Bring Romance Back to the Bedroom - 10 Simple Steps

A bedroom that appeals to all five senses provides the perfect setting for romance. Here are 10 ways to boost your boudoir’s love quotient.

1. Cozy Comes First
Of course the centerpiece of the bedroom - the bed itself - is also central to the romantic atmosphere and should be irresistible. Sheets can provide a touch of luxury, and the higher the thread count, the better the quality. Choose a set with a thread count of 180 or higher.

2. Spin the Color Wheel
Color goes far in establishing a room’s tone, so keep that in mind while choosing your bedding. Want to go beyond the bedding? Set aside a few days to paint the walls. Use a warm color that complements the room’s lighting. You could go with a simpler switch instead. A change of curtains and a patterned bed throw can do the trick.

3. Layering It On
Differing shades of the same color and layers of varying textures add to the romantic flair. Pair satin sheets with a microplush throw, an inexpensive indulgence.

4. Pillow Talk
Wish your bed felt more like a cloud? Add several plush pillows to the bed. Add variety by layering pillows of different sizes that fit your sleeping preferences. For aging mattresses and those that are too firm, a mattress pad can offer more comfort and added support.

5. Seasons Change
We change our clothes according to season, so why wouldn’t we do the same for our bedroom décor? A rich aroma, like cinnamon, might be suitable for winter, but spring calls for lighter scents. The same goes for color. Deep tones offer a sense of warmth during the colder months, but when April comes along, you may want to consider switching to a pastel.

6. The Nose Knows
You can add a personal romantic touch to your bedroom by choosing scents that appeal to you. An easy way to get this effect is through essential-oil-infused candles or oil diffusers. You may find flowers particularly romantic, for example. Placing scented sachets of rosemary and lavender in your closets and drawers can be a nice touch. You can also wash your sheets in a homemade lavendar bath to bring the aroma into your bed. Follow these easy instructions: Start with a small muslin pouch filled with lavendar flowers. Boil three cups of water. Drop the lavendar packet into the water. For 15 minutes, simmer the mixture in a covered saucepan. Finally, when the washer is on its rinse cycle, add the solution.

7. Lighting the Way
Bedroom lighting should be soft and muted, not harsh and fluorescent. For the lamp on your nightstand, choose a bulb with 40 watts or fewer, or pick those with a pink hue. For your most special occasions, you can’t beat candles for stoking the romantic flame. Don’t forget to blow out the candles before you fall asleep!

8. A Little Night Music
You don’t need to have a top-of-the-line stereo system in your bedroom to enjoy music there. A small CD player supplied with a few of your favorite albums will suffice. Do you live on a busy - and noisy - street? Thick curtains will keep out sounds from below. Window treatments with deep, rich colors made from unique fabrics contribute to the room’s décor as well. Turn off the TV! In fact, just put it in another room entirely so there’s nothing that takes your attention away from your partner.

9. Small Touches, Big Romance
You’ll want to add some items that are undeniably your very own. Favorite photos, knickknacks, and luxurious robes will work. Try some of these suggestions and include some touches that have a unique appeal to you.

10. Joint Effort
Use this redecorating opportunity to learn what expresses your partner’s take on romance and incorporate touches that tempt both of you. If you get it right, you’ll never want to leave the bedroom at all!

Wood Beds
Add to the romance of your bedroom by adding elegant American made solid wood furniture.