Best Low-Cost Bedroom Upgrades for Better Sleep

You don’t have to gut your bedroom or spend a fortune on a fancy mattress to get better sleep. A few small, affordable changes can seriously improve how well you rest at night. If your bedroom doesn’t feel like a place where your brain can shut off, it might be time to tweak a few things.

These upgrades are budget-friendly, practical, and actually make a difference.

Blackout Curtains

Light leaking in from the street or early sunrise can throw off your body’s sleep rhythm. Blackout curtains block it all out so your brain isn’t getting mixed signals about when to wake up.

You can find decent ones for cheap, and they’re easy to hang up even if you’re renting. They also help regulate temperature, which is a bonus if your room gets hot at night.

A Basic Sound Machine or Fan

If you’re a light sleeper, every little noise can pull you out of a deep sleep. A basic white noise machine or box fan can help drown out those random sounds that keep you up.

It doesn’t have to be fancy. Even a cheap fan running on low or a phone app can do the trick. The goal is to create a steady background noise that helps your brain stay asleep.

Breathable Sheets

If your sheets trap heat or feel rough, they’re probably messing with your sleep more than you think. Lightweight, breathable sheets—especially cotton or linen—can help your body stay at a comfortable temperature.

You don’t need luxury bedding. Focus on material and breathability, and skip anything that makes you feel sweaty or stuck to the bed.

A Better Pillow

Old, sagging pillows mess with your neck and can leave you feeling stiff in the morning. You don’t need a $100 pillow, but you do need one that actually supports your head and aligns your neck.

Try something labeled for your sleep position—side, back, or stomach—and don’t be afraid to replace it more often than you think. Most pillows lose their support way before they look worn out.

Warm, Soft Lighting

Overhead lighting can be harsh and make it harder for your body to wind down. Swapping it out for a soft, warm lamp by your bed can shift your whole bedtime vibe.

Look for bulbs labeled “warm white” and avoid anything bright white or blue-toned. You can find affordable bedside lamps at discount stores or even thrift one and upgrade the bulb.

A Decluttered Nightstand

It sounds small, but having a clean, clear nightstand can help your brain relax before bed. If it’s piled with half-drunk water bottles, receipts, or random junk, it doesn’t exactly say “restful.”

Keep it to the essentials: water, maybe a book, and a soft light. Less visual noise means less mental clutter right before you fall asleep.

A Mattress Topper

If your mattress is too firm, sagging, or just not comfortable anymore but you’re not ready to replace it, a mattress topper can help. It’s a lot cheaper than a whole new bed and can buy you more time.

Look for memory foam or gel toppers that match how you like to sleep. They range in price, but even a budget option can make a noticeable difference.

Lavender Spray or Essential Oil

Scent has a stronger effect on sleep than most people realize. Lavender, in particular, has been shown to help people fall asleep faster and sleep deeper.

You can get a lavender linen spray or use a diffuser with a few drops of oil. It’s not magic, but it can help your brain recognize that it’s time to relax.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.