There’s something about that last reach before sleep — the phone, a glass of water, a half-read book — that makes the bedside table one of the most used surfaces in any bedroom. Yet finding the right one in Ireland can feel like a puzzle of sizes, styles, and budgets. This guide compares the bedside table offerings from the country’s top furniture retailers, with a focus on IKEA and JYSK, and covers everything from standard heights to material trade-offs so you can buy with confidence.
Standard Height Range: 60–75 cm (24–30 inches) ·
Most Common Width: 40–50 cm (16–20 inches) ·
Popular Materials: Wood, metal, glass, engineered wood
Quick snapshot
- IKEA Ireland offers a dedicated category with traditional and modern styles (IKEA Ireland (official retailer))
- JYSK Ireland’s range includes bedside lockers, tables, and nightstands in oak, white, black, and modern metal (JYSK Ireland (Scandinavian home retailer))
- Standard bedside table height: 60–75 cm (IKEA Ireland (bedroom buying guide))
- Longevity of engineered wood vs solid wood in humid Irish climates
- Exact stock availability at local stores (e.g., Woodie’s, DoneDeal)
- Customer service quality differences among the retailers
- JYSK Ireland’s category page last updated 2026-05-06 (JYSK Ireland (product page))
- IKEA continuously refreshes product range; current models include TONSTAD, RÅDMANSÖ, HAUGA, STOMSÖ, KNARREVIK (JYSK Ireland (product page))
- Expect more floating and wall-mounted options as small-space living grows
- Retailers like Laura James, Michael Murphy, and EZ Living may expand online selections
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| Standard Height | 60–75 cm (24–30 inches) |
| Most Common Width | 40–50 cm (16–20 inches) |
| Popular Material | Solid wood (oak, pine) and engineered wood |
| Average Price Range (Ireland) | €40–€250 depending on material and brand |
What are the different types of bedside tables?
Bedside tables come in several formats, each suited to different storage preferences and room layouts. The main types include traditional bedside lockers, modern nightstands, cabinet-style units with drawers, open-shelf versions, and corner designs.
Traditional bedside lockers
- Bedside lockers often have a single drawer and a cabinet door, providing concealed storage for items you’d rather keep out of sight (JYSK Ireland (bedside table category)).
- They are typically made from wood or engineered wood and suit classic or rustic bedroom themes.
Modern nightstands
- Nightstands are typically low and open, with one or two shelves instead of drawers (IKEA Ireland (bedside table range)).
- They pair well with platform beds and minimalist interiors.
Bedside cabinets with drawers
- These offer concealed storage through multiple drawers, ideal for keeping bedside clutter organised (IKEA Ireland (RÅDMANSÖ product page)).
- Many models include cable management and soft-close mechanisms.
Open shelf bedside tables
- Shelves provide easy access to phones, books, and glasses without opening drawers.
- They are often lighter in visual weight and work well in small bedrooms.
Corner bedside tables
- Corner units fit snugly into tight spaces, maximising floor-plan efficiency.
- They are available in both drawer and open-shelf configurations.
The implication: choosing between a locker and a nightstand boils down to whether you prioritise hidden storage or open accessibility. For most Irish bedrooms, a drawer or cabinet helps keep the space tidy, while open shelves suit a more casual, curated look.
How to choose the right size bedside table?
Getting the dimensions right is crucial for both comfort and proportion. Three measurements matter most: height, width, and depth.
Measure your bed height
- The table top should be level with or slightly above the top of the mattress (JYSK Ireland (how-to guide)).
- Standard height is 60–75 cm (24–30 inches) (IKEA Ireland (choosing a bedside table)).
Account for mattress thickness
- If you have a thick mattress (30 cm+), you may need a taller bedside table to maintain the level relationship.
- Aim for a table height that allows you to reach your items without stretching or straining.
Consider room proportions
- Width should not exceed half the bed’s width; for a king bed (180 cm), a 40–50 cm wide table is typical.
- Depth of 30–45 cm leaves enough surface for a lamp and a glass without crowding the bed.
Leave space for lamp and accessories
- Allow at least 10 cm clearance between the side of the bed and the table for easy access (JYSK Ireland (spacing advice)).
- Consider the footprint of your bedside lamp and any charging devices.
The pattern: a 60 cm tall, 45 cm wide table is the safest baseline for most Irish beds. Deviate only if your bed frame is unusually low (like a tatami) or high (like a platform with storage underneath).
Where to buy bedside tables in Ireland?
Ireland’s furniture market is dominated by a few major retailers, each with a distinct price and style positioning. IKEA and JYSK lead the budget-to-mid-range segment, while independent stores offer premium alternatives.
IKEA bedside tables
- IKEA offers budget-friendly flat-pack options, from the €10 KNARREVIK to the €89 TONSTAD (IKEA Ireland (price list)).
- The RÅDMANSÖ (€79) includes a drawer, a shelf, and cable management (IKEA Ireland (RÅDMANSÖ details)).
- Most models are available in white, oak effect, or black-brown.
JYSK bedside lockers
- JYSK has a wide Scandinavian range, including the LIMFJORDEN two-drawer table at €55 (JYSK Ireland (LIMFJORDEN product page)).
- Materials include particle board, HDF boards, and melamine — a durable, scratch-resistant deco veneer.
- JYSK also offers floating bedside tables for wall mounting (JYSK Ireland (buying guide)).
Laura James, Michael Murphy, and EZ Living
- Laura James focuses on shaker and Art Deco styles, reportedly offering hand-finished designs.
- Michael Murphy carries oak and walnut finishes, often with solid wood construction.
- EZ Living provides high-quality materials, including marble and brass accents, at premium price points.
Why this matters: IKEA gives you the widest choice at the lowest price, but you assemble it yourself. JYSK delivers a similar Scandinavian look with slightly more mid-range options and ready-assembled pieces. The premium retailers fill the gap for heirloom-quality furniture, but their online catalogues are less extensive.
Are modern bedside tables different from traditional ones?
Yes — the divide is in design language, materials, and storage philosophy. Modern tables often use metal legs and minimal lines, while traditional ones feature ornate woodwork and knobs.
Design features
- Modern tables prioritise clean lines, often with hairpin or tapered legs, and push-to-open drawers.
- Traditional tables include turned legs, panel doors, and decorative hardware.
Materials and finishes
- Modern: metal, glass, engineered wood, often in matte white or black.
- Traditional: solid wood (oak, pine, walnut) with stained or painted finishes.
Storage vs minimalist
- Modern nightstands frequently sacrifice storage for a sleek silhouette; open shelves are common.
- Traditional bedside lockers maximise storage with drawers and cabinets.
Price ranges
- Modern tables start around €30 (IKEA KNARREVIK) and go up to €200 for designer pieces.
- Traditional solid-wood tables cost €150–€400 due to craftsmanship and materials.
The trade-off: if you rent a small Dublin apartment, a modern metal table is easier to move and fits in a lift. If you own a period home in Cork, a traditional oak locker will complement the architecture and last decades.
What material is best for a bedside table?
Each material has distinct pros and cons, especially when you factor in Ireland’s humidity and typical household wear.
Solid wood
- Solid wood is durable and timeless, resisting warping if properly sealed.
- Oak and walnut are popular choices; expect to pay €150+ for a single table.
Engineered wood (MDF/particleboard)
- Engineered wood is affordable and versatile, but can swell in damp conditions.
- Melamine coatings (as used on JYSK’s LIMFJORDEN) add scratch resistance (JYSK Ireland (material description)).
Metal
- Metal is lightweight and modern, ideal for floating or small tables.
- Powder-coated finishes resist rust, but chips can expose steel to moisture.
Glass
- Glass is sleek and easy to clean, but fragile and prone to fingerprints.
- Tempered glass is safer but heavier and more expensive.
The catch: for Irish homes, solid wood or high-quality melamine-coated engineered wood offer the best balance of durability and cost. Metal works well in dry guest rooms, but avoid glass if you have children or pets.
The IKEA RÅDMANSÖ at €79 gives you a solid wood veneer top with engineered wood body — a compromise that’s durable enough for daily use, but not as repairable as solid oak. JYSK’s LIMFJORDEN at €55 uses melamine-coated particle board, which is fine for a spare bedroom, but may not survive a decade of Irish humidity.
Bedside tables: comparison of top retailers
Four models from Ireland’s leading retailers, one pattern: IKEA and JYSK dominate the budget end, while premium options are scarce without visiting a physical showroom.
| Retailer | Example Model | Price Range | Key Materials | Assembly Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IKEA | TONSTAD, RÅDMANSÖ, HAUGA | €10–€89 | Particleboard, wood veneer, metal | Yes |
| JYSK | LIMFJORDEN, floating models | €55–€120 | Particleboard, melamine, HDF | Partial |
| Laura James | Shaker-style nightstands | €100–€250 | Solid wood, engineered wood | No |
| Michael Murphy | Oak and walnut lockers | €150–€400 | Solid oak, walnut | No |
The pattern: IKEA wins on price and variety, JYSK on ready-to-use Scandinavian design, and the premium retailers on durability and craftsmanship — but you pay for the difference.
IKEA is the most affordable and accessible, but assembly is required. JYSK offers ready-to-use Scandinavian designs at a slightly higher price. For solid wood and traditional styles, Michael Murphy and Laura James are the go-to — but you’ll need to visit their stores or check online stock.
Related reading: **Bar Tables in Ireland: Heights, Styles & Buying Tips**
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For a detailed breakdown of specific models and prices, check out this IKEA bedside table guide for Irish shoppers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a chest of drawers as a bedside table?
Yes, if the height aligns with your mattress (60–75 cm) and it fits beside your bed without crowding the room. A small chest of drawers can work well for extra storage.
How do I clean a wooden bedside table?
Use a soft dry cloth for dusting. For spills, wipe immediately with a slightly damp cloth and dry thoroughly. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that may damage the finish.
Is it okay to have two different bedside tables on each side?
Yes, mixing styles can add visual interest. Aim for some common element — matching heights, similar materials, or complementary colours — to maintain cohesion.
What is the best height for a bedside lamp?
A lamp base should be level with your shoulder when sitting up in bed, typically 50–65 cm from the table surface. This prevents glare on reading material.
Should I buy a matching set or mix and match?
Matching sets create symmetry, which suits traditional and formal rooms. Mixing allows personality; keep heights consistent for a balanced look.
Do bedside tables need to be anchored to the wall?
If you have young children or the table is tall and narrow, anchoring prevents tipping. Many retailers provide anti-tip hardware for this reason.
Where can I find second-hand bedside tables in Ireland?
Try DoneDeal, Adverts.ie, charity shops, and Facebook Marketplace. Check dimensions and condition in person before buying.
Catherine Roy is Editor-in-Chief at Australia Focus, overseeing editorial standards, publication decisions and corrections.