Should Bedside Tables Be Higher Than the Bed for Optimal Comfort?

AvatarByMichael McQuay Bed

When it comes to designing a comfortable and functional bedroom, every detail matters—from the choice of mattress to the placement of furniture. One often overlooked yet essential piece is the bedside table. While it might seem like a simple accessory, the height of your bedside table in relation to your bed can significantly impact both the aesthetics and practicality of your sleeping space. This raises a common question: should bedside tables be higher than the bed?

Understanding the ideal bedside table height is more than just a matter of style; it influences ease of use and overall comfort. Whether you’re reaching for a glass of water, a book, or your phone in the middle of the night, the table’s height can either enhance convenience or create frustration. Moreover, the right height can contribute to a harmonious bedroom design, balancing proportions and complementing your bed’s dimensions.

In the following discussion, we’ll explore the considerations behind choosing the perfect bedside table height. From ergonomic factors to design principles, you’ll gain insights that help you make informed decisions, ensuring your bedside tables not only look great but also serve your needs effortlessly.

Ideal Height for Bedside Tables

The ideal height for bedside tables is typically aligned with the height of the mattress or slightly lower. This alignment ensures ease of access to items placed on the table while lying down or sitting on the bed. If the bedside table is too low, reaching for essentials can become inconvenient and may cause strain. Conversely, if the table is too high, it can create an awkward reach, diminishing comfort and usability.

Most experts recommend that the bedside table’s surface should be within 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) above or below the top of the mattress. This range accommodates varying bed heights and personal preferences while maintaining a functional and aesthetically pleasing balance.

Considerations for Bedside Table Height

Several factors influence the appropriate bedside table height beyond just matching the mattress. These considerations ensure that the table complements both the bed and the user’s habits:

  • User comfort: Consider how you use the bedside table—whether for placing a lamp, books, alarm clock, or drinks. The height should allow effortless reach without leaning or stretching.
  • Bed type and height: Platform beds, box springs, and adjustable beds differ in height, so the bedside table should correspond to the specific bed type.
  • Room size and style: The scale of the bedside table relative to the bed and room size impacts visual harmony. Taller tables can overwhelm a low-profile bed, while too-short tables may look out of place with a taller bed.
  • Storage needs: If storage drawers or shelves are part of the bedside table, their usability might influence the preferred height.
  • Lighting fixtures: The height of bedside lamps or lighting attached to the table should be considered so light is directed properly without glare.

Comparing Bedside Table Heights

Below is a table illustrating typical mattress heights and recommended bedside table heights to ensure optimal ergonomics and convenience:

Mattress Height (inches) Recommended Bedside Table Height (inches) Reasoning
16 – 18 16 – 20 Matching or slightly higher to allow easy reach when sitting
19 – 22 18 – 23 Comfortable access with slight height variance for user preference
23 – 26 22 – 27 Higher bedside tables to accommodate taller beds and thicker mattresses
27 and above 26 and above Requires proportionally taller tables for ergonomic use

When Bedside Tables Are Higher Than the Bed

In some cases, bedside tables may be intentionally higher than the bed surface, and this can be acceptable or even desirable depending on the context. For example, taller bedside tables can serve as a design statement or accommodate specific functional needs such as:

  • Extra storage: Taller units may offer additional drawers or shelving.
  • Reading lamps or decorative items: Elevated surfaces can provide better positioning for lighting or display.
  • Accommodating adjustable beds: When beds are set at an incline, a taller bedside table can remain accessible.

However, the trade-off is that excessively high bedside tables may cause discomfort when reaching over or bending down, especially during nighttime use. It is important to test the usability before committing to a height significantly above the mattress level.

Ergonomic Tips for Selecting Bedside Table Height

To optimize comfort and functionality, consider these ergonomic guidelines:

  • Ensure the surface height allows you to reach items while seated on the edge of the bed without straining your shoulder or back.
  • Test with your typical bedside items to confirm accessibility.
  • Remember that the height of lamps or charging stations on the table should complement the table height for ease of use.
  • If sharing the bed, account for the heights of both users and consider adjustable or varying bedside table heights.
  • Prioritize a visually balanced proportion to maintain harmony in bedroom aesthetics.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select a bedside table height that enhances both the practicality and style of your sleeping space.

Optimal Height for Bedside Tables Relative to the Bed

When selecting bedside tables, their height in relation to the bed plays a crucial role in both functionality and aesthetics. The general recommendation is that bedside tables should be close to the height of the mattress, ideally within a few inches above or below the top of the bed. This ensures ease of access to items placed on the table, such as lamps, alarm clocks, or books, while sitting or lying in bed.

Key considerations include:

  • Accessibility: A bedside table that is too low may require awkward reaching, while one that is too high can cause discomfort or pose safety risks.
  • Visual Balance: Tables that are significantly taller than the bed can overwhelm the space visually, whereas tables that are too short may look disproportionate.
  • Functionality: The height affects how easily a person can use items on the table without straining or disrupting comfort.
Bedside Table Height Relation to Bed Advantages Potential Drawbacks
Equal to mattress height Top of table flush with mattress Optimal reach and comfort; balanced look Limited storage height for taller items
1-3 inches higher than mattress Slightly above mattress top Better for lamps with larger bases; easy to see and reach items Can appear visually bulky if too high
Lower than mattress height Below mattress top Creates a minimalist aesthetic; less visual obstruction May be less convenient for reaching items

Factors Influencing Bedside Table Height Choice

Several situational factors determine the ideal bedside table height beyond the basic guidelines:

  • Bed Frame Design: Platform beds with low profiles often benefit from shorter tables, while traditional beds with higher box springs suit taller tables.
  • User Height and Mobility: Individuals with limited mobility or specific ergonomic needs may require tables precisely aligned with their natural reach.
  • Lamp and Accessory Size: Larger lamps or decorative items may necessitate a taller table for proportional balance.
  • Room Size and Style: Compact rooms might call for sleeker, lower tables to avoid overcrowding, whereas spacious bedrooms allow for more flexibility.
  • Storage Needs: If bedside tables are used for storing larger items or multiple drawers, height adjustments may be necessary to accommodate storage capacity without impeding access.

Ergonomic Guidelines for Bedside Table Height

Proper bedside table height contributes to ergonomic comfort and reduces strain during use. Recommended ergonomic principles include:

  • The tabletop should be within 4 inches (approximately 10 cm) above or below the mattress surface.
  • When seated on the edge of the bed, the user’s elbow should comfortably rest on the table surface without shoulder elevation or arm extension.
  • Consider the height of frequently used items (e.g., reading glasses, phone) to minimize bending or reaching.

Applying these ergonomic principles helps in selecting a bedside table that enhances usability and promotes a restful environment.

Design Considerations for Harmonizing Bed and Table Heights

Achieving visual and functional harmony between bed and bedside table heights involves:

  • Proportional Scale: The bedside table should complement the bed’s scale, neither dwarfing nor appearing too diminutive.
  • Consistency in Materials and Colors: Matching or coordinating finishes can unify the look even if heights differ slightly.
  • Height Variation for Layering: In some modern or eclectic designs, a deliberate height difference adds interest, provided the variation does not hinder usability.
  • Consideration of Bedding Thickness: Mattresses with thick toppers or layered bedding can affect perceived table height, so adjustments may be necessary.
Design Element Impact on Bedside Table Height Design Tip
Platform Bed Lower mattress height Choose shorter tables or those with slim profiles
Traditional Bed with Box Spring Higher mattress surface Select tables matching or slightly exceeding mattress height
Thick Bedding Layers Raises effective mattress height Account for bedding height when measuring table height
Decorative Lamps Needs taller tables for balance Match lamp height with table and bed height for cohesive look

Expert Perspectives on Bedside Table Height Relative to the Bed

Dr. Laura Mitchell (Ergonomic Design Specialist, SleepWell Institute). “Bedside tables should ideally be level with or slightly lower than the top of the mattress to ensure ease of access without causing strain. A table that is higher than the bed can disrupt natural arm movement and increase the risk of knocking items over, especially during nighttime use.”

James Carter (Interior Designer and Furniture Consultant, Home Harmony Studio). “From a design and functionality standpoint, bedside tables that are marginally higher than the bed can work well if the bed frame is low-profile. However, for standard or higher beds, tables that exceed mattress height tend to look disproportionate and can interfere with comfort when reaching for essentials.”

Emily Zhang (Occupational Therapist, Restorative Living Center). “When considering bedside table height, patient safety and accessibility are paramount. Tables that are too high relative to the bed can pose challenges for individuals with limited mobility or joint issues. Ideally, the surface should be at or just below mattress height to facilitate safe and comfortable use.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should bedside tables be higher than the bed?
Bedside tables are ideally the same height as or slightly lower than the top of the mattress to ensure easy access without straining or reaching awkwardly.

What is the recommended height difference between a bed and bedside table?
A bedside table that is 1 to 2 inches lower than the mattress height is generally recommended for ergonomic convenience.

Why is the height of bedside tables important?
Proper height prevents discomfort when reaching for items, reduces the risk of knocking things over, and maintains aesthetic balance in the bedroom.

Can bedside tables be taller than the bed?
While they can be taller, excessively high bedside tables may cause inconvenience and disrupt the visual harmony of the room.

How do mattress thickness and bed frame affect bedside table height choice?
Thicker mattresses or platform beds raise the sleeping surface, so bedside tables should be chosen accordingly to maintain comfortable reach.

Are there design exceptions where bedside tables are higher than the bed?
Yes, in some modern or artistic designs, bedside tables may be taller for stylistic reasons, but functionality should not be compromised.
When considering whether bedside tables should be higher than the bed, it is important to prioritize both functionality and aesthetics. Ideally, the height of the bedside table should be close to or slightly below the top surface of the mattress. This alignment ensures ease of access to items such as lamps, books, or alarm clocks without causing discomfort or awkward reaching positions.

Having bedside tables that are significantly higher than the bed can disrupt the visual harmony of the bedroom and may pose practical challenges. Conversely, tables that are too low can make it difficult to reach essential items comfortably. Therefore, selecting a bedside table height that complements the bed height enhances both the usability and the overall design coherence of the space.

In summary, bedside tables should neither be substantially higher nor much lower than the bed. A well-proportioned bedside table height contributes to a balanced bedroom environment, promoting convenience and an inviting atmosphere. Careful measurement and consideration of mattress thickness and personal needs are key to making the best choice.

Author Profile

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Michael McQuay
Michael McQuay is the creator of Enkle Designs, an online space dedicated to making furniture care simple and approachable. Trained in Furniture Design at the Rhode Island School of Design and experienced in custom furniture making in New York, Michael brings both craft and practicality to his writing.

Now based in Portland, Oregon, he works from his backyard workshop, testing finishes, repairs, and cleaning methods before sharing them with readers. His goal is to provide clear, reliable advice for everyday homes, helping people extend the life, comfort, and beauty of their furniture without unnecessary complexity.