It is necessary to have a side table next to the bed or next to the sofa in the living room to keep small things. If you can choose the right side table, they can fulfill your storage needs as well as double the beauty of the room. But if you don’t know how to choose a perfect Side Table, then there is no reason to worry. We will teach you how to choose a perfect Side Table, which will provide enough storage as well as enhance the beauty of the room. Let’s find out.
Understanding the Purpose
Before choosing a perfect side table, you must first make sure where you want to use the table. Next to the sofa, next to the bed, or anywhere else.
Then you need to make sure that the table will be used to store what kind of things. Do you want to use the table to store things like lamps, lamps, or books, or do you want to store other things as well?
The reason to consider these issues is that due to the different designs of the tables, their functionality is also different. For that, you have to consider what type of table you need.
1. Consider the Size and Height
Fixing the size and height of a Side Table is very easy. You just need to keep the height of the sofa or bed.
Height: If you want to choose a side table for your bed, its height should be the same or slightly higher than your bed. And if you want to choose a side table for use next to the coffee table, then its height should be slightly lower than the coffee table. Then it will be a bit easier to keep your things on the Table.
Width and Depth: Small things like lamps, alarm clocks, or phones are usually placed on the Side Table. So their shape should not be too big. So Side Table should be selected with enough space to keep a lamp, alarm clock, or phone.
2. Storage Needs
The storage system depends on what kind of things you want to keep in it. Because they are of different designs depending on the storage needs.
Drawers: Generally, things like books, and medicines are kept in the drawers of the side table. Keeping things in drawers keeps things organized and clutter-free.
Shelves: Open shelves allow for easy storage and retrieval of items. You can choose such side tables for easy use.
Combination: You can choose combination side tables to enjoy the benefits of drawers and shelves at the same time. Because they have drawers and shelves at the same time.
Material and Durability
A side table not only keeps your things in place but can enhance the beauty of the room manifold. Moreover, their durability depends on the material they are made of. So choose the side tables made of the right material wisely, which can last for many years besides increasing the beauty. Let’s know more about those materials:
1. Solid Wood
If it comes to the durability of any furniture, then surely the furniture made of Solid Wood will be at the top of all. Popular choices for Solid Wood include wood made from oak, maple, cherry, walnut, and mahogany trees.
Advantage: A solid wood side table can easily last for ages if properly maintained. Another advantage of Solid Wood side tables is that they can be customized in different designs and colors, thus easily matching any room design. If you want to keep small things as well as heavy things on the side table, then you can keep them easily. Because the side tables of solid wood can carry loads very well.
Consideration: Side tables made of solid wood tend to cost a little more than side tables made of other materials. Also, being overweight can make transferring a bit uncomfortable. Another downside of solid wood is that it is prone to warping, cracking, and termite infestation after a few years of use, so you need to use it with proper maintenance. Another thing to keep in mind is that it is better to keep the wooden side table away from direct sunlight.
2. Engineered Wood
Engineered Wood generally refers to two types of wood. One is plywood and the other is particle board. They look a lot like wood. Plywood is a type of wood made by gluing together thin layers of wood veneer, and particleboard is a type of wood or board made from wood pulp and glue.
Advantage: Side tables made of engineered wood look a lot like wood but are more affordable and lighter than wood. Moreover, they are not prone to warping, cracking, and termite infestation like solid wood. They are becoming popular day by day due to their affordable price and excellent design. Moreover, they can be easily moved due to their lightweight. Moreover, solid wood needs to be polished every few years to keep it shiny like new, but Engineered Wood does not have these problems.
Consideration: Along with the advantages of Engineered Wood, there are also some disadvantages. They are not as durable and long-lasting as solid wood. If you live in a humid environment, the use of engineered wood can be risky for you. Because the side table made of Engineered Wood becomes weak in moisture and there is a possibility of getting damaged by water. Plywood’s glue swells, particleboard on the other hand swells and cracks after a few days. So if you want to choose side table made of Engineered Wood, then they should be kept away from water and humidity.
3. Metal
A side table made of metal usually refers to a table made of steel or iron. Metal side tables are generally of two types. One type of side table is made entirely of metal and the other is made of base and frame metal, they use glass or wooden base.
Advantage: Side tables made of metal can be used for ages just like solid wood. They do not need to be used with much care like solid wood. Moreover, there is no possibility of insect attack or scratching. There is no additional trouble if it is dirty, just wipe it with a wet cloth for cleaning. The metal side tables are somewhat simple in design and can easily adapt to almost all types of environments.
Consideration: Metal side tables are a bit heavy. Although a little water on the metal side table is not a problem, if it stays in water for a long time, there is a possibility of rusting. One thing to keep in mind while choosing them is that they should have a plastic cover under the mat. Otherwise, the floor may get scratched and there is a possibility of making annoying noises when shaken.
4. Glass
The design of side tables made of glass is very similar to metal side tables. Some tables are made entirely of glass, while some tables are made of metal or wooden legs and glass shelves on the frame.
Advantage: Side tables made of glass are very well designed. They fulfill the need for a perfect side table but can multiply the beauty of the bedroom. Moreover, glass side tables can make any item placed on it boil. Some of the glass has various colored crafts, which look very nice. You don’t have to worry about the durability of the glass, as these are made of tempered glass so there is no chance of breakage.
Consideration: One downside of glass side tables is that they have to be handled with care. Especially if there are children or pets at home. They are made of tempered glass but can break with heavy impact. Glass is prone to fingerprints or smudges, so it needs to be cleaned regularly with a cleaner. If you choose a glass table, you need to be a little more careful when moving.
5. Acrylic
The side table made of acrylic looks like a full glass table. If you are looking for an alternative to glass, then you can freely choose acrylic tables.
Advantage: Although side tables made of acrylic look like glass, they are slightly lighter in weight than glass. Also, acrylic is much stronger and longer lasting than glass. Whether you have pets or kids at home, you have no reason to worry. Kenan Acrylic is strong enough. Usually, they are made entirely of acrylic without using wood or metal, which makes them look very nice.
Consideration: The downside of side tables made of acrylic is that they can scratch easily, so they have to be used with care. Another downside of acrylics is that they can discolor (slightly yellow) over time. Due to problems like fading and scratching, acrylic is long-lasting but cannot retain its beauty for long like glass.
6. Rattan and Wicker
Side tables made of rattan can bring a natural look to your bedroom. Moreover, rattan tables are always the top choice for eco-friendly people.
Advantage: Rattan side tables are much lighter than other materials. So, if you change your home frequently then it is convenient for you to use them. Moreover, the side table does not need to be polished like wood. Such tables are usually made of solid wood and designed with a cane. Some tables are made entirely of cane.
Consideration: Rattan side tables do not last as long as wooden ones. Moreover, their somewhat complicated design easily gets dusty and is a pain to clean. Another downside of these is that they should not be used in very hot environments, as they are likely to break after a few days.
Everything has pros as well as more or less cons. Now the pros and cons of some popular materials for making side tables are highlighted. Now feel free to choose any Material side table according to your needs and preferences.
Functionality and Features
Some side tables have their own functionality as well as some additional features. You can select them if you want.
Built-in Charging Stations: Such side tables have a built-in charging system. As a result, devices like mobiles or knight lamps can be easily charged.
Lighting: Some side tables feature lighting, which can add extra convenience and beauty.
Practical Considerations
After all, you need to choose a table that can withstand daily use and last for a long time. Especially if there are pets or small children at home. In addition, select the tables that are less dirty and easy to clean.
