The 6 Bedroom Essentials You Need
Not counting the bed.
It's easy to pick out furniture essentials for a bedroom. However, we sometimes overlook the other bedroom essentials and pieces of decor that make the room feel like it's truly ours. If you are moving into a new space, outfitting a guest bedroom, or looking for a few quick swaps to shake up your style, then you've come to the right place. Below, we outline the six bedroom essentials that can take any bedroom from just another room to a peaceful oasis.
1. Lots of Layers
The key to making your bedroom feel like a restful haven is to layer up. Pile on a variety of blankets in various weights and cozy textures. Being able to pull up an extra layer on a chilly night or fold down a layer on a warm afternoon will ensure you get quality rest. Think about layering your pillows, too, to re-create that hotel-getaway feeling. Using multiple pillows makes it easy to prop yourself up and read a book or sip a cup of coffee. And don't forget about the floors. If you have hardwood floors in the bedroom, add a layer with an area rug. Because bedrooms don't get a lot of foot traffic, it's okay to choose something a little more delicate and softer than you would in the main rooms of your home.
Pro Tip:
Curious about the perfect number of pillows for a bed? Need advice on pairing a coverlet with a duvet? Read more in our guide 7 Things to Keep in Mind When Styling a Bed.
2. Organization for Surface Spaces
The surface areas in a bedroom are crucial because they help you stay organized. Using bedroom essentials to create a tidy room will set the tone for a more relaxing night's sleep. What are the surface spaces in a bedroom? We'd consider the surfaces as the tops of a nightstand, dresser, armoire, or anywhere else you might set down decor or necessities. Keep the nightstand free of clutter so you have room to set down a glass of water and your phone. Use a decorative tray on the dresser or armoire so that you can keep a pile of books, a candle, and anything else organized. It'll also make cleaning easier, because you'll be able to lift everything off the surface at once to dust it. Want to hide clutter? Use a jewelry box or decorative boxes to keep things stowed away and out of sight.
Pro Tip:
For more inspiration on updating the top of a dresser, browse our guide 5 Secrets to Styling a Dresser.
3. Quality Lighting
Great lighting makes our list of bedroom essentials because it lets you create ambience, wind down, or get some reading done. We suggest picking out a few types of light fixtures to maximize versatility. Place lamps or wall lights on either side of the bed. Lamps can allow you and your partner to adjust the lights on each of your sides, while wall lights can be dimmed depending on the mood. Hang a chandelier or pendant above the bed to light the way for your morning routine. If you tend to get warm when you sleep, choose a ceiling fan with built-in lighting. To light dark areas or corners of the room, opt for floor lamps. They can make a big difference when you need to get dressed quickly.
Pro Tip:
For more advice on bedroom essentials and choosing the right lighting, read our guide Trending: Bedroom Lighting Ideas.
4. Spare Seating
While we typically think of bedrooms as a place to sleep and prepare for the day, it's often overlooked as a place we have all to ourselves to come to and recharge. This is why we recommend creating a seating area as an important bedroom essential. If you have the space, carve out a nook with an accent chair and a side table. You'll be able to sit and read or catch up on emails. If you want to be able to take the occasional mid-afternoon nap, opt for a chaise lounge. It's just long enough to sprawl out on with a throw blanket, and you won't have to worry about remaking the bed after your nap. If you're putting spare seating in a guest bedroom or smaller room, opt for a couple of poufs or a bedroom bench instead. It will give you or your guests space to sit down and kick your shoes off. And as a bonus, storage benches can give you extra room to store blankets and heavy sheets.
We can't talk about bedroom essentials without mentioning mirrors. A big mirror or two will make a statement, while a smaller mirror may be the one you look to while getting ready. The mirror(s) you choose depend on what your intention is: Do you need a mirror to check your outfit or makeup? Or do you want to add a mirror purely for aesthetics? We're loving mirrors with bold shapes and thin frames right now. A fine-lined frame lets the shape of the mirror get the credit it deserves. And don't forget to think about how lighting can change throughout the day. You want to place your mirror somewhere that won't get too much direct sunlight.
The final bedroom essential you can't overlook is infusing your personality and unique style into your space. Create a room you love to be in and that makes you feel energized. We suggest simple but statement decor such as a single, stunning piece of art or a large plant in a concrete planter. Cover an accent wall in patterned wallpaper to give your bedroom some visual texture. Or go really big with a canopy bed – it's sure to make a statement while creating a cozy space. The key to a bedroom with personality is to always be ready to swap in new decor. You'll feel like you're in a fresh space all the time.
Pro Tip:
Love a bedroom with lots of vivid colors? Be inspired by our guide 14 Colorful Bedroom Ideas.
If you are looking for bedroom basics, we have those too.
Ready to browse?

