The 16 Best Headboards

A new headboard is one of the quickest ways to completely change the feel of a bedroom. I learned this firsthand when we turned our junk room into a proper guest room. The bed just looked like it was floating against the wall until I found a simple upholstered headboard, and suddenly, the whole space felt finished and intentional.

It’s an upgrade that doesn’t require a ton of money or a whole weekend of work. You can go from a bare wall to a cozy, stylish focal point in less than an hour. So, if you’re looking to buy a headboard, I’ve put together a list of some of the best ones I’ve come across for different styles and budgets.

 

 

Our Favorite Headboards for 2026

Scott Living Heritage Upholstered Headboard with Nail Head Design – Spa

The Scott Living Heritage headboard comes in at $449. It has this really calming, spa-like blue color that just makes you want to relax. I think it looks way more expensive than it is.

The delicate upholstery and the line of nail heads give it a sophisticated vibe without being stuffy. Those little details, like the dark wooden legs, create a nice contrast that really makes it pop against a light-colored wall.

The Downside: You’ll want to double-check that it works with your specific bed frame, as some upholstered headboards can be picky about attachments.

 

 

Modway Solana Arched Velvet Headboard

For just $177, the Modway Solana makes a huge statement. We actually got the green one for my daughter’s room, and it became the instant focal point. The velvet is super soft, and the layered arch design is really unique.

It’s not for someone who wants a subtle look. This headboard is meant to be seen. It’s perfect if you’re trying to add some drama or a bold splash of color to an otherwise simple room.

The Downside: Because it’s such a statement piece, it doesn’t blend into the background. It really dictates the style of the room.

 

 

Zinus Jessica Modern Studio Headboard

At $150, the Zinus Jessica is a fantastic value. It’s got a simple, modern look that honestly works with just about any decor style you can think of. It doesn’t scream for attention, which is sometimes exactly what you need.

I appreciate how easy this one is to put together. It’s a great choice for a guest room or a first apartment because it’s affordable, sturdy, and looks clean and put-together without any fuss.

The Downside: The design is pretty basic, so if you’re looking for luxury details like deep tufting or nail heads, this isn’t it.

 

 

Modway Lily Tufted Headboard

The Modway Lily is priced around $200 and it’s perfect for people like me who love to read or watch TV in bed. The padding is really plush and comfortable to lean against. It’s a huge step up from a stack of pillows against a cold wall.

It has that timeless, tufted linen look but with clean lines that keep it from feeling old-fashioned. It strikes a nice balance between classic and modern, so it fits in a lot of different bedrooms.

The Downside: The color selection isn’t huge, so you’re a bit limited if you’re trying to match a very specific color scheme.

 

 

LUCID Mid-Rise Upholstered Headboard

You can get that fancy hotel look for about $140 with this headboard from LUCID. The square tufting gives it a really clean, high-end feel. It’s a simple design, but it looks polished and intentional.

I like that it comes with multiple mounting options, so you have some flexibility with your bed frame. Plus, a good warranty always gives me a little extra peace of mind when I buy furniture online.

The Downside: It’s a “mid-rise” headboard, so if you have a really thick mattress or a tall bed base, it might look a little short.

 

 

Noah Headboard

The Noah Headboard, at $329, is just plain fun. The wavy top edge and striped fabric give it a playful personality that you don’t see every day. It’s a great way to add some character to a master or guest bedroom.

It uses French Cleat hardware for installation, which is a system I love. It makes hanging heavy things on the wall so much easier and more secure than trying to hit studs with a bunch of individual screws.

The Downside: The pattern is definitely a choice. If your style is more minimalist or traditional, this might be a little too loud.

 

 

Alcott Hill Laperle Upholstered Headboard

For $376, the Alcott Hill Laperle feels like leaning back on a cloud. It’s so soft and has really deep, cushioned tufting. The arched top is perfect for propping yourself up with a good book.

This is the kind of headboard that makes a bedroom feel like a cozy retreat. The cream color is neutral and elegant, creating a very serene atmosphere. It’s a classic for a reason.

The Downside: The beautiful light cream color is also its biggest weakness. It will show every smudge and bit of dirt, so it might not be the best pick for a kid’s room.

 

 

Modway Collins Upholstered Headboard

I love the look of this Modway Collins headboard, and at $100, it’s a steal. It combines the softness of tufted upholstery with a warm, walnut-finished wood frame. It’s a perfect fit if you’re a fan of mid-century modern style.

It feels really sturdy and has more padding than you’d expect for the price. It’s a popular choice because it brings in different textures—wood and fabric—which always makes a room more interesting.

The Downside: This is a best-seller for a reason, but it does require some assembly. It’s not hard, but it’s not ready right out of the box.

 

 

OKA Sheki Headboard

Okay, at $1,195, the OKA Sheki headboard is definitely a splurge. But the pattern is absolutely gorgeous. It’s an eclectic print that has these warm pops of rusty red and yellow that feel so inviting.

Even with the detailed pattern, the overall base color is neutral enough that it would work with a lot of different paint colors and bedding. This is the kind of piece you design a room around.

The Downside: The price is obviously a major factor. This is a luxury item, not a budget-friendly update.

 

 

Habitat Rolland Velvet Headboard

The Habitat Rolland headboard costs around $400, and that striking orange velvet is incredible. It’s a bold color that brings so much warmth and energy into a space. I’d love to use this against a deep blue or green wall.

The curved top isn’t just for looks; it’s also really plush and makes for a comfortable backrest when you’re sitting up in bed. It’s both a statement piece and a functional, cozy addition.

The Downside: That beautiful bold orange isn’t for everyone. If you prefer neutrals, this one will feel way too intense.

 

 

Urban Outfitters Prianti Headboard

For $500, the Urban Outfitters Prianti headboard gives you a beautiful, bohemian vibe. It’s made from solid mango wood and has this intricate floral design carved into it. It adds so much texture and a natural element to the room.

Because it’s solid wood, it feels very substantial and well-made. This would look amazing in a master bedroom with lots of plants and linen bedding, or even as a surprise element in a guest room.

The Downside: It’s gorgeous, but it’s still wood. It’s not going to be cushioned or comfortable to lean against for long periods.

 

 

Mercury Row Hetherington Upholstered Headboard

The Mercury Row Hetherington, which costs about $300, is all about the color. The shape itself is a super simple, clean-lined square panel. But it comes in some really vibrant velvet colors like emerald green and mustard yellow.

This is probably the easiest way to add a big dose of color to your bedroom without having to paint any walls. It’s simple, effective, and lets the fabric do all the talking.

The Downside: The design is very basic. You’re buying this for the color, not for intricate details or a unique shape.

 

 

What to Look For When You Buy a Headboard

The first thing I always consider is material. Upholstered headboards are my favorite because they’re so comfortable for leaning against. But wood or metal can offer a really cool architectural or industrial look. It just depends on whether you prioritize comfort or style.

And please, measure before you buy! Check the width to make sure it matches your bed size (Queen, King, etc.). But also check the height. You don’t want a headboard that’s too short and gets hidden behind your pillows, or one that’s so tall it blocks a window or looks awkward in a room with low ceilings.

Finally, look at how it attaches. Most headboards bolt directly to a standard metal bed frame, but some are wall-mounted. Wall-mounted ones can feel more stable and look really clean, but they do require a bit more work to install.