Joybuy Insights

How to choose a side table without making a costly mistake: a practical guide for every living space

A side table may seem like a simple purchase, but small differences can determine whether you use it every day or push it aside after a few months. A table may look beautiful in a product photo yet be too large for the room, wobble on an uneven floor or offer too little space for your belongings.

In smaller Dutch homes in particular, three pitfalls are especially important:

  • Misjudging the dimensions: check not only the diameter or width, but also the height next to your sofa or bed. A tabletop that is much higher or lower than the armrest is less practical.
  • Overestimating storage space: an open compartment, drawer or basket each has a different capacity. Pay attention to the internal dimensions and what you actually want to store, such as remote controls, books or chargers.
  • Ignoring stability: a lightweight table is easy to move, but it still needs to stand firmly. Adjustable feet, a metal frame and a level surface can all help.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Height and floor space

First, measure the spot where you plan to put the side table. Leave enough room around it to walk past or open a drawer. Next to a sofa, a height around the level of the armrest often works well, while a bedside table should usually be suited to the height of the mattress.

A round side table is useful in a narrow passage because it has no sharp corners. A rectangular table makes better use of a straight wall or alcove. Also check whether skirting boards, radiator pipes or a wide sofa leg restrict where the table can be placed.

2. Material and weight capacity

A wooden side table may be made from solid wood, MDF, chipboard or engineered wood. These materials differ in weight, finish and maintenance requirements. It is therefore worth checking the product specifications rather than judging it solely by its colour or wood effect.

With a table featuring a metal frame, the construction is at least as important as the tabletop. A geometric frame can give an industrial side table a distinctive look, but check that the legs connect securely and that adjustable foot pads are included.

Also pay attention to the stated maximum weight capacity. This matters if you want to place a heavy lamp, plant or stack of books on the tabletop. For a multi-level table, it is best to place heavy items on the lower level so that the centre of gravity does not become unnecessarily high.

3. Type of storage

A side table with storage helps keep small items out of sight. A basket is suitable for throws, magazines or loose accessories. A drawer protects belongings from dust more effectively and gives the table a tidier appearance. Open shelves are practical when you want to grab something quickly.

For a bedroom, a bedside table with a drawer and open shelf may make more sense than a round table with a basket. In a living room next to the sofa, a soft fabric basket may be particularly handy. If you mainly work or have breakfast in bed, a foldable bed table may be more useful than a fixed table.

Recommended models for different users

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
JOYFURNOS Round Modern Side Table with Fabric Basket

JOYFURNOS Round Modern Side Table with Fabric Basket

Why it suits this profile: The compact round shape, measuring 45 x 50 cm, fits next to a sofa or bed. The fabric basket provides extra space for everyday items without requiring a large cabinet.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies four adjustable feet, allowing minor unevenness to be corrected. The basket makes the storage capacity clear rather than making only a general storage claim.

Key benefit & highlights

Tabletop with a stated weight capacity of 35 kg, U-shaped steel legs and a basket made from double-layer polyester fabric.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Homary Grey Bedroom Nightstand with Drawer Bedside Table Metal Base

Homary Grey Bedroom Nightstand with Drawer Bedside Table Metal Base

Why it suits this profile: This bedside table combines a drawer with an open shelf. You can keep personal belongings out of sight while keeping a lamp or book within easy reach.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dimensions of 50 x 40 x 55 cm and the layout, with one drawer and one shelf, are clearly stated. This allows you to assess in advance whether the table will fit beside your bed and suit your storage habits.

Key benefit & highlights

Metal base, engineered-wood top, one drawer, one open shelf and a limited one-year warranty according to the product information.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
5five Foldable Bed Table Bamboo MDF

5five Foldable Bed Table - Bamboo & MDF

Why it suits this profile: This foldable bed table is designed for having breakfast, reading or using a laptop in bed. The folding legs make it easier to store than a fixed sofa table.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its purpose is clearly defined: this is a bed table, not a substitute for a heavy-duty work table. The stated dimensions are 50 x 30 x 23 cm; when unfolded, the model measures 65,5 x 30 x 23 cm.

Key benefit & highlights

Folding legs, handles, bamboo and MDF materials, and a product weight of 970 grams.

Suitable for: Fans of industrial interiors
Tribesigns Coffee Side Tables 3-Tier End Table

Tribesigns 3-Tier End Table with Metal Frame

Why it suits this profile: The three levels provide space for books, a lamp and decorative items. The combination of rustic brown and a geometric metal frame works well in an industrial living room or home office.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Instead of one small tabletop, this model has three open shelves. The product information states that it has adjustable foot pads and a weight capacity of up to 13,6 kg.

Key benefit & highlights

Three storage levels, E1 chipboard with a stated thickness of 1,5 cm and an adjustable metal frame.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Maintenance and safe use

The lifespan of a table depends not only on its material, but also on the load it carries and how well it is maintained. Use a soft, slightly damp cloth and avoid abrasive cleaning products. With engineered wood, MDF or chipboard, it is best to wipe up spilled liquid immediately.

After assembly, check that all connections are securely fastened. Place the table on a level surface and distribute heavy items across the tabletop or shelves. With a foldable bed table, the legs must be fully unfolded and positioned securely before you place a laptop, plate or book on it.

It is best not to overload a fabric basket. Store lightweight, loose items in it and make sure that the basket is not positioned against a heat source. Always follow the manufacturer’s assembly and safety instructions.

Frequently asked questions about side tables

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

Measure the height of the armrest and choose a table that is approximately the same height or slightly lower. This allows you to pick up a glass, book or remote control without having to reach too far. Also check that the table does not clash with the sofa leg or armrest.

Is a round side table suitable for a small living room?

Often, yes. A round shape has no corners sticking out into a walkway, making it practical next to an armchair or compact sofa. Measure the diameter beforehand; a table that is 45 cm wide can make a significant difference in a narrow room.

Which is more practical: a basket, drawer or open shelf?

Choose a side table with a basket for throws and magazines, a drawer for small personal belongings and an open shelf for items you use frequently. For a bedside table, a combination of a drawer and open compartment is often the most versatile choice. For temporary use in bed, a foldable design offers more flexibility than a fixed coffee table.