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Do you love that cozy bedroom binge-watch? Having a TV in your bedroom has both its pros and cons. While some people rely on the slight din of YouTube or their comfort show to fall asleep, others are determined to cut down on screen time and keep tech and rest separate. One thing that is hard to deny is that the bed is unmatched when it comes to a cozy, comfy movie night. The good news is that you can still keep your bedroom TV-free while having the perfect setup to enjoy a movie night in. The answer is surprisingly simple and usually more affordable than a TV — get a projector, and then hide it with a quilt. 

Not only are projectors small and easy to set up, but they can also be adjusted to the screen size of your choice. Plus, what you are watching is indirect light rather than direct, so it can be easier on and healthier for your eyes than a TV screen. Many projectors are also now fully compatible with all streaming services and can be controlled through your phone. To top it off, this hack gives you the best of both worlds without having to diminish your movie night experience or make you compromise your sleep situation.

One of the best parts of this projector design hack is that when not in use, it’s possible to make it look as if it isn’t there at all. The simplest way to create your disappearing theater is a floating folding shelf. Shelves like these Welland Small Floating Shelves from Amazon work perfectly for most projectors as they are generally lightweight and relatively small. The shelves also fold down almost flat when not in use and can easily be hidden by artwork or a quilt. 

In order for this hack to work, you will have to consider your opposite wall as well. While your projector-holding wall will require an addition, the opposing wall should be bare bones. This wall should be kept free and clear so that you have a large portion open to function as your screen. If you don’t have an open space on your opposing wall, you also have the option of adding a pull-down screen. When not in use, these projector screens are out of the way and not particularly noticeable. Should you want something you can put away completely, you could use a standing screen, but this will take some more effort to set up and take down. If you are concerned about your visuals, however, a screen will be the way to go for a brighter, crisper image. 

It is generally recommended to remove tech from your bedroom if you are looking to get the best night’s sleep possible, and that includes your TV. Not only can it mess with the overall feng shui and design, but it can also distract from the intent behind the bedroom which is rest, relaxation, and — on occasion — passion. In fact, some experts suggest that the bedroom is the one place in a home the you never want to put a TV. Although many people may consider watching a show to be relaxing, there is still the issue of the TV itself which can draw attention from the intended focal point of the room (the bed) as well as clashing with surrounding décor. 

If your main concern with having a TV in the room is the TV itself, a projector could be just the answer you are looking for. If you don’t already own a bedroom TV, this could also be a much more economical option, especially if you are looking for something that will enhance the movie night experience. Most screens will start around $60, and projectors start around $30, though both can get quite pricey if you are looking for a top-tier model. Overall, comparing similar screen sizes, you will get a lot more bang for your buck with a projector and screen. Projectors are also great options for other rooms in the house too, and there are tons of hacks to keep them out of sight like this viral living room hutch hack.