If you or the person you care for spends a lot of time in bed or in a chair, then a specialised overbed table can be a great option to give you a useful surface to use during your day-to-day activities. There are a variety of types of overbed tables and overchair tables to choose from, which is where our handy overbed table buyers guide can help.
An overbed table is a useful table that is designed to be used with a bed or a chair. These types of tables are usually designed either so that the legs go underneath the bed or chair or that the table legs go around the bed or chair. With a table top that goes over the bed, many are height adjustable and are a very useful way of keeping necessary items within easy reach, such as books, snacks and drinks.
However, not every overbed table is suitable for every different type of bed or chair. Find out more below about the different types of overbed tables.
Divan overbed tables are designed for use with a divan bed. They usually have a much thinner, flatter base to allow the legs of the table to fit snugly beneath the bed.
Divan overbed tables:
If you don't have any gap between your bed and the floor, you can also get over bed tables that have a wheeled frame that fits over the top of the bed, rather than underneath it.
You may want to consider whether there is any clearance at all under the divan bed before making a purchase and also what the weight limit the table can hold is, particularly if the design does not include legs that slide under the bed.
Be careful not to tilt the tabletop too far. Even if it has a raised edge or a rubber mat, there's still a chance objects could fall from it if the angle is too severe.
As with any new piece of furniture, it's always a good idea to measure the space you'll be using it in to avoid any disappointments. If you are buying online, the dimensions of the overbed chair table should be clearly displayed. Once you've decided where you'll be using your overbed table, you'll need to take some measurements.
With a bed:
With a chair:
Did you know that overbed tables usually arrive flat-packed? While they are generally easy to put together you may find it useful to have an extra pair of hands with you to help.
No one likes watermarks on their table. Protect yours with a coaster - choose a non-slip one for added help in stopping your drink from sliding around.
The right lighting can make a huge difference. If you're going to be using your over bed/chair table a lot then a table or desk lamp could help to make sure that you don't strain your eyes.
