A bedside table is more than a place to set your phone or a glass of water — it’s one of the most important design elements in your bedroom. The right bedside table décor transforms your space, making it feel intentional, cozy, and beautifully styled.

If you're looking for how to decorate a bedside table, how high should a bedside table be, or how high should a bedside table lamp be, this complete guide walks you through everything you need to know.

We’ll also showcase beautiful bedside tables and nightstands from SICOTAS, known for their modern, natural, and functional designs that fit any bedroom aesthetic.

Explore all nightstands here:
https://www.sicotas.com/collections/nightstands

Why Bedside Table Decoration Matters

A bedside table is the last thing you see before sleep and the first thing you see when you wake up. When decorated well, it enhances:

• Mood and relaxation
• Bedroom organization
• Visual balance
• Comfort and daily convenience
• Interior design harmony

Good décor doesn’t require a lot of items — it requires the right items arranged with intention.

How to Decorate a Bedside Table (Complete Guide)

Let’s break down the most effective and stylish bedside table decor ideas.

Start With a Balanced Layout

Balance is everything. The easiest formula:

Functional item

(lamp, charging station, alarm clock)

Decorative item

(vase, candle, sculpture)

Personal element

(book, photo frame, small plant)

This keeps your nightstand practical yet beautiful.

Add a Bedside Lamp for Height & Soft Lighting

A bedside lamp is usually the tallest item on your table. It sets the tone of your bedroom and provides soft, warm lighting for nighttime reading.

How high should a bedside table lamp be?

The ideal rule:

• Your lamp’s bottom shade should align with your chin when sitting up in bed.
• Usually, this means 24–28 inches tall depending on bed height.

Lamps that are too short create dim lighting; too tall, and the bulb shines into your eyes.

Use a Decorative Tray to Organize Essentials

Trays prevent clutter from spreading.

Items to place on a tray:

• Perfume
• Jewelry dishes
• Night cream
• Remote
• Small candle
• Eye mask

A tray also adds structure and elegance.

Add Greenery for Freshness

Plants instantly elevate a bedside table.

Options include:

• Eucalyptus stems
• Small potted plants
• Dried pampas
• Faux greenery for easy maintenance

Green adds softness and a natural touch.

Incorporate a Candle or Diffuser

This increases comfort and makes your room smell calming.

Choose scents such as:

• Lavender
• Vanilla
• White tea
• Sandalwood

A candle also adds a warm glow to the room.

Add One Personal Decorative Object

This keeps your space from feeling generic.

Examples:

• A small framed photo
• A sculpture
• A decorative bowl
• A meaningful trinket

Personal touches make your bedside table feel intentional and welcoming.

Stack Books for Height Variation

Books are great for styling and visual interest.

Place:

• 1–3 books under a candle or vase
• A decorative object on top

Books add dimension and sophistication.

Keep One Drawer or Shelf Clear

Decluttered surface
= Calmer bedroom
= Better sleep environment

This is why SICOTAS nightstands with open shelves + drawers are perfect.

Choosing the Right Bedside Table: Height Matters

Many homeowners ask:

How high should a bedside table be?

The ideal height:

Your bedside table should be the same height as your mattress — or 1–2 inches higher.

This feels most natural for reaching items when lying down.

Average ideal bedside table height:
24–28 inches

Why this height range?

• Prevents awkward reaching
• Keeps lamp height balanced
• Improves aesthetics

Many SICOTAS nightstands fall exactly within this ergonomic range.

Best SICOTAS Nightstands for Styling

Here are standout bedside tables perfect for décor, uniqueness, and room aesthetics:

Zura Rattan Nightstand with Drawer — $129.99

Style: Boho–rustic
Colors: Amber Oak, Sand Oak

• Natural woven texture
• Perfect for adding warmth
• Ideal for minimalist, modern rustic, or Scandinavian bedrooms

Helio Nightstands (Wide) — $229.99

Colors: Natural Light Oak, Grey White Oak, Midnight Black

• Clean contemporary look
• Plenty of surface area for décor
• Drawer + open shelf for organization

Savanna Nightstand with Charging Station — $119.99

Colors: Light Oak, Caramel Oak, Black Oak

• Built-in power outlet (perfect for lamps + phones)
• Natural rattan accent
• Great for modern rustic décor

Terra Nightstand with Drawer — $67.99

Colors: Obsidian, Cherry, Cream Oak

• Minimalist
• Budget-friendly
• Ideal for simple bedside styling

Cas 3-Drawer Nightstand — $199.99

Colors: Grey Alder, White Alder, Dark Grey Alder

• Maximum storage
• Sleek lines for modern interiors
• Large tabletop for décor balancing

Shop all modern nightstands here:
 https://www.sicotas.com/collections/nightstands

Table: Best Bedside Table Décor Based on Bedroom Style

Bedroom Style	Recommended Nightstand	Décor Ideas
Minimalist	Helio or Terra	One vase + lamp + tray
Rustic	Savanna or Zura	Wooden décor, greenery, warm tones
Contemporary	Cas or Prelude	Sculptures, matte lamp, abstract frame
Boho	Zura Rattan	Books, candles, woven elements
Modern Luxury	Prelude Charging	Metallic accents + elegant lamp

 

How to Keep Your Bedside Table Clean & Stylish

Declutter weekly

Remove old cups, receipts, random items.

Use drawers to hide essentials

Nightstands with 2–3 drawers keep surfaces clean.

Refresh décor seasonally

Switch flowers, candles, or books to match your mood.

Maintain height balance

Keep tall items to one side and medium/low items on the other.

Advanced Styling Techniques (Designer Tips)

Mirror the look on both sides of the bed

For couples or symmetrical bedrooms.

Choose a lamp with a textured base

Ceramic, wood, or fabric adds richness.

Add contrasting materials

Metal + wood
Glass + rattan
Marble + linen

Keep at least 20% empty surface

Breathing room makes décor feel intentional.

Incorporate soft lighting

Warm, dimmable bulbs create a cozy bedroom atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

A beautifully decorated bedside table blends function, style, and comfort. Whether you prefer minimalist décor or warm rustic textures, the key is to use balanced elements:

• A lamp for height
• Décor for personality
• A tray for organization
• Greenery for freshness

Choosing the right bedside table is equally important. With SICOTAS nightstands offering natural finishes, rattan textures, charging stations, and timeless silhouettes, creating a luxurious bedroom look becomes effortless.

Explore all nightstands here:

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I decorate a bedside table?

Use a lamp, tray, greenery, books, and a small decorative object for a balanced, stylish look.

How high should a bedside table be?

Ideally the same height as your mattress or 1–2 inches higher (24–28 inches standard).

How high should a bedside table lamp be?

Around 24–28 inches tall, with the bottom of the lampshade at chin level while sitting.

What should every bedside table have?

Lamp, tray, plant, candle, and 1–2 personal items.

How do I keep bedside table décor clutter-free?

Use nightstands with drawers or open shelves, and limit décor to 3–5 items.

What décor works best for small bedside tables?

Slim lamps, mini vases, trinket trays, and vertical décor to save space.

Which SICOTAS nightstand is best for décor aesthetics?

The Zura Rattan and Savanna Charging Nightstand are top picks for style + functionality.