5 Best Lightweight Bedside Tables Youtubers Recommend
Creating intrigue: I once moved apartments three times in a single year, and each time my bedside table became my tiny, living mood board — a place for lip balm, books, a mug, and the one lamp that never lies about how tired I am. Which bedside table survived that chaos? The ones that were lightweight, practical, and actually beautiful. If you want bedside pieces you can pick up, style anew, and rely on nightly, here’s what top furniture YouTubers with real-life testing recommend.
Why I trust YouTubers’ picks (and why you should too)
I follow channels like Mr. Kate, House & Home, Apartment Therapy, and The Sorry Girls because they combine design rules with real hands-on tests. Those creators stress durability, aesthetic coherence, and real-world usability — not just staged beauty shots. When multiple creators repeatedly recommend the same bedside pieces, I take note.
How I chose these five
I compared dozens of bedside tables across materials, weight, cost, and functionality, focusing on pieces that are actually easy to move—under 30 pounds, preferably under 20—and equally photogenic. I considered:
- Materials (solid wood, engineered wood, metal, and rattan)
- Dimensions (height to mattress, tabletop area for lamp and phone)
- Weight (easy to lift, reposition, and clean around)
- Storage (drawer size, open shelves, cable management)
- Price and availability (U.S./global retailers where orderable now)
Now, the five lightweight bedside tables YouTubers recommend — tried, styled, and easy to live with.
1) IKEA NORDLI 2-drawer bedside table — the streamlined, modular favorite
IKEA’s NORDLI system has flooded decor videos for good reason. It’s clever, simple, and surprisingly sturdy for its weight.
Product snapshot
- Materials: Particleboard with foil, fiberboard back, steel drawer runners
- Colors: White, dark gray, beige options depending on region
- Dimensions: 39 cm × 48 cm × 41 cm (height × depth × width) — (approx 15.4″ H × 18.9″ D × 16.1″ W)
- Weight: ~14–18 lbs (6–8 kg) depending on model
- Price range: Budget-friendly (often $79–$129 depending on sales)
Why YouTubers love it
Creators praise NORDLI for its clean lines and surprisingly deep drawers that hold books, chargers, and bedside meds without bulking up. Its modular design makes it easy to pair with other NORDLI pieces for a cohesive bedroom suite.
How it fits into your life
The matte white finish reads calm and airy against linen bedding. I found it easy to carry up narrow stairs and slide into place behind a bed frame. The drawers close softly, and the top surface accepts a lamp, an alarm clock, and a small plant with room to spare.
Personal note
I swapped mine between two bedrooms over three months and never worried about scuffs. It’s not solid wood, but for renters and frequent movers, the lightweight durability is a major plus.
Value proposition
Great balance of price, storage, and modern minimalism — perfect for renters or anyone who loves a tidy, fuss-free bedside.
2) West Elm Mid-Century Nightstand (poplar wood veneers) — the chic, sculpted classic
This piece gets repeated shoutouts from design-focused channels for its silhouette and surprisingly light build.
Product snapshot
- Materials: Solid poplar wood frame, poplar veneer, engineered wood drawer
- Colors: Acorn, Black Walnut, Whitewash (varies by season)
- Dimensions: 22″ H × 18″ W × 15″ D (approx) — check specific SKU
- Weight: ~20–24 lbs
- Price range: Moderate ($199–$349)
Why YouTubers love it
The mid-century tapered legs and grain-matched veneer photograph beautifully on camera. Reviewers highlight the balanced proportions—tall enough to align with most mattress heights and shallow enough to keep a small room airy.
How it fits into your life
Visually, the warm wood grain adds texture next to neutral linens or contrasted with moody paint. It’s light enough to pivot for cleaning, yet feels substantial when used. Drawer glides are smooth and the top handles a lamp and a tray for jewelry.
Personal note
I kept one in a guest room; it elevated the entire space without dominating it. The wood veneer shows fingerprints less than painted finishes, which is lovely if you want low-maintenance style.
Value proposition
A stylish investment piece for people who want timber warmth without the full weight of solid hardwood.
3) Target Project 62 Reeve Side Table — the ultra-light, sculptural pick
Project 62 frequently surfaces in “small space” roundups because it nails style without bulk.
Product snapshot
- Materials: Engineered wood, ash veneer or laminate finishes; sometimes metal base
- Colors: Natural oak, white, black
- Dimensions: Usually around 20″ H × 16″ W × 14″ D
- Weight: Often under 15 lbs
- Price range: Budget to mid ($60–$150)
Why YouTubers love it
It’s photogenic and tiny, ideal for bedroom corners and minimalist styling. Video demos show creators carrying it single-handedly and styling it multiple ways in minutes.
How it fits into your life
The slim footprint fits between bed and compact chairs. I used it as both bedside table and occasional laptop rest; the surface is forgivingly hard and resists spills well. The visible grain and tapered legs add vintage-inspired charm.
Personal note
I keep one in my small studio apartment; when friends crash over, I simply slide it beside the sofa to serve as a drink station. Practicality plus pretty lines — yes please.
Value proposition
A great choice if you want a lightweight, design-forward table for small spaces or dorm rooms.
4) IKEA VITTSJÖ Side Table (glass and steel) — the airy, modern option
VITTSJÖ’s transparent top and thin steel frame is a favorite on styling videos that need things to feel light, not heavy.
Product snapshot
- Materials: Tempered glass top, steel frame with powder-coated finish
- Colors: Black frame/clear glass; occasionally brass-tone legs in limited releases
- Dimensions: 40 cm × 55 cm × 35 cm (approx 15.7″ H × 21.7″ W × 13.8″ D)
- Weight: ~11–14 lbs
- Price range: Very budget-friendly ($29–$69)
Why YouTubers love it
The glass top makes a small room instantly feel larger and it photographs like a dream. Reviewers appreciate the visual lightness and ease of cleaning.
How it fits into your life
The glass surface shows off decorative objects, candles, and vases beautifully while being super easy to wipe down. It’s light enough to move for vacuuming and strong enough to hold larger lamps without wobble.
Personal note
I love placing one by a rattan chair—contrast of textures is stunning. Handle with care when relocating, but otherwise it’s a joyful neutral.
Value proposition
Best for minimalists and maximalist stylers alike who want a transparent, low-visual-weight piece.
5) Wayfair Mercury Row Lanikai Rattan Nightstand — the breezy, textured winner
Natural textures are huge on Pinterest and YouTube, and rattan nightstands are the go-to for that boho-meets-modern vibe.
Product snapshot
- Materials: Rattan veneer or woven rattan front, engineered wood frame, metal legs
- Colors: Natural rattan, whitewashed, or black-stained variations
- Dimensions: ~24″ H × 20″ W × 16″ D (varies by model)
- Weight: ~15–20 lbs
- Price range: Mid ($129–$249)
Why YouTubers love it
They adore how rattan warms up modern spaces. Reviewers note the delicate weave and lightweight frame make the piece easy to carry yet full of tactile interest.
How it fits into your life
It pairs beautifully with linen bedding, macramé, and greenery. I found it durable for everyday items and the textured front hides minor scuffs better than smooth paint.
Personal note
I used one in a summer guest room; it instantly gave the space a vacation-y vibe. It’s the kind of piece that guests comment on without you having to say anything.
Value proposition
Perfect for visual shoppers who prioritize texture and a relaxed aesthetic without sacrificing portability.
What to look for when choosing a lightweight bedside table
Choosing is part intuition and part measurement. Ask these questions:
- How tall is my mattress? Bedside tables should align with or be slightly below mattress height for easy reach.
- Do I need storage? Drawers hide clutter; open shelves showcase books and baskets.
- How often will I move? If you rearrange seasonally, lighter materials (plywood, veneer, metal/glass) are helpful.
- What’s my surface priority? Prefer glass for a clean look, wood for warmth, or woven textures for softness.
- Cable management? If you charge devices, look for back cutouts or build a small grommet.
I always measure the bed-to-floor height and the area around the bed before buying. Two inches off can mean a lamp that looks awkward or reaches that feel off.
Practical buying advice — materials and trade-offs
- Solid wood: heavy, durable, timeless. Best if you don’t move often.
- Wood veneer/plywood: lighter, visually similar to wood but less weight. Great compromise for movers.
- Metal/glass: ultra-light, modern, easy-clean. Handle with care for chips or scratches.
- Rattan/wicker: lightweight, highly textured, slightly fragile with heavy use. Ideal for style seekers.
- Engineered wood: budget-friendly and lightweight, but check weight capacity for lamps.
If weight is your primary concern, target under 20 lbs for easy lifting. If longevity is key, aim for thick veneers, quality drawer glides, and solid fasteners.
Styling tips from YouTubers and my own tests
- Layer height: Pair a slightly taller lamp with a lower vase so items read as a balanced vignette.
- Texture mix: Combine smooth glass, warm wood, and a woven basket to create depth.
- Keep essentials visible: A small tray for jewelry and a corded hole for chargers keeps the top tidy.
- Seasonal swaps: Lightweight tables let you change placement for seasonal looks — move a rattan nightstand to the balcony in summer, swap in a glass one in winter for a cooler mood.
I rearrange my bedside side table per season; it’s an easy way to refresh a whole room without repainting.
FAQs — quick answers to common bedside table puzzles
Q: What height should my bedside table be? A: Aim for the tabletop to be within 1–3 inches of your mattress height for comfortable reach while seated or lying down.
Q: How much weight can lightweight bedside tables hold? A: Most tops hold 20–50 lbs depending on material and construction; always check manufacturer specs for lamp bases and heavier decor.
Q: Are glass-top tables safe in homes with kids or pets? A: Tempered glass is strong, but if you have rambunctious pets or toddlers, choose thicker glass or alternate materials like wood or rattan.
Q: Can I paint or refinish veneer tables? A: Yes, but prep is key — scuff sanding and a good primer are needed. Veneer can be painted successfully if you follow steps.
Q: What’s the best finish for hides fingerprints or dust? A: Textured finishes (rattan, matte wood veneer) hide dust and prints better than high-gloss surfaces.
Final verdict — which one fits you?
- For renters and frequent movers: IKEA NORDLI or IKEA VITTSJÖ. Both are light, practical, and inexpensive to replace if needed.
- For a mid-century, elevated look: West Elm Mid-Century nightstand. It reads designer but remains transportable.
- For tiny spaces or dorm rooms: Target Project 62 Reeve side table. It’s small, pretty, and you can carry it one-handed.
- For texture lovers and boho aesthetic: Wayfair Mercury Row Lanikai rattan nightstand. It adds tactile depth and effortless style.
I choose based on how often I move, the room’s texture palette, and whether I need hidden storage. For me, a good bedside table is the one I can lift, clean under, and style without heavy lifting or regret.
Quick checklist before you buy
- Measure: Bed height and floor-to-lamp clearance.
- Weight: Confirm under 20–25 lbs if you expect to move it a lot.
- Materials: Match to usage — glass for minimal cleaning, veneer for warmth, rattan for texture.
- Storage: Drawer depth and shelf spacing must fit your books and devices.
- Visual fit: Photograph the space with a mock-up (cardboard box works) to confirm proportions.
I always use a taped footprint on the floor to double-check before ordering.
Closing thoughts
A bedside table is small but mighty — it anchors your nightly routine, reflects your taste, and quietly supports the little things that matter. The five pieces above are repeatedly recommended by trusted YouTubers because they blend portability with personality. Choose the one that matches your lifestyle: moveable for renters, sculpted for style lovers, or textured for cozy bedrooms.
If you want, tell me your mattress height, preferred material, and budget, and I’ll recommend the single best option for your room.