We all know the refreshing feeling of waking up after a good night’s sleep. But what if your restless nights aren’t due to stress, noisy neighbours, or the wrong mattress, but something as simple as the clutter in your bedroom? Science supports the idea that a messy, disorganised bedroom can disrupt sleep quality, leading to feelings of anxiety and unease.
The Link Between Clutter and Sleep
Your bedroom should be a sanctuary of calm, but clutter can create visual chaos that stimulates the brain rather than soothing it. A study by the Princeton Neuroscience Institute found that cluttered spaces make it harder for your brain to focus, and this applies even when you’re trying to fall asleep. Clutter can trigger a subtle stress response, leaving your mind racing instead of relaxing into sleep mode.
Psychologists also point out that a disorganised environment can increase feelings of guilt or anxiety, which are counterproductive to a restful night. When you combine this with the physical discomfort of navigating a messy space, it’s no wonder that clutter is such a sleep disruptor.
Targeting the Messiest Areas
Bedside Table:
Often a nightstand or bedside table ends up as a catch-all for everything. From half-read books to charging cords, water glasses, and stray hair ties. The problem is that this chaos can create mental clutter just before bed. You should then keep only the essentials on your nightstand. Think about a lamp, the book you’re currently reading, and a small tray for necessities like glasses or lip balm. Use the drawers or add a small organiser for the rest. This clean slate can help signal your brain that it’s time to relax.
The Closet:
Overstuffed closets are a major stressor. Struggling to shove a hanger in or staring at unworn clothes every day can create decision fatigue that spills over into your bedtime routine. You should commit to a seasonal purge. If you haven’t worn an item in the last year, then it’s time to donate or sell it. Invest in slim hangers and clear bins to maximise your storage space.
Under the Bed:
Out of sight, out of mind? Not when it comes to the clutter lurking under the bed. Storing random items here might seem like a convenient solution, but it can create a subconscious sense of unease. Instead, you can use under-bed storage strategically. Consider clear, lidded bins to store items like extra linens or out-of-season clothing. Making sure everything is neatly contained and easy to access.
The Dresser:
A cluttered dresser is another common culprit. Jewellery, perfumes, receipts, and loose change can pile up. Making your space feel chaotic. Instead, create zones for different items; use small trays or containers to corral jewellery and daily-use items. Keep decorative touches minimal to add personality without overwhelming the space.
The Floor:
Often an overlooked hotspot, the floor is usually a dumping ground for piles of clothes, scattered shoes, and misplaced items. All of which can visually shrink the room; making it feel cramped and uninviting. Start by clearing everything off the floor, investing in functional storage solutions like baskets for blankets or stylish bins for shoes. If you have hard wood, laminate or LVT flooring, ensure it’s visible and spotless – nothing beats the sense of calm that comes from seeing sleek, well-maintained floors. Rugs can also add a cosy touch but keep them tidy and appropriately sized for the room to maintain balance.
Setting Up a Sleep-Friendly Space
Simplify Your Decor: Choose calming colours like soft blues, greens, or neutrals. Keep wall art and decor minimal to maintain a peaceful aesthetic.
Hide Electronics: Blue light from screens can interfere with your body’s natural sleep rhythms, and visible electronics contribute to visual clutter. Store devices out of sight or invest in a charging station that keeps them organised and away from your bed.
Introduce Relaxing Elements: Incorporate items that promote calm, such as a diffuser with lavender essential oil, blackout curtains, or soft, layered bedding. These small touches can elevate the sense of serenity in your room.
Adopt a Daily Tidy-Up Routine: Before going to bed each night, spend five minutes putting away clothes, clearing surfaces, and resetting your space. This habit can help prevent clutter from building up and create a more restful environment.
The Benefits of a Decluttered Bedroom
A clutter-free bedroom is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it’s a tangible way to improve your overall well-being. By reducing visual noise, you’ll give your brain the chance to unwind more easily, making it simpler to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Moreover, an organised bedroom often leads to better habits. You’ll start your mornings more calmly, with everything in its place, and set a positive tone for the day ahead.
Images from Studio Iva Hajkova’s Unique Butcher-Inspired Design – see full article here.
