A buying guide to overbed tables

Knowing where you want to use the table will help to narrow down your options. Will it be used with a chair, with a bed, or both? If you use a wheelchair, for example, a table with a u-shaped frame might be more suitable for you, whereas if you'll only be using it with a bed, then a traditional forked base might be best.

This will also help you to decide what size of tabletop you would need, as if you're looking for more of a raised side table, you may be better off with a narrower table to go over the bed.

Having a table that can tilt could be useful if you were wanting to be able to rest things against it, however, if you only need it to have somewhere to put your food or drinks down then it’s unlikely you’ll need one that tilts.

If you want to be able to use your table with your bed and your favourite chair, moving it between the two, then you may want to consider one that's lightweight or has wheels so it's easier to move around. What type of table you need will all depend on where you want to use it. If you have a divan base on your bed, for example, then a table with a sliding base might be a better option. If you're in need of a table that would work with both a wheelchair and a bed, then one with a wheelchair base may be more suitable.

Looking for an overbed table suitable for a high-needs environment? An Easylift overbed table may be what you need.

Remember, it's important to double-check that the frame on your potential table will fit with your particular bed so it is wise to measure the clearance under the bed if you are not sure. 

Consider where you will put the table when it isn't in use. Can it stay alongside the bed or chair or will it need to be put away? Be sure to measure where you intend to store it when it's not being used so you can make sure that the table you choose isn't too big.

Some over bed/chair tables are designed to tilt on one side, meaning they can only be used from one specific side. This won't apply to all over bed/chair tables, but it's worth considering and double-checking the product description to avoid any disappointment.

Things like non-slip mats can be a useful addition to an over bed/chair table as they help to prevent items sliding around on top of it. You can get non-slip mats and coasters in a variety of bright colours, which is handy for those with limited vision or who need colour coding to help with their orientation.