How to Care for and Maintain Your Bedside Table

Your bedside table works hard every day. It holds your lamp, your phone, your books, and that glass of water you reach for at 3am. Given how much use this piece of furniture gets, it makes sense to take good care of it. With proper maintenance, a quality bedside table can last decades and even become a treasured piece that you pass down through generations.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about caring for your bedside table, with specific advice for different materials including solid timber, engineered wood, laminate, metal, and glass. We'll also share tips for preventing common damage and addressing issues when they arise.

General Care Principles

Before diving into material-specific advice, there are some universal principles that apply to all bedside tables regardless of what they're made from.

Regular Dusting

Dust might seem harmless, but over time it can scratch surfaces and dull finishes. Make dusting your bedside table part of your regular cleaning routine—weekly is ideal. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a microfibre duster. Avoid feather dusters, which can scatter dust rather than collecting it.

Use Coasters and Mats

Water rings and heat marks are among the most common types of damage to bedside tables. Always use a coaster for drinks—even if you think "I'll only leave it there for a minute." The condensation from a cold glass or the heat from a warm cup can mark surfaces surprisingly quickly. Similarly, use a mat or cloth under hot items like a mug of tea.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Australia's intense sunlight can wreak havoc on furniture. UV rays fade colours, dry out wood, and can cause finishes to become brittle and crack. If your bedside table is near a window, use curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day, or consider moving the furniture to a less exposed position.

Caring for Solid Timber Bedside Tables

Solid timber furniture is an investment that, with proper care, will last for generations. Australian hardwoods like Tasmanian Oak, Blackwood, and Jarrah are particularly durable, but all wood requires some maintenance to stay in peak condition.

Cleaning Timber

For routine cleaning, dust with a soft cloth and occasionally wipe down with a slightly damp cloth followed immediately by a dry cloth. Never leave water sitting on timber surfaces. For a deeper clean, use a cleaner specifically formulated for wood furniture—avoid general-purpose household cleaners, which can strip finishes.

Polishing and Conditioning

Depending on the finish, your timber bedside table may benefit from occasional polishing or conditioning. For oiled finishes, apply furniture oil once or twice a year to nourish the wood and maintain its lustre. For lacquered or varnished finishes, a quality furniture polish can help maintain the protective coating and add shine.

Dealing with Scratches

Minor scratches on timber furniture can often be concealed. For light scratches, try rubbing the meat of a walnut or pecan over the mark—the natural oils can help blend the scratch into the surrounding wood. For deeper scratches, timber touch-up pens or furniture markers in a matching colour can work wonders. Very deep scratches or gouges may require professional refinishing.

Removing Water Marks

White water rings on timber occur when moisture gets trapped under the finish. For recent marks, try placing a clean cloth over the mark and running a warm (not hot) iron over it briefly—the heat can help release the trapped moisture. Alternatively, apply a thin layer of mayonnaise or petroleum jelly, leave overnight, then wipe away and buff. These methods work on many finishes, but test in an inconspicuous area first.

Caring for Engineered Wood and Laminate

Many modern bedside tables are made from engineered wood (like MDF or particleboard) with a veneer or laminate surface. While these materials are more affordable than solid timber, they require slightly different care.

Cleaning Laminate Surfaces

Laminate is relatively easy to clean. Wipe with a soft, damp cloth and mild dish soap if needed, then dry thoroughly. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads, which can dull the surface. Never use excessive water—laminate edges are particularly vulnerable to water damage, which can cause swelling and peeling.

Protecting the Edges

The edges of engineered wood furniture are often the weakest point. Avoid bumping them and keep water away from edges. If you notice edge banding starting to peel, it can often be re-adhered with wood glue and clamped while drying.

Heat Sensitivity

Laminate and veneer surfaces can be sensitive to heat. Always use protective mats under hot items, and avoid placing bedside tables near heat sources like radiators or heating vents.

Caring for Metal Bedside Tables

Metal bedside tables, particularly those with industrial or modern designs, are popular for their durability and contemporary look. Common metals include steel, iron, aluminium, and brass.

Cleaning Metal Surfaces

Dust metal furniture regularly and clean with a damp cloth. For stubborn marks, a mild dish soap solution usually works well. Dry thoroughly after cleaning to prevent water spots or, in the case of iron, rust.

Preventing and Treating Rust

If your metal bedside table shows signs of rust, address it promptly before it spreads. For surface rust, gently scrub with fine steel wool or a rust-removing product, then touch up with matching paint if needed. Prevent rust by keeping the furniture dry and applying a protective wax or clear coat to untreated metal surfaces.

Caring for Powder-Coated Finishes

Many metal bedside tables feature a powder-coated finish, which is durable but can chip if impacted. Clean with a soft cloth and avoid abrasive cleaners. If chips occur, touch-up paint can prevent the exposed metal from rusting.

Caring for Glass Surfaces

Glass-topped bedside tables offer a sleek, modern look but require regular cleaning to look their best.

Cleaning Glass

Use a quality glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth or newspaper for streak-free results. Clean glass regularly, as fingerprints and dust are highly visible. Microfibre cloths work exceptionally well for polishing glass to a shine.

Preventing Scratches

Always place objects gently on glass surfaces—even small items can cause scratches if dropped. Use felt pads under lamps or decorative objects. Avoid sliding items across the glass; always lift and place.

Climate Considerations for Australian Homes

Australia's climate presents unique challenges for furniture care. Here's how to address the most common issues.

Humidity and Timber

Timber furniture can expand and contract with changes in humidity. In coastal areas with high humidity, ensure good ventilation around furniture to prevent moisture buildup. In dry inland areas or during heated winters, a room humidifier can prevent timber from drying out and cracking.

Sun Protection

Australian UV levels are among the highest in the world. Position furniture away from direct sunlight where possible, and use window treatments to filter harsh light during peak UV hours.

When to Seek Professional Help

Some damage is beyond DIY repair. Consider professional furniture restoration for deep scratches or gouges in valuable timber pieces, extensive water damage, structural issues like loose joints, and valuable antique or heirloom pieces. A professional restorer can work wonders on damaged furniture, often at a fraction of the replacement cost.

Final Tips for Longevity

Taking care of your bedside table doesn't require significant time or effort—just consistent attention to a few key practices. By dusting regularly, using coasters, keeping liquids and heat away from surfaces, and addressing issues promptly when they arise, your bedside table will remain beautiful and functional for years to come.