Solid Wood Bedside Tables: The Complete Buyer’s & Styling Guide

A solid wood bedside table, also known as a nightstand or bedside cabinet, adds warmth, longevity, and practical storage next to the bed. This guide combines buying advice with styling ideas, allowing you to select the right piece, care for it, and set it up with essentials that support better sleep.

• Durability and repairability: Hardwearing surfaces that tolerate daily use. Light scratches can be sanded and re-finished.

• Timeless aesthetics: Natural grain patterns make every piece unique. Works across modern, traditional, and rustic rooms.

• Health and comfort: Solid wood avoids the off-gassing sometimes found in synthetics.

• Sustainability potential: Responsibly sourced timber and low-VOC finishes support an eco-friendlier home.

• Long-term value: Quality pieces hold resale value and can be handed down.

1. Identify your style

Traditional: Turned or carved legs, framed or panelled drawer fronts, rich stains. Woods such as walnut, cherry, mahogany.
Modern: Clean lines, slab fronts, integrated pulls, light or neutral finishes. Maple, ash, birch, or mixed materials like wood with metal.
Rustic: Emphasis on knots, saw marks and texture. Reclaimed timber, oak or pine. Matte, waxed or distressed finishes.

Tip: Balance the room. If your bed and wardrobe are visually heavy, choose a simpler table. If the room is minimal, a more detailed piece can add character.

2. Choose the right timber

Oak: Very durable with visible grain. Takes stain well, suits classic or contemporary looks. Low maintenance.

Pine: Budget-friendly and lighter in weight. Softer surface that dents more easily, which can suit a relaxed, cottage feel.

Walnut: Deep, luxurious tone with a smooth, straight grain. Strong and stable. Higher investment.

Shortlist by priorities: durability and heirloom potential (oak, walnut) or affordability and casual charm (pine).

3. Get the size and proportions right

• Height: Top should sit level with the mattress top, or up to 5 cm lower, for easy reach. Typical range 61–71 cm (24–28 in).

• Width: Allow comfortable circulation and lamp space. Common widths 45–60 cm (18–24 in).

• Depth: 35–45 cm (14–18 in) suits most rooms without crowding the walkway.

• Bed size pairing: Wider tables look balanced beside queen and king beds. Compact tables suit single and double beds.

• Access: Check door swings, drawers, power points and walkway clearance.

Quick test: sit on the bed as you normally would and reach for an imaginary glass. If the movement feels awkward, adjust height or depth.

4. Pick storage that matches your habits

Drawers: Best for chargers, medications, journals and personal items. Look for dovetail or locked-rabbet joints, smooth runners and full-depth boxes.

Shelves: Easy access for books or baskets. Consider adjustable shelves if you rotate what you store.

Minimalist slab: A slim top with little to no storage suits streamlined rooms and reduces clutter temptation.

Smart features to consider: soft-close slides, cable cut-outs, pull-out tray for extra surface, felt-lined top drawer, discreet power or USB ports.

5. Colour, finish and hardware

• Coordinate or contrast: Match existing timber tones for cohesion, or choose a deliberate contrast for impact.

• Light timbers: Maple, ash and pine create an airy feel.

• Dark timbers: Walnut and stained oak add depth and formality.

• Finishes:

  • Matte or waxed: Subtle and tactile, ideal for rustic looks.

  • Satin: Versatile everyday sheen that resists fingerprints.

  • High-gloss: Reflective and contemporary, more maintenance.

• Hardware: Brass warms traditional schemes. Black or stainless suits modern spaces. Leather pulls add a soft, crafted note.

6. Durability and maintenance

• Daily care: Dust with a soft cloth. Use coasters to prevent rings.

• Sunlight and climate: Avoid prolonged direct sun. Keep indoor humidity stable to minimise movement.

• Cleaning: Damp cloth followed by dry wipe. For stubborn marks, use a mild soap solution sparingly.

• Upkeep: Tighten fixings annually. Level with furniture pads if needed.

• Restoration: Spot sand and re-wax for minor scratches. Refinish fully when the protective coat is worn.

7. Eco-friendly choices

• Certifications: Prefer FSC or PEFC certified timber where available.

• Reclaimed timber: Reduces waste and adds character.

• Local species: Cuts transport impact and supports local makers.

• Low-tox finishes: Choose water-based lacquers or natural oils and waxes.

• Recycled hardware: Vintage or repurposed handles continue the sustainability story.

8. Nightstand essentials: what to keep on top

Start with function, then layer personality.

Must-haves

• Table lamp with warm, dimmable light.

• Alarm clock that does not blast blue light at eye level.

• Charging dock or integrated outlet to reduce cord clutter.

• Carafe or tumbler of water.

• Tissues and hand cream.

Order and access

• Tray or catch-all for jewellery, earbuds and lip balm.

• Drawer or slim basket for books and skincare.

• Cable management to keep leads neat.

Personal touches

• Photo frame or a small artwork.

• Calming scent like lavender or sandalwood via candle or diffuser.

• A current read or poetry book.

• A low-maintenance plant or a small seasonal arrangement.

Seasonal refreshers

• Summer: lighter reads and citrus scents.

• Winter: knitted coaster, richer hand cream.

• Autumn: amber accents.

• Spring: fresh flowers or pastel ceramics.

Common mistakes to avoid: overcrowding, outsized lamps on tiny tops, relying on overhead lighting only, and skipping weekly wipe-downs.

• Material: Prefer hardwoods such as oak, maple, walnut or cherry.

• Joinery: Dovetail or sturdy box joints for drawers. Avoid staples and weak butt joints.

• Finish quality: Even sheen with no rough patches. Interior surfaces should also be sanded or sealed.

• Weight and stability: Solid wood has reassuring heft. The table should not wobble.

• Grain consistency: Harmonious colour and grain across panels.

• Drawer action: Smooth, aligned and silent, with stops that prevent tipping.

• Legs and feet: Even, well-seated and protected with glides.

• Brand trust and warranty: Reputable makers and clear warranty terms signal confidence.

10. DIY or store-bought?

DIY advantages: custom dimensions, personal finish, cost control with reclaimed timber.

DIY challenges: time, tools and skills.

Store-bought advantages: immediate use, professional finish, broad choice and warranty.

Hybrid idea: buy a simple solid wood piece, then upgrade with new knobs, a bespoke stain, leather pulls or tapered legs.

Conclusion

A solid wood bedside table is both a practical organiser and a design anchor. Select a style that complements your bedroom, a timber that suits your lifestyle, and proportions that feel effortless to use. Add people-first storage, gentle lighting and a few personal details. With responsible materials and simple care, your nightstand will age gracefully and serve you every day.