As a nursery designer, I make sure that every nursery we design has a good side table. Even if it’s a small piece, having a nursery side table next to your glider gives you a spot for a bottle, small lamp or even just your phone. Since nurseries are often small, we always try to maximize the storage if possible. Believe it or not, there are a lot of side tables out there with storage! When I was writing my book, Your Perfect Nursery, I included a section about side tables specifically because they are often an overlooked piece.
First, we always look for sturdy side tables that won’t tip over easily and that can sit on top of a rug without wobbling. And, of course, nothing with sharp edges (so round side tables are usually a good choice). The other key to nursery design is storage! Whenever possible, we try to combine storage with other furniture items (like storage ottomans). Side tables are a great option since you’ll need one anyway and may as well get some bonus storage out of it! Find some of our favorite side tables with storage below that are nursery-friendly, stylish and functional.
Nursery Side Tables with Storage We Love
1. Oak Rattan Side Table: We absolutely love this side table. The lid makes the storage look seamless and the rattan texture gives the table an airy and coastal look. A drum style side table is typically one of the more sturdy choices since it has no sharp edges and a solid base.
2. Modern Two Tone Side Table: Modern nursery design is still on trend we’ll be seeing it for years. This white and light wood side table has storage space at the base and a cute modern design.
3. Walnut Wood Side Table: Traditional nursery furniture has become so popular, and we love the spindle detail on this gorgeous walnut nightstand. This table comes in lots of colors to match any nursery decor, and the little drawer is perfect for hiding away small items.
4. Fluted Oak Side Table: This is an understated round side table with fluted details with a nod to the Scandinavian style. A seamless hidden door with a soft-close function gives access to a storage space.
5. Black and Cane Storage Side Table: This black and cane side table is a great piece to add contrast to your nursery design. The cane detail feels airy and doesn’t take up too much visual space. The storage inside is perfect for storing bulkier items like blankets or stuffed animals.
6. Wood Side Table With Drawer: This is a petite option for a compact space. This charming little side table has a laid-back cane detail with a small drawer. Sometimes just the smallest amount of extra storage helps!
7. Tiered Wood Side Table: We love this one! It feels like a timeless piece with a gorgeous tiered shape and soft wood finish. The open shelves are perfect for a decorative basket or some pretty books.
8. White Scalloped Side Table: We are pretty smitten with this little night stand. It has a drawer and shelf that offer extra storage and the scalloped detail would be adorable in a nursery. It comes in a walnut wood version as well.
9. Traditional Sage Green Side Table: This stunner is a more traditional design with a larger footprint. The drawer gives it some storage and the traditional style is beautiful. It comes in sage green and a soft neutral wood tone.
10. Elephant Side Table: This adorable wicker elephant side table is playful and will easily transition into a playroom. It’s perfect for holding swaddle blankets or a few toys, and the whimsical shape will encourage your little one to help clean up their toys!
11. Organic Storage Side Table: The playful and gorgeous organic shape gives this side table a sculptural feel. It’s a multi-use piece of furniture that can definitely grow with your child.
12. Rattan Storage Side Table: This side table has a warm rattan finish with loads of storage inside. The rattan texture naturally has lots of depth and interest, and would work for a nursery with a rustic feel. This one also comes in a darker rattan finish too.
More Storage Side Tables for the Nursery
1. Fluted Ivory Storage Side Table: This fluted table is the perfect piece for hiding toys and blankets. The lid comes off and you can easily store items inside.
2. Cane Side Table with Shelves: Cane detail is so gorgeous for nurseries. It works as a neutral piece but adds texture. The little shelves on this table are perfect for books and decor.
3. Rattan 3-Tier Table: If you want a more rustic texture or a bohemian look, this little table has 3 tiers for storing items.
4. Mango Wood Side Table with Drawer: If you want a more traditional look, a storage side table like this one in a dark wood adds sophistication and a refined look.
5. Upholstered Storage Side Table: This might be the perfect piece for a nursery! It’s padded and has storage inside, and comes in a ton of colors to match your decor.
6. Light Wood Storage Table: This side table gives you the option to have open or closed storage. We love the light wood delicate fluting detail.
7. Soft Storage Side Table: This table is another perfect option for the nursery since it’s soft and super affordable. It comes in lots of fun colors too.
8. Slate Blue Side Table: A single shelf can add more storage than you think, especially if you add a storage basket. We love this slate blue color, and this sweet side table comes in four other colors too.
9. Light Wood Side Table: This modern and clean table comes in a few gorgeous wood shades with a single shelf.
10. Cane Open Shelf Table: This is another great option for those cane-lovers. It has open shelving for little items in a warm wood tone.
11. Modern Storage Side Table: Love a shiny lacquer? This modern side table has a swivel lid to hide items inside. It comes in two pretty wood tones.
12. Round Cane Side Table: Can you tell we like cane details? We love that this table has the cane detail all the way around.
Nursery Side Table Size & Style
Since a nursery side table works hard (it holds bottles, a small lamp, books and more), here’s what we look for when choosing one for our clients:
- An appropriate size: Nurseries are often small, so measure the spot next to your glider. The standard size I look for is 18″ wide, but if you have a particularly small or large space, you can adjust. The height should be close to the top of the glider arm or a few inches below.
- The right kind of storage: A lid is great for hiding blankets and toys, a drawer keeps small items out of sight, and an open shelf holds a basket or a few books. Choose the type that matches what you’ll actually store.
- Material matters: Choose a material or texture that flows with the rest of your nursery design. Natural textures are great for nurseries with other rattan or light wood pieces. Go for dark wood if you want that moody traditional look. There are even upholstered options if you want to break up a lot of woods.
Nursery Side Table Safety
Every single piece that goes into a nursery needs to be safe, and that includes the side table. Here’s what to look for when you’re shopping:
- Sturdy base: Look for a solid base that won’t tip over easily and can sit on a rug without wobbling. Drum, pedestal or tripod styles are often stable choices.
- Weight: You’ll also want a side table that’s heavy enough that it can’t be knocked over or pulled down.
- Rounded edges: A round side table with no sharp corners is the safest option for a nursery, especially once your little one starts crawling and trying to pull up on things.
On the hunt for more storage pieces for the nursery? Check out our posts on Storage Ottomans, Bins & Baskets, and Storage Benches!
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