8 Thrift Store Finds That Will Instantly Elevate Your Bedroom, According to Experts

These items will make your space even more beautiful—and peaceful.

Whimsical bedroom
Credit:

William Abranowicz

Bedrooms are one of the most important rooms in the home. It's where we relax and unwind after a long day, and catch up on much-needed sleep. Of course, while it's important that a bedroom is cozy and comfortable, it should also look beautiful.

Thankfully, you don't have to shell out a lot of cash in order to create an elegant bedroom. In fact, some of the most transformative pieces of furniture and décor can be picked up at a local thrift store—if you know what you're looking for. Here, we spoke to the pros about the thrifting finds that will take your bedroom to the next level.

01 of 08

Statement Art

bedroom with artwork on wall
Credit:

Getty / Andreas van Einsidel

Color is one of the most important aspects of decorating any space, especially a bedroom, where a loud or chaotic palette can really interfere with a good night's sleep. But picking a can of paint shouldn't always be your first instinct when it comes to mapping out an overall palette.

"I love looking for a piece of art, preferably a large statement piece that will dictate your bedroom's color scheme," says Anna Weaver, an interior decorator and vintage home and décor seller. "I would emphasize looking for vintage art or original art, even if it's unsigned."

02 of 08

Dressers

bedroom with dresser
Credit:

Getty / Andreas van Einsiedel

Dressers are an essential storage unit, and one of the most important pieces of furniture in a bedroom. Weaver recommends looking for a solid wood one with a distinct grain, like oak or bird's eye maple.

"If the wood grain isn't special, hopefully the price is affordable enough that you can either paint it yourself, or have some money leftover to have an expert do it for you," she says. "A dresser in a fun color is an interesting pop!"

03 of 08

Bedding

kettle cove home tour master bedroom
Credit:

Justin Levesque

While some shoppers may avoid purchasing secondhand textiles, others embrace them. Bedding can be found at thrift stores and can make a big impact on your bedroom. A bright color can weave into a bolder design scheme, while a more neutral set can fade into the cozy, earth-toned backdrop. Before you put textiles anywhere, though, make sure to properly clean them.

"These things are the easiest to sanitize," says Kate Pearce, interior stylist and founder of Kate Pearce Vintage. "Just run them through a double cycle in your washing machine."

04 of 08

Nightstands

Light blue bedroom window seat
Credit:

Lucas-Eilers Design Associates L.L.P. / Julie Soefer Photography

A nightstand is a key part of your bedtime routine, and can also be a real aesthetic statement piece. Pearce recommends thrifting a wood one. "They just don't make them like they used to, and you can score some very gorgeous and quality vintage wood furniture pieces at the thrift store," she says. "It will really elevate your space."

05 of 08

Tapestries

textile art large wall tapestry bedroom
Credit: Jennifer Gustafson Interior Design

Fabric wall décor is in, and thrift stores can be a great place to score beautiful, affordable tapestries. In some cases, hanging these can take up a lot of wall space, completely changing the look and mood of a bedroom.

"I have a vintage tapestry behind our bed that I bought from a friend, who bought it at the thrift, and it's one of my favorite pieces," adds Pearce.

06 of 08

Small Décor

shelby nyc apartment bust on table by window
Credit: Morgan Levy

Sometimes, even the smallest decorative items can add up to a big visual impact. Fortunately, you can find some of these pieces at the thrift store. Pearce says she loves styling bedrooms with busts and books; trays and small bowls are other great options.

07 of 08

Mirrors

bedroom with a large round mirror and wicker nightstand
Credit:

Christopher Churchill Photography

Mirrors are a great way to make a space appear larger. A floor mirror is a wonderful addition to a bedroom, too, as often it's the space where you get ready and choose an outfit in the morning. You can find decorative ones at the thrift store too; Weaver suggests placing one above your dresser.

08 of 08

Lighting

Bedside table with lamp
Credit:

REBECCA MCALPIN / DESIGN: MICHELLE GAGE INTERIOR DESIGN

Lighting can completely alter the look and feel of a room. In the bedroom, it's especially important to have light that creates a beautiful, ambient glow, but that can also completely disappear when it's time to catch some z's.

There are some things to keep in mind when thrifting these pieces, though. "It can be difficult to tell if these are in working order at the thrift store, and they may need to be rewired," says Pearce.

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