What do you put behind a bed headboard?
Daniel Rodriguez
Published Feb 09, 2026
What do you put behind a bed headboard?
To help you get inspired, here are 24 decor ideas for the wall space above your bed!
- Lighting.
- Tapestry.
- Hanging Plant.
- Picture Ledge.
- Basket Wall.
- String lights and Unframed Art.
- Tall Plant.
- Decorative Headboard.
How can I improve my headboard?
- Plastic or wooden bed risers can be used for raising a headboard.
- You can also use extension brackets to raise the height of a headboard.
- Some beds have relatively tall headboards that might not match the overall design of your bedroom.
- A simple bolster pillow makes this tall headboard seem like it’s the right height.
Is it OK to have no headboard?
A headboard is an optional part of your bed, so it’s completely fine to go without. Most people today consider headboards a decorative piece of furniture, even though there are other uses for them.
How can I make my bed look good without a frame?
Hanging a quilt, painting or even a striking throw rug on the wall above your bed for a punch of color makes it easy to forget your bed lacks a frame. If space allows, create a reading corner with a comfy chair, side table and lamp, or relax on a love seat or fainting couch placed at the foot of your bed.
What can I put behind my headboard to stop hitting the wall?
Polyester padding, foam, or egg crate mattress toppers make great batting fabrics. Drape the padding over the headboard and cut it to match its size. Attach the padding to the back of the headboard, using a spray adhesive. Or simply attach a protector like this one to protect both the headboard and the wall.
Can I just lean my headboard against the wall?
Depending on the style of the headboard, you might be able to simply lean it against the wall and push the bed forward to hold it in place. Many designers swear by this option, especially when they are staging a room for sale and don’t intend on the piece to be permanent for a long time.
How do you make it look like you have a headboard?
There are a number of ways to “fake” a headboard with other materials.
- Paint. A painted headboard is among the easiest solutions for getting the look of a headboard without physically attaching one.
- Wallpaper. Similar to painting, you can use a piece of wallpaper to create the look of a headboard.
- Curtains.
- Pillows.