Side tables

Side tables and occasional tables: small but mighty

Side tables and console tables can do a lot around the home. A good-looking IKEA side table doesn’t just add style, it also gives you a handy surface and, in some cases, extra storage. Whether you want a subtle finishing touch or you’d like to add contrast with simple, modern nesting tables in a room full of retro furniture and warm colours, you’ll find plenty of ways to shape your home with IKEA.

Key features and benefits of our side tables at a glance (depending on the table):

• Materials: A wide range including wood, metal, glass, rattan and plastic to suit different interior styles and tastes.
• Storage: Smart features like drawers, open shelves or hidden compartments to help keep everyday life organised.
• Flexible use: Choose tables on castors, a nest of tables or different heights to suit different layouts.
• Space-saving designs: Slim and tall options are ideal for small rooms, hallways or cosy corners.
• Styles for every home: From Scandi to traditional to modern, to blend in with your space.
• Made for everyday living: Sturdy construction and durable finishes designed for day-to-day use.

Whether you need somewhere to put your books, a spot for snacks or a little stand for your favourite plant, take a look around and find your new side table. Discover plenty of stylish, practical side tables at affordable prices that do the job day after day.

What is a side table or coffee table?

A side table is a small, compact table that usually sits next to a larger piece of furniture. It gives you a handy surface and sometimes extra storage too, for drinks, books, lamps or decorations. Unlike a coffee table, it doesn’t sit in the middle of the room. Instead, it complements your sofa, armchair or bed from the side. In our range, you’ll find side tables from slim to wide, round to square, and modern to traditional, so it’s easy to choose the right occasional table for your home.

How big should a side table be?

The ideal size depends on where you plan to use it. Next to a sofa, a top around 30 to 50 cm wide is often enough for a mug and the remote control, without taking up too much space. If you want more surface space, or you’re choosing a side table with storage, going a little larger can make sense. The main thing is that you can reach it comfortably without having to get up.

How tall should a side table be (for example, next to a sofa or the bed)?

Next to the bed or sofa, a side table is usually best at around 45 to 55 cm high. That way, you can reach your drink or book easily from sitting or lying down. A taller side table can work well next to an armchair, or as a handy surface in the hallway, where around 60 to 70 cm often works well.

What’s the difference between a bedside table and a side table?

A bedside table sits next to the bed and is designed around what you need in the bedroom. It often has drawers for personal items, plus space on top for a lamp and an alarm clock. A side table is more versatile and can be used in the living room, hallway or even outdoors next to your garden seating. They’re often similar in size, but they suit slightly different everyday needs.

What’s the difference between a side table and an end table?

“End table” is simply the American term for a small table placed beside a sofa. In practice, it’s the same thing as a side table: a compact surface that sits next to seating. If you choose a side table with storage, you’ll also get practical shelves or drawers to keep everyday items close at hand.

What can you put on a side table?

Anything you like to keep within easy reach. That might be a delicious cup of tea, the great book you’re reading, a scented candle or a beautiful lamp for a cosy glow. Remotes, your phone or a vase of fresh flowers work just as well. A side table helps keep everyday life organised, and looks good while it’s doing it.