Bedroom TV Ideas: How to Incorporate the TV Into Your Design

Binge-watching in bed? We’re all for it. Thanks for checking, Netflix, but yes, we’re still alive.

Get creative design ideas, learn how to mount a TV in the bedroom and more — you’ll find everything you need for binge-worthy comfort in this guide.

5 principles of a comfortable bedroom TV setup

1. Eye level: Mount the center of the screen 36–40 inches above the top of your mattress on a standard bed. For extra-thick mattresses or adjustable bases, raise the TV slightly and use a tilting mount to angle it downward.

2. Viewing distance: Ideally, sit 1.5–2.5 times the diagonal screen size away from the TV. For a 50-inch TV, that’s about 6–10 feet. In small bedrooms, consider smaller screens or ultra short throw projectors.

3. Ambient lighting: Soft, indirect lighting prevents eye strain. Bedside lamps, LED strips behind the TV or dimmable overhead lights work well. Avoid bright ceiling lights pointing directly at the screen.

4. Renter-friendly options: If you can’t drill, use a tension pole mount between the floor and ceiling or a furniture stand with an integrated mount. Adhesive strips can support small screens — just make sure to mind the weight limits.

5. Sleep hygiene: Experts recommend turning off all screens at least 30 minutes before sleeptime. Blue light filters or warm color modes can reduce sleep disruption.

Height & distance guidelines

How high up on the wall should you go? For standard beds, center the TV 36–40 inches above the mattress. Use a full-motion mount to adjust the angle for sitting up or lying down. Slightly tilt the screen downward to align with your gaze. If your bed has an especially thick mattress or comes with storage underneath, you may wish to position the TV 40–45 inches up. 

For the best viewing distance, multiply the screen size by 1.5 and use that for the minimum distance, and then test it out against your preferences from there. Sitting too close causes eye fatigue, while sitting too far makes details hard to see.

🤔 Tight on space?

In small rooms or lofts, a ceiling-mounted flip-down TV saves wall space. Lower it when viewing and retract it when not in use.

10 design hacks for integrating the TV in the bedroom

1. Above-dresser tilt mount: Secure a small TV on a mount above a chest of drawers, and then hide the cords behind the dresser with clips.

2. Corner swivel arm: Mount the TV on a pivoting arm in a corner. This is ideal for small rooms or shared spaces because it keeps the wall clear and allows multiple viewing angles.

3. Floating shelf integration: Install a floating shelf below the TV to hold a soundbar and decorations. Paint the shelf the same color as the wall, so it blends in. Use cable grommets to feed wires through.

4. Pop-up lift cabinet: Hide the TV in a bench or cabinet at the foot of the bed. With a remote control, the screen rises when needed. This is a higher-end option that preserves your décor and protects the TV.

5. Mirror-back mount: A custom mirror frame around the TV reflects the room and camouflages the screen when off. Choose a mirrored finish that complements your headboard or dresser.

6. Shiplap surround: Frame the TV with shiplap boards stained or painted to match your bedroom style. The texture adds warmth and anchors the TV visually.

7. Minimalist low-profile mount: A slim, fixed mount keeps the TV tight to the wall. This works well with modern or Zen-inspired bedrooms where simplicity is key.

8. Vintage credenza hybrid: Combine a vintage dresser with a top-mounted TV bracket. The dresser holds clothes and media, and the TV sits on top.

9. Canopy bed drape: Use fabric drapery to frame the TV, making it feel like part of a four-poster canopy bed. Choose sheer or textured fabric for softness.

10. Get a picture: Consider sketching your idea first or using design software to visualize everything.

Cable management

Neat cables contribute to a peaceful bedroom. Any of the following options can keep things tidy:

• Raceways: Self-adhesive raceways run along the wall or baseboard, hiding power and HDMI cables. Paint them to match the wall.

• In-wall kits: If drilling is permitted, run power and low-voltage cables behind the wall using an in-wall kit. Install a recessed outlet behind the TV and connect it to a power receptacle below.

• Cable sleeves: Bundle multiple cables in a fabric sleeve and route them neatly to your devices. Velcro ties keep cords coiled.

• Furniture concealment: Route cables behind the headboard or along the back of bedside tables. Secure them with clips to prevent tangles.

Mounting the bedroom TV in 6 steps

1. Plan: Measure the wall and bed height. Decide on the TV size and mount type. Mark the desired height and layout.

2. Locate studs or secure anchors: Use a stud finder to locate wall studs. If none are in the right place, use toggle bolts or a tension pole mount.

3. Attach the mount: Drill pilot holes and install the mount according to its instructions. Use a level to ensure it’s straight. 

4. Mount the TV: Attach the mounting plate to the TV. Hang it on the bracket and tighten screws. Adjust the tilt or swivel.

5. Hide cables: Use raceways or in-wall kits to conceal cords. If you’re drilling, install low-voltage brackets and fish cables through the wall.

6. Add the finishing touches: Surround the TV with art, shelves or plants. 

Sleep and wellness considerations

Watching TV before bed can disrupt sleep. Set a bedtime routine that includes turning off the TV 30 minutes before you want to fall asleep. Of course, keep the volume low and choose calming content to wind down. 

Finally, enable night mode or the blue light filters on your TV when watching before bed.

Get the perfect TV mount for your bedroom

Our pull-down TV mounts may be the bedroom solution you’re looking for. With MantelMount, you can effortlessly lower your TV to eye level, suspend it in front of you while you’re snug in bed, and swivel it left or right for the perfect viewing angle. Create a superior TV-watching experience every time.