This Attachable Bed Shelf Solved All My Small Space Problems

When I was a college student, I kept seeing this attachable bed shelf in dorm rooms, attached to the metal bunk beds that are a staple of college dorm life. I always thought it was such a clever addition to these rooms, creating a space for people to place their phones, ID cards, or any other items they needed close at hand. And it's a great way to personalize a space that you don't have much control over otherwise.

The bed shelf was also a great addition to the top bunk, allowing students to keep essentials close by without having to go up and down from the top bunk.

While I should have bought my own during college, I waited until after graduation—and when I moved into my smaller space, I knew I had to finally buy the bed shelf.

This bed shelf comes in a wide range of different shapes and styles, all of which are neutral and minimalist enough to blend in seamlessly with the existing room decor. Although the standard size is 13.75 inches by 9.5 inches, there's a bigger size of 19.25 inches by 11.5 inches if you need a little bit more space.

Another plus of its design is that it helps my cords stay in place, with the t-shaped cable catch that's carved in on both sides. Whenever I'm charging my electronics, I put the cord into the cable catch and it keeps it in place, so there's no slipping and no getting tangled. It keeps all my cords propped up instead of scattered all over my floors.

The best part about the attachable shelf is the seamless and super-easy installation process. If you're not a fan of long manuals or don't have great DIY skills, this is perfect for you: there are no tools or complicated instructions required.

If you have a classic bed frame, especially the beloved IKEA Malm one just like me, I recommend getting the clamp version. All you have to do is place the shelf in a spot you want and tighten its metal clamps so it firmly attaches to your bed.

If you're concerned about it not being sturdy enough, I'm here to tell you that you have nothing to be worried about. I've filled it with numerous heavy items all at once, like a filled water bottle, multiple books, and a candle, and the shelf never wavered. I know my personal items are always safe throughout the night and they won't come falling down or spilling onto the floor.

Although I've only had my bed shelf for two years, I know it's going to stay with me for a while and continue being my own personal side table for all of my belongings. It's an item that's saved me from clutter and inconvenient back-and-forth trips while also helping me save space in my small room.