Guests might book your vacation rental for the location, but it's the bedroom that shapes how rested and relaxed they feel during their stay. And while they may not expect five-star luxury, they certainly expect better than a basic hotel room. If you're serious about hosting, it's worth going the extra mile to make your bedrooms feel like a retreat—quiet, cozy, and functional. Here's how to furnish and set up every bedroom in your short-term rental to help your guests enjoy a truly good night's sleep.
1. Start With the Bed
First, focus on the bed size and quality. Where space allows, go for king beds in the primary bedroom or master suite. Guests appreciate having ample space to stretch out, especially couples or parents sharing with a child. Queen beds are a solid second choice, while twin beds are great for kids' rooms or flexible arrangements.
Choose a comfortable mattress, not the cheapest you can find. And don't forget mattress and pillow protectors to keep everything clean, hygienic, and long-lasting. They're a simple investment that reduces wear and tear and protects against spills, dust mites, and sweat.
2. Use Quality Bedding
Quality bedding doesn't have to be luxury-grade, but it should feel soft, breathable, and fresh. Cotton sheets with a decent thread count are a safe bet. Add a few duvet covers that are easy to wash and change between bookings.
Depending on your climate, consider having both lightweight and warmer options available. For visual appeal, layer with decorative pillows and a throw blanket to make the bed feel inviting, but don't go overboard. Guests need to use the bed, not unstack a mountain of cushions every night.
3. Add Function to the Comfort
Every bedroom needs a basic function. At the very least, include bedside tables on both sides if space allows. Add reading lamps, charging stations, and outlets nearby. A luggage rack or bench at the end of the bed is a small touch that makes a big difference.
If your space is a small bedroom, opt for furniture with storage, wall-mounted lamps, and neutral decor to avoid clutter. You want the room to feel calm and easy to navigate, not crammed with mismatched furniture.
4. Maximize Light and Control It
Natural light is great, but blackout curtains are a must. Your guests are likely adjusting to a new time zone or just need to sleep in after a travel day. Give them the option to control the room's brightness. Pair blackout liners with sheer curtains for flexibility and better aesthetics.
Don't forget overhead lighting and dimmable bedside options for a more comfortable nighttime setup. A mix of lighting—soft bedside lamps, reading lights, and adjustable ceiling fixtures—lets guests set the mood. In a small bedroom, good lighting can also make the space feel larger and more inviting.
5. Create a Focal Point in Each Room
The bed is usually the focal point of any bedroom. Frame it with matching lamps or art above the headboard. If your vacation home has a theme (like a beach house, farmhouse, or city loft), bring that style into the bedroom subtly through colors, materials, or accents. Think calm palettes, natural textures, and light design touches.
Avoid turning it into a themed room. You want it to feel thoughtfully styled, not overly curated. Choose a few standout pieces, such as a unique headboard, a bold print, or textured throw pillows, that add personality without overwhelming the space. This balance helps your Airbnb bedroom look polished and welcoming.
6. Provide Options for Different Types of Guests
A family traveling with kids? A couple on a romantic getaway? A solo remote worker? The best bedrooms are versatile. Offer flexible sleeping arrangements whenever possible. A room with two twin beds that can convert to a king bed is a smart way to host different types of groups.
For the master bedroom, aim for comfort and a bit of luxury—extra pillows, robes, or even a small seating area if space allows. Guests booking premium listings often expect more than just a bed.
7. Don't Forget Storage and Function
Guests expect somewhere to unpack, even if they're only staying a few nights. Provide drawers or at least hanging space with hangers. If there's no closet, add a wardrobe or open rack. And always include a mirror, preferably full-length.
In high-traffic bedrooms, like those in Airbnb rentals, keep surfaces clear and avoid delicate or overly personal decor. Neutral, functional, and sturdy is the goal.
8. Add Comfort to Every Age Group
Make sure your setup works for all age groups. For elderly guests, consider the height of the bed—it should be easy to get in and out of. Avoid slippery rugs or complex light switches. Nightlights or motion-sensor lighting can help during nighttime bathroom trips.
For kids, a fun touch, such as a stuffed animal or a set of books, in a small bedroom can go a long way. Keep outlets covered, cords hidden, and furniture secure.
9. Bring in Personality Without the Clutter
A vacation rental bedroom shouldn't feel like someone else's house. But it also shouldn't feel cold or impersonal. Small touches—framed art, a local guidebook on the bedside table, or a welcome note—can add warmth without cluttering the space.
If you want to go further, add something unique to the master suite, like a soaking tub, a balcony view, or a small writing desk. These extras can elevate the stay and get you more positive reviews.
Final Touches That Make a Difference
The goal isn't to replicate a hotel room, but to create a bedroom that feels restful, welcoming, and superior to what they have at home. And when your bedrooms are more than just a place to sleep, guests are more likely to leave glowing reviews and come back for more.
Hosting on Houfy? Make your vacation home stand out by offering the kind of comfort travelers expect, and rarely forget. On Houfy, you connect directly with guests, skip unnecessary fees, and show off every room the way you intended. Better bedrooms lead to better bookings. And Houfy makes it easier to get there.
