A side table may seem like a simple purchase, but you will quickly notice if you choose the wrong one. The tabletop may be too small for a laptop, the legs may obstruct the sofa, or there may be nowhere to keep remote controls and books. In a smaller Dutch home, every centimetre counts.
So do not focus only on colour and shape. Pay particular attention to the dimensions, stability and how you plan to use the table. Below, you can read about common pitfalls, the specifications that matter and which models suit different uses.
A round side table may look compact, but its overall diameter determines how much room is left to walk around it. Measure the space beside the sofa, bed or armchair. Also take skirting boards, armrests and cupboard doors into account.
With a C-shaped side table, the tabletop is not the only important factor. Check that the base will actually fit under the sofa or bed. Otherwise, the practical advantage of this design is limited.
A side table with storage is useful for books, cables and remote controls. An open shelf keeps things within easy reach, while a basket or cabinet creates a tidier look. So consider your habits: do you want to grab something straight away, or would you rather keep it out of sight?
A model with a low basket can be practical for throws and magazines, but is less suitable for small items that you want to organise neatly.
An adjustable side table or TV table is flexible, but its available height settings must suit your sofa or chair. A tabletop that is too high can be uncomfortable for laptop use, while a model that is too low may be awkward for eating or drinking.
Also check the stated load capacity. Do not place heavy equipment on a table unless the manufacturer specifies a suitable capacity. For a laptop, breakfast or books, stability is more important than a modern appearance alone.
First measure the available space, then decide which type of table you need:
For a table beside the sofa, also measure the distance from the floor to the armrest. For laptop use, you need a flat tabletop with sufficient depth.
Chipboard and MDF are common board materials for affordable tables. They are easy to clean, but prolonged exposure to moisture can damage the edges. Wood-effect finishes, bamboo and metal each create a different look and require a different cleaning routine.
Check that the legs are firmly attached to the tabletop. Adjustable feet can help compensate for minor unevenness in the floor and reduce scratching. A metal frame is not automatically more stable; its shape and joints remain decisive.
A folding bed table is useful when you want to store the furniture away after use. Check how large the product is when the legs are folded and whether it has a handle.
Also look at the assembly instructions. A straightforward model with clearly labelled parts saves time. For maintenance, a slightly damp cloth is usually sufficient, but follow the product information. Only place hot, wet or very heavy items on the table if the material is suitable for them.
Why it suits this profile: This compact model is suitable for breakfast in bed, reading or using a laptop without taking up the space of a permanent table in the room.
The dimensions are clearly stated: 50 x 30 cm and 23 cm high. The folding legs make it easier to store when the tabletop is not in use.
Bamboo and MDF; folding legs; handles; FSC certification stated in the product information.
Why it suits this profile: This round side table combines a compact size with a fabric basket and fits beside a sofa, armchair or bed.
The product information states both the table and basket dimensions. This makes it easier to estimate in advance how much space the furniture will take up and what you can store in it.
Diameter 45 cm; height 50 cm; tabletop with a stated maximum load of 35 kg; adjustable feet.
Why it suits this profile: This white bedside cabinet is suitable if you need more permanent storage beside the bed or sofa than a standalone tabletop can provide.
The dimensions are specific: 40 cm wide, 30 cm deep and 40 cm high. The shelf provides a dedicated place for books, magazines and remote controls.
Engineered wood; partly open and partly closed design; shelf; assembly required; minimum statutory warranty of 2 years according to the product information.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Measure from the floor to the top of the armrest. A tabletop at around this height is often practical for drinks and remote controls. A different level may be more comfortable for laptop use. So always check the seat height and tabletop height together.
Leave enough room to walk beside the sofa, bed or cabinet. The space required depends on the room layout and the position of doors. Temporarily mark out the diameter or outline on the floor using masking tape. This quickly shows whether a round or rectangular table will get in the way.
A soft, slightly damp cloth is usually sufficient; dry the surface afterwards. Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture on MDF, chipboard and other board materials. For bamboo, fabric or a lacquered finish, consult the product’s care instructions.