Seven alternatives to a traditional bedside table

It's really the one piece of bedroom furniture where you can go as creative as you want. Because when you break it down, the basic function of a bedside table is to make a designated space for anything you might want to use right before you go to bed or as soon as you wake up in the morning. Meaning, it can pretty much be any object with a flat surface.

Need inspiration? Give these alternatives to your standard bedside purchase a go:

1. Put your best on display

We're into the idea of using a display cabinet as a bedside on so many levels aesthetically. Practically speaking it also buys to heaps of extra storage space.

2. Turn a wooden crate on its side

There's really no DIY needed for this cool look, but if you're into a more polished look you could paint it with a bright high gloss.

3. Nix the bedside table altogether

If all you need before bed and in the morning is your iPhone, or you're into the minimal look, forget the bedside clutter altogether.

4. Use a stack of magazines or books

Put your dust collectors to good use! Grab a belt and wrap it around your magazines to secure.

5. Go vertical

If you literally don't have room to swing a cat, then installing a couple of shelves will give you ample storage for your book and your iPhone.

6. Use a stool

Pick up an old stool at a thrift store or a cheap-and-cheerful retailer. The key here is to keep it uncluttered.

7. Grab a dining chair

Because let's face it, your dinning chair is likely to get more use out of it as a bedside. The clip-on lamp is a great idea too.