Your bedroom should feel like a sanctuary, not a storage unit or a chaos zone. The truth is, what you keep in your bedroom can make or break your sleep. If you’ve been tossing and turning or waking up groggy, it might be time to take a closer look at what’s surrounding you. Here’s a list of things to kick out of your bedroom for the deep, restful sleep you deserve.
1. Your Phone (Yes, Really)
Scrolling through your phone right before bed seems harmless, but it’s actually sabotaging your sleep. The blue light tricks your brain into thinking it’s daytime which also messes with your melatonin production. Besides, the endless notifications and doom-scrolling aren’t exactly relaxing either. Swap it out for an old-school alarm clock and leave your phone in another room. Trust us, your sleep (and your sanity) will thank you.
2. Bright or Flashing Lights
From LED clocks to blinking device indicators, even the smallest light source can disrupt your sleep. Your body is wired to sleep best in complete darkness, so get serious about covering or removing anything that glows. Blackout curtains and a dim, amber nightlight (if you need one) can help set the mood for better rest.
3. That Pile of Laundry
Cluttered spaces lead to cluttered minds, and your bedroom is no exception. Seeing a pile of laundry or scattered belongings can create low-level stress that keeps you from fully unwinding. A tidy, minimalist space promotes calm and sets the tone for quality sleep. Spend five minutes tidying up before bed—it’s worth the effort.
4. Your TV
Watching TV in bed might feel cozy, but it’s not doing your sleep any favors. The flickering light and stimulating content can stop you from drifting off. If you’re serious about better sleep, take the TV out of the bedroom altogether. Instead, read a book or listen to a calming podcast to wind down.
5. Unnecessary Pillows
Decorative pillows may look cute, but too many can turn your bed into a jungle. Your body needs proper support to sleep well, so stick to the essentials… one or two quality pillows tailored to your sleep position. Overloaded beds can feel chaotic rather than inviting, and no one needs that at bedtime.
6. Work-Related Items
Laptops, files, or anything work-related has absolutely no place in your bedroom. Blurring the lines between work and rest spaces can make it harder to relax. Keep your bedroom a work-free zone and set up a designated spot elsewhere for productivity. Your mind will start associating your bed with rest instead of stress.
7. Synthetic Bedding
If your sheets make you sweat or feel scratchy, it’s time for an upgrade. Synthetic materials like polyester can trap heat and irritate sensitive skin. Instead, switch them out for breathable, natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or bamboo to stay cool and comfy throughout the night. High-quality bedding is an investment in your sleep quality.
8. Snacks or Food
While the occasional breakfast in bed is fun, regularly eating in your bedroom can create a mess and invite unwanted pests. The smell of food can also linger and make your space less relaxing. Keep meals and snacks in the kitchen and let your bedroom remain a haven for rest, not crumbs.
9. Overwhelming Scents
That overly strong candle or plug-in air freshener might smell nice, but it can be quietly irritating your senses and make it harder to fall asleep. Stick to calming scents like lavender or chamomile in subtle doses. A diffuser with essential oils or a lightly scented pillow spray can help create a soothing environment without overpowering your senses.
10. Clocks You Can Stare At
Nothing fuels insomnia like watching the minutes tick by on your alarm clock. If you have a visible clock, turn it around or cover it up. The less you focus on how late it’s getting, the easier it is to relax and drift off. Trust your alarm to wake you up without the pressure of a countdown.
11. Old Mattresses or Pillows
A lumpy mattress or flat pillow isn’t doing your sleep any favors. Mattresses should need replacing every 7–10 years, and pillows even sooner. If you’re waking up with aches or not feeling rested, your bedding might be to blame. Invest in supportive, high-quality sleep essentials for a game-changing difference.
12. Open Windows (Depending on Your Location)
Fresh air can be great, but if you live in a noisy or brightly lit area, an open window might do more harm than good. Noise and light pollution can disrupt your sleep cycle, so consider closing the window and using a sound machine or fan for white noise instead.
13. Your Pet (Maybe)
We get it—letting your pet sleep with you feels comforting. But if they’re stealing your covers, hogging the bed, or waking you up in the middle of the night, it might be time to set some boundaries. A separate pet bed nearby lets you both get the rest you need without sacrificing snuggles during the day.
14. All-Day Clothing
If your bedroom doubles as a laundry room, it’s time to rethink your setup. Hanging or folded clothes can feel suffocating and remind you of unfinished chores. Create dedicated spaces for your wardrobe and keep your bedroom for relaxation. The visual peace of a decluttered space does wonders for your sleep.
15. Overloaded Nightstands
Your nightstand should house the basics—a book, a lamp, maybe a glass of water. If it’s piled high with chargers, receipts, or random junk, it’s time for a clear-out. A clean, intentional space beside your bed helps signal your brain that it’s time to wind down, not multitask.
16. Anything That Sparks Stress
Whether it’s a stack of unpaid bills, a to-do list, or even a pile of unopened mail, anything that reminds you of stress has no place in your bedroom. Keep those items out of sight and out of mind. Your bedroom should be a retreat, not a reminder of everything you still need to handle.
This content was created by a real person with the assistance of AI.
