What is the difference between an antique bedside table and a nightstand?

The terms are used interchangeably. 'Night table' is the traditional 18th-century designation, typically featuring a drawer and a marble top. 'Nightstand' and 'bedside table' are the common modern terms. Antique dealers use all three expressions without distinction.

How do I tell a genuine antique bedside table from a reproduction?

Examine the back and underside: irregular natural patina, hand-plane marks, mortise-and-tenon joints and hand-forged hardware all point to an authentic piece. Reproductions typically show overly uniform surfaces, modern screws and wood lacking any depth of patina.

What should I expect to pay for an antique bedside table from a dealer?

Prices range from around £150 for a simple provincial piece in good condition to several thousand pounds for a stamped pair with original marble. A Louis XV walnut example with its marble top typically falls between £400 and £1,500, depending on condition, provenance and any maker's stamp.

How do I care for an antique wooden bedside table?

Apply a natural wax such as beeswax or carnauba twice a year using a soft cloth. Avoid household cleaners, excess humidity and direct sunlight. For marble tops, a lightly damp cloth followed by a mineral wax is all that is needed to preserve the polish safely.

Is it better to buy a single antique bedside table or a matching pair?

A matched pair is always more sought-after and holds its value better than a single piece. If you are furnishing a bedroom, investing in a pair is worthwhile: the stylistic coherence and stronger resale value make it a sounder long-term purchase, even at a higher initial cost.