Teen bedroom ideas: Easy, affordable upgrades

2022-07-02 09:43:00 By : Mr. Jason Lee

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Teenagers spend a lot of time in their rooms, so it’s important that their bedrooms reflect their current taste. However, they’re also constantly reinventing themselves, and they like to follow trends, which can mean that they’re often asking to change the design of their teenage bedroom. If you’re looking for some teenage bedroom ideas that won’t break the bank while also indulging their desire for a cool bedroom, we’ve found some easy and affordable ways to update their room decor. 

Whether it’s a small bedroom or a large one, skip shelling out big bucks on expensive decor, and try out some of these inexpensive teen bedroom ideas instead. 

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Painting is messy and expensive, and what if your kid’s favorite color scheme is black? That’s quite a statement and could look amazing—or not. Peel-and-stick wall decor to the rescue. If the thought of peel-and-stick wallpaper reminds you of contact paper, let me tell you, it’s come a long way. 

When I redesigned my office, one of the best things I did was to create a gold accent wall. I didn’t have to hire someone to hang wallpaper, it was completed in under an hour, and when I tire of it, all I have to do is peel it off. 

►Related: 12 thoughtful—and practical—gifts for new drivers

Black wood peel-and-stick wallpaper changes the entire aesthetic of a room. Faux wood planks add a vintage vibe, and a simple black and white herringbone design adds sophistication.

It depends on the size of the room, but most reviewers claim that just two to three wallpaper rolls will cover an accent wall. If you have Amazon Prime, your teenager can have a whole new bedroom design by the weekend. 

Another way to add a pop of style to your teen’s room is with acrylic mirrored wall stickers. Available in either gold or silver, they can stick on walls, furniture, doors or just about anywhere. 

This set comes with 24 individual pieces which should be adequate for most projects. Best of all, if they want to remove the mirrors or place them somewhere else, they can easily do so with no damage to the wall.

Get a set of 24 Acrylic Mirror Wall Stickers Greek Key Pattern on Amazon for $9.99 

Umbra products are great because they combine style with functionality. This photo collage holder measures 30 inches across, has five rows, and comes with 40 wooden clips. Whether your teen hangs photos of their friends, displays artwork or ticket stubs, this easily enables them to share their favorite moments in a cool way. 

There’s also an option that includes fairy lights to make their room feel extra cozy. 

These battery-operated white plastic marquee letters hang on a wall or stand upright. Choose the first letter of your child’s name, initials or spell out a word that's meaningful to them. Each letter measures almost 9 inches tall. Have two kids sharing a room? Get them each their own set of letters to define their personal spaces.  

For a trendier look, opt for a rattan letter. They’re available in sizes from 5 inches to 12 inches. Otherwise known as cane webbing, this is a great option for teen girls or boys who love the modern farmhouse aesthetic. 

Another room idea similar to the marquee letters, a cinema lightbox can add personality to your teenager’s room as well. Available in several sizes—mini, medium, or large—this magnetic lightbox comes with 190 letters and symbols including emojis. Use the remote control to switch to any of its ten colors. 

Just be warned: You’ll need to purchase batteries or a USB plug separately. 

Get the Cinema Light Box on Amazon for $19.99 

These days, no teen’s room is complete without neon lights. A lightning bolt screams teen angst, comes in four colors, and will make their room pop. It measures 14 inches tall, and you can use it with batteries or the included USB connection. 

There are also plenty of other neon sign options available in different bright colors, including a scribbled “love” sign available in two unique handwriting styles, plus hearts, clouds, and planets. Combine a few of them to create a unique space.

Attach LED lights under your teen’s bed, around their windows, on their shelves, and anywhere else their imagination leads them. The LED strips not only change colors with the touch of a remote but also automatically sync to the beat of the music. 

They claim you can choose from 16 million color choices, which means they’ll match any color palette, and there should be enough options to satisfy any teen’s finicky tastes.

Get the Govee Color Changing LED Striplights on Amazon for $15.29 

Not only do most teenagers spend their days attached to their phones, but they also keep them nearby while they sleep. This highly-rated bedside shelf sticks to the wall in seconds, giving them a place to store not only their phones but their iPads, remotes, and other necessities. It’s especially ideal for kids with bunk beds who want to store their devices and other personal items separately. 

Get the Easy Eco Life Bedside Shelf on Amazon for $13.99 

A lap desk is a great choice if your kid likes to do their homework in bed. This one comes in lots of fun colors, and it fits a 13-inch laptop or iPad. It includes a carrying handle and cushioned bottom. 

UGG poufs are all the rage among both adults and teens, and can be used to prop up an iPad or Kindle while reading in bed. 

Art prints that you can download are an easy (and quick) way to change the look of a teenager’s room. Plus, at a cost of just a few dollars each, you can create an entire framed gallery wall for your teenager without spending a fortune. Whether your teenager wants something snarky or a classic art print to add a pop of color, there are plenty to choose from on Etsy. 

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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.