17 DIY Bedroom Makeover Ideas on a Budget

Having a bedroom that reflects your personal style and promotes relaxation is essential for a good night’s sleep. Regardless of your preferred design, a well-planned and inviting bedroom can bring joy and peace to your life.

Climbing into bed at the end of a tiring day should feel like entering your own sanctuary, a space that feels perfect for you. Spend time reading and watching your favorite designers’ work to research and gather inspiration for a weekend DIY project. So, let’s explore some ideas to create a bedroom that suits your taste and helps you unwind.

Save $450 On Any Mattress

Plus free shipping

Get $450 OFF Mattresses

17 Ways to Completely Makeover Your Bedroom

Re-Do the Bedroom Walls with New Paint Coats

Transform your bedroom into a captivating masterpiece by decorating it with fresh coats of paint, turning your blank canvas into a vibrant and inviting room. The colors you select will have a profound impact on your mood, while the addition of an accent wall can set a specific ambiance that suits your taste.

To infuse an artistic flair, unleash your creativity by incorporating stenciled designs on the walls, allowing your unique personality to shine through, rather than settling for plain solid colors. You can also do an “accent wall” that sets off the other three bedroom walls, or a “half wall” design that’s less work and less paint.

Take it up a notch and paint the shape of a headboard for a touch of timeless elegance, instantly revitalizing your bedroom with a classic look and feel without the expense and effort of installing a traditional headboard.

Or you can forgo mimicking a classic headboard and open yourself up to other paint possibilities. For example, use chalkboard paint to create a space where you can easily switch up headboard designs or write yourself messages for later. You can even use chalkboard paint for an accent wall, if you want a lot of space where you can be creative.

And if you truly want to elevate the overall aesthetics, don’t overlook the option of painting your bedroom floors as well. A fresh coat of paint for the room is a simple yet effective change. It’s also possible to paint your ceiling, the “fifth wall,” a new color to offset the other four walls. The right bedroom colors will work together to create a remarkable transformation that showcases your personal style and enhances your everyday living experience.

Cover Your Bed Frame

If you want to give new life to your bed frame without buying a new one, consider ways you can cover it up on a budget. Whether it’s a panel bed or a platform bed, or whether it’s a wood or metal or plastic one, you have a few options to think about.

One easy and affordable way to give your bedroom a fresh new look is to paint your frame. First, thoroughly clean the bed frame to remove any dirt, dust or grease that could prevent the paint from properly adhering. Use a mild detergent and warm water, then let the frame fully dry before you start painting.

Next, apply a primer coat to the bed frame using a primer suited for the frame’s material, whether wood, metal or plastic. The primer will help the paint better adhere to the surface. Allow the primer coat to dry completely before adding your topcoat in the color of your choice. For a smooth finish, opt for a semi-gloss or high-gloss paint.

Add up to 2-3 thin coats of topcoat paint, letting each coat fully dry before adding the next. For a distressed or antique look, you can sand or scrape some of the painted areas before applying the final coat. Get creative with painted patterns, designs or even inspirational quotes stenciled onto the frame.

Another creative option for revamping your bed frame and covering any unsightly bed frame legs is to make or purchase bed boots. Bed boots are fitted slipcovers that wrap around the base and legs of a bed frame, completely covering the existing frame. Bed boots allow you to instantly change the look and style of your frame without permanently altering it. You can find bed boots online or in stores in various colors and fabrics like cotton, linen or velvet.

Re-Organize and Declutter

Reorganize and declutter your bedroom to achieve a modern and light atmosphere. Start by re-evaluating your belongings and deciding what you truly need.

Sorting through your items will bring numerous benefits, such as creating more space and reducing visual clutter. A particular necessity if your bedroom is a small space, as fewer items make a small bedroom feel bigger and less cramped.

Focus on decluttering your bedside table, as having it clear and uncluttered with just the nightstand essentials can bring a sense of calm and relaxation to your sleeping environment. It’s a key part of enjoying the benefits of a well-organized bedroom, but too many sleepers keep their nightstand like a disorganized junk drawer.

While some stuff may need tossing, like expired skin care products that are no longer suitable for your nighttime skin routine, consider organizing a garage sale to sell the items you no longer need. This can be an excellent opportunity to earn a small fortune, which you can use to purchase a few pieces of modern furniture. By investing in new furniture, you can further enhance the contemporary vibe of your bedroom, creating a fresh and stylish look.

Remember, decluttering not only revitalizes your space, particularly a small one like a studio apartment bedroom. Unloading your unneeded but otherwise perfectly good items also offers the chance to earn a few extra bucks.

Keep the Seasons in Mind

When planning a bedroom makeover, it’s important to keep the seasons in mind, considering how they can affect your sleep and relaxation. During the warmer months, prioritize light and breathable decor for a cozy summer bedroom.

Use elements such as cotton sheets and lightweight curtains to help keep the room cool and airy. Adding touches of nature-inspired elements, like potted plants or seashells, can bring a refreshing and calming vibe to your space.

On the other hand, when the cooler months arrive, focus on creating a cozy atmosphere by incorporating soft blankets, plush pillows, and warm-toned decor. Small things, like a decorative tray or a convenient coaster on the bedside table for a mug of hot cocoa, can make a winter bedroom feel cozy.

Making these seasonal adjustments can have a big impact on creating a comfortable and inviting bedroom where you can truly unwind. Just make sure you plan where to store bedding when it’s out of season.

Get a New Mattress

Choosing a new mattress is one of the best ways to ensure you’re getting a good night’s rest in your newly upgraded and modern bedroom. Transforming your sleep space with a new mattress can greatly improve your comfort and support while you sleep.

A new mattress can easily be the most expensive part of a budget bedroom makeover, but we would argue that the cost is worth it. Many things in your bedroom can be more decorative than functional, but a mattress is the thing you will likely use most and therefore it should provide you with a comfortable night’s rest.

Still, it’s essential to consider your budget when shopping for a new mattress, as there are various options available to suit different price ranges. The cost of a good mattress doesn’t have to break the bank if you shop smartly.

Don’t forget to also evaluate other factors, such as the type of mattress and any new hardware that may be needed, such as bed slats or a bunkie board for more support, to ensure you make the best choice for your sleep needs.

Upgrade Bedding

Upgrade your bedding to create a focal point and add a finishing touch that will make your bedroom shine. Consider incorporating throw pillows or pillow shams in various colors, patterns, and textures to enhance the overall look of your bed. These decorative pillows can instantly elevate the style and coziness of your space.

Choose bedding materials that are both comfortable and visually appealing, such as soft and luxurious fabrics with a breathable weave. By upgrading your bedding, you can transform your bedroom into a stylish and inviting sanctuary that reflects your personal taste and adds a delightful finishing touch.

Even a new throw blanket carefully spread across the foot of the mattress or a throw pillow at the head can revitalize your bed’s look with a touch of added texture or an accent color.

Once you’ve picked out your new bedding, be sure to follow the steps for making a bed for a nice, neat look. Few find a disheveled bed looks classy or cozy, after all.

Hang a Fabric Canopy

Transform your bedroom into a cozy retreat by hanging a fabric DIY bed canopy, turning it into a weekend project that adds a focal point to your space. This simple interior design idea can instantly elevate the look of your bed and create a dreamy atmosphere.

To complete the overall look, consider using a bed skirt to add a polished touch and hide any storage or clutter underneath. Both of these can be accomplished with creative upcycling of old flat sheets, letting you breathe new life into them.

By hanging a fabric canopy and incorporating a bed skirt, you can create a stylish and inviting ambiance with your bed as the centerpiece of your bedroom. The pieces can create a classic look suited for royalty without overspending.

Install a DIY Headboard and Footboard

No need to go out and buy these bed frame accessories when it’s possible to fashion or upcycle some of your own.

We already mentioned our idea for painting a headboard mural on the bedroom wall. For extra functionality, install hanging hooks or a thumbtack board in the area and use the space for hanging decor or accessories.

There are other potential DIY headboard ideas, such as:

• Making a bohemian-inspired headboard using macrame techniques
• Hanging a piece of fabric or a tapestry in place of a headboard
• Reclaiming an old wooden board that’s still in good condition
• Repurposing a bookshelf by placing it behind your bed frame
• Salvaging a sturdy garden trellis by painting it a nice color and setting it behind your platform bed frame
• Attaching adhesive wall decals to create the illusion of a headboard without the need for physical construction or even the effort of painting one

The sky’s the limit when it comes to your creativity. You can even get some large cushions and make the bed look like a couch.

As for a footboard, there are similar creative possibilities. Convert an old bench or small sofa into a footboard by cutting and attaching it to the end of your bed. Or use a small side table or end table for a similar purpose, and make an impromptu place to sit by plopping some foam seat cushions down for comfort. Give an old shelf unit new life and use to organize books, shoes, or spare linens and blankets. This all adds charm and functionality to your bed frame.

You can also upcycle an old piece of plywood, shutters or bed slats, or even a door into a footboard. Lastly, you can try weaving ropes through a wooden frame, particularly if you have a fabric or macrame headboard.

Increase Underbed Storage

Creating more underbed space is a practical and budget-friendly way to maximize storage in a bedroom makeover. And there’s no need to replace your frame to make your bed taller, you can just get a set of bed risers.

Bed risers are a safe, simple, inexpensive and effective solution to raise the bed’s height, providing additional space underneath. These can be easily installed under each bed leg, instantly creating extra room for storage.

Once the bed height is elevated, colorful storage options can be used to keep belongings organized and add a touch of style to the bedroom. Colored bins are a versatile and affordable choice, available in various sizes and designs to fit different storage needs.

Decorated boxes are another great option for underbed storage. You can customize plain cardboard or wooden boxes with paint, fabric, or decorative paper to match your bedroom’s theme or add a pop of color. They can be used to store books in the bedroom, clothing and shoes, or any other items you want to keep tucked away.

For a more rustic look, you may want to try repurposing wooden boxes or crates. These personalized boxes not only provide storage space but also serve as decorative accents.

For those looking for a creative and eco-friendly approach, upcycled drawers can be repurposed as underbed storage. Old drawers from discarded furniture can be given a fresh coat of paint and placed under the bed, creating unique and charming storage compartments.

You can also lower the bed, if you wish, though the difficulty of this will depend on exactly what type of bed frame you have.

Add Houseplants

Add a touch of nature to your bedroom by incorporating houseplants, the perfect go-tos for creating a cozy and homey atmosphere. Houseplants for the bedroom not only bring life to your space but also add texture and visual interest.

Place them near windows if they need direct sunlight, essential for many plant’s growth and vitality. However, some do better with less light, so be sure to do your research. By introducing houseplants to your bedroom, you can effortlessly infuse a fresh and natural vibe, making your room feel more inviting and harmonious with the beauty of the outdoors.

Don’t have the time or skillset to tend to a plant? Consider freshly cut flowers, which can add some cheerful color to your bedroom space. Or for a more woodsy look, try natural herbs for sleep. You can display them in a vase or even hang them on the wall.

Consider the Room’s Scents

While this can go along with adding houseplants, not everyone has a green thumb. We already mentioned flower bouquets and scented herbs, but you can try other means of practicing aromatherapy Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source

Essential oils for sleep are a popular option and can be diffused or used in various fashions. There are various ones to choose from, from flowery scents to fruity or citrus options.

If you don’t want to set up a diffuser for essential oils or worry about creating an overpowering scent, consider using a pillow spray at night. Just a few drops from a spray bottle can create a relaxing scent as part of your bedtime routine.

There’s also the classic option of candles to scent the bedroom. When you light a scented candle for better sleep, the heat from the flame melts the candle’s wax, releasing the fragrance infused within it. As the wax turns into a liquid, it evaporates, dispersing the scent into the air. However, remember to never leave an unattended candle burning.

Incense is another option, as it’s a traditional practice where aromatic plant materials are burned to release fragrant smoke that can create a pleasant ambiance. It’s easy enough to buy inexpensive incense sticks and set them up in a holder. The most significant concern with incense is the production of smoke and the effect on air quality, along with maintaining fire safety in the bedroom.

While they can be costly, you may also want to consider the benefits of an air purifier. An air purifier can ensure a bedroom smells fresh by effectively removing various airborne pollutants and unpleasant odors from the air. It works by drawing in the surrounding air and passing it through a series of filters that capture and trap particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke, which can contribute to stale or bad smells in the room.

Hide the Cords

Hide the cords in your bedroom by exploring various accessories or new hardware options, following interior designer tips for a seamless look and a more minimalist vibe. To add texture and charm, consider using decorative cord covers or cable management solutions that blend with your decor. Just make sure the outlets are still accessible, particularly if you’re redoing a guest bedroom.

Another clever idea is to install built-in wooden boxes or conduits along the walls to neatly conceal the cords. By implementing these techniques, you can enjoy a clutter-free and visually appealing space while maintaining a clean and organized look in your bedroom.

You can also take a look around and see if there are any electronic devices you can take out of the room, to better enjoy the benefits of a tech-free bedroom.

Get Some New Wall Art

Revitalize your walls by adding new and creative wall art that goes beyond the usual cheap prints or posters. Consider using unconventional items like printed plates or upcycled decorative boxes to bring a fresh and distinctive look to your space. Or take a day off and have an arts-and-crafts session to make some personalized wall pieces that suit your tastes.

For an extra touch of personality, customize inexpensive wooden frames to display your art in a way that reflects your unique style. To inject a playful pattern, opt for fun-shaped pushpins, thumbtacks, or decorative nailheads that can add a touch of whimsy to your wall display.

If you’re in need of inspiration, look to journalists with editorial experience who specialize in writing about interior design. With their expert guidance, you can confidently explore different art options, regardless of whether your walls are light or dark, and decorate your space in a way that truly reflects your taste and preferences.

Re-Arrange the Furniture

Refresh your space by rearranging the furniture, a no-cost way to give your bedroom a whole new look and feel. Even how you arrange your pillows can breathe new life into your room.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and consider moving some pieces from other areas of the house to switch things up. An effective trick to create the illusion of a bigger room is by strategically placing a mirror on the wall, reflecting light, and expanding the visual space.

As you re-arrange, pay attention to the placement of key furniture items like the nightstand and dresser, ensuring they are functional and easily accessible. Take advantage of the opportunity to rethink the flow of your space making the most of every square foot in your house. With a little creativity and some time invested, you can transform your bedroom into a more inviting and functional sanctuary.

Upcycle Your Furniture

Unleash your creativity and upcycle your furniture by repurposing older items around the house that might otherwise be thrown out. Give new life to colorful glass bottles and jars by using them as accent pieces, holders, or vases.

Transform old and unused kitchen cabinets into an improvised wall wardrobe, providing storage and organization in a unique way. To change the look up of your dresser and desk drawers up slightly, you can go to a hardware store and pick out some new knobs. For drawer linings, consider a pretty piece of fabric or unused wrapping paper.

Enhance the ambiance of your space by placing an area rug from around the house, adding a touch of flair and comfort to the floor. Or even layer rugs in the bedroom for texture and a pop of color.

Consider revamping the bedroom lighting as well by repurposing a vintage light fixture or incorporating a table lamp on a side table, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your bedroom.

Lastly, consider a unique end piece in place of a traditional nightstand. You might want to try a rolling cart instead, looking at metal ones for a classic-yet-modern look or a plastic drawer set with wheels for inexpensive durability. After all, all you need is a surface area for a lamp and a few essentials, along with some underlying storage space.

If you’re throwing out some old bedding, you might also want to consider ways you could repurpose them into chic bedroom items, such as rag rugs or hanging organizers. See also:

• Ideas for What to Do With Old Pillows
• Ideas for What to Do with Old Sheets

Get a New Lamp Shade

Give your bedside or floor lamp a fresh look by getting a new lampshade, an easy way to breathe new life into your bedroom lighting. To add a personal touch, consider decorating the lamp shade yourself by gluing on miscellaneous craft items, such as translucent colored stones, or creating fun shapes and patterns. These details make a small bedroom more interesting and unique.

Additionally, don’t forget to consider window treatments as they can create a dramatic effect in any bedroom, regardless of its size or the presence of a cute lamp or wooden bench. Even a simple window wash can breathe new life into a bedroom.

Show Off Your Hobbies

Showcasing your hobbies can be a fantastic and budget-friendly way to transform your bedroom into a personalized and inviting space. Your hobbies and interests are a reflection of your personality, and incorporating them into your bedroom decor can create a unique and meaningful atmosphere without much-added expense.

One way to showcase your hobbies is through wall displays. If you’re an art enthusiast, you can hang your favorite paintings or drawings on the walls. Such wall displays are one of the best ways to give a bedroom with slanted walls a makeover.

For photographers, framing your best shots can add a personal touch. DIY enthusiasts can create a gallery wall with their own handmade crafts or artwork. These displays not only showcase your talents but also serve as eye-catching focal points in the room.

Another idea is to use your hobbies as a theme for the bedroom. For example, if you love nature and gardening, you can create a botanical-themed space with potted plants, floral patterns, and nature-inspired decor. If you’re passionate about music, a music-themed bedroom can feature musical instruments as decor, album covers, or even soundproofing materials for a home studio setup.

Utilizing your hobbies can also extend to repurposing items. For crafters, upcycling old furniture or accessories can be a fun and eco-friendly project. You can refurbish a thrifted dresser, paint it in your favorite colors, and add unique drawer pulls to match your style. Turning old crates into shelves or storage units can add charm and functionality to the room while keeping costs low.

Additionally, DIY projects related to your hobbies can be a cost-effective way to enhance the bedroom’s aesthetics. You can create personalized wall art, sew your own curtains or pillow covers, or make a decorative collage of your favorite travel memories. These DIY touches not only save money but also infuse your bedroom with your creative spirit.

Be Cautious of Fads and Trends

Trends and fads come and go. It can be expensive to pursue what is the latest in fashionable bedroom decor, discarding the pieces of yesteryear in the process. Instead, it’s smart to invest in sturdy, classical elements that never go out of style (a good mattress and sturdy bed frame, for starters) and DIY-ing the elements that are more seasonal or trendy.

Remember, it’s best to have something that you enjoy for yourself, even if it’s ‘unfashionable,’ than to have a trendy piece you’re lukewarm on or even openly dislike. To avoid picking anything out that isn’t timeless or able to be repurposed later, ask yourself if it’s a piece that will only work on one particular wall or in one small area of the home or if you could use it in multiple rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I do a bedroom makeover without buying anything?

Revamp your bedroom without spending a dime by reorganizing and decluttering the space, rearranging furniture to create a new layout, and using your creativity to repurpose or upcycle existing items. Vacuum, dust, and clean all surfaces to give your space a renewed feeling. Try adjusting the lighting in your room by using different lamps or candles. Soft, warm lighting can create a cozy ambiance, while brighter lights can energize a space.

Then, swap furniture elements from other rooms as well, if you wish. Mix and match throw pillows from living areas to create a new look for your bed or seating area. Move around artwork and photographs to different locations for a new placement and a fresh perspective, or rearrange family photos, postcards, and artwork to create a gallery wall for a creative and eye-catching display.

DIY projects like painting or adding decorative accents can also refresh the look of your bedroom using materials you already have at hand. Give your windows a makeover by using scarves or spare fabric as makeshift curtains. For a cozy, woodsy vibe, try bringing nature indoors by using branches, leaves, or flowers from the outdoors to create a refreshing decor.

What to do first when redoing a bedroom?

When redoing a bedroom, it’s essential to start with careful planning. Begin by setting clear goals for what you want to achieve with the makeover. After that is done, begin cleaning and decluttering, as this will help to free up your space for the DIY projects and other new elements. Only then should you start to really re-arrange, swap out, or completely re-do parts of your bedroom.

Read and research interior design to gather inspiration and ideas to make informed decisions about color schemes, furniture arrangements, and decor choices that align with your personal style and preferences. You may even want to use a digital editor that lets you construct room plans to really visualize what you want to do with your bedroom. Consider the overall theme or style you want for your bedroom, whether it’s modern, rustic, minimalist, or cozy.

What makes a bedroom look cheap?

Using inexpensive items doesn’t necessarily make a bedroom look ‘cheap.’ Instead, a bedroom can look cheap when it lacks attention to detail and cohesive design elements. Factors such as mismatched furniture, poor-quality materials, and cluttered spaces can contribute to a cheap and disorganized appearance. However, with thoughtful choices in furniture, decor, and organization, a bedroom can be transformed into a stylish and sophisticated space.

How do you make a small bedroom look classy and fancy?

To transform a small bedroom into a classy and fancy space, start by selecting a color scheme that exudes charm and openness. Neutral tones such as whites, creams, and pastels make the room feel more spacious and refined. Next, strategically place mirrors on the walls to reflect light and create an illusion of a larger area. Mirrors not only add a touch of glamour but also contribute to the overall classy ambiance.

Along with mirrors, use soft and warm lights to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Then, invest in high-quality bedding with stylish patterns and luxurious materials that evoke a sense of comfort and opulence. Adding texture through pillows, throws, and rugs further enhances the room’s allure, adding depth and visual interest. Keep the room clutter-free and well-organized to maintain a minimalistic and sophisticated feel.

What can I add to my bedroom to make it look better?

To make your bedroom look better, you can add elements like decorative pillows that add color and style to your bed or cushy chair, wall artwork or photographs, indoor plants, and stylish lighting fixtures to enhance the overall aesthetics of the space.

You can also add little decorative trinkets with vases, candles, or display trays. For more renovation, you can create an accent wall with wallpaper, paint, or textured panels to serve as a focal point and add visual interest to the room.

Remember that the key to making your bedroom look better is to incorporate items that resonate with your taste and create a comfortable and inviting space. Whether it’s through artwork, textures, or decorative pieces, each addition should reflect your personality and enhance the overall beauty of your bedroom.

Conclusion

A DIY bedroom makeover on a budget is not only achievable but also an opportunity for creativity and personal expression. By utilizing cost-effective techniques such as reorganizing, repurposing, and adding small decorative touches, you can transform your bedroom into a stylish and inviting sanctuary without breaking the bank.