How to Make Chicken Nuggets

Chicken nuggets come in many different varieties and can be seasoned in a number of different ways. You can cook basic chicken nuggets in vegetable oil. For a slightly healthier variety, you can bake chicken nuggets. To add some variety, you can make spicy chicken nuggets.

[Edit]Ingredients

Fried Chicken Nuggets

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
• Salt and pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 2 chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• Vegetable oil

Baked Chicken Nuggets

• 3 skinless and boneless chicken breasts
• 1 cup of Italian seasoning bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of dried Thyme
• 1 tablespoon of dried basil
• 1/2 cup melted butter

Spicy Chicken Nuggets

• 10 halved skinned and boneless chicken breasts cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried whole thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Vegetable oil

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Making Fried Chicken Nuggets

1. Mix the dry ingredients in a plastic bag. Add your flour and seasoned salt to a large plastic bag. Add a few dashes of salt and pepper. Seal the bag and shake it so the ingredients blend together.^[1]
   
   
2. Assemble the eggs and breadcrumbs. Beat your eggs with two tablespoons of water. Set the bowl with the eggs aside. Then, add your bread crumbs to a separate bowl.^[2]
   
   
3. Prepare the chicken pieces. First, place all the chicken pieces in the bag with the flour mixture. Shake the bag until all the pieces are coated in flour.^[3]
   
   
   • Dunk each chicken piece in the egg mixture.
   • Then, dip them in the bread mixture. Your chicken pieces should be breaded.
   • Always wash your hands after handling raw meat.
4. Fry your chicken nuggets. Using medium-high heat, heat up two inches of vegetable oil. To check if your oil is ready, toss in a few breadcrumbs. If they sizzle slightly, you're ready to cook your chicken nuggets.^[4]
   
   
   • Add the chicken nuggets to the oil. They should be cooked until they're golden brown and there is no pink in the center of the chicken. This takes around 2 minutes per side.
   • If necessary, cook your chicken nuggets in batches.

[Edit]Making Baked Chicken Nuggets

1. Cut your chicken breasts. Before you start, you should cut your chicken breasts. Cut them in half and, from there, cut them into 1 and 1/2 inch pieces.^[5]
   
   
   • Remember to wash your hands after handling raw meat. You should also wash any utensils used carefully.
2. Create your breadcrumb mixture. Add the breadcrumbs to a bowl. Then, add your cheese, salt, thyme, and basil. Mix all the ingredients together until they have a uniform texture.^[6]
   
   
3. Coat your chicken nuggets. Dip your pieces of chicken into the melted butter. Then, dip them into the breadcrumb mixture. Transfer the pieces to a greased oven sheet, keeping them in an even layer.^[7]
   
   
4. Bake your chicken nuggets. Your chicken nuggets should cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (about 205 degrees Celsius) for 20 minutes. When they're done, remove them from the baking rack and allow them to cool before eating.^[8]
   
   

[Edit]Making Spicy Chicken Nuggets

1. Marinate the chicken. To start, place your chicken pieces in a shallow pan. Mix the buttermilk with the eggs. Then, pour this mixture over the chicken to cover it completely.
   
   
   • Cover your pan.
   • Place the pan in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for a few hours.
2. Coat the chicken. Mix the flour, salt, pepper, and spices together in a small bowl. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator.
   
   
   • Drain the buttermilk out of the pan.
   • Coat each piece of chicken in the flour mixture.
3. Fry the chicken. Heat your vegetable oil in the largest skillet you have. Check the temperature with a thermometer to make sure it's at least 375 degrees Fahrenheit (about 162 degrees Celsius). Once it's heated, add your pieces of chicken.
   
   
   • The chicken will need to fry for about 3 minutes on each side.
   • When it's done, the chicken will be golden brown.
4. Drain before serving. After cooking your chicken, set them on plates covered in paper towels. This will allow the oils to drain and the chicken to cool a little before you serve it.
   
   
5. Finished.
   
   

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Bread Chicken
• Make Deep Fried Chicken
• Make Popcorn Chicken
• Make Fried Chicken
• Make KFC Original Fried Chicken

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/chicken-nuggets.html
2. ↑ http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/chicken-nuggets.html
3. ↑ http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/chicken-nuggets.html
4. ↑ http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/chicken-nuggets.html
5. ↑ http://allrecipes.com/recipe/8849/baked-chicken-nuggets/
6. ↑ http://allrecipes.com/recipe/8849/baked-chicken-nuggets/
7. ↑ http://allrecipes.com/recipe/8849/baked-chicken-nuggets/
8. ↑ http://allrecipes.com/recipe/8849/baked-chicken-nuggets/

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How to Come Up with a Nickname

A bunch of quick tricks to make up nicknames for yourself and all your friends

Ready to try out a brand new nickname? Maybe you think it'd just be easier to say. On the other hand, a ton of people might have the same first name, so you want a cool way to stand out. Or, you might just want to have fun inventing a whole new name for yourself. That's totally understandable—lots of us experiment with interesting nicknames to see what works. If you want to start a new chapter and create an awesome name everyone can call you by, check out this easy guide. Here, you'll be able to put together a ton of nicknames in minutes.

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Base nicknames off of your first name, middle name, last name, initials, memorable puns, or rhymes.
• Try out traditions that your family has passed down. For example, Spanish cultures use suffixes like "-ito" and "-ita," while Japanese people use the suffix "-chan."
• Take inspiration from personality traits, inside jokes, pop culture, or even online nickname generators.
• Be kind with nicknames for others—they’re meant to be affectionate and friendly!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Playing Around with Your First Name

1. Use one of the first syllables in your first name. Shorten the name you already have. It’s really easy to do, and it’s a fun option if you want a fresh start or to just switch things up. For example, maybe you just changed schools and you want a cool nickname when you make brand new friends. Just remove one of the last syllables in your first name.^[1]
   
   • Jonathan→Jon; Abigail→Abi; Zaire→Zai; Samantha/Samuel→Sam
2. Add an “-ie,” “i,” or a “y” to the shortened version of your first name. It’s pretty common to have this type of nickname given to you in childhood, but lots of teens and even adults use this little trick. If your first name only has 1 syllable, then this method makes it sound catchier. You may need to add an extra consonant to get the right “look” when you spell out your nickname.^[2]
   
   • Charles→Charlie; Jennifer→Jenni; Lucía→Lucy
   • Daniel→Danny; Aaliyah→Ally; Mathias→Matty
3. Sneak in a silent “e” at the end of your first name. This tactic makes your nickname sound a little more mature, but it also keeps everything friendly. Use the first syllable of your first name, then add an “e” to the end of it. Since the "e" is silent, you won't hear it, so you'll emphasize the last consonant instead. You might also swap out one consonant for another one to get a more classic nickname.^[3]
   
   • Michael→Mike
   • Kathleen→Kate
4. Make a nickname out of a middle or final syllable in your first name. It just depends on what calls out to you—does one of the middle syllables of your first name have a nice ring to it, or does the final syllable seem a lot more fun? After you make your choice, see if you prefer to throw out any consonants you don’t want or add vowels like “-ie,” “i,” or “y.”^[4]
   
   • Frederick→Rick/Ricky; Elizabeth→Beth
   • Patrick→Trick
   • Anthony→Tony
5. Draw from your family's traditions to form your nickname. If you like history or want to honor your culture, use one of the “diminutives”—shortened versions—of your first name that have been passed down over time. Ask people in your family about any conventions they’re aware of, or look through a name book to read about the meaning and origin of your first name.^[5]
   
   • One Middle English fad was to add and swap letters to make a nickname.^[6]
     • Henry→Hank; Edward→Ted
   • Many Spanish “diminutives” end in “-ita” (for girls) or “-ito” (for boys).^[7]
     • Guadalupe→Lupita; Juan→Juanito
   • In India, many people use the first syllable of their name and add a "u."^[8]
     • Namrata→Namu; Ashwini→Ashu
6. Add a silly or cute suffix to your first name. Give your name an edge with some inspo from Terminator—just take the first syllable of your first name, then add the suffix "-inator" to it. Or, if you want a cuter vibe, use the first syllable of your first name, replace a vowel if you want to, and include the suffix "-boo."^[9]
   
   • Sadira→Sadi-boo
   • Tao-Yi→Tao-inator
     • Pull from affectionate suffixes from your culture, too: for example, in Japan, if your SO or best friend adds the suffix "-chan" to your first name, it means they really like you.^[10]
     • Akari→Akari-chan
7. Repeat one of the syllables of your first name. For an extra sweet or uplifting nickname, all you've got to do is take one syllable from your name you like, then double it up. This is especially common in areas like the Philippines, where nicknames with repeated syllables are considered "terms of endearment" (ways to express affection).^[11]
   
   • Lucy→Lulu
   • Molly-Mae→Maemae
   • Joseph→Jojo

[Edit]Using Your Middle Name or Last Name

1. Use your middle name. If you feel like your middle name represents you a lot better than your first name, just use it instead. If your parents were extra creative and gave you more than one middle name, decide if you want to use both or just one of them. Sometimes, you might just want to go by a middle name if you want to be “low profile” in a new place, like a house party in another city.^[12]
   
   • Ava Marie Thompson→Marie
   • Daniel Christopher Avery Smith→Avery
2. Try out your last name. Guys usually go this route, but girls—or anyone of any gender identity—can totally use their last name if they want to. Sometimes, this kind of nickname is just one you roll with. Someone else in your class or your social circle might have your first name, but your last name helps set you apart. In some cases, your last name is just really short and simple, so you find it super convenient as a nickname.^[13]
   
   • Benjamin Lee→Lee
   • Catherine Albright→Albright
   • Rosa Beck→Beck
3. Go by your initials. Use your first two initials (or all of your initials if you don't have a middle name) to make a nickname. Or, choose any combination of initials that you think really roll off the tongue. Most of the time, people use their initials if their nickname ends with an “ay” sound (like “MK”) or an “ee” sound (like “LD”), but there’s no hard and fast rule. Some people even go by just their first initial.^[14]
   
   • Thomas James→TJ
   • Mary Katherine→MK
   • Lawrence Adam Desai→LD
   • Bellatrix Lestrange→B
4. Make an anagram. An “anagram” is the way you arrange the letters of a word or phrase to create a new one. A popular example comes up in J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series, when Tom Marvolo Riddle creates the anagram “I am Lord Voldemort” out of his original name. It definitely takes some time and creativity to create an anagram, but it’s a fun activity that ends in a unique nickname.^[15]
   
   • Diana→Nadia
   • Cleo→Cole
   • Kaleb→Blake
   • Corey→Royce

[Edit]Cute and Silly Nicknames

1. Be punny. To be “punny,” just have fun and make a “pun,” a joke that’s based off of a word (in this case, your first name). For example, turn “Axel” into “Ax-Wielder,” “Sal” into “Salamander,” or “Ryan” into “Rhinoceros.” There are all kinds of ways you can play around with your name to make your friends laugh.^[16]
   
   • Use “alliteration” by making a nickname with the first letter of your name.
     • Hermione→Humble Hermione; Ronald→Radical Ronald
   • Pick a word that rhymes with one of your names.
     • Zoe→Cozy Zoe; Jackson→Relaxin’ Jackson
   • Draw from the original meaning of your name or a word related to it.
     • Sai is Burmese for “lord,” so go for a nickname like Duke.
   • Come up with a pun based on what your name sounds like.
     • Brandy sounds like “sandy,” so try a beachy name like Ariel.
2. Base your nickname off of unique traits. Lots of nicknames celebrate what makes someone cool, special, and memorable: a runner might be called “Lightning Bolt,” a proud New Yorker living away from home may be named “NYC,” a straight-A student could be called “Teach,” or a girl who loves curly fries could be given the nickname “Curly Fry.”^[17]
   
   • Use an adjective that describes a lovable part of someone’s personality.
     • Monti→Thoughtful Monti; Katie→Cheery Katie
   • As a silly twist, try a word that’s the exact opposite of what someone is like.
     • Calm Carlos→Outrageous Carlos
3. Come up with a cute pet name. If you're really close to someone, then invent a "pet name" (an affectionate nickname) that you use just for them and that expresses all your feelings. Celebrate your best friend, shower your SO with tons of love, or goof off with your sibling—the possibilities are endless.^[18]
   
   • My best friend Victoria→BFF (Best Friend Forever)
   • My boyfriend Xavier→My whole world
   • My little brother Cody→Little nugget
4. Draw inspo from a pop culture reference. Bond with your buddies over your favorite TV shows, books, or movies. Make a fun game out of assigning everyone their own special nickname based off one of their favorite characters. It'll bring you all closer together, and each of you will be able to rep the series you love the most.^[19]
   
   • Book Reference: My friend who loves the Percy Jackson series→Nico
   • Movie Reference: My friend who loves The Hunger Games→Katniss
   • TV Show Reference: My friend who loves Stranger Things→Eleven
   • Anime Reference: My friend who loves My Hero Academia→Red Riot
5. Use an inside joke. Inside jokes just happen naturally and you can’t really force them to catch on. Once your inner circle does come up with some cool inside jokes though, they’re an awesome source of inspiration. Here are a few of scenarios to give you an idea of how inside jokes turn into nicknames:^[20]
   
   • Your buddy went to three Harry Styles concerts, so you call him Stylin’ Nick.
   • Your friend always predicts pop quizzes, so you call her Fortune Teller.
   • Your crew loves to cheer at events, so you call each other Scream Queens.
6. Use some fun online tools. When you take quizzes and answer a bunch of questions about yourself, the results will suggest nicknames that probably match your personality. If you type your name into online generators, it's more of a surprise because lots of these will give you a totally random nickname. If you want to play around, try these:^[21]
   
   • SelectSmart's Nickname Quizzes
   • GotoQuiz's "What Nickname Suits My Personality" Quiz
   • SpinXO's Nickname Generator
   • FantasyNameGenerator's Fantasy and Sci-Fi Nickname Generator

[Edit]Nickname Don'ts

1. Steer clear of way over-the-top nicknames. One easy rule to remember is to just avoid bragging too much. For example, even if you work out a ton and put a lot of effort into fitness—which is a good thing—you don’t need to call yourself “Muscle Man” every day. If people give you compliments, great! Just wait for them to praise you.^[22]
   
2. Avoid nicknames that are hard to remember or pronounce. Most nicknames that stick are super straightforward and relatable. “Cthulu” might seem like a cool idea, but it's unlikely to catch on. Stick to nicknames that are no more than a few syllables, are easy to spell, and are simple to say.^[23]
   
3. Make sure your nickname is appropriate in every situation. If you want to be able to use your nickname everywhere you go, consider whether it would fly in the classroom. Go a step further—do you think your future professors, bosses, or co-workers would approve of the nickname? To be extra careful, Google your nickname to see if it has any meanings you’re not aware of.^[24]
   
4. Be chill if people don’t use your nickname. A nickname should be a fun, casual thing—it’s a bonus if it catches on and everyone calls you by it, but it’s definitely not a requirement. Plus, there are always other chances to remind people of your nickname, like when a teacher starts an icebreaker game or you introduce yourself at parties.^[25]
   
5. Be kind when you give other people nicknames. The whole point of a nickname is to express friendship and affection. Remember—if you give someone a nickname that hurts their feelings or makes them uncomfortable, that counts as bullying. To avoid being insensitive, even if it’s an accident, keep these manners in mind:^[26]
   
   • If you're unsure about whether a nickname is ok, try it out in a one-on-one setting. This makes sure that the other person feels safe and has a chance to say if they don’t like the nickname.
   • If you are having trouble figuring out your friend's reaction, ask, "Did I make you uncomfortable when I called you Tina just now?" If their answer is “yes,” then thank them for their honesty and don’t use the nickname in the future.^[27]
   • Even if you didn’t mean to be insulting and thought you were just playing around with your friend, it’s important to respect their wishes.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/australian-nicknames
2. ↑ https://namesfrog.com/great-names-that-end-in-y-or-ie/
3. ↑ https://www.languagecouncils.sg/goodenglish/resources/spelling-tips/a-silent-e-helps-a-vowel-say-its-name
4. ↑ http://itre.cis.upenn.edu/~myl/languagelog/archives/004419.html
5. ↑ https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/diminutive
6. ↑ https://nameberry.com/blog/nickname-names-how-did-henry-get-to-hank
7. ↑ https://spanish411.net/Spanish-Diminutives-Augmentatives.asp
8. ↑ https://shiningkorean.com/2011/04/13/diminutives/
9. ↑ https://theweek.com/articles/460279/linguistic-tour-best-libfixes-from-ana-zilla
10. ↑ https://www.kanpai-japan.com/learn-japanese/titles-honorifics-san-kun-chan-senpai
11. ↑ https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/filipino-culture/filipino-culture-naming
12. ↑ https://www.swistle.com/babynames/2008/10/14/naming-etiquette-is-it-okay-to-use-the-middle-name/
13. ↑ https://www.italymagazine.com/featured-story/interesting-history-italian-last-names
14. ↑ https://nameberry.com/blog/initial-names
15. ↑ https://www.dcode.fr/anagram-generator
16. ↑ https://screenrant.com/friends-nicknames-funny/
17. ↑ https://www.findnicknames.com/cool-nicknames/
18. ↑ https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/mind-guest-blog/why-do-we-use-pet-names-in-relationships/
19. ↑ https://screenrant.com/tony-stark-funniest-nicknames-mcu-characters/
20. ↑ https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/inside-joke-worth-having
21. ↑ https://nameberry.com/quizzes
22. ↑ https://www.counsellingconnection.com/index.php/2019/11/14/the-psychology-of-bragging/
23. ↑ https://www.skjam.com/2022/10/17/comic-book-review-cthulhu-is-hard-to-spell/
24. ↑ https://jlvcollegecounseling.com/2014/05/23/inappropriate-email-address/
25. ↑ https://www.thebelltowertimes.com/a-definitive-guide-to-nickname-etiquette/
26. ↑ https://www.pacer.org/bullying/info/questions-answered/friend-bullying.asp
27. ↑ http://www.cyh.com/HealthTopics/HealthTopicDetailsKids.aspx?p=335&np=287&id=2702

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How to Hydrate Overnight

Learn how to keep your hydration levels up at night (and how to have more restful sleep!)

Are you constantly waking up from a poor night’s sleep with a dry mouth, scratchy throat, and throbbing headache? These might be signs that you’re not adequately hydrating before going to sleep, which can lead to shorter and less restful sleep. Don’t worry though – we’ve provided you with a list of easy steps to take throughout the day and before you lay down at night that will keep you hydrated overnight!

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Stay hydrated overnight by drinking water before bed and keeping your bedroom cool.
• Keep your hydration levels up by drinking enough water every day and replenishing electrolytes.
• Prevent overnight dehydration by getting long, quality sleep.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Sip on water before you go to bed.

1. While a little obvious, this can help you stay hydrated overnight. Many people avoid drinking water before bed because they don’t want to constantly pee throughout the night. However, a small glass of water is unlikely to get you up in the middle of the night. 1 cup (0.2 liters) of water before bedtime can keep you from waking up due to thirst.^[1]
   
   • A glass of water before bed can also prevent leg cramps during the night and a headache in the morning, which are often caused by dehydration.

[Edit]Keep your bedroom cool.

1. A hot bedroom can make you sweat and lose water during the night. It’s well known that a cool bedroom helps you sleep better, but it also keeps you better hydrated. Turn your thermostat down to around 60-67° F (16-19° C) for a hydrating, cozy, and restful sleep.^[2]
   
   • Turn on a standing fan or open your window to cool your room quickly.
   • Sleep in breathable, cotton pajamas and use lightweight sheets and blankets to stay comfortable on a hot night.

[Edit]Keep a glass of water by your bed.

1. Have water at the ready if you wake up in the night dehydrated. Getting up for a glass of water in the middle of the night can make it difficult for you to fall back asleep. Prepare ahead of time with a glass of water on your nightstand to help ensure that you get good quality sleep if you wake up.^[3]
   
   • Keeping a glass of water by your bed can also be a way to remind yourself to drink before bed.

[Edit]Drink water throughout the day.

1. Overnight dehydration is often caused by general dehydration. On average, men need about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day to stay hydrated while women need about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters). Drink enough water by having a glass before and during every meal, after you exercise, and of course, when you feel thirsty.^[4]
   
   • If you have trouble drinking enough water, track your progress with an app or carry a water bottle with you for easy access.
   • Milk, tea, and juice are all high in water content if you have trouble drinking plain water.

[Edit]Drink back lost electrolytes.

1. Sodium, one of the main electrolytes, helps you retain water. As you sweat and breathe throughout the day, you lose sodium, which you can’t gain back through just water. If you’re sweating a lot due to exercise, or just want a hydration boost, pick up an electrolyte-enhanced drink or make your own.^[5]
   

[Edit]Eat fruits and vegetables high in water content.

1. The foods you eat can help you stay hydrated overnight. Fruits and vegetables like apples, strawberries, cucumbers, broccoli, and spinach are nearly 100% water. Incorporate them into your diet, along with drinking water, to keep your hydration levels up.^[6]
   

[Edit]Hydrate as soon as you wake up.

1. It’s important to replenish the fluids you lose overnight. You naturally lose water by just moving and breathing, so not drinking water for 8 hours as you sleep leads to a lot of water loss!^[7] Start your day off strong with a glass of water to get you ready and active for the day.^[8]
   

[Edit]Drink your coffee an hour after you wake up.

1. Coffee is a mild diuretic that might dehydrate you. While coffee is full of water, it won’t hydrate you as well. It’s a good idea to wait 1 to 2 hours before drinking your coffee to give yourself time to replenish yourself with water.^[9]
   
   • A diuretic is any substance that increases your need to pee, which also increases your fluid loss.
   • However, aim to drink your coffee at least 6 hours before you go to sleep. Consuming caffeine 6 hours or less before your bedtime can cause shorter and poorer quality sleep.^[10]

[Edit]Limit your alcohol intake before bed.

1. Stop drinking alcohol several hours before bed to stay hydrated overnight. You’ve probably experienced a pounding headache after a fun night out – this is because alcohol is a diuretic like coffee. If you know you’ll be drinking, make sure to drink a glass of water for every drink to keep yourself hydrated by the time you go to bed.^[11]
   

[Edit]Talk to your doctor about any sleeping issues.

1. Snoring and sleep apnea can dehydrate you overnight. If you snore, you probably sleep with your mouth open, which can dry out your throat and mouth. If you know that you snore and continue to wake up dehydrated, consult your normal doctor or a sleep physician.^[12]
   
   • Some experts believe that dehydration leads to snoring. Regardless, make sure you are staying hydrated.^[13]

[Edit]Get a long night’s sleep.

1. Sleeping for longer can help you stay and wake up hydrated. Research on sleep and hydration shows that people who sleep for a shorter amount of time are more likely to wake up dehydrated. Make sure to get a good night’s sleep to stay hydrated overnight.^[14]
   
   • Experts believe that the hormone vasopressin signals our kidneys to retain water overnight. If you sleep less than 8 hours, less of that hormone can reach your kidneys, so you retain less water and become dehydrated.

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/drink-water-before-bed/
2. ↑ https://www.johnstonhealth.org/care-treatment/sleep-study/tips/
3. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/drink-water-before-bed/
4. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
5. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/electrolyte-drinks-beneficial-or-not/
6. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
7. ↑ https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/advan.00028.2005?rfr_dat=cr_pub++0pubmed&url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori%3Arid%3Acrossref.org
8. ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/executives-drink-water-when-they-wake-up-2016-9
9. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/caffeinated-drinks/faq-20057965
10. ↑ https://jcsm.aasm.org/doi/10.5664/jcsm.3170
11. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hangovers/symptoms-causes/syc-20373012
12. ↑ https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/ent-ear-nose-throat/snoring/symptoms
13. ↑ https://ent.uci.edu/learning-center/useful-links/how-to-stop-snoring.asp
14. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/shorter-sleep-may-cause-dehydration

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How to Arrange Furniture in a Small Bedroom

It can be challenging to figure out the perfect way to arrange your furniture if you have a small bedroom. When approaching this task, start with your bed as it’s the biggest piece of furniture. Identify which wall your headboard can be comfortably placed against, then build the rest of the layout around your bed. Focus on maximizing the functionality of your floorplan by using vertical space and practical storage solutions. Use wall-mounted mirrors to enlarge your space and tall curtains to add height. Depending on whether you want your room to be a bright, airy space or a cozy cocoon, choose either a light or dark color palette for your decor.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Placing Your Bed

1. Choose the most practical wall for your headboard to rest up against. As is often the case with small bedrooms, there may only be 1 wall in your room that makes sense for the placement of the headboard or the head of the bed.^[1] Locate the wall that works best for this purpose and build your layout around it.
   
   • This may be the wall across from the door, the wall with electrical outlets on either side, or the wall that positions your bed directly under the ceiling fan.
   • With other placement options, you might not be able to access your closet or close your door without shimmying around it.
   • Don’t be afraid to put the head of your bed beneath a window if this seems like the best option for your room.
   • Try not to overcomplicate the placement of your bed. Avoid setting it on an angle unless you’re following an angled wall, since this will just eat up precious floorspace.
2. Center your headboard along the wall for symmetry. If you want to be able to walk around all the sides of your bed, centering the bed along the wall with space left on either side may be the best choice. If you choose this option, try to keep the rest of your layout relatively symmetrical and balanced.
   
   • This can be useful for 2 people who wake up at different times, since each person can comfortably roll out on their own side.
   • It’s also a good choice if you like being able to comfortably make the bed and change the sheets.^[2]
   • A symmetrical layout works best for rooms with symmetry. If you have an offset closet door or an angled wall, consider an asymmetrical approach instead.
   • Take into account how big the bed can be. For instance, a queen vs a full bed isn't a huge difference, but that can determine whether you have room for two nightstands or just one.^[3]
3. Align the bed toward 1 side of the room to accommodate large furniture. Pick the most practical wall to press your headboard against, but instead of centering the bed along the wall, slide it over to one side. This may leave some extra space in front of your closet door, or it might allow you to squeeze a larger piece of furniture along the opposite wall.
   
   • If you’re worried about fitting in a heavy dresser into your space with a centered bed frame, or if your room is full of quirky angles, doors, or permanent fixtures, opt for asymmetry.
   • Maintain floor space on either side of the bed for easier access.^[4]
4. Push the bed into a corner to open up the floor space. This arrangement can be perfect for long, narrow spaces.^[5] Place your bed in the corner of your choice, with the headboard and 1 side of your bed touching the walls. This will leave the rest of the room open for other furniture items.
   
   • You may want to choose the corner furthest from your bedroom door or any closet doors.
   • Feel free to place your bed along a wall with a window.
   • If there’s any space left at the foot of your bed, take advantage of it! This could be a perfect spot for a few storage bins or your laundry hamper.
5. Situate the head of the bed beneath the lowest part of a sloped ceiling. Sloped ceilings can make small rooms feel even more compressed, but proper placement of your bed will alleviate this issue. Push the head of the bed along the wall beneath the low point of the slope. In most cases, this is practical because you’ll be lying down and won’t miss the lost headspace.
   
   • Leave as much open floor space as possible beneath the higher parts of the ceiling so you can walk around without bumping your head.
   • If you have an A-frame ceiling, try a symmetrical layout instead. Position the headboard beneath the highest point and 2 low nightstands on either side of the bed. Just keep in mind that you’ll have less space for other furniture pieces.
6. Downsize your bed, if possible. A king-sized bed will usually overwhelm a small bedroom. Even a queen-sized bed might make your space feel cramped. If you can, choose a smaller mattress and bed frame, such as a full-sized bed (also known as a double bed) or a twin bed, for your small bedroom.
   
   • In a guest bedroom, consider using a sleeper sofa or a narrow daybed. These take up a smaller footprint and will make the room functional when you don’t have guests.
   • If you’re really committed to maximizing the space in your room, mount a Murphy bed on your wall to keep the floor space open during the day. This type of bed rests on a hinge. It can be folded away to lay vertically against the wall or brought down to lay flat at night.

[Edit]Arranging Nightstands and Dressers

1. Measure all of your furniture pieces to ensure they’ll fit in your space. A small bedroom will usually fit your bed, but it might not be able to accommodate all of your bedroom furniture. Before you bring large, heavy pieces into the space, measure them with a tape measure and check the dimensions within the space itself.^[6]
   
   • Create a floorplan of your bedroom to experiment with different layouts before you commit to one.
   • Measurements are essential! You can go online and find places where you can easily make a floor plan and drag furniture on it to scale, so you'll know exactly what works in the space.^[7]
2. Try using 2 nightstands for storage and symmetry. If you have 2 matching nightstands or bedside tables, place 1 on either side of the head of your bed. This might fill up the entire wall, but it will yield a balanced and minimalistic layout.^[8]Opt for functional nightstands with drawers or shelf storage to get the most out of this layout.
   
   • Instead of using your nightstands for storing useless trinkets or memorabilia, convert them to functional storage units and store clothes inside.
3. Use just 1 nightstand to free up some floor space. Abandon the idea of a matching pair of nightstands and place 1 on the side of the bed with the most space. Or, maximize your use of vertical space by swapping out a second nightstand for a more functional chest of drawers that takes up the same footprint.^[9]
   
   • If you’ve offset your bed or positioned it in a corner, you’ll probably only be able to fit 1 nightstand next to your bed.
   • This strategy can also be used with a centered bed if you don’t mind the asymmetry.
   • A tall dresser on 1 side and a low nightstand on the other can be balanced out if you place a tall table lamp on the shorter table or hang a tall framed picture above it.
4. Get rid of the nightstands altogether to make room for larger items. If you have an especially tight room, you might not have enough space for 1 or 2 tables. Or, you may have the physical space but may feel that nightstands are a waste of this space. In either case, don’t use any!^[10] You can free up some floor space for larger, more functional pieces like dressers or wardrobes.
   
   • Try using floor lamps or wall-mounted sconces to bring some lighting into your space, now that bedside table lamps aren’t possible.
   • Use a nearby windowsill for small storage, or utilize the top of your dresser for the typical nightstand contents.
   • Consider storing things you’d like to have at arm’s reach in an under-bed storage basket that you can easily slide out and tuck away.
5. Opt for fewer full-sized furniture pieces instead of more miniature pieces. Don’t panic and buy a bunch of tiny tables for your small bedroom! Skinny nightstands and narrow bookshelves can actually be dwarfed by a larger bed or heavier dresser, making your space look more cramped and off-balance.^[11] Stick with full-sized furniture and use only the necessary pieces.
   
   • If you’re downsizing from a bigger space, know that you can’t keep everything in your smaller bedroom.
   • Be selective in what pieces you choose to include, keeping the ones that provide the most storage or add the most visual impact.
   • However, stay away from bulky furniture like sofas that can bring the room down, unless you have really high ceilings.^[12]
   • Try moving extra pieces into other parts of your home. For instance, your dresser can probably stay in your bedroom while your shoe cabinet might be relocated to your entryway.
6. Prioritize taller dressers over low ones. When floor space is scarce, a long and low dresser might be impractical. Taller pieces tend to have deeper drawers and just enough space on top for a lamp and a picture frame or a storage basket.
   
   • Don’t be afraid to use a piece of furniture that’s not technically a dresser. A living room chest of drawers or a bathroom shelving unit might be perfect for your small bedroom.^[13]

[Edit]Prioritizing Functionality

1. Design your layout around how you actually use the space. As they say in the design world, form follows function. This means you should create the form or layout of your room based on the functionality you need. Think about how you typically interact with your bedroom space and try to make these activities easier.
   
   • If you sit up in bed and watch TV every night, mount your TV on the wall across from your bed so you don’t have to strain your neck.^[14]
   • If your bed functions as a second office, you may want to incorporate lots of lighting and keep a nightstand open for your coffee, notebook, and charging phone.
   • If you make your bed every day, leave enough space around all sides of the mattress so this task doesn’t become even more of a chore.
2. Provide ample storage to help you keep your small space tidy. Cluttered rooms always look smaller and more visually overwhelming. Focus on giving yourself easy-to-access storage spots and catchall spaces to help you maintain a clean and orderly room. Think about your messier habits as well, and provide solutions ahead of time.^[15]
   
   • Give each type of item a “home” within your room. This way you’ll be able to easily put things back in the correct spot and out of sight.
   • Your belongings should fit comfortably in their designated spaces. There’s no point in assigning a tiny drawer to your bulky sweaters. You won’t be able to stuff them all in and the drawer will overflow. Pick 1 or 2 deep drawers instead.
   • If you have the space, add a small chair or bench as a catchall for your stuff.^[16]
3. Take advantage of the room’s height with vertical storage. Try placing an overhead shelf above your bed, whether it’s part of your headboard or freely mounted on the wall above. Consider hanging 1 large shelf or a series of smaller shelves over a dresser to make the most use of the available wall space. Or, if you have room for a desk, opt for a desk with a hutch.^[17]
   
   • Organize your belongings in baskets and bins so they’re easier to get off of taller shelves.
   • Use these hard-to-reach spots for off-season clothes and accessories, memorabilia, and things you only need to access once in a while. Don’t store your favorite socks in a basket that you can only reach with a stepladder!
4. Loft your bed and make use of under-bed storage. Depending on the type of bed frame you have, you may be able to raise it up on risers, or you can purchase a bed frame with sufficient height and open space below. Pick out a series of under-bed storage containers such as plastic bins on wheels or woven baskets for extra storage.^[18]
   
   • If you’re looking for a new bed frame for your small room, consider a platform bed with built-in storage spaces.
   • Just make sure the bins you choose come with lids. This will protect your belongings from dust bunnies.

[Edit]Making Your Room Look and Feel Bigger

1. Opt for a monochromatic color scheme to reduce visual clutter. You don’t just need to stick with shades of white to make your tiny bedroom feel larger. Whatever palette you’ve chosen, select a wall color, bed coverings, flooring, and curtains in similar color values. This can be just as effective as all-white minimalism in terms of being easy on the eyes and reducing visual clutter.
   
   • If you’ve picked a slate gray wall paint, try a comforter in another shade of gray.^[19]
2. Choose light, airy colors to open up your space. Start with a light paint color on the walls, such as creamy white or dove gray. Play up the airiness with soft cotton bedding and light, breezy curtains in neutral or pastel hues. Opt for white or blonde wood furniture pieces and ground the space with a light-colored rug.
   
   • This can be a great strategy if you’re renting a space with plain white walls.
   • This bright, airy color palette works well for rooms that get plenty of natural light.
   • If your room doesn’t get a lot of natural light, add lighting fixtures throughout the room. Without sufficient light, an all-white room may feel dingy and claustrophobic.
3. Use dark colors to add warmth and depth to your small bedroom. Instead of light, breezy colors, play up the cocoon-like atmosphere of your small space with dark tones. Go for a color scheme of rich, deep tones on the walls, floors, and textiles to make the edges of your room recede. The dark color palette will be enveloping and cozy.^[20]
   
   • Jewel-tones can be especially effective in small bedrooms.
   • Try a warmer color palette of reds, purples, and warm neutrals to create a sultry effect, or consider a more soothing color palette with cool shades like navy blue or emerald green.
   • Be sure to incorporate sufficient lighting to prevent your room from looking drab.
   • Mix in metallic details to add some eye-catching bright spots to your space.
4. Hang 1 or more mirrors to visually enlarge your room. Try placing 1 large mirror across from a window to bounce the light around, and consider adding another on the opposite wall. You’ll instantly notice how spacious your small space looks and feels.
   
   • Just make sure the mirrors don’t reflect each other, or else you’ll end up with a never-ending reflection tunnel!
5. Add floor-to-ceiling window treatments on the sides of your window(s). This trick is all about creating the illusion of extra space and height.^[21] Mount the curtain rod well above the top of the window frame – get it as close to the ceiling as possible to draw the eye upward. Keep it wide enough so that your curtains don’t cover up the window and block out the light.
   
   • Choose curtains in color similar to the wall to add just enough texture without overwhelming the space.

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/small-bedroom-ideas
2. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-arrange-a-small-bedroom-255718
3. ↑ [v161592_b01]. 9 October 2020.
4. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-arrange-a-small-bedroom-255718
5. ↑ https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/small-bedroom-ideas
6. ↑ https://www.homedit.com/how-to-arrange-furniture-in-a-small-bedroom/
7. ↑ [v161592_b01]. 9 October 2020.
8. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-arrange-a-small-bedroom-255718
9. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-arrange-a-small-bedroom-255718
10. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-arrange-a-small-bedroom-255718
11. ↑ https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/how-to-arrange-bedroom-furniture/
12. ↑ [v161592_b01]. 9 October 2020.
13. ↑ https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/home/high-narrow-and-handsome-creative-dresser-options-for-small-spaces/2015/02/11/e8fb42cc-a8a5-11e4-a06b-9df2002b86a0_story.html?utm_term=.df15c77924d1
14. ↑ https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/how-to-arrange-bedroom-furniture/
15. ↑ https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/small-bedroom-ideas
16. ↑ https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/small-bedroom-ideas
17. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-arrange-a-small-bedroom-255718
18. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-arrange-a-small-bedroom-255718
19. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-arrange-a-small-bedroom-255718
20. ↑ https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/small-bedroom-ideas
21. ↑ https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/small-bedroom-ideas

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