Over Bed Tables: Choosing One for Bed or Chair

By Scott Smith. Last reviewed 21 October 2026.

Who Uses One?

These tables help people recovering from surgery or illness, those with long term conditions who rest in bed for part of the day, and anyone who sits in a riser recliner or armchair for long periods. Carers find them useful too, as they give a stable surface for meals and medicines. Unlike a tray on the lap, a table holds things steady and leaves room for the user to move. Many people also use one for hobbies, writing letters and video calls with family.

Divan or C Shaped Base?

There are two main designs. A divan base has two legs on one side joined by a frame, so the top reaches across the bed from one side and the base slides under the bed or chair. A C shaped base has a single upright and a flat foot that slides underneath. Hospital style tables have an H shaped base with four castors, which needs space under the bed for the legs.

What Height Range Do You Need?

Measure from the floor to the top of the mattress, then add enough room for the user’s legs when sitting up in bed. The table top should sit just above the lap when the user is propped up. For use over an armchair, measure from the floor to the top of the arms. An adjustable over bed table usually raises with a lever, a knob or a gas spring, and gas springs are easiest for people with weak hands.

Is a Tilting Top Useful?

A tilting top angles the surface towards the user, which helps with reading, writing and using a tablet. Some tables have a split top, where one part tilts and the other stays flat for a drink. A lip along the edge stops books and devices sliding off. Never tilt the top with drinks or plates on it, and make sure the tilt locks firmly.

Should You Choose an Over Bed Table on Wheels?

An over bed table on wheels is easy to move away when getting in and out of bed, and to roll over for meals. Castors work best on hard floors and low pile carpet. Lockable castors stop the table rolling away if someone leans on it, which matters because people often use a table to steady themselves without thinking. A table is not a walking aid, so never rely on it to stand up.

How Do You Use an Overbed Table Safely?

1. Lock the castors before putting food or drinks on the top.
2. Keep hot drinks near the middle and away from the edge.
3. Check the height lock is fully tightened after adjusting.
4. Move the table well away before getting out of bed.
5. Do not lean on the table or use it to push up to standing.

Using One Over a Chair or Wheelchair

Many tables work over armchairs as well as beds. Check the base fits under the chair and the top reaches far enough across. A curved top can wrap around the user. For wheelchair users, a lap tray that fits the chair may be more practical when moving about, and our guide to the wheelchair table compares trays and tables.

Looking After the Table

Wipe the top after every meal with warm soapy water, and dry it so spills do not soak into joins. Check the height lock and castors every few weeks, and tighten any loose screws in the base. If the top starts to drop on its own, stop using the table until it is fixed, as a sudden drop can tip hot food or drinks into the user’s lap. Keep the instructions, as replacement parts are often available from the maker.

Choosing a Top

Melamine and laminate tops wipe clean easily and resist heat and spills. Wood effect finishes look less clinical in a bedroom or living room. A larger top gives more room for a meal and a drink, but the table will be heavier and need more space. If the user has sight loss, a top in a colour that contrasts with the bedding helps them see where it is.

Getting a Table Through the NHS or Council

Bed tables are sometimes supplied by community equipment services, often with a profiling bed, after an assessment. You can ask your GP or request a needs assessment from social services. Our transfer aids guide covers aids for getting in and out of bed, and the daily living aids page lists other bedroom aids.

The tables below were in stock when we checked each listing. Check the base type and height range against your bed or chair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a Table Fit a Divan Bed?

Choose a divan or C shaped base, as divans have little space underneath for four legged bases.

Can I Use It as a Laptop Desk?

Yes. A tilting top and a lip on the edge help, and many people work or make video calls from bed this way.

How Much Weight Can the Top Hold?

Most hold a meal, drinks and a laptop comfortably. Check the listed load, and never sit or lean on the top.

Can the Table Go Over a Riser Recliner?

Often, yes, if the base fits under the front of the chair. Measure the space when the footrest is down.