Essential Items for Your Bedside Table: Style Meets Functionality

A bedside table is more than just a practical piece of bedroom furniture — it’s your personal space for the things you need most as you unwind and prepare for sleep. From keeping a book within reach to housing your favourite lamp, this small but important area sets the tone for your nightly routine.

At Wrought Iron & Brass Bed Co., we believe that every detail of your bedroom should be as thoughtfully designed as your bed — and your bedside table is no exception. Whether you have a slim nightstand, a tall bedside cabinet, or a spacious bedside chest, choosing the right style and stocking it with the right items can elevate both comfort and design.

Iron bed side tables

Choosing the Right Bedside Table for Your Bedroom

Before deciding what to keep on your nightstand, it’s worth considering the type of table that suits your space, needs, and style.

Matching Your Decor

Upgrading your bed frame gives you the opportunity to match it with the rest of your bedroom decor. Whether you want to coordinate with your existing furniture or try a new theme, there are countless options available to suit your taste and enhance the charm of your room. From vintage wrought iron to contemporary brass frames, a metal bed from Wrought Iron & Brass Bed Co. will integrate beautifully with your décor.

Narrow Bedside Tables

Perfect for smaller bedrooms, narrow bedside tables fit into compact spaces without overwhelming the room. Despite their slim design, they can hold essentials like a reading light, your phone, and a glass of water — making them ideal for minimalist bedrooms or guest rooms.

Tall Bedside Cabinets

If you need extra storage without taking up too much floor space, a tall bedside cabinet with drawers is the perfect choice. You’ll have room for everything from books to personal items, while keeping your tabletop clutter-free.

Wide Bedside Tables

For those who like to keep multiple items within easy reach, wide nightstands provide generous surface space. They’re perfect for displaying decorative pieces while still accommodating practical items like lamps and alarm clocks.

Slimline & Minimalist Designs

If you prefer a clean, uncluttered look, slimline bedside cabinets with simple lines and neutral finishes are perfect for modern interiors. They work beautifully alongside contemporary handmade iron beds, creating a cohesive, elegant aesthetic.

Must-Have Items for Your Bedside Table

1. A Good Bedside Lamp

Lighting sets the tone for relaxation. Choose a lamp that complements your bedside table’s proportions — a tall lamp for a wide table, or a compact design for a slim one. Consider an adjustable reading lamp or one with a dimmer for softer evening light.

Tip: For inspiration on healthy lighting habits, see the Sleep Foundation’s guide to light and sleep.

2. A Clock or Alarm

Even in the age of smartphones, a traditional bedside clock reduces temptation to scroll before bed and helps you wake up without screen glare. Choose a style that suits your décor — from vintage brass finishes to sleek modern designs.

3. Reading Material

Whether it’s a book, magazine, or e-reader, having something to read before bed can help you unwind. Tall bedside cabinets are perfect for storing multiple titles, while a minimalist table can hold just your current read.

4. Water or Nighttime Refreshments

Keep a glass of water or a small carafe on your bedside table so you can hydrate without leaving your bed. Use a coaster to protect wooden or painted surfaces from marks.

5. Personal Items

Keep glasses, jewellery, or your watch within reach — ideally stored in a small tray or within a drawer to reduce clutter. A bedside cabinet with storage helps keep surfaces tidy while keeping essentials close.

6. Decorative Touches

Add personality with a small plant, framed photograph, or candle. A fresh green plant can improve air quality and add a natural element to your room, while candles provide a soft, calming glow.

Maximising Space on Smaller Bedside Tables

If your table is narrow or slimline, you’ll need to be strategic:

  • Use vertical space — tall lamps or slim vases draw the eye upward.

  • Choose multifunctional pieces — a lamp with built-in wireless charging or a clock with storage compartments.

  • Limit clutter — keep only the most essential items out, storing the rest in drawers or nearby storage.

Bringing It All Together

The best bedside table setup blends practicality with personal style. By choosing the right size and shape for your space, and thoughtfully selecting your nightstand essentials, you create a space that supports rest and reflects your personality.

When paired with a handcrafted bed from Wrought Iron & Brass Bed Co. and natural bedding, your bedside arrangement becomes part of a cohesive, beautiful, and functional bedroom retreat.

In Summary: Bedside Table Essentials

  • Bedside lamp for mood and reading light

  • Clock or alarm to wake without screens

  • Reading material to unwind before sleep

  • Glass or carafe of water for hydration

  • Personal items stored neatly

  • Decorative accents for style and personality

By giving attention to this small but essential part of your bedroom, you enhance not only your nighttime comfort but also the overall elegance of your sleep environment.