cable. The lamp is supplied without a bulb.

An FSC statement can provide information about the origin of the wood-based material used. It doesn’t automatically mean that every part of the furniture has the same origin, so check the full product specifications.

Recommendations for different uses

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers

JOYFURNOS round side table with fabric basket, green

Why it suits this profile: A compact option for anyone looking for an affordable table with extra storage for the living room or bedroom.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

Its 45 x 50 cm dimensions and round shape make it easy to see how much space it needs. The adjustable feet help compensate for small uneven patches in the floor.

Key benefits and features

Fabric basket, U-shaped steel legs, adjustable feet and a stated table-top load of 35 kg.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality

5five bedside table with two drawers

Why it suits this profile: A good choice for the bedroom if you want to keep personal belongings out of sight and value a well-organised layout.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The two drawers provide enclosed storage rather than just an open shelf. The stated dimensions are 38 x 48 x 50 cm.

Key benefits and features

Steel drawer runners, a soft-close mechanism, an FSC statement and a stated maximum load of 80 kg.

Suitable for: Specific uses and frequent use

Tribesigns console table, 160 cm, light oak

Why it suits this profile: Ideal for a long hallway, a wall behind the sofa or a wide display area for decorative items.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

Its 30 cm depth is clearly stated, so you can check in advance whether there’ll still be enough room to pass.

Key benefits and features

160 cm wide, with a rustic look, E1 chipboard according to the product description and a stated load capacity of 136 kg.

Suitable for: Creating an atmospheric living room

Atmosphera Keli floor lamp, gold-coloured metal

Why it suits this profile: An additional option for anyone looking to pair compact furniture with a striking light feature.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The fitting, maximum wattage and fact that it’s supplied without a bulb are clearly stated. That means you can buy the right bulb in advance.

Key benefits and features

150 cm high, E27 fitting, 2-metre cable, an on/off switch on the cable and suitable for indoor use.

Frequently asked questions about side tables

How high should a side table be next to a sofa?

Measure the height of the armrest and choose a table top that’s about the same height or slightly lower. This makes it easy to reach for a glass, book or remote control without having to adjust your position each time.

Which is more practical: a basket or drawers?

A side table with a basket is ideal for larger, soft items such as a throw. A bedside table with drawers is better for smaller items that you want to keep out of sight and neatly organised. If you’re choosing drawers, check the internal dimensions and the type of runner.

How can I stop a bedside table from tipping over?

Place heavier items low down and spread the weight across the top. Check whether the legs are adjustable. If the model comes with a specific warning, as with the vidaXL bedside table, use the recommended wall fixings.