Where to put sockets in a bedroom (and how many you need!)

At some point you'll be asked where you want your sockets in your bedroom, and it pays to have a plan rather than live without being able to charge your phone on one side of the bed or plug in a lamp in that dark corner!

The quick summary? Start with four doubles, add more for a desk/TV/dressing table. Bedroom socket height in the UK is usually 450mm from the floor with light switches around 1200mm (bedside light switch height can drop lower for comfort around a headboard). Plan electrical points in the bedroom at each bedside and near corners so you don't end up short on outlets.

So, where should your sockets go? Here's how to get it right.

Start with the bed

Your bed is basically the anchor of the room, so work from there. You'll want a socket on either side, positioned just below and slightly to the side of your bedside tables. This keeps cables neat and stops them from becoming an eyesore. Remember to check the dimensions of your finished bed i.e. including headboard / the width of the base, not just the mattress!

Then think about what your 'other' areas are

Bedrooms aren't just for sleeping - you might have a dressing table, a space to work from home, or even a reading area. Plan ahead for these with your sockets:

Dressing area

A socket nearby makes it easy to plug in a hairdryer, straighteners, or a mirror with built-in lights.

Working from home

Laptops, chargers, and desk lamps all need power, so avoid trailing cables by placing sockets within easy reach.

TV wall

If you're mounting a TV, install a high-level socket so cables don't dangle down the wall.

UK regulations

Building regs in the UK state that sockets should be at least 450mm from the floor, and light switches should be within 1200mm of the floor. This keeps everything within easy reach, whether you're standing or sitting. Good to know when you're putting your plan together! Always use a qualified electrician who will keep you right.

The magic of a corner socket

Ideally, have at least one socket near each corner of the room, far enough from the wall edge that it's still within comfortable reach. This gives you ultimate flexibility for lamps, fans, or even vacuuming without hunting for an outlet.

All that said and done… just think about how you'll use the room before the electrician shows up! A little planning now means no awkward cable runs later - and a bedroom that works for you, not against you!