For many elderly people, pets are far more than companions, they are family, a source of comfort, and a part of daily life. As people consider the transition into a care home, one of the first and most emotionally charged questions often is, ‘can I bring my pet with me?’
Moving into full time care is a major life change and one of the most common concerns for older adults is whether the place will feel like home. While care homes often provide fully furnished rooms, many offer the option for residents to bring their own furniture, helping to create a more familiar and comfortable environment.
So, can you bring your own furniture? Why does it matter? How can you make the transition as smooth as possible?
Can you bring your own furniture?
In many cases, yes! A growing number of care homes in the UK welcome residents to bring personal items and furniture, particularly pieces that hold sentimental value or contribute to daily comfort. However, this is not a given, and policies can vary from one home to another.
Some homes may allow you to bring key pieces such as an armchair, side table, chest of drawers or even a favourite bed or bookshelf—provided the room size and safety standards allow. Others may have stricter rules due to fire regulations, infection control, or space limitations.
Why it matters
Bringing your own furniture can have a meaningful impact on your wellbeing. Familiar belongings help ease the emotional strain of moving, particularly for those leaving a long-time family home. Having cherished items in your new space can provide comfort, continuity, and a sense of control.
For those living with dementia or memory loss, familiar surroundings can also support orientation and reduce anxiety. Something as simple as recognising your own wardrobe or sleeping in your own bed can go a long way in making you feel safe and settled.
From a practical point of view, customising your room with furniture that suits your mobility or health needs, like a certain type of chair, can also improve comfort and independence.
Our expert team know the difference in making your room feel like a home from home, get in touch and we can help you talk through any questions you may have.
How to check if you can
Before moving in, always check the care home’s furniture policy. You can ask:
- Is there a list of approved or prohibited items?
- Are residents allowed to bring their own furniture or furnishings?
- Do you provide help with moving and arranging personal furniture?
- Are there restrictions based on room size or layout?
- Does furniture need to meet specific safety standards (e.g. fire-retardant fabrics)?
Many homes listed on Wiserr include lifestyle features like this, so it’s easy to filter by what matters most to you or your loved one.
Managing Concerns and Expectations
It’s perfectly natural to worry about leaving cherished pieces behind, or to feel unsure about what to bring. To help manage concerns:
- Start small Even if large furniture can’t be moved, you can usually bring meaningful decor like artwork, cushions or photos.
- Visit first If possible, view the space ahead of time and take measurements so you can plan what will fit.
- Hybrid options Some homes may allow you to swap out certain provided items like chairs.
- Discuss it They may help coordinate the move or store extra items you’re unsure about bringing initially.
Creating a Sense of Home
The ability to personalise a care home room can make a powerful difference. Whether it’s your well-worn reading chair, the trusty bedside table, or a rug you’ve walked across for decades, these little touches help maintain your identity and create a genuine feeling of home.
At Wiserr, we believe later-life living should be as individual as you are. The best care homes know that true comfort comes not just from good care, but from the freedom to be yourself, even in the furniture you choose.
If you’re unsure of what care you or a loved one may need and have any questions don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our experts.
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