The best pillows for a bed without a headboard: for those who love to sit up in bed

Looking for the best pillows for a bed without a headboard? I’ve got your back on this one.

As a serial flat renter throughout my twenties, I feel like I’ve seen so many headboards: the good, the bad and the unjust.

You wouldn’t think a headboard would arouse so many shocking memories, but when you’re renting furnished apartments you get what you’re given and what you’re given, well…it’s usually seen better days.

photo: @lindsey_isla

On several occasions, I removed the headboard completely and hid it behind the bed – it looked prettier, but it was at the expense of my back.

What to do with a bed that has no headboard?

There are some great pillows for a bed without a headboard out there so you don’t have to rely on propping up a million cushions in order to sit up and read a book. YouTube and TikTok are also full of great DIY headboard ideas if you’re feeling up to the task.

Do beds look ok without a headboard?

Beds can look really great without a headboard, especially if you’re into a really minimal aesthetic, but you’ll probably want something to lean on and protect the wall where your headboard should be; they can get marked and scratched easily.

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What is the alternative to a headboard?

There are a couple of alternative options for a bed without a headboard; you can paint the area where the headboard should be and make it a feature, you can attach a separate headboard to the wall or you can invest in support cushions which are the same length as the width of your bed.