11 Things Never to Have in Your Bedroom, According to Interior Designers

While you may enjoy binge-watching the latest reality series or a popular new film, interior designer Rayman Boozer says televisions have no place in a bedroom. "The chronic issue with televisions is that when they are off, which is most of the time, they look like black boxes. Unless your decor theme is black and white or some combo of black and another color, that black box is distracting. That said, I don't think watching TV in bed is wrong. Now, we have other options like laptops and iPads, which don't need to be displayed or integrated into the decor."

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There's a time and place for work too, and it's not in a bedroom, according to interior designer Beth Diana Smith. "Avoid a desk or work area in your bedroom, try to separate where you rest and where you work as much as possible. In order to truly relax, you can’t intertwine your work in the same area, so the old saying 'out of sight, out of mind' is applicable here."

"Clutter is the enemy of a peaceful bedroom," says designer Maya Salfati. Maya recommends keeping surfaces clear and incorporating smart storage solutions to stay organized. "By carefully curating the items in your bedroom, you can create a serene retreat that truly enhances your quality of life."

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Whether you're settling on paint colors or the best palette for bedding, designer Debbie Mathews suggests staying away from bold hues. "In general, I like to avoid using brighter colors like red, which can stimulate energy and sometimes make relaxation and sleep more difficult to achieve. Instead, I use softer colors in shades of green and blue, which can promote calmness."

Interior designer Lorna Gross agrees: "It is advisable to avoid bright versions of red, orange and yellow paint in the bedroom. These colors in their most vivid forms are often associated with anxiety and arguments. So, if your goal is to have a serene relaxing bedroom environment, stick with neutrals, cool or softer colors."

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"While mirrors can enhance a room's spaciousness and light, be cautious with large or intricately designed mirrors in a bedroom," says Alexa Given, co-founder of Dwellify. "These can overwhelm the bedroom's ambiance and disrupt its balance. Avoid positioning sizable mirrors directly across from the bed, as this can create an unsettling atmosphere. Instead, choose moderately sized mirrors with understated frames that complement the room's lighting and depth without becoming the focal point."

Alexa also recommends keeping any wires for electronics under wraps. "Exposed wires from various electronics can detract from your bedroom's serene atmosphere," she says. "Employ cord management solutions, conceal cables behind furniture or invest in wireless charging options to maintain a tidy, organized appearance. This attention to detail significantly enhances the room's overall aesthetic." Not to mention, it can be dangerous if wires are tangled or a circuit is overloaded.

"A beautiful pendant or sconce light can elevate the space, helping to set the mood and aiding in navigation," says designer Theresa Butler. It also influences the appearance of your furniture and clothing, she adds.

Interior designer Kelly Hoppen likes to layer lighting as well: "Avoid harsh, single-source lighting. It can make the room feel cold and uninviting. Instead, aim for a mix of ambient, task and accent lighting. Soft, layered lighting creates a warm and cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. Don’t forget to include dimmers for added flexibility and control over the mood."

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According to designer Amber Guyton of Blessed Little Bungalow, your bedroom should be free of electronics. "I don't have any TVs or computers in my home's bedrooms, and although all of my clients don't agree, it's a lifestyle change that has significantly improved my ability to relax my anxious mind and achieve optimal rest."

Stay away from furniture with varying heights as best as you can, says designer Shaolin Low of Studio Shaolin. "I always like it when the nightstand is at the height or an inch below the top of the mattress."

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A primary bedroom isn't the place for your child's toys.
Leigh Jendrusina of SALTHOUSE Collective says the items in this space should be reserved for the adults who use the room. "It’s the one sanctuary space in the home and the more it looks like a room that speaks to the adults, the better for everyone!"

While natural light is certainly a mood booster, it's the last thing you want in a bedroom when it's time to sleep. That's why Abby Gruman of Abby Leigh Designs recommends ditching sheer curtains: "We tend to layer window treatments in the bedroom with blackout fabrics to ensure a peaceful night sleep."

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