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Bedside Table Essentials

From , former About.com Guide

Bedside Clock Image

Bedside Clock

flickr.com/Josh Rothman
While you don't want your bedside table to be too crowded, there are a few essential items you always want to have close at hand.

Bedside Table Essentials
  • A good reading lamp. If there's no room on the table hang a sconce at the approximate height where a table lamp's shade would be.
  • A tissue box. Try to find a pretty container so you don't have to have the generic box on display.
  • A scented candle. It's one of those little luxuries that can make a huge difference. Remember, decorating involves all the senses, not just sight.
  • A small tray to hold items like an alarm clock and jewelry that you take off at night.
  • A glass and a small carafe of water. There are a lot of simple and small options available.
  • A book. You don't want to have to go searching in the middle of the night when you can't sleep.
  • A pad of paper and a pencil. You never know when you'll have a brilliant idea you want to write down. Instead of standard white paper, see if you can find a pretty little stationery pad.
  • A small vase of flowers. They're guaranteed to brighten up any space, as well as bring a little softness. But remember to keep it small. You want it to accentuate, not overcrowd.

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