Knowing the impact sleep can have on your overall health, may leave you with questions regarding your own sleep habits. Have you ever wondered whether your bedroom is conducive to a proper night’s sleep? If you have, you’re not alone. Many people are beginning to make significant changes to their bedrooms in order to promote the best sleep possible. Some of these changes may seem costly at first, however, we have compiled a list of tips you can use to create the ideal sleep space on a budget.

Remove Work From The Bedroom

One of the most effective and affordable things you can do to make your bedroom more comfortable for sleep is to remove work from your bedroom. If your work desk or computer is located in your bedroom, removing it can have positive effects on your sleep. A cluttered work desk is often associated with stress and anxiety. This can cause an overproduction of cortisol in your body. Too much cortisol in your system can make it difficult for you to relax. By removing all associations of work from your bedroom, you will ensure this space remains stress-free.

Adjust Lighting

Relaxing, stress-free activities are helpful when preparing for bed. However, if the light in your bedroom is too harsh, it can be difficult for you to relax. When reading or relaxing in bed, consider using lower watt lightbulbs that offer a more ambient and gentle light. A wattage of 45 to 50 is gentle enough to make the room feel tranquil, while still offering adequate light to read by. Low watt light bulbs are relatively low cost, ranging between 2 to 5 dollars. This small cost can make a big difference in the comfort of your sleep space.

You may also want to consider removing all electronic lights and screens from your bedroom. According to Mayo Clinic, the electronic screens of televisions and computers can disrupt your body’s ability to produce melatonin. Without melatonin, your body will have a difficult time relaxing and preparing for sleep. Removing these screens from your sleep space is a zero-cost solution that can have immediate effects.

Use Calming Colors

Certain colors are better at promoting relaxation than others. Pale blues, greens, lavenders, yellows, and beiges, can have a calming effect on your mind and body. Bright reds, oranges, and greens have a revitalizing effect and should be avoided. To help create a sleep space that is peaceful and serene, consider painting the walls of your bedroom a calming color.

A 1 gallon can of paint will range between 15 and 30 dollars and will cover around 400 square feet. Two gallons is typically needed to apply two coats to an average size bedroom. However, you can opt to paint one accent wall. Consider painting the wall directly across from your bed so the soothing color is most visible upon waking and preparing for bed. Opting to paint one wall will be less costly and will still give your bedroom the calming effect you’re looking for.

Soft Materials and Bedding

The bedding, pillows, and curtains you choose can also help to transform your sleep space. Consider choosing soft, natural materials, such as cotton and linen for sheets, pillows, and curtains. Fleece, wool, and flannel are perfect materials for throw blankets. Before spending money on new bedding, consider covering your current comforter with a duvet cover. Duvet covers range in price anywhere from 50 to 200 dollars depending on size.

Another option to cut down on cost is to make your own throw blankets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and curtains with fabric from your local craft store. Fabric can cost as low as 3 to 5 dollars a yard. Adjusting the bedding and fabrics in your bedroom is an easy and cost-effective way of creating a more tranquil space.

Adjusting Your Mattress

Sleeping on a mattress that provides adequate support is essential to a good night’s sleep. If your current mattress is causing you to wake up with pain or stiffness in your back, neck, or hips, it may be time to shop for a new mattress. However, purchasing a new mattress can be a big investment. If you are not ready to make this commitment, consider purchasing a comfortable mattress topper.

Mattress toppers are typically made of memory or latex foam that work to contour to the natural curves of your body. If your current mattress is too soft, a foam topper can provide more support and help correct spinal alignment. Many mattress toppers also feature gel foam, copper infusion, or ventilated fabrics that help to wick heat and moisture away from your body while you sleep. A topper can help to provide a cool and comfortable night’s sleep without the cost commitment of a new mattress. Mattress toppers can range between 50 and 300 dollars, depending on the size of your current mattress.

Making your bedroom more comfortable for sleep doesn’t have to be expensive. Using these tips can help you create the perfect sleep space without breaking your budget.