10 Things Every Bedroom Needs, According to Interior Designers

Don't sleep on these ideas.

Designing a bedroom can feel like a daunting task—while you know you need a bed, there are many other elements needed to make the space not only functional but also restful. So what are those touches that elevate the space from a room to sleep into a place where you can truly relax and enjoy? Here are ten things every bedroom needs, according to interior designers.

Related: 5 Rules for Arranging a Bedroom

A Good Mattress

According to interior designer Amy Switzer, one thing your bedroom definitely needs is a high-quality mattress. “My number one thing is a good bed with a supportive mattress. It's crucial for a good night's sleep, which is essential for overall health and well-being.”

After all, the purpose of a bedroom is to have a place to sleep, and an uncomfortable mattress won’t exactly lull you into a deep slumber. So don’t be afraid to shop around, or try a few at your local store before deciding on the right one.

Quality Bedding

Along the same lines—how are you supposed to get a good night’s sleep with scratchy sheets? “Breathable sheets, pillows that provide proper neck support, and a comfortable duvet or blanket contribute to better sleep quality and comfort,” says Switzer.

Tips

If you’re unsure what to go with in terms of style, a simple set of white bedding made from 100 percent cotton complements any style room whether it's traditional, modern, contemporary, or something in between.

Related: The 17 Best Sheet Sets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Nightstands

Even if square footage is lacking, a bedroom simply does not look complete without nightstands. If you don’t have room for one on each side of the bed, at least have one between the bed and the wall.

Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily need a traditional nightstand with shelves or drawers. A simple side table can get the job done (usually for a better price) or consider installing a floating shelf in a more modern room.

Intentional Lighting

Even if you spend the majority of time in your bedroom at night, according to Amanda Wyatt, the visionary behind Design Insider, having layers of lighting is a must. She advises, “Design the lighting to accommodate all of the ways you actually use your room! I love how small details—like adding some under-shelf lighting in your closet to illuminate your outfit options or an accessible switch to avoid the dreaded task of getting up to shut off the lights after already in bed—make all the difference.”

Tips

If your bedroom lacks a lot of natural night, Switzer advises adding a mirror to fake it. She says, “A mirror is useful for dressing and it can also help make the room feel larger and brighter by reflecting light. A good trick is to put tall mirrors over the nightstands and a lamp in front of them, it elongates the height of the ceilings.”

Related: 4 Types of Lighting and How to Use Them in Your Home

Window Treatments

While it’s nice to have a lot of natural light, it’s just as important to be able to block it out. “Curtains, blinds, or shades provide privacy, control natural light, and can help regulate the room's temperature, contributing to a better sleep environment,” says Switzer.

Cord Management

While they say you shouldn’t use your phone in bed, that’s not realistic for most people. But what is realistic is finding a way to manage all of those cords, says Wyatt.

She adds, “Where do you need to plug in your phone? Having strategically placed outlets (or a good power bank) and the chargers you frequently use always at the ready in your room might be one of life’s most overlooked luxuries. Bonus points for cutting out more chaos by having dedicated cords that don’t leave the room and securing or concealing them well.”

Plant Life

Wyatt suggests keeping plants in your bedroom for a variety of reasons. “A little life goes a long way! Find a little corner or fill a whole window sill—either way I love the way plants make a bedroom feel fresh. They add texture and color! That’s a win-win for me.”

Related: These Are the Best Plants to Keep in Your Bedroom

A Rug

Switzer says, “A soft rug can add warmth and comfort, especially when stepping out of bed, and can also enhance the room's aesthetic appeal.”

Rugs are also a great design opportunity. They not only add texture, but they also add a pop of color or pattern. These accessories are a great way to experiment and take your design to the limits.

Storage

While a large closest is ideal, Switzer recommends exploring other storage options as well. “Adequate storage, including a dresser, closet space, or under-bed storage, helps keep the room organized and clutter-free, which can reduce stress and improve relaxation.”

Tips

Another way to add storage is with a storage bench or ottoman at the foot of the bed. These are ideal for stashing extra linens or off-season clothing.

Related: We Found 10 Clever Furniture Pieces That Double as Hidden Storage

Personal Items

“Items like photos, artwork, or personal items make the bedroom feel more inviting and personalized, creating a space that feels uniquely yours,” advises Switzer.

Keep in mind that this isn’t an invitation to add clutter—it’s the small touches that add the most charm such as a framed photo on a nightstand or that antique ring dish that belonged to your grandmother on your dresser. 

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