There’s nothing more liberating than moving out of your dorm room and into an apartment. Whether or not it’s your first apartment, furnishing your room is an exciting process that should reflect your identity and your entry into a new, exciting stage of life. Since a mattress is arguably the most important piece of furniture in a bedroom, finding the best mattress for college apartments should be a top priority.
Let's explore actionable tips for furnishing a post-graduation bedroom on a budget.
Tips For Furnishing Your First Bedroom On A Budget
Budgeting doesn’t mean settling. It’s entirely possible to create your dream bedroom within strict cost constraints.
Here’s how to buy furniture without breaking the bank:
1. Set a Budget Ceiling and Stick to It.
Before you start shopping, take time to review your finances and set a clear budget for your bedroom furnishings. Factor in other living expenses like rent, groceries, and transportation, so you know exactly how much you can afford to spend without straining your post-college wallet. Once you’ve set your budget, stick to it. This will help you avoid impulse buys and focus only on affordable, essential items.
2. Shop Affordably.
Stretch your dollars by keeping an eye out for back-to-school, clearance, and seasonal sales — especially around major holidays. Many retailers offer deep discounts on bedroom essentials like bed frames, dressers, and bedding during these times. Don’t overlook online marketplaces or discount stores either; with a little patience, you can score stylish, high-quality items without going over budget.
3. Differentiate between Needs and Wants.
It’s good to dream big, but being practical is the smarter choice when it comes to shopping on a budget. Write down a list of items you absolutely need — a mattress, a dresser, a table, a chair, etc. Then, write down a list of items you want, but could live without. For example, a couch, a bookcase, a bench, an ottoman, etc. Only pull out your list of wants if you have money to spare after your uncompromising list of needs have been met.
4. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity.
Budgeting doesn’t equate to sacrificing quality. Thoroughly examine your furniture before making a purchase. Is it made of nice material? Is the brand reputable? What’s the return policy? In most cases, it’s better to have a few high-quality items rather than many low-quality items with a short lifespan.
5. Repurpose Old Furniture.
Salvage what you can! It’s easy to want an entirely new bedroom when you’re entering a new phase of life, but consider taking old pieces and making them new again. Paint your dresser a new color or polish off that table you’ve had since childhood. Don’t break the bank buying brand new furniture when what you have right in front of you is perfectly usable.
What Should I Look for in a Post-College Mattress?
Choosing the right mattress after college is about balancing comfort, quality, and cost. You may no longer want to crash on a hand-me-down or that futon from freshman year, but you also don’t need to splurge on something out of your budget. A smart pick can help improve sleep, support your body, and last well into your late 20s.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping, post-college, for a new mattress:
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Supportive Construction: Look for a mattress that supports your back and joints to reduce aches and improve sleep posture.
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Budget-Friendly Options: Seek high-quality mattresses under $600, especially bed-in-a-box brands that often run sales and promotions.
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Medium-Firm Feel: A medium-firm mattress is a versatile choice that works well for most sleep positions.
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Trial Period and Warranty: Prioritize brands that offer a sleep trial and warranty—these policies give you peace of mind if the mattress doesn’t work out.
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Certifications for Materials: Check for CertiPUR-US® or other certifications to ensure you’re not sleeping on harmful chemicals.
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Size That Fits Your Space: A full or queen-size mattress usually offers a good balance of comfort and roominess without overwhelming a small apartment.
Good edge support is another important priority when furnishing a bedroom on a college budget. A mattress with strong edges won’t sag or lose shape over time, making it feel sturdier and more durable. This feature is especially useful in studio apartments or compact bedrooms where every inch counts.
Do I Need A Mattress Topper For College?
A mattress topper is the icing on the cake. While you don’t need a mattress topper for college, especially if you’re no longer a freshman sleeping in a dorm, it adds a plush layer of padding, comfort, and mattress protection that is worth the investment. Regardless of the bed, mattress toppers are extremely popular in the college sphere and can make your sleeping experience that much more enjoyable.
Spend Less and Get More for Your Post-Graduation Bedroom
College is expensive. After graduation, many students are still wrestling with lingering costs: tuition, meal plans, textbooks, and other items rolled into student debt.
Here's the good news: purchasing a mattress that fits your bedroom and your budget isn't the headache it used to be.
Mattress Warehouse can help you turn your new bedroom into a true place of rest. Our bedMATCH® system takes the guesswork out of mattress shopping by using real sleep data to match you with the right support for your body and sleep style. Visit your local Mattress Warehouse to try bedMATCH in person, or take our quick online quiz to find your perfect mattress from the comfort of home.