Glass top end tables are currently one of the most popular furniture choices for modern home décor. With their sleek, minimalist look and ability to allow light to pass through and items to be displayed underneath, glass top tables create a clean and airy feel in any room.
In this post, we’ll overview the top factors to consider when selecting a glass top end table to perfectly suit your space. We’ll also highlight the 5 best glass top end tables to elevate your home. Lastly, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about living with glass top furniture.
Key Considerations When Choosing Glass Top End Tables
Glass top tables come in many shapes, sizes, colors and base styles. Before selecting a glass table, keep the following criteria in mind:
Size and Shape
Consider the size of the space where you plan to place the table. Measure the area to ensure the table allows enough clearance for walking around it.
Popular glass table shapes include:
- Rectangular – Excellent against a sofa or lining a wall
- Round – Flexible placement and visual interest
- Square – Efficient use of corner spaces
Height
Standard end table heights range from 20-24 inches tall. This leaves plenty of space for table lamps and décor without crowding seated areas.
For a glass top coffee table, choose a height between 16-18 inches to allow sufficient leg room beneath. Measure your sofa or chairs to determine the ideal height.
Base Material
The base provides both structural support and aesthetic appeal.
- Metal frames have an industrial, retro or modern look. But visible smudging can be a downside.
- Wood offers a classic, warm feel but requires regular polishing.
- Acrylic is contemporary and transparent but scratches easily.
Glass Thickness
Thicker glass tops are the most durable and resistant to warping or cracks. 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 inch is the typical thickness range for glass on end tables. For coffee tables used for resting drinks or feet, a 1⁄2 to 3⁄4 inch thickness provides maximum stability.
Edge Style
The way the glass is cut and finished around the edges impacts aesthetics and safety.
- Beveled or rounded edges have a smooth finish and reduce sharp corners.
- Polished edges buffed to a shine look elegant and finished.
- Frosted or etched edges help diffuse glare.
Added Features
Consider special touches like:
- Shelves for storing books, décor or other items
- Casters to easily move the table around
- LED lighting to create a relaxed ambiance
Safety
Tempered safety glass prevents the glass from breaking into long, dangerous shards. Also look for:
- Rounded corners instead of sharp 90-degree edges
- Wide, heavy base to prevent accidental tipping
With the right considerations taken during selection, glass top tables can be a safe, durable, and stylish addition to your home!
The Best Glass Top End Tables
After extensive research, we’ve selected the top 5 best-selling and highest rated glass top end tables available.
#1: Harriet Mid-Century Modern Glass Top Table
The Harriet Mid-Century table commands attention with its bold, sculptural tripod base and ample round glass top.
Description:
- Base style: Polished brass tripod base with splayed legs
- Glass top: 42-inch diameter round beveled glass top
- Overall style: Retro mid-century modern statement piece
This substantial table makes a dramatic accent in any seating area. The beveled glass top and arched tripod base create architectural interest from all angles.
Pros:
- Eye-catching sculptural design
- Durable beveled glass resistant to chipping
- Generous surface area (42-inch diameter)
Cons:
- Brass base prone to smudging and fingerprints
- Glass top scratches relatively easily
Overall, if you love the mid-century aesthetic and want a glass top table that doubles as a showstopping focal point, the Harriet is a top choice.
#2: Colette Contemporary Glass Top Table
The Colette table offers a lightweight, minimalist look perfect for modern interiors.
Description:
- Base: Slender rectangular stainless steel frame
- Top: Clear tempered glass with polished edges
- Overall style: Simple, versatile contemporary design
This table works with a variety of room styles thanks to its transparent glass top and barely-there metal base. The clear glass maintains an airy feel.
Pros:
- Versatile modern design blends into any room
- Clear glass and metal create a sleek, floating effect
- Glass top is easy to clean and maintain
- Sturdy steel frame for rock-solid support
Cons:
- Glass edges prone to chipping over time
- Shows fingerprints, water marks, and smudges easily
If you want an affordable glass top table with a light footprint perfect for small spaces, the Colette is sure to impress.
#3: Lenox Industrial Chic Glass Top End Table
Add a touch of industrial flair to your space with the distressed metal and glass Lenox table.
Description:
- Base: Antiqued galvanized metal with visible weld marks
- Top: Circular tempered glass with polished outer edges
- Overall style: Industrial modern edge
The weathered metal base provides an urban, factory vibe, while the clear glass top keeps it light. This is an easy way to mix sleek and rustic.
Pros:
- Distressed metal base adds unique character
- Polished outer glass edges prevent injury
- Ideal height for end table needs
Cons:
- Metal base requires maintenance
- Uncoated glass stains easily
If you want to add some rustic charm to a modern or contemporary room, the Lenox table delivers.
#4: Cleo Mid-Century Round Glass Coffee Table
The Cleo table transports you back to the 1960s with its splayed tapering dowel legs and round glass top.
Description:
- Base: Black tapered solid wood legs in tripod orientation
- Top: Circular tempered glass tabletop
- Overall style: Retro circular mid-century modern
The simple yet eye-catching base makes this table a fun statement while still blending into boho or eclectic decors.
Pros:
- Sleek, retro-inspired base
- Roomy 42-inch round glass surface
- Well-constructed from quality solid wood
Cons:
- Requires frequent cleaning to avoid smudges
- Glass top prone to scratches over time
If you love the retro mid-century look, the Cleo glass coffee table is a stylish and affordable option.
#5: Riley Rectangle Glass Coffee Table with Shelf
This rectangular glass table provides both surface area and storage with its convenient lower shelf.
Description:
- Frame: Black powder coated steel
- Top: Rectangular clear tempered glass
- Lower shelf: For books, baskets, décor storage
Overall style: Simple modern design
The Riley table offers the clean look of glass paired with the functionality of an integrated shelf.
Pros:
- Lots of surface area (47”L x 23.5”W)
- Shelf provides convenient storage solution
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- Smudges and fingerprints highly visible
- Shelf collects dust easily
For a durable, budget-friendly glass top coffee table with storage, the Riley delivers.
How to Choose the Perfect Glass Top End Table for Your Space
Ready to select the ideal glass top end table? Use this buying guide to identify the right size, shape and style for your needs.
Consider Where It Will Go and Check Measurements
Determine what room you want to place the table in – living room, bedroom, entryway, etc. Measure the area to ensure enough clearance around chairs and walkways when positioned. An end table generally needs about 2 feet of space on all sides. For coffee tables, allow at least 16-18 inches at ends for leg room.
Having the specific dimensions of your allotted space is essential for choosing the right table size.
Select the Shape Based on Room Use and Layout
Rectangular glass tables align flush against sofas, slide under windows, and fit nicely in linear spaces. Round styles make a statement and are highly versatile for placement – but leave a bit more visual bulk than streamlined rectangles. Square glass top tables are space-efficient, especially in corners.
So consider your room’s size, seating layout, and how the table will be used before deciding on the ideal shape.
Tailor the Height Based on Seating
Standard end table height is 20-24 inches – which leaves plenty of space beneath for table lamps or decorative items on the surface.
For a glass coffee table, you want a height of 16-18 inches. This allows people enough leg room when seated on the sofa or chairs surrounding it.
Take measurements from the floor to bottom of the sofa or chair seats. Then add about 16-18 inches to determine the perfect coffee table height for your space.
Choose a Durable, Sturdy Base
The base provides structural integrity and also makes an aesthetic impact.
Metal frames like stainless steel, black powder coated steel, or brass have an industrial, vintage or contemporary vibe. Though metal shows fingerprints and smudges easily.
Wood brings natural warmth and traditional charm. But solid wood requires regular polishing to maintain its luster.
Acrylic bases have a cool, modern look and transparent feel that showcases the glass top floating. However, acrylic scratches quite easily.
Overall, ensure the base feels structurally sound, with some weight to properly support the glass top.
Select the Right Glass Thickness
Glass tops should be thick enough to resist warping, cracks, and breakage.
For an end table, glass around 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 inch thick provides sufficient durability for daily use and reasonable weight. Coffee tables bear more wear and tear – so 1⁄2 to 3⁄4 inch is best for stability under feet, drinks, and other items.
Also look for tempered safety glass, which contains the glass shards if any breakage occurs.
Choose Edges that are Safe and Stylish
The way the glass edges are cut and finished affects the visual style along with safety.
Beveled or rounded edges create a smooth look and prevent sharp corners that could cause cuts. Polished edges have an elegant, finished shine. Frosted or etched glass edges help diffuse glare.
So consider both the aesthetic you want alongside safety when reviewing glass edge options.
Add Special Features If Desired
Many glass top tables now offer customizable extras to enhance functionality.
- Shelves below provide space to store books, baskets, collectibles or other items.
- Casters allow the table to roll – great for rearranging furniture easily.
- LED lighting installed under the glass creates beautiful ambient lighting.
So decide if any added features would be useful – or just admire the clear, clean lines of an all-glass table.
Prioritize Safety
Tempered glass prevents any shards from breaking into long, dangerous daggers. The glass crumbles into tiny cubes instead – reducing risk of injuries.
Also look for:
- Rounded corners instead of sharp 90-degree edges
- Wide-set sturdy legs or heavy base to prevent accidental tipping
- Table weight over 50 pounds for stability
With proper precautions, glass top tables can safely enhance your furniture collection.
Match the Style to Your Existing Decor
Do you lean towards…
- Mid-century modern – sculptural wooden tripod legs, retro shapes
- Contemporary – metal frames, clean lines
- Industrial – weathered finishes, exposed hardware
- Rustic – reclaimed wood bases, natural edge tops
- Eclectic – mixed materials and finishes
Select a glass table with a shape, base, and details that coordinate with your current room style. The versatile glass surface complements all aesthetics.
Choosing the ideal glass top end table can elevate your space with stylish, airy appeal. Weigh all the options and measurements to pick furniture that perfectly fits your decorating vision and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Glass Top Tables
Do you still have some burning questions about living with glass top furniture? Here we’ll overview the top FAQs about glass tables along with helpful tips.
Are glass top tables easy to clean?
One major benefit of glass tops is their easy care. Glass cleans up beautifully with a soft lint-free cloth and glass cleaner. Avoid using abrasive scrubbing pads or rough paper towels, which can scratch the surface over time. Buff the glass gently to a shine.
Are glass top coffee tables safe for families with kids?
Glass tables can work for families if proper precautions are taken:
- Select tempered safety glass which resists shattering into shards
- Choose a design with rounded corners instead of sharp 90-degree edges
- Pick a heavy, wide-set base to prevent accidental tipping
- Supervise small kids around any glass furniture
So while glass tops are actually very durable with proper manufacturing, adult monitoring is still a must to prevent slips, falls or damage.
How do you prevent scratches on glass table tops?
To avoid scratching and scuff marks:
- Use coasters under glasses and placemats under dishes
- Put felt pads beneath any items that may be placed on the surface
- Dust with a microfiber cloth which is less abrasive than paper towels
- Avoid using rough sponges or scrubbers during cleaning
Regularly sealing the glass can also help protect it from damage.
Should you seal a glass tabletop?
Sealing is strongly recommended for glass tops, especially darker smoked glass. The sealant helps prevent staining, fingerprints and condensation. It also adds a layer of protection from scratches and etching from daily use.
Look for a formulated glass sealer and apply a thin even coat with a microfiber cloth. Reapply every few months to maintain its protective barrier.
How thick should the glass be on a tabletop?
For end tables, a 3/8 to 1/2 inch thickness offers adequate stability and minimizes weight.
Coffee tables should have a 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick glass top to handle mugs, feet and daily wear-and-tear. The extra thickness provides durability and prevents sagging.
Should I get clear or frosted/smoked glass?
It depends on the room and your privacy needs:
- Clear glass has an open, airy feel perfect for living rooms and light spaces. Items stored below remain visible.
- Frosted or smoked glass obscures what’s underneath for a more secluded ambiance. Great for bedrooms and bathrooms. The texture also helps hide fingerprints and water spots.
So weigh your room’s purpose along with personal style preference when choosing between clear vs. opaque glass.
How do I clean hard water spots on my glass top?
To remove pesky hard water stains:
- Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water
- Generously spray stains and let it sit for several minutes
- Wipe away with a soft cloth
- For stubborn spots, use an alkaline lime-scale remover
- Avoid abrasive cleaners which could scratch the finish
Can you put hot dishes on a glass tabletop?
It’s best to avoid placing piping hot cookware directly on glass surfaces. Extreme shifts in temperature can lead to cracks or breaks in glass. Allow dishes to cool for a few minutes first, or set them on trivets or hot pads to prevent direct contact. Maintaining stability is also key – don’t slide hot pans across the surface.
How do I get pen or permanent marker off a glass table?
If kids create an artistic masterpiece on your glass, try these removal tips:
- Rubbing alcohol – saturate a cloth and gently rub the marks until removed
- Acetone nail polish remover – dip a cotton pad and lightly sweep over marks
- Glass cleaner – spray liberally and wipe with a microfiber towel
- Baking soda paste – sprinkle on a damp cloth and lightly scrub
Test any cleaning method first on an inconspicuous spot to ensure the glass finish isn’t damaged.
The Clear Choice: Why Glass Top Tables Enhance Your Décor
With the right selection suited to your space, glass top end tables can become an easy, elegant addition to highlight your room.
The transparency of glass creates a lightweight, airy feel perfect for small urban settings or sprawling modern layouts. Tables with a glass surface add refined style without visual bulk.
Advanced manufacturing techniques also allow glass tops to be very durable and scratch-resistant. Tempered safety glass reduces risks of injury. And protective sealants help prevent fingerprints and smudges that can detract from glass furniture’s beauty.
With an array of possible shapes, sizes and base materials available, it’s simple to customize both the form and function of glass top tables. Keep an eye on proper height allowances, thickness, and stability to ensure comfort, safety and longevity.
Then sit back and admire how your chosen glass top table elevates your space – providing the perfect polished yet seamless accent.