How to choose a side table without making a costly mistake: dimensions, materials and clever storage

A side table may seem like a simple purchase, but the wrong model can quickly get in the way, wobble or leave you short of space. This is particularly true in flats, student rooms and compact bedrooms. If you focus only on colour or a low price, you may not realise until after assembly that the table doesn’t fit next to your sofa, or that there’s nowhere to put your books and remote controls.

Look out for these three common pitfalls:

• Getting the dimensions wrong. A round side table may look compact in a product photo, but it still needs enough clear space around it.
• Unclear weight capacity. A thin tabletop isn’t necessarily suitable for a lamp, laptop or heavy decoration.
• Confusing storage with practicality. A basket or shelf can be useful, but check its dimensions and how easy it is to access before storing cables, books or bedding in it.

Below, you’ll find practical tips and some popular options for different homes and uses.

What dimensions will suit your space?

First, measure the spot where you plan to put the table. Allow for skirting boards, armrests, doors and walkways. A compact side table with a diameter of 45 cm may fit next to a sofa, but it will be less practical if the sofa is already close to the wall.

Pay particular attention to these three measurements:

1. Height: For a table beside the sofa, it’s often convenient if it’s around the same height as the armrest. As a bedside table, the tabletop should be roughly level with the mattress or slightly higher.
2. Width or diameter: A round side table has no corners, but it still takes up a fixed, circular area.
3. Storage space: Don’t just look at the overall dimensions. Legs, a frame or a basket can mean a side table with storage has less usable space than you might expect.

A coffee table is usually lower and wider than a side table. So don’t automatically use one as a replacement if what you really want is a handy spot for a lamp, phone and glass.

Materials, stability and weight capacity

For furniture you’ll use every day, the base, tabletop and joints matter more than appearance alone. So check the following:

• Tabletop material: MDF, chipboard and solid wood all have different properties. Chipboard with a finished surface is practical for everyday indoor use, but don’t leave moisture on it for extended periods.
• Base: Steel can provide a slim design; check that the legs are securely attached to the tabletop.
• Stability: Adjustable feet can help if the floor isn’t completely level. They can also help prevent direct contact between metal and the floor.
• Maximum load: Compare the stated weight capacity with how you plan to use the table. A manufacturer’s rating of 35 kg for the tabletop doesn’t mean every part of the product is designed to hold that much; shelves and baskets may have a different limit.

According to JOYFURNOS’s own product description, the round models have a chipboard tabletop, U-shaped steel legs and four adjustable feet. The stated dimensions are 45 × 50 cm, and the tabletop has a maximum load capacity of 35 kg. Use these figures as a guide, but distribute weight evenly and always follow the assembly and care instructions.

Choose according to how you’ll use it, not just its style

A modern side table with a fabric basket works well in a living room or bedroom where you want to keep loose items out of sight. A model with two shelves is better suited to books, magazines and decorations. If you mainly want a table for breakfast in bed or using a laptop on your lap, a folding bed table is a better choice than a fixed bedside table.

When buying, also consider:

• how it’s assembled and the estimated assembly time;
• whether the product is easy to clean;
• the location of sockets and charging cables;
• whether you’ll be moving the table every day;
• the statutory guarantee and manufacturer information.

Our picks for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers

JOYFURNOS Side Table, Round End Table with Fabric Basket, Grey

Why it suits this need: This round side table has a diameter of 45 cm and combines a tabletop with a fabric basket. It’s a practical choice for a student room, small living room or bedroom.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dimensions and maximum tabletop load of 35 kg are stated. The adjustable feet can help on an uneven floor.

Key benefits and features

A round tabletop, U-shaped steel legs and a double-layer polyester basket. According to the product description, assembly takes around 5 to 10 minutes.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality

5five Bedside Table with 2 Drawers - Natural Dolo

Why it suits this need: If you’re looking for a bedside table with concealed storage, this model offers two drawers and measures 38 × 48 × 50 cm. It’s a good fit for a bedroom where you want to keep loose items out of sight.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The drawers make the storage genuinely useful, rather than purely decorative. The stated maximum load is 80 kg, although assembly is required.

Key benefits and features

Two drawers, steel drawer runners and, according to the product information, a soft-close mechanism. The product has an FSC statement.

Suitable for: Specific uses and frequent users

5five Foldable Bed Table - Bamboo & MDF

Why it suits this need: This bed table is designed for breakfast, reading or using a laptop on your lap. Its legs fold away, making it easier to store after use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its purpose is clear: this isn’t a fixed side table, but a portable model measuring 50 × 30 cm with folding legs.

Key benefits and features

Made from bamboo and MDF, with handles and a weight of 970 grams according to the product information. The manufacturer states that the statutory EU guarantee is at least two years.

Frequently asked questions about side tables

How tall should a side table beside the sofa be?

Measure the height of the armrest and choose a tabletop that’s about the same height or slightly lower. That way, you can put down a glass, phone or remote control without moving your arm awkwardly. Also check that the table won’t obstruct a sofa leg or walkway.

Is a round side table suitable for small spaces?

It can be, especially if you want to avoid sharp corners. Make sure you check the full diameter and leave enough room to move around it. A model with a basket can be more practical than an open table if you want to keep small items out of sight.

What’s the difference between a bedside table and a side table?

A bedside table is usually designed for the bedroom and often has drawers or a shelf. A side table is more versatile and can be used next to a sofa, chair or bed. For breakfast in bed or working on a laptop, a folding bed table is generally more practical.