At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
Are Bedside Tables Beneficial?
Michael Pollick
Michael Pollick
Bedside tables can be very beneficial, especially when one considers how many unnecessary trips to other rooms they can prevent. The very act of sleeping can cause mouth and throat dryness, so having a glass of water near the bed can be a great benefit. Soft overhead lighting in the bedroom may be soothing, but the light switch may be on the opposite side of the room. A bedside table can accommodate a small reading lamp which can be switched off from the bed itself.
Many people have small items, such as eyeglasses, contact lenses and watches, which may be needed at any moment. Placing these objects on a nightstand or bedside table can keep them safe and accessible.
Another advantage of a bedside table is the storage of medications. Many people need to take medications at bedtime but often forget until they have already retired for the evening. Medicine bottles and a supply of water can be kept on a bedside table to prevent unnecessary trips to the medicine cabinet late at night. Elderly people especially need to limit the number of trips they make in a darkened room late at night. Some bedside table have drawers with locks, so medications can be kept out of the reach of children.
Reading in bed is a popular way to unwind before sleep, so a bedside table can also be used as a personal library. Some people may also want to install an extension phone for late-night chats or emergency calls. If a television or other entertainment system exists in the bedroom, a bedside table is a perfect location for the remote controls. Channel guides and schedules can also be kept on a bedside table for quick reference.
Another advantage of a bedside table is the proverbial midnight snack. Such a table could allow for a coffee cup and breakfast plate, or a variety of munchies for late-night cravings. Some bedside stands may also have an extension which will swing over the bed as a sturdy eating tray. Most hospitals offer both bedside tables and swing-around eating stands for bedridden patients. Patients convalescing at home may also benefit from the flexibility of a bedside table.
Michael Pollick
A regular WiseGEEK contributor, Michael enjoys doing research in order to satisfy his wide-ranging curiosity about a variety of arcane topics. Before becoming a professional writer, Michael worked as an English tutor, poet, voice-over artist, and DJ.
Learn more...
Michael Pollick
A regular WiseGEEK contributor, Michael enjoys doing research in order to satisfy his wide-ranging curiosity about a variety of arcane topics. Before becoming a professional writer, Michael worked as an English tutor, poet, voice-over artist, and DJ.
Learn more...AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![Having contact lenses within easy reach might be a reason for getting a bedside table.]()
By: ruigsantosHaving contact lenses within easy reach might be a reason for getting a bedside table. -
![A bedside table can accommodate a small reading lamp.]()
By: ronstikA bedside table can accommodate a small reading lamp. -
![A bedside table can come in handy during a late night snacking session.]()
By: Michael PettigrewA bedside table can come in handy during a late night snacking session.
Discussion Comments
I have a small, round antique bedside table that my grandmother gave to me. I love this little table because of the sentimental value and the practicality of it. My grandmother had this table beside her bed for years, and it looks just as good today as when she was using it.
I love to read in bed, and this is the perfect place to keep the book that I am reading. I also have my alarm clock here and the remote for the TV.
The biggest problem I have with my bedside table is that it gets too full of junk. It is a very handy place to dump things and then you have to sort through the stuff to find what you are needing.
I have found keys and cell phones buried there when I was frantically looking around the house for them. After that happened a couple of times I try harder to keep it cleaned off and just put things there that I need at the time.
I would be completely lost without a bedside table. The floor beside my bed would be cluttered all the time if I didn't have something by my bed to sit things on.
This is where I keep my cell phone, my chap stick, reading glasses and the current book I am reading. I also have a coaster on my table to set my glass of water on.
My wooden bedside table came as an option when we bought our bedroom furniture. We bought one for each side which helps complement the room and keep things organized.
Post your comments