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See the full story · 1 sourcesAs an interior decorator, there a few things I'd never put in my bedroom. Plan A Office/Getty Images
As an interior decorator , there are a few design choices I'd never make in my own bedroom.
I think vibrant colors and busy patterns can disrupt valuable wind-down time before bed.
Personally, I'd never buy a nightstand that doesn't have storage.
As an interior decorator , I've seen lots of bedroom-design choices that can make a space feel overwhelming, cluttered, or cold.
From busy patterns to matching bedding sets, here are eight things I'd never put in my own bedroom.
Polyester sheets may be cheaper than other fabrics but I still wouldn't buy them.
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My go-to fabric for sheets will always be 100% cotton, followed by pricier linen and silk. But when it comes to bedding, I always avoid polyester.
Polyester is made from plastic fibers and isn't as breathable as natural materials, making it less than ideal for temperature control. It can also trap moisture and create static cling, which may disrupt sleep.
Wicker furniture can be difficult to clean.
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The natural-fiber furniture trend recirculates every couple of years. Though it looks cute amongst eclectic bohemian decor, I wouldn't personally keep it in my room.
The distinct woven texture can add dimension, but its numerous crevasses collect dust and add to your cleaning routine.
If you're OK with periodically vacuuming your headboard and really want to incorporate wicker furniture, go for a modern weave style.
Busy patterns and vibrant colors may make it more difficult to relax before bed.
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I love to decorate with bright colors and bold patterns, but I use them sparingly in a bedroom. A high-saturation color palette or a busy pattern can strain the eyes and energize the mind, making it more difficult to relax.
Instead, I strike a balance between busy and bland by adding contrast with light shades, dark muted colors, and lots of varying textures to create visual interest and a relaxing environment.
Open closets and storage solutions can quickly turn into clutter.
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Open-storage solutions have become more popular in recent years, but in my opinion, having items out on display can make a space look cluttered.
Creating a visually relaxing zone to wind down in can be challenging enough without having to worry about your sweaters being neatly lined up.
Instead, I prefer wardrobe solutions with solid doors and drawers so that my bedroom can feel streamlined and neat. The less visual clutter, the better.
Hardwood, poured-concrete, and tiled floors should never be left bare in the bedroom.
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Hardwood floors might be popular, but I'd consider installing wall-to-wall carpeting in the bedroom. Carpet dampens sound, adds insulation to a space, and is luxuriously cozy to walk on barefoot.
That said, permanent carpeting can be divisive among homeowners and renters, and tends to show wear and tear more quickly than hardwood flooring.
If wall-to-wall carpeting isn't for you, opt for the perfect balance by incorporating large area rugs into your bedroom. As a low-traffic area, the bedroom can be an excellent place for a high-pile, plush, or even shag carpet.
Nightstands without storage are a missed opportunity.
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Though minimalistic nightstands create a light, airy look in pictures, the inconvenience of not having a bedside storage solution will get old fast. As clutter piles up along the tabletops, your space will turn from chic to stressful.
I always choose a nightstand with at least one fully concealed drawer. And, for an extra touch of luxury, I opt for nightstands with built-in charging stations — so that I can tuck away my devices at night and avoid any lingering blue light.
Overhead lighting can overpower a room.
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Recessed lighting and large chandeliers will create a lot of light, but might not fit the relaxing vibe of the bedroom. Personally, I like to avoid overhead bulbs and focus on variety.
Incorporating built-in sconces and connecting bedside lamps or lighting accents to a wall switch are great ways to bring soft light into your bedroom.
If you love the look of a statement chandelier, incorporate a dimmer or smart-bulb setup to control your lighting.
The matching comforter and pillow trend isn't for me.
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Oftentimes, a comforter will come with two pillow shams or a collection of matching throw pillows to create a complete set. Though it may look coordinated, it doesn't give off the elevated look of a designer bedroom.
Instead, I like to choose standalone shams and throw pillows with the color palette of my comforter or bedroom.
I recommend creating variation by using solid sheets, textured throw pillows, and fabric patterns that go well together but don't make an exact match.
This story was originally published on August 10, 2023, and most recently updated on July 27, 2025.
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