How to Choose the Perfect Sideboard for Your Home

Your Guide to buying the best Sideboards

Overview

A sideboard is a piece of furniture typically used for storage in a dining room, living room, or kitchen. It can provide additional storage space for dishes, linens, and other items, as well as a stylish piece of furniture to add to the room's decor. In this buying guide, we’ll provide information on different types of sideboards, what to consider when purchasing a sideboard, and helpful tips for shopping. We'll also provide advice on how to care for your sideboard and keep it looking its best for years to come.

Key features

  1. Size of the Sideboard - The size of the sideboard should match the size of the space available. Measure the area available to determine the size of sideboard to buy.
  2. Style - Sideboards come in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional. Consider the style of the rest of the room before choosing a sideboard.
  3. Material - Sideboards can be made from many materials, such as wood, metal, and glass. Select a material that best fits the style of the room.
  4. Storage Space - Consider the amount of storage space needed for the items that will be stored in the sideboard. Choose one that has enough space for current and future needs.
  5. Drawers and Shelves - Sideboards come with a variety of drawers and shelves that can be used to store items. Consider how much space is needed for these features and choose a sideboard accordingly.
  6. Hardware - Hardware on sideboards can range from simple knobs to elaborate handles. Consider the style of the room and the desired look before choosing a sideboard with the right hardware.
  7. Price - Sideboards come in a range of prices, from inexpensive to very expensive. Consider the budget and choose one that fits within it.

See the most popular Sideboards on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability - Sideboards are made from a variety of materials such as wood, metal, and plastic, making them extremely durable and long-lasting.
  • Functionality - Sideboards provide additional storage space in any room, and can often be used for display purposes as well, such as displaying photographs or artwork.
  • Versatility - Sideboards come in a variety of styles, shapes, and sizes, allowing them to fit within many décor schemes.
  • Affordability - Sideboards are an inexpensive way to add storage and style to any room in the home.
  • Easy to Clean - Most sideboards are easy to clean and require minimal maintenance for long-lasting use.

Cons

  • Cost: Sideboards can be an expensive piece of furniture. Depending on the style, size, and materials, they can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
  • Space: Sideboards take up a lot of space and may not be ideal for small homes or apartments.
  • Maintenance: Sideboards require periodic cleaning and polishing to keep them looking their best.
  • Style: Finding a sideboard that matches your existing décor can be challenging, especially if you prefer a modern style.
  • Weight: Many sideboards are made with heavy materials, making them difficult to move around.
  • Safety: Some sideboards may have sharp edges or corners that could be hazardous for young children.

Best alternatives

  1. Credenzas - an alternative to a sideboard, typically smaller and made of wood or metal.
  2. Buffets - a low cabinet with shelves and cabinets used to store dishes and other items.
  3. China Cabinets - typically taller than sideboards, used to display fine china and collectibles.
  4. TV Stands - designed to hold a television as well as other electronics.
  5. Console Tables - a long and narrow table, typically used to display decorations and other items.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Lighting - Lights to bring a sideboard to life such as lamps, sconces, and chandeliers.
  • Storage baskets or bins - For keeping items in an organized fashion.
  • Decorative items - To add a personal touch to the piece and to help break up the monotony of the wood.
  • Table linens - To accessorize the surface of the sideboard.
  • Tableware - To complete the look of the sideboard.
  • Beverage coolers - To bring a touch of convenience to the piece.

Common questions

  1. What type of wood is commonly used in Sideboards? The most common type of wood used in Sideboards is solid wood, such as oak, maple, cherry, walnut, and mahogany. However, some Sideboards are also made with engineered wood, such as MDF, particle board, or veneers.
  2. What size Sideboard should I buy? The size of Sideboard you should buy depends on the size of your space and the amount of storage you need. If you have a large space, you can opt for a larger Sideboard with more drawers and shelves. If your space is smaller, you can buy a smaller Sideboard or one with fewer drawers and shelves.
  3. What type of finish is best for a Sideboard? The type of finish on your Sideboard should depend on your personal preference and the style of your home. If you want a classic look, you may prefer a darker finish such as cherry or walnut. If you prefer a more contemporary look, you can opt for a lighter finish such as white, cream, or gray.
  4. Do I need to assemble my Sideboard? This depends on the type of Sideboard you purchase. Some Sideboards come pre-assembled, while others will require some assembly. Make sure to read the product description carefully to determine if assembly is required.
  5. Is it worth it to buy a Sideboard with features such as LED lighting or glass doors? This ultimately depends on your personal preference. If you like the look of the Sideboard with features such as LED lighting or glass doors, then it may be worth the extra cost. However, if you prefer a more classic look, you may want to opt for a Sideboard without these features.
  6. What is the best way to care for my Sideboard? The best way to care for your Sideboard is to dust it regularly and use a wood polish to protect its finish. Additionally, you should avoid placing hot objects directly on the surface, as this could cause damage to the wood.

Trivia

One interesting fact about sideboards is that they have been an important part of home décor since the 18th century. During this time, sideboards were used to store dishes and other dining items, as well as to provide a space for food and drinks to be served. Today, sideboards are used as stylish storage options, allowing people to add extra storage to their homes without compromising on style. In addition, sideboards offer a great way to add a unique touch of style and personality to any space. There are many different styles and designs of sideboards to choose from, so no matter what your décor style is, you can find a sideboard that will fit in perfectly. Source: https://www.wayfair.com/furniture/sb0/sideboards-and-buffets-c1875329.html

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.