DIY Bedside Table with Hidden Tray | Easy Guide 2026

For many, breakfast in bed is one of life's small pleasures that's a shame to give up. With this DIY bedside table, you'll be able to eat, write, or read without having to leave the sheets—whether you're stuck in bed due to a seasonal bug or simply want to take a relaxing break.

Having breakfast in bed with a tray precariously balanced on your thighs or knees is neither pleasant nor safe. You end up filling the bed with crumbs or spilling hot coffee on yourself. This idea is perfect because of its stability and practicality. Not only that, but the ease with which it can be stored away without taking up precious space is another excellent reason to build this bedside table.

The piece is made with a base consisting of a nightstand to which specially made boards are added to create the mobile tray and its structure.

Here's how to make it.

DIY Bedside Table – Construction

The Base

In this case, the essential support for the mobile table is a commercial "Swedish-style" nightstand. Basically, it's a cube measuring 400 mm per side, made from 20 mm MDF with maple veneer. We chose an MDF piece of furniture because the heavier the base, the more stable the tray will be. If you can't find or don't want to build the nightstand in MDF, you'll need to weigh down the base with something to reach at least 15 kg, necessary to counterbalance the weight of the loaded tray.

Tools & Materials Needed

• MDF nightstand (or similar sturdy base)
• Plywood or solid wood boards for the tray and sliding mechanism
• Wood screws and wood glue
• Drawer slides (full extension recommended)
• Sandpaper (various grits)
• Wood filler
• Paint or stain of your choice
• Measuring tape and square
• Circular saw or jigsaw
• Drill and drill bits
• Screwdriver

For any additional home improvement tools you might need, check out our selection.

Illustrated Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start with your chosen nightstand. If it's a pre-assembled unit, ensure it's sturdy. If you're building from scratch, construct a simple cube from MDF. The top surface should be completely flat. For stability, consider adding extra weight inside the base if needed.

Step 2: Build the Sliding Mechanism

Measure the interior width of your nightstand. Cut two wooden runners that will fit snugly inside, leaving a small gap for the drawer slides. Attach one part of the drawer slides to the runners, and the other part to the inside walls of the nightstand. Ensure they are perfectly level and parallel. These will support the tray when extended.

Step 3: Construct the Tray

Cut a piece of plywood to serve as the tray base. It should be slightly smaller than the top of the nightstand so it can slide out easily. Attach small wooden strips around the edges to create a lip, preventing items from sliding off. Sand everything smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Tray Support

Attach the tray to the sliding runners you installed in Step 2. Use screws from underneath so they are not visible on the tray surface. Test the sliding action—it should move smoothly in and out.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Fill any screw holes with wood filler and sand the entire piece. Apply your chosen paint or stain. For a clean look, consider painting the base and tray in matching colors, or contrast them for visual interest. Add some wall decor above the nightstand to complete the look.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don't have an MDF nightstand?

You can use any sturdy nightstand or even a small desk. The key is that the base must be heavy enough (at least 15 kg) to prevent tipping when the tray is fully extended and loaded. You can add weight by placing sandbags or heavy books inside the base.

Can I use this for a laptop?

Absolutely! This design is perfect for a laptop workstation in bed. Just ensure the tray is large enough to accommodate your laptop and mouse. Consider adding a small lamp to the nightstand for better visibility.

How do I clean the sliding mechanism?

Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the drawer slides. Periodically extend the tray fully and wipe the slides with a dry cloth. If they become sticky, apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to keep them moving smoothly.

Can I customize the size?

Yes, you can adjust the dimensions to fit your specific bed height and room layout. Just maintain the proportion between the base and the tray to ensure stability. A wider tray might require a wider base.

What if I want a different style?

This project is highly customizable. You can use a different style of nightstand, paint it in bold colors, or add decorative trim to the tray. For a more rustic look, use solid wood and a natural stain. Pair it with a matching rug for a cohesive bedroom design.

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