So you are almost done decorating your new apartment. You've followed our checklists for the perfect kitchen and living room, but what is next? Well - no living room is complete without a complimentary bedroom to match.
What types of things do you need for the bedroom in your apartment?
Bed
OK, I know this is obvious to absolutely everyone, but your bed is the place where you will spend the majority of your time in your apartment. (Get your mind out of the gutter.) I'm talking about SLEEPING! You'll spend at least a quarter of an entire day resting in your bed, so you will want to make sure and get the perfect one. If there is one item to spend a little money on in your apartment...it's the bed. Word of warning: I thought I would go cheap in my first apartment and just used a futon as a bed. I spent 2 years tossing and turning on it and impressing absolutely no one. It was tacky and uncomfortable. Lesson learned. Just shell out the extra cash for a real bed. This should include a great mattress, box springs, and the bedframe.
Headboard
A head board makes the bedroom classy. You don't want your pillows slipping in between the bed and the wall while you are trying to sleep do you? Plus, it gives the cats a place to walk and haunt you when you are sleeping.
Nightstand
I think it's always best to go with two night stands; one for each side. Where else would you put your alarm clock, charge your cell phone, or place your pictures of loved ones to watch over you while you sleep? You should make sure that these pieces of furniture match your bed so that all furniture pieces in the bedroom are complimentary.
A Big Mirror
You could really have this in the bathroom or in the bedroom, but I suggest having a full length mirror somewhere so that you can make sure you look good before leaving the apartment. To guys this doesn't matter as much, but if you want to impress the ladies...you should make sure your shoes match your belt. Or if your significant other is getting ready to go out at your apartment, she will want to make sure her outfit matches before she leaves....having a mirror will really help.
Alarm Clock
With everyone having a clock on their phone, the market for alarm clocks is dwindling, but even with the alarm on the cell, having a real alarm clock too is a necessity for any complete bedroom. Whether its an advanced docking station for your phone or a cheap $5 travel alarm clock, you should always have it displaying the time and blasting you out of bed in the morning. Cell phone alarms are nice, but a real alarm clock is sassy!
For Your Bed
Your bed won't come complete with the necessities for a good night's sleep. You will also need to purchase an even number of pillows...either 2, 4, or 6....any more and your bed is covered in pillows. Don't go with an odd number either...I had a friend who had 3 pillows on their bed and it just looked weird. Pillows should come in pairs. You will also need sheets. I'm not particular about sheets, but some people are. Just remember that the higher the thread count, the better quality sheet and the less often you'll have to buy new ones. Lastly you'll need a comforter and a duvet cover. This is what everyone will see first on your bed as it covers it. It is also what will keep you warm in the cold winter. With all of these things...your bed should be complete.
Lamps
Whether you set yourself up with a fancy corner lamp or a small lamp on the bedside table, having the non overhead lighting is ideal. Especially if you plan on doing any reading.