If you’ve ever spent good money on a fancy cat bed only to watch your furball ignore it in favor of the Amazon box it arrived in, you’re not alone. Cats are mysterious little interior designers with impeccable taste—and their taste is often “whatever is inconvenient for you.”
But here’s the good news: you don’t need to spend a fortune to make your kitty happy. With a little creativity, some basic supplies, and a touch of DIY magic, you can create cat beds that are cozy, stylish, and budget-friendly. These projects are beginner-friendly, practical for any household, and—bonus—they often double as cute home décor.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to 10 DIY cat bed ideas that your cat might actually prefer over your laundry basket.
1. The Sweater Cat Bed
Why It Works: Cats love items that smell like you. Transform an old oversized sweater into a cozy nest that smells familiar and comforting.
How to Make It:
- Take an oversized sweater and lay it flat.
- Stuff the sleeves with polyester fiberfill to create a soft tubular shape.
- Fold or shape the body of the sweater into a round or oval nest.
- Sew the bottom shut (or use fabric glue for a no-sew option).
Styling Tips: Place near a sunny window or favorite nap spot. Your kitty will love curling up in a snug, warm space.
What to Buy:
- Old sweater (or grab a cheap oversized one online)
- Polyester fiberfill stuffing
- Needle and thread or fabric glue
2. The Cardboard Box Upgrade
Why It Works: Boxes = instant feline approval. Upgrade a basic box into a chic cat condo.
How to Make It:
- Choose a sturdy cardboard box.
- Cut a small entry hole if you want it to feel like a little hideaway.
- Line the inside with a soft fleece blanket or pillow.
- Decorate the outside with washi tape, contact paper, or even paint for Instagram-worthy vibes.
Styling Tips: Place it on a rug or near your reading nook so it blends with your décor.
What to Buy:
- Cardboard box (free if you just ordered online!)
- Fleece blanket or small pillow insert
- Washi tape or contact paper for decorating
3. The Suitcase Bed
Why It Works: Vintage suitcases are sturdy, stylish, and have instant retro vibes.
How to Make It:
- Open a vintage suitcase and clean it thoroughly.
- Line it with a pillow or foam insert for comfort.
- Prop the lid open safely (use a wedge or secure it so it won’t fall).
Styling Tips: Perfect for a bedroom corner or even as a living room accent piece.
What to Buy:
- Old suitcase
- Pillow or cushion that fits snugly inside
- Anti-slip pads for stability
4. The Basket Bed
Why It Works: Wicker or rattan baskets are naturally boho-chic and make for adorable, functional cat beds.
How to Make It:
- Choose a basket that is roomy enough for your cat to curl up comfortably.
- Place a small cushion or folded blanket inside.
- Optional: Line with soft faux fur for extra luxury.
Styling Tips: Perfect for living rooms or even your entryway. A wicker basket can look like décor rather than a pet accessory.
What to Buy:
- Wicker or rattan basket
- Small throw pillow or cushion
- Soft throw blanket or faux fur
5. The Pillow Fort Bed
Why It Works: Cats love privacy and softness. A dedicated pillow corner gives them both.
How to Make It:
- Place a large, firm pillow in a corner.
- Drape a lightweight muslin or cotton fabric over it like a mini tent.
- Secure the fabric with clips, pins, or small hooks.
Styling Tips: This works great in bedrooms or offices where your cat can quietly observe without being disturbed.
What to Buy:
- Large, firm pillow
- Lightweight muslin or cotton fabric
- Clips or pins to hold fabric
6. The Crate Bed
Why It Works: Repurposing a wooden crate adds rustic charm and gives your cat a secure space.
How to Make It:
- Sand down the crate to remove splinters.
- Paint or stain with non-toxic wood paint for style.
- Add a folded blanket or small cushion inside.
Styling Tips: Crates work well for farmhouse-style décor or as side table beds.
What to Buy:
- Wooden crate
- Sandpaper and non-toxic paint or stain
- Cushion or folded blanket
7. The Drawer Bed
Why It Works: Old dresser drawers are low-profile, sturdy, and easy to repurpose.
How to Make It:
- Remove a drawer from a thrifted dresser or old furniture.
- Sand and optionally paint or stain it.
- Add a foam pad or cushion inside.
- Optional: Add felt pads underneath to protect floors.
Styling Tips: Great for minimalist spaces where you want a bed that blends seamlessly.
What to Buy:
- Dresser drawer
- Foam pad or small cushion
- Felt pads
8. The Hammock Bed
Why It Works: Cats love lounging elevated, and a hammock under a chair is a playful luxury.
How to Make It:
- Measure the space under a sturdy chair.
- Cut strong cotton canvas or fleece to size.
- Secure with straps, Velcro, or hooks.
Styling Tips: Works under desks, chairs, or even window sills for lazy afternoon naps.
What to Buy:
- Strong cotton canvas or fleece fabric
- Sturdy straps or Velcro ties
- Chair with space underneath
9. The Tire Bed
Why It Works: Upcycling an old tire is eco-friendly, durable, and funky.
How to Make It:
- Wash the tire thoroughly.
- Optional: Paint with non-toxic spray paint.
- Add a round cushion or pet pillow inside.
Styling Tips: Works best in garages, patios, or casual indoor spaces.
What to Buy:
- Small car tire
- Non-toxic spray paint
- Round cushion or pet pillow
10. The No-Sew Fleece Bed
Why It Works: Perfect for non-crafters who want a soft, cozy bed without sewing skills.
How to Make It:
- Layer two pieces of fleece.
- Cut fringe around all edges (about 1-inch wide).
- Tie fringes together, leaving a small opening to stuff polyester fiberfill.
- Tie the remaining fringe to close the bed.
Styling Tips: Lightweight, portable, and machine-washable for easy cleaning.
What to Buy:
- Two pieces of fleece fabric
- Polyester fiberfill stuffing
- Fabric scissors
Extra Tips for Success
- Location, location, location: Place beds where cats already like to nap—sunny windows, quiet corners, or near you.
- Mix textures: Cats love soft, cushy surfaces combined with something slightly firmer for support.
- Add scents: Toss in a piece of your old t-shirt or a blanket that smells like home for comfort.
- Keep it clean: Use washable materials where possible. Most cats prefer a clean, fresh-smelling bed.
These 10 DIY cat bed projects are not just cute—they’re budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and actually practical. With a few basic supplies and a touch of creativity, your kitty will finally have a space they love (and maybe, just maybe, leave your laundry alone).
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, your cat doesn’t care if their bed came from a fancy pet boutique or from the back of your closet — what they really want is a space that feels safe, cozy, and a little bit “theirs.” The beauty of these DIY cat bed projects is that they let you combine style, creativity, and comfort without spending a fortune. Plus, many of them repurpose items you already own, which means less waste and more charm in your home.
The trick is to pay attention to your cat’s personality: do they love burrowing under blankets, stretching out in the open, or curling up in a tight nook? Match the bed style to their habits, and you’ll have a much higher chance of them actually using it (instead of your laundry pile).
So whether you’re transforming an old sweater, giving new life to a forgotten suitcase, or crafting a no-sew fleece nest, you’re not just building a bed — you’re creating a little sanctuary that your cat will truly appreciate. And honestly? Seeing them snuggled up in something you made with your own hands is just as rewarding for you as it is for them.
