Anyone who’s spent a lazy Sunday rearranging their bedroom knows bedside tables are unsung heroes — they hold your lamp, phone, and book within arm’s reach. At Kmart Australia, the selection ranges from $29 to $79, but is that enough to guarantee a good night’s sleep and a stylish room?
Current Kmart bedside table price range: $29 – $79 AUD ·
Number of Kmart bedside table models (2025): 12 ·
Average customer rating (Kmart Australia): 4.3 out of 5 stars ·
Kmart furniture returns policy (days): 30
Quick snapshot
- Kmart bedside tables use engineered wood and particleboard (Kmart Australia (official retailer))
- Tabletop height should be within 2-3 inches of mattress top (Mocka Australia (buyer’s guide))
- Kmart offers 30-day returns on furniture (Kmart Australia (official retailer))
- Long-term durability beyond 3 years is not widely documented
- Exact sales numbers per model are not disclosed
- Average customer rating 4.3/5 not independently verified
- Durability after 3 years: not widely documented
- Check Kmart’s 2025 bedside table collection for new models
Four key facts stand out for anyone comparing Kmart bedside tables against alternatives.
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Price range (AUD) | $29 – $79 |
| Most popular model | Nate Bedside Table (4.5 stars, 350+ reviews) (Kmart Australia (official retailer)) |
| Return period | 30 days |
| Primary material | Engineered wood + particleboard |
Should a bedside table be higher or lower than your bed?
Ideal height for your nightstand
The golden rule is simple: the top of your bedside table should be within 2 inches of the top of your mattress. This allows you to reach for a glass of water or your phone without straining your shoulder or sitting up. Mocka Australia (buyer’s guide) confirms that the tabletop should align roughly with the mattress height for ergonomic comfort.
Measuring your bed frame correctly
Measure from the floor to the top of your mattress (including any topper). For platform beds, the mattress sits lower; for adjustable bases, consider the highest position you use. Always check that side rails or headboard don’t prevent the table from sliding close to the bed.
The implication: Getting the height right is free — a tape measure and a minute’s work — and it transforms daily comfort.
Since height is independent of price, budget shoppers can achieve the same ergonomic benefit as those spending ten times more.
Kmart’s bedside tables are a solid budget option for short-term use, but buyers should expect visible wear after a couple of years.
Is Kmart furniture good quality?
Kmart bedside table materials and construction
Kmart uses engineered wood and particleboard across its bedside table range. That’s standard for furniture in this price bracket. The Nate Bedside Table ($49), for example, has three shelves and a reported 4.5-star rating from over 350 reviews (Kmart Australia (official retailer)). The Stevie model ($59) adds drawers, while the Claire ($39) offers a round compact design.
Customer satisfaction and common issues
Across Kmart’s furniture range, the average customer rating sits at 4.3 out of 5 stars. Most complaints involve assembly difficulty and visible particleboard edges over time. Yet for the price — often half of what IKEA charges for a similar piece — many Australian shoppers find the trade-off acceptable.
Warranty and return policy
Kmart offers a 30-day return window on furniture, as stated on its returns policy. Extended warranties are not standard, so any defects after a month are at the buyer’s cost.
The pattern: Kmart furniture delivers what you pay for: functional, decent-looking pieces that may show wear after a couple of years. For temporary or guest-room use, that’s often acceptable.
The engineered wood construction means these tables are heavy and difficult to relocate without chipping. Plan for your bedside table to stay put for at least 2-3 years.
What is the difference between a bedside table and a nightstand?
Design and storage features
In Australian retail, the terms are used interchangeably. However, a traditional nightstand typically includes drawers or a cabinet, while a bedside table is a flat surface — often with open shelves. Bedside tables with drawers provide additional storage for bedside essentials like medication and clocks.
Size and height conventions
Both follow the same height conventions (50-65 cm typical). Width varies: a standard bedside table is 40-50 cm wide, enough for a lamp and a book. The main difference today is marketing — Kmart labels all its small bedroom tables “bedside tables,” while some higher-end brands reserve “nightstand” for drawer-included models.
Why this matters: If you prioritise hidden storage, look for the word “nightstand” or check the product description for drawers. Otherwise, an open-shelf bedside table works fine.
What to do instead of bedside tables?
Floating shelves
A wall-mounted shelf at the same height as your mattress can replace a bulky table. It keeps the floor clear — ideal for small bedrooms. Price: around $20-50 from hardware stores like Bunnings.
Wall-mounted cabinets
For those who want enclosed storage, a small wall cabinet does the job. Ensure it’s securely fixed to studs to hold the weight of a lamp.
Stacked crates or baskets
DIY enthusiasts can stack 2-3 wooden crates or sturdy baskets for a rustic look. Cost: under $30. Check stability before placing anything breakable on top.
Over-bed shelving units
Some units attach directly to the bed frame, offering a shelf above the pillow. These save floor space but limit access to the bed from one side.
What this means: Alternatives are abundant and often cheaper than a Kmart table. The trade-off is less instant visual polish — shelving and crates require more styling effort.
What is the rule for bedside tables?
Height and placement rule
The non-negotiable rule: the tabletop should be within 2-3 inches of your mattress top. Depth should not exceed about 60 cm from the wall, otherwise you’ll have trouble getting in and out of bed, as noted by Mocka Australia (buyer’s guide).
Symmetry vs. asymmetry in bedroom layout
Designers often recommend one bedside table per person minimum. For a couple’s bed, matching tables create visual symmetry; mismatched ones can add character. The rule: each table should offer enough surface for a lamp, a phone, and a glass of water.
The trade-off: Following the rules costs nothing and guarantees comfort. Ignoring them risks a cramped, unbalanced room — no matter how much you spent on the table.
Comparison: Kmart’s top three bedside tables
Three models dominate Kmart’s current lineup, each catering to different storage needs and budgets.
| Model | Price (AUD) | Storage type | Rating (stars) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nate | $49 | 3 open shelves | 4.5 |
| Stevie | $59 | 2 drawers + shelf | 4.2 |
| Claire | $39 | Round top, one shelf | 4.0 |
All three are constructed from engineered wood and particleboard.
Specifications: Kmart bedside table dimensions
While exact dimensions vary, here are the typical measurements from Kmart’s product pages.
| Model | Height (cm) | Width (cm) | Depth (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nate | 60 | 45 | 35 |
| Stevie | 55 | 50 | 40 |
| Claire | 50 | 40 | 40 |
Approximate values sourced from Kmart Australia (official retailer).
Pros and cons of Kmart bedside tables
Upsides
- Affordable price point ($29–$79)
- Wide variety of styles (open shelves, drawers, round)
- Easy assembly — most models take under 30 minutes
- 30-day returns policy
Downsides
- Particleboard edges may chip over time
- Limited colour options (mostly white and black)
- No assembly service included
- Long-term durability beyond 3 years unclear
How to choose the right bedside table (step by step)
- Measure your bed height — from floor to top of mattress. Your tabletop should be within 2 inches of that height.
- Check lamp clearance — ensure your lamp base fits on the table while still leaving room for a glass or phone.
- Consider storage needs — do you want open shelves, drawers, or a simple surface? Kmart’s Stevie model is best for hidden storage.
- Account for room width — leave at least 2-4 inches between the table and the bed for easy cleaning.
- Budget for returns — with Kmart’s 30-day window, you can test fit and adjust if needed.
Clarity: What we know vs. what’s uncertain
Confirmed facts
- Kmart bedside tables use engineered wood and particleboard (Kmart Australia (official retailer))
- Tabletop height should be within 2-3 inches of mattress top (Mocka Australia (buyer’s guide))
- 30-day return policy on furniture
What’s unclear
- Long-term durability beyond 3 years — not widely documented
- Exact sales numbers per Kmart model
- Comparison data against IKEA and Target models (no side-by-side reviews available)
- Average customer rating 4.3/5 not independently verified
Expert perspectives
“The table comes with three shelves for lamps or decorative items.”
— Product description from Kmart Australia (official retailer)
“Your nightstand should be no more than 2 inches higher or lower than your mattress top for ergonomic access.”
— Interior design guideline from Mocka Australia (buyer’s guide)
Summary
Kmart’s bedside tables solve a real problem: affordable, functional surfaces that fit Australian bedrooms. The materials and longevity reflect the price, but the ergonomic rules remain the same at any budget. For the budget-conscious Australian shopper who values immediate style over decade-long durability, a $49 Nate or $39 Claire delivers exactly what it promises. For those wanting pieces that last a decade, the clear alternative is to save for a higher-tier brand. The implication: know your horizon — short-term affordability or long-term investment — and measure your bed before you click ‘add to cart.’
For a broader look at Kmart side table styles, check out our Kmart side table styles guide covering alternatives and styling tips.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best Kmart bedside table for small bedrooms?
The Claire Bedside Table ($39) is the most compact option with a round top and one shelf. It fits easily into tight spaces. The Stevie ($59) offers drawers but requires more floor clearance.
Can I use a bookshelf as a bedside table?
Yes, but check the height and depth. A standard bookshelf is often too tall (65-75 cm) for ergonomic use. If it exceeds your mattress height by more than 3 inches, it’s not ideal for bedside duty.
Are Kmart bedside tables easy to assemble?
Most models take under 30 minutes with basic tools. Customer reviews on Kmart’s site mention some alignment issues with screw holes, but overall assembly is manageable.
How long do Kmart bedside tables typically last?
Based on customer feedback and material quality, expect 2-4 years with average use. Particleboard edges may show wear after the first year if the table shifts or gets bumped frequently.
Which Kmart bedside table has the most storage?
The Stevie Bedside Table ($59) provides the most storage with two drawers plus a lower shelf. It’s Kmart’s top choice for hiding clutter.
Should I buy two matching bedside tables for a double bed?
Matching tables create symmetry and a polished look. If budget is tight, one table and a floating shelf on the other side can work well. The rule: each side needs a surface for a lamp and personal items.
Do Kmart bedside tables come with a warranty?
Kmart’s standard warranty covers manufacturing defects, but the primary guarantee is the 30-day return policy. Extended warranties are not offered on furniture.
Related reading: See our Kmart bedside table buying guide for the latest models, or check the Australian bedside table buyer’s guide from Mocka for design standards.
Daniel Harper is Editor-in-Chief at Coast Monitor, overseeing editorial standards, publication decisions and corrections.