Transforming your sleeping space doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of creativity, you can give your room a stylish upgrade using affordable IKEA pieces. Whether it’s clever storage ideas or simple DIY tweaks, these hacks make redecorating easy and fun.
From customising furniture like the HEMNES chest to no-sew projects such as turning rugs into cushions, there’s something for every skill level. The 2024 TOLKNING collection, for example, offers smart under-bed solutions to maximise space.
Real-life inspirations, like @pagesofemma’s clever makeovers, show how small changes can have a big impact. Ready to refresh your space? Let’s dive into the best budget-friendly ideas.
Key Takeaways
- Affordable transformations using IKEA products.
- Smart storage solutions to maximise space.
- Easy DIY projects, like no-sew cushion covers.
- Creative furniture customisation for a personal touch.
- Latest collections, such as TOLKNING, offer stylish upgrades.
Introduction to IKEA Bedroom Hacks
Revamping your personal space can be both stylish and wallet-friendly with clever design tricks. The Swedish retailer’s versatile pieces are perfect for budget-conscious makeovers, offering endless ways to customise even the smallest rooms.
Take inspiration from DIY enthusiasts like Matthew Jenkins, who transformed SEKTION kitchen cabinets into a sleek wardrobe. Projects like this prove that with a little ingenuity, standard furniture can become a personalised centrepiece.
Compared to custom-built options, these upgrades save up to 70% in costs. Students love the IKEA Starter Boxes, which bundle essentials like storage bins and bedding for compact dorm rooms.
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Whether it’s adding flair to a nightstand or maximising under-bed space, small tweaks deliver big impact. The key? Balancing functionality with your unique style.
1. Transform the MALM Dresser with Custom Drawer Fronts
Give your MALM dresser a designer makeover with simple upgrades. Swapping drawer fronts or adding new hardware can turn this staple into a focal point. For inspiration, look to Marc Hagan-Guirey’s kirigami-inspired design, where geometric cut-outs added artful depth.
Choosing the Right Knobs or Handles
Hardware choices define the dresser’s style. Brass handles lend a luxe feel, like @pagesofemma’s champagne gold accents on a HEMNES chest. For a rustic touch, wooden knobs warm up minimalist spaces. Ceramic options, meanwhile, add playful texture.
Symmetry matters. Use a paper template to mark drill holes before attaching hardware. Budget-friendly picks like £12 B&Q handles prove high impact doesn’t require high costs.
Painting Techniques for a Bold Finish
Chalk paint offers a matte, vintage look and requires minimal prep—ideal for beginners. Spray paint delivers sleek, even coverage; try muted greens or bold blacks for drama. As seen in MALM dresser transformations, Drew Scott’s raffia-cloth technique adds tactile interest.
Remember: IKEA’s return policy covers damaged drawer fronts, so experiment fearlessly. Whether you opt for sleek monochrome or vibrant patterns, your bedroom storage will feel entirely new.
2. Create a DIY Wall Plant Shelf Using IKEA Baskets
Breathing life into your walls has never been easier with simple woven storage. The BYHOLMA baskets, famously used by @The.Robin.Wood for air-drying herbs, double as chic plant holders. Lightweight and affordable, they transform blank walls into lush displays.
Selecting the Perfect Baskets
Not all baskets are equal. The BYHOLMA (0.8kg) suits Command Strips (max 1kg), while the sturdier TOLKNING (1.5kg) needs wall anchors. For a staggered look, mix sizes—small for trailing pothos, medium for faux eucalyptus stems (£8, H&M Home).
Arranging Faux Plants for Maximum Impact
Group three baskets diagonally for visual flow. Place larger plants at the base, letting vines spill over. Realistic faux greenery avoids maintenance but keeps the organic vibe. Pro tip: rotate arrangements seasonally for fresh bedroom decor.
| Option | Cost | Weight Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| DIY (BYHOLMA + Command Strips) | £22 | 1kg |
| Retail Plant Shelves | £120+ | 3kg |
This hack proves you don’t need a green thumb—or a big budget—to maximise storage space stylishly. Just baskets, creativity, and a love for leafy accents.
3. Build a Faux Window Seat with KALLAX Shelves
Turn overlooked corners into functional seating with clever shelving. The IKEA KALLAX units, as seen in Lee Middleton’s bespoke projects, offer a sturdy base for window nooks. Perfect for tight spaces, they double as hidden storage space for blankets or books.
Measuring and Positioning the Shelves
Check load-bearing needs: seating requires 50kg+ capacity per shelf. For bay windows, cut KALLAX units to fit angles—use a jigsaw with a fine-tooth blade. Secure to walls with brackets, especially in rentals, to avoid damage.
Adding Cushions for Comfort
Opt for fire-retardant foam from UK supplier ABC Foam (from £25). Slipcover with IKEA EIVOR cushion covers for a polished look. Layer textures like faux sheepskin (£12, Dunelm) for warmth.
| Option | Cost | Effort Level |
|---|---|---|
| DIY (KALLAX + Foam) | £60–£80 | Moderate |
| Custom-Built Seat | £300+ | High |
This bedroom budget-friendly hack proves that style and practicality can go hand in hand. Just add a cuppa and your favourite novel!
4. Upgrade Your IKEA PAX Wardrobe for a Built-In Look
Achieve a bespoke wardrobe without the designer price tag using clever upgrades. The IKEA PAX system adapts brilliantly to period homes, as Gwen proved by fitting it into her century-old cottage. With crown moulding and custom inserts, it blends seamlessly like a walk-in closet.
Installing Crown Moulding
B&Q’s 50mm crown moulding (£6/metre) elevates the PAX wardrobe instantly. Measure the unit’s top perimeter, mitre-cut corners at 45°, and secure with adhesive. John J. extended this hack by integrating kitchen plinths for a flush finish.
Organising with Custom Drawers and Rods
Bespoke drawers cost £200+ elsewhere but hack them for less. Use PAX’s Komplement dividers (£15) or repurpose kitchen units. For ties and belts, add a pull-out rack:
- Fix a towel rail inside a shallow drawer.
- Space hooks 10cm apart for neat hanging.
“The PAX frame handled our uneven walls beautifully—no gaps after adding trim.”
| Option | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard PAX drawers | £80 | 1 hour |
| Custom-built | £250+ | 3 days |
Note: IKEA’s 10-year warranty covers frames but not modifications. Still, for a walk-in closet feel on a budget, the IKEA PAX is unbeatable.
5. Craft a Cozy Pom Pom Throw Blanket
Add warmth and personality to your space with a handmade pom pom throw. The INGABRITTA blanket (£12) serves as a perfect base for this £30 project, blending affordability with custom flair. Whether you prefer chunky textures or geometric patterns, this diy is a weekend win.
Selecting Yarn and Blanket Materials
Chunky wool yarn offers durability but requires hand-washing. Acrylic alternatives, like Hobbycraft’s £4 skeins, are machine-washable and ideal for busy homes. For a luxe touch, blend both—wool pom poms on an acrylic blanket.
Heat-sealing synthetic yarn ends with a lighter prevents fraying. @mister_modernist’s monochrome design proves even simple palettes make bold bedroom decor statements.
Attaching Pom Poms Securely
The Clover pom pom maker (£8) creates uniform fluff, while the cardboard method suits budget crafters. Space pom poms 10cm apart for balanced texture. Use fabric glue (e.g., Gorilla Glue) for washable holds—air-dry only.
| Method | Cost | Washing |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Glue | £5 | Hand-wash, air-dry |
| Sewn | £0 (thread) | Machine-wash gentle |
For a playful twist, arrange pom poms in zigzags or clusters. This IKEA hacks-inspired project turns basics into bespoke treasures—no knitting skills needed!
6. Turn an IKEA TARVA Nightstand into a Stylish Statement
A simple nightstand can become a showstopper with a few clever tweaks. The discontinued IKEA TARVA, often found on Facebook Marketplace for under £30, transforms beautifully with MDF pole wrap and premium paint. This diy project delivers designer flair at a fraction of boutique furniture prices.
Adding Fluting with MDF Pole Wrap
Vertical fluting adds instant sophistication to flat surfaces. B&Q’s 48mm wrap (£8.50/2.4m) outperforms Wickes’ version in flexibility, crucial for curved drawer fronts. Always align the grain vertically—horizontal patterns can make this piece furniture appear wider.
| Supplier | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| B&Q | £8.50/2.4m | Tight curves |
| Wickes | £7.99/2.4m | Straight panels |
For pull-out handles, trace the shape onto cardboard first. As upcycler Margot K. advises:
“Cut the wrap 1cm larger than your template—the extra gives room for adjustments.”
Painting for a High-End Finish
Farrow & Ball’s “Hague Blue” (from £48/2.5L) creates depth when layered with clear furniture wax. Apply two thin coats, sanding lightly between layers. The original TARVA dimensions (40x48x80cm) allow full coverage with just 0.5L of paint.
For durability, finish with Rust-Oleum’s clear protector (£12). The satin sheen mimics professional spray booth results while protecting your handiwork from daily wear.
7. Hack the KURA Bed into a Playful Reading Nook
Turn a basic bunk into a magical hideaway with this clever hack. The KURA bed’s reversible design makes it ideal for creating a cosy retreat. Inspired by Anna Erika’s neglected corner makeover, this project blends fun and functionality for little ones.
Installing Curtains for Privacy
Blackout curtains transform the lower space into a snug den. Compare these options:
- Tension rods: Quick for rentals (Dunelm’s £9 rods hold 5kg).
- Wall-mounted tracks: Sturdy for heavy fabrics (John Lewis’ £20 system).
For nap times, line curtains with Dunelm’s blackout fabric (£12/m). @diymommy used dinosaur-print drapes to match decals—a hit with toddlers!
Personalising with Paint and Decals
Chalkboard paint on the headboard section encourages doodling (Rust-Oleum’s £14 tin covers 3m²). Pair with removable decals for a kids’ closet vibe:
- Space-themed vinyls (£8, Etsy) for aspiring astronauts.
- Floral motifs for a fairy-tale feel.
“Lead times for KURA delivery can stretch to 6 weeks—plan ahead!”
With these tweaks, bedtime becomes an adventure. Just add cushions and a torch for storytime under the ‘stars’!
8. Elevate the LACK Side Table with Hairpin Legs
The humble LACK side table gets a luxe makeover with two simple changes. Swap its standard legs for mid-century modern hairpins and wrap the top in marble contact paper. Maltashopper.com’s viral hack proves even basic pieces can shine with thoughtful tweaks.
Choosing Mid-Century Modern Legs
UK suppliers offer varied styles. Hairpin Legs Co’s powder-coated steel (£22/set) supports 25kg—ideal for stacks of books. Etsy artisans like RetroLegsUK hand-weld brass versions (£35) for vintage charm.
Before installing, check wobble risks:
- Sand the table’s base for better adhesive grip.
- Use wood screws (not included) for secure attachment.
Applying Marble Contact Paper
@pagesofemma’s terrazzo paper alternative shows how bold patterns modernise the side table. For marble effects:
- Cut paper 5cm larger than the tabletop.
- Align the pattern’s veins diagonally for continuity.
- Trim excess with a craft knife, heating edges with a hairdryer to seal.
| Supplier | Leg Style | Price | Weight Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hairpin Legs Co | Steel | £22 | 25kg |
| RetroLegsUK (Etsy) | Brass | £35 | 20kg |
“Seal contact paper edges with clear nail polish—it prevents peeling.”
With these upgrades, your mid-century modern piece rivals boutique designs. Total cost? Under £50—proof that small changes deliver big style.
9. Personalise the RAST Nightstand with Decorative Moulding
Elevate a basic nightstand into a designer piece furniture with decorative moulding and bold hues. Famelly Del Orbe’s viral RAST makeover proves how trim and paint can disguise budget materials. Perfect for rentals or revamps, this hack delivers high-end appeal without custom carpentry.
Painting in Bold Colours
Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paint® adheres to untreated pine—no sanding needed. Opt for deep teal or mustard for a bedroom decor punch. For seams, compare fillers:
- Ronseal (£5): Dries fast but requires sanding.
- Polyfilla (£3.50): Smoother finish, minimal shrinkage.
UK VOC regulations limit bedroom paint to
Adding Sophisticated Knobs
Swap basic knobs for statement hardware. B&Q’s ceramic options (£3.50) mimic Anthropologie’s £15 designs. Use this template for symmetrical moulding placement:
- Measure the drawer front’s width and divide by three.
- Mark vertical lines at these points with masking tape.
- Align moulding strips along the tape, securing with wood glue.
“Gold knobs made my RAST look like a vintage heirloom.”
| Knob Style | Supplier | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic | B&Q | £3.50 |
| Brass | Anthropologie | £15 |
With these tweaks, your piece furniture becomes a conversation starter—no carpentry skills required.
10. Maximise Storage with Under-Bed TOLKNING Baskets
Unused space beneath your bed becomes prime real estate with clever storage solutions. The IKEA TOLKNING baskets, showcased in the Tiny Lake House project, offer a sleek way to stow seasonal items or extra linens. Their slim design slides effortlessly under most bed frames, turning dead space into functional storage.
Measuring for Perfect Fit
Before buying, note your bed’s clearance. The TOLKNING (35cm tall) fits standard 40cm gaps, while SAMLA boxes (17cm) suit lower profiles. For stacked baskets, ensure weight limits:
- TOLKNING: 7kg per basket (ideal for blankets).
- SAMLA: 5kg (better for lightweight fabrics).
@The.Robin.Wood upgraded hers with rattan lids—simply glue pre-cut panels (£6, Hobbycraft) for a textured finish.
Styling with Neutral Textures
Keep the look cohesive with natural materials. Jute liners (£4, Dunelm) prevent scratches, while IKEA STOFTEM tags add minimalist labels. Rotate contents seasonally:
- Winter: Thick quilts and knitwear.
- Summer: Beach towels and lightweight throws.
“Labelled baskets save frantic searches during duvet changes!”
| Basket Type | Best For | Max Stack |
|---|---|---|
| TOLKNING | Bulky items | 2 high |
| SAMLA | Smaller textiles | 3 high |
With these tweaks, your bedroom storage stays organised and stylish—no bulky cupboards needed.
11. Craft a No-Sew Pillow from an IKEA SORTSO Rug
Who says you need sewing skills to create stylish home accents? The £7.99 SORTSO rug transforms effortlessly into a plush cushion with just fabric glue and clever folding. This diy project proves that luxury textures don’t require luxury budgets.
Folding and Gluing Edges
Mitred corners give a professional finish. Here’s how:
- Cut the rug to your desired pillow size (40x40cm works well).
- Fold edges inward by 2cm, securing with clips.
- Apply fabric glue in thin layers—Gorilla Glue dries clear in 30 minutes, while E6000 offers stronger holds but needs 24 hours.
@diymommy added tassels to hers by gluing fringe trim (£3, Hobbycraft) between layers. For rounded edges, use a bowl as a template before cutting.
Stuffing for Plush Comfort
Eco-friendly options outperform standard polyester fill:
- Shredded memory foam (from old mattress toppers) moulds to your shape.
- Kapok fibres (£9/kg) offer hypoallergenic softness.
“Let each glue layer dry fully before stuffing—patience prevents lumpy results.”
| Material | Cost | Drying Time |
|---|---|---|
| Gorilla Glue | £5 | 30 mins |
| E6000 | £7 | 24 hours |
With these techniques, your bedroom budget stretches further while keeping waste minimal. Just add a good book!
Conclusion: Dreamy Bedroom Transformations on a Budget
Small changes can create big style without straining your wallet. With most projects costing between £15-£50, these clever tweaks prove that luxury looks don’t need luxury prices. Layer a few ideas together, and your space will feel entirely renewed.
Don’t forget the perks of the IKEA Family programme—exclusive discounts and early access to new collections. Share your creations with #DIKIKEAhacks for inspiration. The upcoming 2024 collaborations promise even more ways to personalise your home affordably.
Whether it’s adding fluted details or smart storage, each hack adds personality. Start small, experiment fearlessly, and watch your vision come to life.
FAQ
How can I give my MALM dresser a custom look?
Swap the standard drawer fronts for unique knobs or paint them in bold colours for a fresh finish.
What’s the best way to use IKEA baskets as wall shelves?
Choose sturdy baskets, mount them securely, and arrange faux plants for a stylish, low-maintenance display.
Can KALLAX shelves double as a window seat?
Absolutely! Position them under a window, add cushions, and create a cosy reading nook in no time.
How do I make my PAX wardrobe look built-in?
Install crown moulding along the top and organise with custom rods or drawers for a seamless, high-end feel.
What’s an easy way to upgrade a TARVA nightstand?
Add fluted details with MDF pole wrap and paint it in a rich hue for a designer-inspired piece.
Can I turn a KURA bed into a reading nook?
Yes! Hang curtains for privacy and personalise with paint or decals for a fun, functional space.
How do I give a LACK table a mid-century vibe?
Replace the legs with hairpin styles and apply marble contact paper for a chic, retro touch.
What’s the easiest way to maximise under-bed storage?
Use TOLKNING baskets for a snug fit and style with neutral textures to keep things tidy yet stylish.
Can I make a no-sew pillow from a rug?
Definitely! Fold and glue the edges of a SORTSO rug, then stuff it for a plush, handmade cushion.