Reading in bed is one of life’s small pleasures, but it comes with small annoyances too: a sore neck, cold arms, a partner who wants the light off, and a book that keeps closing. The gifts below each fix one of those problems. We don’t quote prices because they change often, so check the current price at the retailer.
Support: sitting up comfortably
1. A reading pillow with arms
An upright “bed rest” pillow supports the lower back and gives you armrests. Check the height against the headboard, whether the cover is removable and washable, and whether it has a handle or pocket.
Look for:reading pillow with arms and removable cover2. A wedge pillow
A firm foam wedge raises the upper body at a steady angle and suits people who prefer to recline. Check the incline and length before buying, as wedges vary a lot.
Look for:foam wedge pillow3. A neck or lumbar cushion
This is a smaller, cheaper way to add support to an existing pillow pile.
Look for:lumbar support cushionLight: reading without disturbing anyone
4. A neck reading light
A neck light rests around the shoulders and lights the page from both sides, with nothing to clip on. Look for warm or adjustable colour temperature and several brightness levels.
Look for:rechargeable neck reading light5. A clip-on book light
A good choice for people who mostly read paperbacks. Check that the clip is padded and the arm is flexible.
Look for:clip-on book light with warm setting6. A wall-mounted or swing-arm bedside light
This is a bigger gift that frees up the bedside table. Plug-in versions avoid the need for an electrician; check whether the recipient rents before choosing anything that needs drilling. Our lighting guide explains warm-white bulbs and placement.
Look for:plug-in swing-arm wall lightHolding the book
7. A book stand or bed tray with a book rest
A tilting stand holds heavy hardbacks open hands-free, which is useful for sore wrists. Some bed trays have a built-in adjustable rest.
Look for:bed tray with adjustable book rest8. A thumb page holder
A small wooden ring that holds a paperback open with one hand. It’s an inexpensive stocking filler.
Look for:wooden thumb page holder9. An e-reader cover with a stand
If they read on an e-reader, a folding cover that props the device up is surprisingly handy in bed. Make sure it matches their exact model.
Look for:e-reader cover with stand (check model)Storage: keeping the bedside tidy
10. A bedside caddy
A fabric organiser that tucks under the mattress and hangs down the side of the bed, with pockets for a book, glasses, phone and lip balm. It’s great if there’s no space for a table.
Look for:bedside caddy organiser11. A small bedside bookshelf or book trolley
This holds the to-be-read pile without it toppling over. Measure the space next to the bed first.
Look for:small bedside bookshelfCosy extras
12. A bed jacket, shawl or soft cardigan
Arms get cold when they’re out of the duvet holding a book. A light knitted wrap solves it.
Look for:knitted bed jacket or shawl13. Bed socks
They’re a classic for a reason. Thick, soft, and ideally with grips for night-time trips downstairs.
Look for:wool-blend bed socks14. A lidded mug or a bedside carafe
A lidded mug keeps tea warm for longer and is harder to spill on pages. A carafe with a glass saves trips for water.
Look for:lidded ceramic mugWhich gift for which reader?
| They complain about… | Try |
|---|---|
| A sore back or neck | Reading pillow, wedge, lumbar cushion |
| Keeping a partner awake | Neck light or clip-on book light |
| Heavy books and tired wrists | Book stand, bed tray, thumb page holder |
| A cluttered bedside | Bedside caddy or small shelf |
| Cold arms and feet | Bed jacket, shawl, bed socks |
For more ideas, see cosy Christmas gifts for book lovers and stocking fillers for book lovers.