The verdict is still out on whether headboards are needed or not. However, one thing is clear: they can be pricey and certainly aren’t easy to swap out.
Headboard alternatives, then, offer a happy medium. They give the illusion of a headboard, but don’t actually attach to the bed frame. This makes it simple to replace as your style evolves, while still anchoring your bed.
Headboard alternatives also present more opportunities to get creative and customize your bedroom—whether you opt for lacy curtains draped on the wall, or a trellis decorated with leafy vines overhead. Curious about the different options?
Check out these 10 headboard alternatives from Amazon that work for any budget and style.
ChumDecor Fan Wall Decor
This oversized fan is the perfect shape to prop behind your bed, set at a roomy 48 by 40-inch surface area. The neutral tones and satisfying folds add a soothing, bohemian-style touch to any bedroom. It easily hangs up with one cord, so there’s not too much installation or labor required.
Plus, it’s made of bamboo sticks and cotton string crochet ensuring it maintains its structure over time.
Want more design inspiration? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest decor ideas, designer tips, and more!
YJ Yanjun Sheer Lace Curtains
Curtains are an easy way to add texture and flair to the bedroom—and they don’t have to go on your windowsill. Just drape them on the wall behind your bed, and it can look like a seamless backdrop.
This lacy pick has a delicate, airy look that elevates and softens a space all at once. Subtle floral motifs add further charm. To top it off, you can choose from 14 different sizes to customize it to your bed.
Beaded String Store Beaded Curtain 90 Strands
Beaded curtains, usually used for doorways, are another easy way to mimic a headboard. This pick is made with bamboo beads for an earthy look. There are small gaps between each beaded strings, which adds a breezy feel to the piece as well.
You can choose from several different motifs, like cherry blossoms and sunflowers, to match with your aesthetic. The cherry on top? There are two included hooks for easy installation.
Flber Macrame Wall Hanging
This beautiful macrame wall hanging features soothing neutral tones and an elegant drape. The ample surface area or nearly 60 by 35 inches means that it can anchor any bed size, whether it’s overhanging or centered.
The “espresso tie-dye”—as coined by the manufacturer—truly adds a rich, creamy look to any bedroom. The knotted ends top it off with an extra dose of character.
Cotton Craft Store Kamal Room Divider
Room dividers are a common DIY hack in lieu of a traditional headboard—as they can really look the part. This one, for instance, is crafted from wood in an intricate pattern of floral and tree motifs.
The chocolatey brown hue offers lots of depth, while the tiered tops make it feel refined and regal. You can use the divider fully opened up, or fold it part way to make it fit accordingly with your bed.
Uoisaiko Felt Hexagon Bulletin Board
Felt tiles have recently grown super popular on social media due to their versatility.
These hexagon (or honeycomb) shaped ones are easy to place in different patterns behind your bed—set at a reasonable price point, so you can buy multiple sets if you want to create a larger pattern.
The beauty of these felt tiles is that you can pin photos and decor onto them, so it’s easy to change up the style and personalize them as you like.
The tiles come in neutral colorways, as well as starry patterns which work great in kids’ rooms.
Iower Macrame Wall Hanging
A more classic macrame wall hanging, this one features elaborate weaves and knots. It’s the perfect way to soften a room, since it is made with plush cotton tassels.
Still, the complex design doesn’t overwhelm the senses, as it’s all set in neutral, creamy tones. The piece would work great in more minimalist or bohemian-style spaces.
Note that the hanging doesn’t come with a rod, so you’ll have to purchase that separately to install it.
Eletecpro 12×12 Picture Frames Set of 9
A gallery wall looks stunning in any room—especially above the bed when you don’t have a headboard. This set comes with nine 12×12 frames, so you can really get a clean, symmetrical look to frame your bed.
Picture frames are also great because you can always swap out the photos for more current ones, or images that better reflect your style at any point in time.
Art3d Wood Slay Acoustic Panels
Fluted wood is such a chic, timeless style that looks expensive—as it often requires a lot of labor to create. However, you can simply buy panels like these and install them yourself to get a similar look. The wood paneling adds so much more depth to a space than just a headboard.
Plus, these panels have acoustic noise-dampening capabilities, so you can get extra privacy in your bedroom. Line them against the bottom of your wall for a shorter “headboard” or stack them for a longer look.