How High Should a Bedside Table Be? UK Height Guide

Buying a bedside table might seem straightforward, but choosing the wrong height can quickly become frustrating.

If it’s too low, you’ll find yourself reaching down every time you put down a book or glass of water. Too high, and it can feel awkward every time you reach for your alarm or switch on a bedside lamp.

The good news is there’s a simple rule that works for almost every bedroom. In this guide, we’ll explain the ideal bedside table height, how to measure it correctly, and what works best for different bed styles and mattress heights.

Quick Answer:

A bedside table should usually be level with the top of your mattress or up to 5–10cm higher. Most bedside tables are between 55cm and 70cm high, although lower platform beds may need a table closer to 45–55cm.

Why Does Bedside Table Height Matter?

A bedside table is one of the most frequently used pieces of bedroom furniture. The right height makes everyday tasks feel effortless, while the wrong height can quickly become annoying.

A well-sized bedside table makes it easier to:

• reach your phone
• switch off a bedside lamp
• place a drink safely
• keep books within easy reach
• avoid stretching or bending awkwardly

It also creates a more balanced appearance, making the whole bedroom feel better proportioned.

What Is the Standard Bedside Table Height?

Although there’s no official standard, most bedside tables sold in the UK measure between 55cm and 70cm high.

This works well because many modern mattresses sit between 55cm and 65cm from the floor once placed on a bed frame.

As a general rule:

• Low platform beds usually suit bedside tables around 40–50cm.
• Standard beds typically work best with 50–60cm bedside tables.
• Taller beds or divans with deep mattresses often suit 60–70+cm bedside tables.

Should a Bedside Table Be Higher Than the Mattress?

Ideally, the top of the bedside table should be level with the top of your mattress or sit slightly higher.

A bedside table that’s up to 5–10cm higher than your mattress is usually comfortable because you can reach items naturally without bending down.

If the bedside table sits much lower than the mattress, you’ll need to stretch down every time you reach for something, which quickly becomes inconvenient.

How to Measure the Correct Bedside Table Height

Fortunately, measuring takes less than a minute.

1. Measure from the floor to the top of your mattress.
2. Choose a bedside table that’s roughly the same height.
3. If you prefer, choose one that’s up to 5–10cm taller.
4. Avoid bedside tables that sit significantly below your mattress.

Remember to measure after adding mattress toppers, as these can increase the height by several centimetres.

Is 70cm Too High for a Bedside Table?

Not necessarily.

A 70cm bedside table is often the right choice for taller divan beds, deep pocket spring mattresses and many luxury upholstered beds.

However, if your mattress sits only 50–55cm from the floor, a 70cm bedside table may feel noticeably too high.

Is 80cm Too High?

In many bedrooms, yes.

An 80cm bedside table can work alongside particularly tall beds, but for most standard UK beds it will sit well above the mattress and may feel awkward to use.

Unless your mattress height is close to 70–75cm, a lower bedside table will usually feel more comfortable.

What About Platform Beds?

Platform beds generally sit lower than traditional divan or upholstered beds.

Most work well with bedside tables between 45cm and 55cm high, helping to keep everything within easy reach while maintaining balanced proportions.

Above you can see the Lucia Wilson Upholstered Bedside Table, which measures 53cm high, making it a great choice for lower and standard-height beds. It features a durable glass top and two spacious drawers, offering practical bedside storage while maintaining a soft, upholstered look. It is shown above with the Lucia Upholstered Bed Frame, which measures 38cm high (from floor to top of side rail).

Choosing the Right Bedside Lamp Height

The bedside table isn’t the only measurement worth considering.

For comfortable reading, the bottom of the lampshade should usually sit around eye level when you’re sitting up in bed.

If your bedside table is particularly low or high, choosing the right lamp height can help maintain comfortable lighting without glare.

Common Bedside Table Heights

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a bedside table be lower than the bed?

Yes, but ideally by no more than around 5–10cm. If it’s much lower, reaching everyday items becomes less comfortable.

Should both bedside tables be the same height?

Usually yes. Matching heights create a balanced look, although different designs can still work if both are practical to use.

What is the average bedside table height?

Most bedside tables sold in the UK measure between 55cm and 70cm high.

How wide is a bedside table?

Most bedside tables are between 35cm and 60cm wide, although larger designs can be 70cm or more. The ideal width depends on the available space beside your bed and how much surface area you need for essentials such as a lamp, alarm clock or books.

What height bedside table suits a king size bed?

The bed size matters less than the mattress height. Measure from the floor to the top of your mattress and choose a bedside table that’s level with or slightly higher than this measurement.

Does mattress thickness affect bedside table height?

Yes. Deep mattresses and mattress toppers increase the overall bed height, so it’s worth measuring after your bedding is in place.

Final Thoughts

The ideal bedside table height isn’t determined by the size of your bed but by the height of your mattress. As a general guide, choose a bedside table that’s level with the top of your mattress or up to 5–10cm higher for the most comfortable everyday use.

For most UK homes, this means a bedside table between 55cm and 70cm high, although lower platform beds and taller luxury beds may require different heights. Taking a few moments to measure before you buy can make your bedroom both more practical and more comfortable.