My Favorite Dorm Room Headboard Ideas For College Freshmen

This post is all about the best dorm room headboard ideas for a college dorm room! Start out freshman year strong with a gooood lookin' dorm room headboard.

Heading off to college is such an exciting time, full of new adventures and finding your best friends. But let's be real—making that dorm room feel cozy is a top priority for freshman year! Dorms aren't exactly known for their spaciousness, but that just means it's time to get creative with decor! One of the coolest and easiest ways to spice up your dorm room 2024 is by adding a dorm room headboard. A twin dorm room headboard can really pull a space together and make your bed feel less like a dorm bed and more like home.

If you’re anything like me, you’ve definitely started researching dorm room essentials and dorm decor to be ultra prepared for your first year of college. There’s a lot that goes into putting together a cozy and organized dorm room. I’ve created many dorm room checklists that will set you up for a successful life in the dorms, but decor is what will make your space comfy and cute. A lot of dorm decor can also be weirdly expensive... With that in mind, I’ve spent hours and hours of my time finding all of the resources and products (specifically headboards) that will make your dorm functional and trendy (while on a budget).

I don’t necessarily think you *need* a dorm room headboard. But, if you want to take your dorm to the next level, this is the absolute perfect way to do it. Dorm room headboards have the ability to look cute and also be functional (like a dorm room headboard with outlet). This is why it can be the perfect addition to any dorm room! You’ll walk away from this post knowing exactly what you want!

You can find ALL the links to my Dorm Room Headboards here!

Dorm Room Headboard DIY

Easy DIY Headboard Projects

If you’re a creative person, you might have a lot of fun making your own dorm room headboard! Creating a DIY headboard doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, going a simple route is probably going to be best. One easy idea is to use a large piece of plywood or foam board as your base. Cover it with fabric that matches your room's color scheme or style. Then you’ll just simply wrap the fabric around the board and secure it at the back with a staple gun or strong adhesive. This DIY method not only makes your headboard look expensive but also allows for easy customization with different fabrics or patterns.

Another easy DIY project uses removable wall stickers to create a headboard design directly on the wall behind your bed. This option is perfect for people on a budget and who might not be that creative. It takes very little effort and money, but will still look so good!

Budget-Friendly & Easily Accessible Materials

When it comes to DIY projects on a college budget, keeping things cheap is always my #1 priority!

• One easy and cheap material to come across is cardboard (believe it or not). Cardboard is lightweight and inexpensive, making it perfect for something you’re only going to use for a year or two. Otherwise, consider using foam boards, which are available at most hardware stores and can be easily cut to whatever size you need.
• Old fabric from thrift stores or used sheets can also be reused for stylish headboard covers! This method allows you to get super creative and make a headboard that can really add to your dorm aesthetic. It’s also the cheapest option there is so, of course, we love it!

Ideas for Non-Permanent Headboard Solutions

For freshmen who want to avoid damaging any walls, portable headboard solutions might be right up your alley.

• Folding screens or room dividers as headboards: It would be super cute to use a folding screen or room divider as a headboard. Screens can be easily moved and adjusted to fit different bed sizes, making them great options for shared or small dorm rooms.
• Create a tapestry headboard using Command Hooks or rods: Tapestries can be easily draped over a curtain rod mounted above your bed. You can easily put up the rod with Command Hooks to avoid damaging walls. This is a great way to incorporate a tapestry as wall decor and also make it functional!

Tips for Using Command Hooks

• Bring rubbing alcohol and clean the wall with it before applying the hook!
• Make sure you are triple checking the size and weight for the command hook you want to use (otherwise it won't work)
• Wait one hour after sticking before hanging anything... for real. Even when you don't want to!

Functional Headboards & How to Attach a Headboard to Dorm Bed

How to Organize Books, Dorm Decor & Essentials

If you already have a dorm headboard with shelves, you may be looking for ways to organize it and make it look cute in your dorm room. I always think things like books, small pieces of decor, and some daily essentials are the best things to put on your dorm bed headboard shelf.

Essentials:

1. Daily items: Keep everyday items like glasses, chargers, or your water bottle on the top shelf.
2. School supplies: Use small bins or organizers for pens, notebooks, and other study supplies.
3. Electronics: Add electronics like an alarm clock or a small lamp for convenience purposes.

Dorm Headboard with Outlet

Next up is headboards with built-in outlets. These are designed for modern dorm living and are so handy! They give the ability to be able to charge your phone right from your bed. They also reduce the clutter of extra extension cords and save space throughout the rest of your room.

Safety Tips for Using Electrical Components

• Avoid Overloading Outlets: Don’t plug too many devices into the same outlet! Only use devices that are supposed to be used in the headboard. For instance, you may not be able to plug your Dyson into it!
• Regular Inspection: Check outlets and cords here and there to make sure nothing is damaged. Also make sure that the headboard’s outlet is properly installed and that it’s safe to use in a dorm room.
• Keep Away from Water: Be careful that outlets and cords are kept dry and away from water. Avoid placing drinks or water bottles near the headboard outlet!

Dorm Style Bedroom Ideas

White Dorm Headboard

Matching White Headboards with Room Decor

• Pair a white headboard with pastel or bright colored bedding for the cutest color contrast.
• Add texture with comfy throw pillows, blankets, and a cozy duvet.
• Hang wall art or framed photos above the headboard
• Use matching nightstands and lamps to complete the look.

More ideas with white headboards:

• Attach fairy lights or LED strips around the headboard for a second lighting option. Dorm room lighting can be SUPER harsh so I always suggest other lighting options to make your room feel cozier.
• Use clip-on reading lights that can be attached to the headboard for reading in bed or doing homework.

Where to Buy Headboards

Target Dorm Headboards, Dorm Headboards Amazon & More

Target has a wide range of dorm headboards! You can find anything from simple headboards to headboards with storage from Target. It's known for having pretty decent quality products at a much cheaper price than lots of other stores and they offer super easy in-store pickup or delivery options.

^^ Best Target headboards → click here to view all the headboards above!

Amazon has millions of options for so many products, and the selection of dorm room headboards is huge. They almost always offer extensive customer reviews and ratings to help you make your decision. They also have super fast shipping and it's even easier to return things you don't need.

^^ Best Amazon headboards → click here to view all the headboards above!

Etsy Dorm Headboards

Etsy is the perfect platform for finding unique, handmade dorm headboards, and anything else from any small business you could think of. Independent sellers often offer custom designs and materials that aren’t available from mainstream retailers. If you're looking for something super unique, Etsy is the right place to look.

Benefits of shopping on Etsy: 

1. Uniqueness: Each piece is often handmade and unique, which will really make your dorm decor stand out.
2. Customization: Many sellers offer customization options, which allows you to choose exactly what you want your headboard to look like.
3. Quality: Almost everything on Etsy is made with such high quality material and care.
4. Sustainability: Many Etsy sellers are super small businesses which focus on sustainable practices and materials!

Cons of shopping on Etsy:

1. Price: Items on Etsy can be more expensive than similar options from places like Target or Amazon. They're expensive because they're higher quality and one-of-a-kind, so you’re getting a lot more for the price you’re paying.
2. Shipping times: Custom or handmade items will definitely take longer to make and ship than other places. So if you're on a tight schedule, I wouldn't suggest this!
3. Return policies: Return policies can vary significantly between sellers, and some items may be non-refundable. If this isn’t an issue for you, then head on over to Etsy!

^^ Best Etsy headboards → click here to view all the headboards above!

Headboards, Wall Decor & More

Additional Decor Tips: Wall Art, Curtains & More

Wall art and curtains play crucial roles in enhancing the overall aesthetic of your dorm room, especially when paired with a stylish headboard.

Wall art:

• Best selection: Dormify is one place that offers a variety of wall decor options, from cute posters and prints to trendy tapestries and artwork.
• Themes: Choose artwork that complements the style and color scheme of your headboard and bedding. For example, if you have a white headboard, try finding artwork that complements or matches the white.
• How to arrange: Create a gallery wall using a mix of frame or print sizes and shapes to add visual interest and personality to your room.

Tip: Use Command strips or hooks to hang wall decor without damaging walls! (This is essential in dorms where you can’t put holes in the walls)

Curtains:

• Best style: Pottery Barn is a more expensive option that offers a range of dorm room curtains. This includes blackout options for better sleep in the dorms and decorative curtains to add to the room’s aesthetic. Blackout curtains were a MUST for me while living in the dorms!
• How to match: Get curtains that complement or contrast with your headboard to create a cohesive look. For example, if your headboard is a solid color, consider neutral, patterned curtains.
• Functionality: Curtains not only add style but also provide privacy and control the light that comes in the dorm.
• How to install: Use tension rods or removable hooks to hang curtains easily and avoid causing damage to walls.

Create a Cohesive Space

1. How to coordinate colors: Coordinate wall art and curtains with your bedding and other fun decor items to create a cohesive color scheme and room overall.
2. How to add textures and colors for cohesiveness: Also mix textures such as fuzzy blankets, framed prints, and textured curtains to add depth and personality to your dorm room.
3. How to balance decor: Don't try and fit too many statement and decorative pieces into your space. For example, if you have bold wall art, I'd suggest finding more simple curtains, and vice versa.

Removable Wallpaper

Removable wallpaper is a genius way to personalize your dorm room without the commitment of actual wallpaper. (Real wallpaper is also not allowed in most dorm rooms lol). There are so many cute removable wallpaper options out there that are so easy to use to personalize your dorm walls.

How to Choose Patterns & Apply Wallpaper

• Choosing patterns: Consider the size of your room and the decor you plan to put in it. Don't get any wallpaper with crazy patterns if your dorm is super small. This will overwhelm the space and make it feel even smaller than it is.
• Choosing a color scheme: Choose colors that complement your headboard, wall decor, or curtains you plan to use in your room.
• Personalizing your space:
  • Make a feature wall: Use removable wallpaper to create a feature wall behind your headboard for a more dramatic effect.
  • Temporary updates: Change up your dorm decor throughout the year by switching out removable wallpaper designs.
  • Experiment with different wallpapers: Have fun experimenting with different patterns and colors to express your personality and style.

Application tips:

1. Prepare the surface: Make sure the wall is clean and dry before applying wallpaper.
2. Measure carefully: Measure and cut the wallpaper according to your wall dimensions.
3. Apply wallpaper smoothly: Use a squeegee, credit card, or a clean cloth to smooth out air bubbles during application.
4. How to remove: When it’s time to remove the wallpaper, gently peel it off starting from one corner. Use a hairdryer on low heat to soften the adhesive if needed, and avoid pulling too hard to prevent wall damage. That's the last thing you need when moving out of a dorm room!