Solve This Super Annoying Dorm Dilemma with a Simple Hack (You’ll Be So Comfy!)

There’s nothing worse than dealing with an awkward gap between the head of your bed and the wall behind it. In my dorm room, it was due to the air vent that stuck out of the wall. That crack would wind up eating my pillows and blankets in the middle of the night, which left me waking up cold and with a stiff neck. 

Nobody should have to start their day that way — and that’s where this hack enters the chat. 

In a new TikTok video, Amanda Agwuocha (@aagwuocha) demonstrates an easy, inexpensive way to bridge that empty space. 

While this hack is pretty easy to re-create, you will need some supplies. Luckily Agwuocha lets us in on the secret and reveals exactly what you need to purchase. 

• 2 closet shelves (approximately 10” x 48”)
• 2 shelf brackets (8” x 10”)
• 4 zip ties (18”)
• Adhesive (this creator recommends Alien Tape)
• Scissors 

To begin, loosely secure two zip ties around each bed post. The video’s caption specifies that you want “one around the top of the bed rail and one just below.” Then, slide a shelf bracket into the zip ties’ loops on each side. Double check that the brackets are mostly level before fully tightening the zip ties and snipping off the extra length. Apply your adhesive to the top of each bracket, then carefully place your shelf. The creator mentions that you could ask the store to cut the shelf to size if you have the exact dimensions of the bed and want it flush to the corners of each bed post. 

You also have the option of placing a long body pillow over the top of the shelf to add some cushioning. 

To ensure the wall doesn’t get damaged, the creator suggests leaving a bit of a gap between the shelf and the wall when you move your bed back into place. 

A word to the wise: While you could screw your shelf into the brackets for extra hold, this gap filler shouldn’t be used to bear weight or hold heavy items. Still, it’ll save you the cost (and hassle) of installing a headboard, and prevent your pillows from getting wedged into the crevice. You’ll stay comfy and cozy all night long. I’m sold! 

This post was a collaboration between Dorm Therapy and Apartment Therapy and originally appeared on Apartment Therapy. See it there: Solve This Super Annoying Bedroom Dilemma With a Simple Hack (You’ll Be So Comfy!)