10 Ways to Use Canopy Pillows for Cozy, Whimsical Decor
Canopy pillows are a whimsical and cozy addition to any living space. With their billowy, draped fabrics hanging from a hoop, they create a charming focal point that's perfect for napping, reading or just relaxing. From nurseries to dorm rooms, canopy pillows can completely transform a room. Keep reading to discover ten creative ways to use these pillows to build a comfortable, dreamy oasis in your home.
Available in a range of styles and fabrics like linen, cotton, velvet and more, canopy pillows are versatile decor pieces. Many feature adjustable height options so you can customize them as needed. The best part? They're quite easy to install, using included hardware or removable command strips. With just a little creativity, you can craft a canopy pillow configuration that's perfectly suited to your space and needs.
Hang Them Above the Crib
One of the most popular uses for canopy pillows is in nurseries above cribs. These dreamy pillows make an adorable focal point while providing extra visual stimulation for babies. Hang a soft linen or cotton canopy pillow in a coordinating pattern just above your baby's crib. You can match the color to the crib bedding or introduce another color to tie the nursery scheme together.
In addition to adding style, hanging a canopy pillow over the crib helps filter natural light and create a sleep-inducing darkened environment. Babies are especially sensitive to light disruptions during naps and nighttime. The canopy pillow acts as a gentle barrier so babies can sleep soundly and comfortably in the crib.
Use as a Reading Nook
For school-aged kids and teens, canopy pillows make an excellent reading nook. Drape them above a corner chair, bed, or window seat to create a cozy hideaway dedicated to reading. Add plush blankets, soft cushions and piles of books to make it extra comfy.
Sheer canopy pillows in cotton or linen allow natural light to filter through while also providing privacy and a sense of enclosure. The canopy helps define the reading space and block out visual distractions in the room. Older kids will love having their own special spot to unwind with a good book.
Make a Play Tent
Younger kids will have endless fun playing in a canopy pillow play tent. Simply drape a few pillows over chairs, tables, or other furniture to form the framework. Sheer fabrics allow parents to maintain visibility while opaque styles create more of a secret hideaway vibe.
Fill the inside with blankets, pillows, stuffed animals and toys to make it extra cozy and colorful. The play tent instantly becomes a special little nook for pretend play, story time or just hanging out. For easy cleanup, look for machine-washable canopy pillows to withstand plenty of use.
Decorate a Nursery
In addition to using canopy pillows over cribs, they make sweet additions to nursery decor overall. Coordinate colors and patterns with crib bedding, wall art and other textiles in the space. For example, pick a canopy pillow with pink roses to match the roses on the window valances.
Layer in textures and visual interest by combining canopy pillows with mobiles, wall decals, garlands and other nursery decor. Repurpose your canopy pillows in different areas of the nursery as needed - above the crib, nursing chair, changing table, etc. Their versatility makes them the perfect decorative touch.
Hang in a Playroom
Playrooms are the perfect spot to get creative with canopy pillows. Hang them at varying heights, patterns and textures to make an eclectic arrangement. Repurpose them throughout the day for different activities - turn them into reading nooks, napping spots or areas to display toys.
Since playrooms tend to change frequently as kids grow, canopy pillows are a great versatile option. They can be easily moved around the room or transferred to other areas of the home as needed. Take them down for active playtime or hang them up to create a calmer vibe.
Use Above Baby Activity Gyms
Hang canopy pillows low to the ground above baby activity gyms and play mats. Get super creative by mixing colors and textures for visual stimulation. The canopy creates an enclosed space while allowing full visibility and access to play with toys attached to the gym.
During tummy time, canopy pillows provide eye-catching motion and color to keep babies engaged. Babies doing tummy time or playing on activity mats will love staring up at the billowy canopy. For parents, the canopy filters bright light from windows that might distract baby.
Make a Canopy Above Toddler Beds
Toddler beds provide a great opportunity to use canopy pillows to decorate. Drape them above the bed frame just like you would with a crib. This helps toddlers feel cozy and secure during the transition from crib to "big kid" bed.
Match colors and patterns to the toddler bedding or introduce a new coordinating color. Add sheer curtains around the bed for more enclosure. Canopy pillows instantly dress up toddler beds and make them feel like special sleeping nooks.
Decorate Kids' Reading Corners
Reading corners aren't just for older kids - set one up for younger children too. Use large sturdy furniture like couches or sectionals as the framework for draping canopy pillows. Add tons of plush pillows, blankets and padded mats inside to create a super cozy environment.
Sheer linen or cotton works well for visibility and natural light diffusion. Toss in a basket of books and some stuffed animals to encourage reading time. The little ones will love having their own special spot just like the big kids.
Create a Meditation Space
For adults, canopy pillows create a peaceful oasis for meditating and relaxing. Drape them above a sitting area to block out visual distractions and create a private cocoon. Light some candles, put on soothing music, and sink into plush pillows while breathing deeply.
Use opaque fabrics for more darkness and distraction blocking. Add curtains for full enclosure and a meditative vibe. The canopy helps muffle sounds while enveloping you in stillness and serenity. It provides the ideal environment to empty your mind and de-stress.
Decorate Dorm Rooms
College students will love personalizing their dorm space with fun canopy pillows. These are perfect for hanging in corners or above beds without making permanent changes. Use command strips for easy no-damage installation.
Pick bold patterns and colors that reflect personality. Coordinate with bedspreads, wall art and other accessories for a pulled-together dorm decor scheme. Canopy pillows provide a cozy ambiance for studying and chilling. When it's time to pack up, just detach them and go.
With so many creative ways to use them, canopy pillows make it easy to infuse any room with whimsical style. Beyond looking cute, they also provide softness, enclosure and a chill vibe. Experiment by hanging them at different heights or mixing up color palettes and fabrics.
Canopy pillows require minimal effort to install but make a major decorative statement. They can be adapted to suit spaces ranging from nurseries to teens' rooms to adult reading nooks. With the right canopy pillow arrangement, you're sure to create a comfortable, dreamy oasis anywhere in your home.