Best Bedroom Upgrades for Better Rest

Your bedroom should be more than just a place to sleep — it should be a sanctuary that helps you unwind and recharge. 

If you’re struggling to get quality rest, a few strategic upgrades might be all you need to transform your sleep space.

From cozy bedding to air quality improvements, here are some of our favorite bedroom upgrades to help you sleep more soundly.

1. Opt for breathable bedding.

Hot, sticky sheets are a surefire way to ruin a good night’s sleep. 

Look for bedding made from natural, breathable materials like cotton, linen, or bamboo. 

Percale and sateen weaves offer different feels — crisp and cool versus silky and smooth — so choose what feels best to you.

Tip: Wash your bedding weekly to keep it feeling fresh and help reduce allergens.

2. Choose soothing lighting.

Light pollution — even just a streetlight outside your window — can interfere with your body’s melatonin production. 

Consider blackout curtains to block outside light completely, and create a dark, sleep-friendly environment.

Similarly, bright overhead lights can signal to your brain that it’s still daytime, making it harder to wind down.

Swap them out for softer, warm-toned lighting, or even red lights to promote melatonin production. Look for bedside lamps with dimmers or smart bulbs you can adjust through an app.

Tip: Set your lights to dim gradually in the evening to help cue your body that it’s time for bed.

3. Add a humidifier for air quality.

Dry air can leave you waking up with a scratchy throat, itchy skin, or worsened allergies. A humidifier can help by adding moisture to the air, making it easier to breathe and preventing dehydration overnight.

For the cleanest, hydrated air possible, consider a humidifier with a stainless steel water tank or easy-to-clean design to reduce bacteria growth — especially if you’re prone to allergies or sensitive skin.

Tip: Run a humidifier till your space reaches 30-50% humidity for the most comfortable sleep environment.

4. Get a white noise machine.

If you’re a light sleeper, sudden sounds — like traffic or a neighbor’s dog — can easily wake you up. 

A white noise machine creates a consistent background sound that can help drown out these disturbances and lull you into deeper sleep.

Tip: Look for a machine with different sound options like rain, ocean waves, or fan noise to find what relaxes you most.

5. Add calming scents.

Aromatherapy can do wonders for creating a relaxing bedtime routine. 

Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood have been shown to promote relaxation and ease stress. 

You can use an essential oil diffuser or even spritz a pillow spray to create a calming atmosphere.

Tip: Choose a diffuser with a timer so it turns off automatically after you fall asleep.

6. Declutter your space.

A messy room can lead to a messy mind, making it harder to relax. A minimalist approach — not too bare, but free from clutter — can create a more peaceful and calming atmosphere.

Try storing items you don’t use daily out of sight in baskets or under-bed storage to keep surfaces clean and tidy.

7. Use an alarm clock with a sunrise simulator.

Jarring alarms can spike your stress levels first thing in the morning. 

A sunrise alarm clock gradually brightens the room to wake you up more naturally, helping you feel less groggy and more refreshed.

Tip: Set it to start brightening 30 minutes before you want to wake up for the smoothest transition.

8. Soundproof where you can.

If outside noise is a consistent problem, consider simple soundproofing solutions like a thick rug, wall tapestries, or even weatherstripping around doors and windows. 

These upgrades can help absorb sound and make your bedroom feel more insulated and cozy.

Tip: Door draft stoppers are an easy and inexpensive way to block noise and keep your room quieter.

9. Bring in some greenery.

Certain houseplants can help purify the air and create a calming environment. Snake plants, peace lilies, and aloe vera are all low-maintenance options that can thrive in lower light.

Plants also release oxygen, which can contribute to better air quality and a more restful sleep.

10. Try weighted blankets for extra comfort.

Weighted blankets use deep pressure stimulation to help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep. 

Look for one that’s about 10% of your body weight for the best results.

Tip: Choose a blanket with a breathable cover to avoid overheating.

Tiny Upgrades = Big Impact

You don’t need a full renovation to make your bedroom a better place for sleep. 

Even a few simple upgrades — like adding a humidifier, swapping out old bedding, or using blackout curtains — can make a noticeable difference in how well you rest.

So if you’re ready to sleep better, start with a couple of these tips and build from there. Your bed might just become your favorite place in the house.