Wondering how to declutter your bedroom? Your bedroom might contain harmful toxins and chemicals right now. This is just one reason why your bedroom's contents need careful attention.
The task of decluttering your bedroom can feel daunting at first. The process might take a few hours or even days, whether you want to clear out your room or identify items that no longer add value. The positive effects on your wellbeing make every minute worthwhile.
Start with simple areas like old clothes, expired medications, and paperwork. This approach can boost your motivation and help you create a cleaner, healthier space. Would you like to revolutionize your bedroom into a peaceful sanctuary? Let's begin with some practical steps to declutter your bedroom.
Why Your Bedroom Needs a Fresh Start
"Having a simplified, uncluttered home is a form of self-care." — Emma Scheib, Minimalism expert and writer
Your bedroom should be your peaceful sanctuary. People spend one-third of their lives in a space that stresses them out [1]. Your brain's cognitive functions can get impaired when you see too many objects in your line of sight [2].
Signs Your Bedroom is Overwhelming You
The stuff in your bedroom should serve you, not control your life. Research shows that people with cluttered bedrooms deal with:
- Higher levels of stress hormones day after day [3]
- Tasks that become hard to complete [4]
- Problems with focus and processing information [5]
- Guilt and embarrassment creeping in [6]
- Buildup of allergens and dust [7]
How Clutter Affects Your Sleep and Mood
The effects of bedroom clutter go way beyond just being inconvenient. Research shows that visual clutter fights with your brain's attention span and drains your mental resources [2]. Your body's stress hormone, cortisol, should drop in the evening to help you sleep. But in messy spaces, it stays high [2].
A St. Lawrence University study found that people at risk of hoarding disorder got much worse sleep than those with tidy spaces [1]. People with cluttered bedrooms toss and turn more at night and feel sleepy all day long [1].
The link between your bedroom stuff and mental health runs deep. Women who live in cluttered homes keep higher cortisol levels throughout the day [3]. So this ongoing stress can trigger anxiety, depression, and make life less satisfying [8].
Your surroundings shape your emotions and thinking by a lot [9]. Research proves that people who see their homes as messy stay in a mild 'fight or flight' state. This makes it sort of hard to get one's arms around relaxing and falling asleep [9]. Poor sleep then makes your thinking fuzzy and emotional state worse [1].
Start With These Easy Items
Start to declutter your bedroom with items that need little emotional decision-making. Studies show that 83% of people keep old papers because they might need them someday [10]. This makes papers a perfect place to begin.
Old Papers and Receipts
Gather all receipts, bills, and paperwork scattered around your bedroom. Keep receipts only until you check your credit card statement, unless you need them for tax purposes or returns [11]. Tax-related documents should be kept for three years, though copies of tax returns should stay permanently [12]. Sort financial documents into categories:
- Keep for one month: ATM receipts, utility bills
- Keep for one year: Credit card statements
- Keep for three years: Investment records, bank statements
- Keep permanently: Tax returns, home improvement records
Expired Products
We focused on beauty products and medications since most people unknowingly hoard up to 20 expired items [10]. The Period After Opening (PAO) symbol on beauty products shows how many months the product stays safe after first use [13]. Get into medications carefully. Both prescription and over-the-counter varieties can become ineffective or harmful after expiration [13].
Broken Things You Never Fixed
Here's a good way to declutter your bedroom. An item that stays broken for over six months without repair shows it isn't vital to your daily life [14]. Broken items in your bedroom take up valuable space and affect your mood negatively [14]. Let these items go unless you schedule repairs right away:
- Broken jewelry sitting in drawers for months
- Electronics with frayed cables
- Damaged accessories you've postponed fixing
- Items needing repairs that cost more than replacement
Empty Containers and Packaging
Saving some storage containers makes sense, but excess empty boxes and packaging create needless clutter [15]. Keep only one or two containers for future use [15]. Think about these disposal options:
- Donate usable containers to charities
- Sell through yard sales or online platforms
- Recycle appropriate materials
- Repurpose for current organization needs
Note that containers should serve a purpose. They become part of the problem when you don't employ them properly [16]. Keep only what you actively use and need.
Tackle Your Bedroom Storage Spaces
Bedroom storage spaces quickly turn into dumping grounds for random stuff. A good storage system keeps everything in order and creates a calmer space and helps to declutter your bedroom [17].
Closet Organization Tips
Most people's closets have untapped potential. Research shows we use only 20% of our vertical closet space [18]. Here are some proven ways to maximize your storage:
- Install adjustable rods at different heights for varied clothing lengths
- Use wall-mounted hooks for accessories and bags
- Add shelf dividers to prevent stacked items from toppling
- Place drawer units inside the closet for additional storage
- Install over-door organizers for shoes or accessories
Your most-used items should stay at eye level. Less frequent items go below, while seasonal pieces work best up high [19]. A dresser inside your closet saves valuable bedroom floor space, if you have room for it [18].
Drawer Decluttering Method
Drawers get messy because items don't have specific homes. Professional organizer Kathy Jenkins created the SIMPLE method that gives us a quick way to organize drawers [20]:
Sort like items together Identify which items to keep Make a home for everything Put items in containers Label spaces clearly Establish a routine
Drawer dividers help keep things organized and make finding items quick and easy [21]. The file-folding method lets you see all your clothes at once when you fold them vertically [22].
Note that organized spaces need daily maintenance. Handle papers right away and put things back where they belong after using them [20]. This stops clutter from building up in your bedroom. A quick review of your storage system every few months ensures it still meets your needs [21].
Make Tough Decisions About Your Things
"Decluttering is infinitely easier when you think of it as deciding what to keep, rather than deciding what to throw away." — Francine Jay, Minimalism expert and author of 'The Joy of Less'
Emotions can make it hard to decide what to keep in your bedroom. This gets even tougher with items that bring back special memories or remind you of important people in your life.
Questions to Ask When Sorting Items
Before you choose what stays and goes, here are the key questions to ask about each item:
- Would you buy this at full price today?
- Does it fit your current lifestyle?
- Have you used or looked at it in the last year?
- Could you replace it for less than USD 20.00 or borrow it when needed?
- Does it support the life you want to create?
These questions help you spot items that really deserve space in your bedroom. You can then focus on items that get "no" answers, as they're the ones you should probably remove.
What to Do With Sentimental Objects
Sentimental items in your bedroom often create the biggest challenge. Start with these items to declutter your bedroom. All the same, your memories live in your mind and heart, not in physical objects. Your bonds with loved ones stay strong without keeping every gift or inherited item.
Here are some proven ways to handle items with emotional value:
Digital Preservation: You can scan old photos and documents to keep memories without physical clutter. This protects your precious memories from damage or loss.
Selective Keeping: Pick one item that represents each life phase or relationship instead of keeping everything. This builds a meaningful collection without overwhelming your space.
Creative Solutions: Turn sentimental items into useful pieces - old t-shirts can become quilts, ticket stubs turn into artwork, and special photos make great bookmarks.
Many people feel guilty about letting go of gifts or inherited items. It's worth mentioning that passing items to others who will use them honors their original purpose. For collections, pick the pieces that bring the strongest positive feelings and share others with family members who might value them.
Look at your childhood memorabilia or family heirlooms and ask if they fit your current life. Taking photos of sentimental items before letting them go helps preserve the memory while clearing physical space. This works really well especially when you have bulky items or large collections taking up valuable bedroom space.
Create New Habits To Declutter Your Bedroom
A clean bedroom needs consistent habits to stay organized. We established a routine that stops your bedroom from getting cluttered again. Research shows that five minutes of daily bedroom maintenance reduces overall cleaning time by 40% [23].
Daily 5-Minute Cleanup Routine
Your bedroom stays tidy with a quick daily ritual. Studies show people get 30% more done when they work against a clock [24]. Here's what you can do in your five-minute power session to declutter your bedroom:
- Make your bed and fluff pillows
- Put away clean clothes and place dirty ones in hampers
- Clear surfaces of any items that don't belong
- Quick dusting of visible surfaces
- Remove any dishes or water glasses
Weekly Maintenance Steps
A 30-45 minute weekly cleanup helps you build on your progress. Research shows regular weekly cleaning cuts allergens in half [25]. Fresh bedsheets improve your sleep quality by a lot [26].
You should clean high-touch areas like door handles and light switches. Wipe down all surfaces with appropriate cleaners, especially bedside tables and dressers. Give everything a good vacuum, including under the bed where dust builds up.
Monthly Deep Clean Schedule
Monthly deep cleaning stops the slow buildup of things you might miss. Data shows these sessions reduce indoor air pollutants by up to 60% [27]. Here's your monthly plan:
First Week: Wash all bedding, including duvets and pillows. Studies show unwashed bedding can hold up to 10 million dust mites [2].
Second Week: Clean windows and window treatments. Research shows natural light makes you feel better and more productive [28].
Third Week: Rotate or flip your mattress based on manufacturer guidelines. This makes your mattress last 50% longer [1].
Fourth Week: Deep clean storage areas and check your organization systems. Studies show monthly reviews make storage solutions 35% more effective [9].
These habits create a zero-waste bedroom environment. Research shows consistent cleaning routines cut household waste by 25% [29]. Each cleaning session lets you review items and keep only what you really need in your space.
Conclusion
The choice to declutter your bedroom does more than create physical space - it reshapes your sanctuary into a haven of peace and restful sleep. Research shows that a tidy bedroom guides you to better sleep quality, lower stress levels, and improved mental clarity.
Of course, the trip to a clutter-free bedroom needs dedication and a systematic plan. You can start with simple items like old papers and expired products. Then you can move to harder decisions about sentimental objects. Smart organizing tools will help you keep your decluttered space in check. You can shop for these tools now and declutter your bedroom.
A well-organized bedroom isn't about perfection - it's about building habits that boost your wellbeing. Your five-minute daily routine and weekly and monthly deep cleaning schedules will give you lasting results. Each small step to declutter your bedroom ended up bringing you closer to a zero-waste lifestyle and created the peaceful bedroom environment you deserve.
FAQs
Q1. What's the quickest way to declutter a bedroom? Start by setting realistic expectations and tackling small areas. Create four piles: keep, donate, sell, and trash. Begin with the floor, then move to surfaces, drawers, and the wardrobe. Utilize under-bed space for storage and maintain a daily 5-minute cleanup routine to prevent future clutter.
Q2. How can I declutter my bedroom without creating waste? Focus on finding new homes for items rather than discarding them. Donate usable items to charities, sell valuable pieces, or give them to friends who need them. For items that can't be reused, research local recycling options. Remember, keeping unnecessary items is also a form of waste, so letting go can be more sustainable in the long run.
Q3. What should I remove first when decluttering my bedroom? Begin with obvious trash and broken items. Then, focus on flat surfaces like desktops and dressers where clutter is easily visible. Tackle small spaces like drawers next. Identify items you haven't used in a long time or clothes that no longer fit. This approach helps build momentum and makes the decluttering process less overwhelming.
Q4. How do I maintain a clutter-free bedroom after decluttering? Establish a daily 5-minute cleanup routine to prevent clutter from accumulating. Make your bed daily, put away clean clothes immediately, and clear surfaces of items that don't belong. Implement a weekly maintenance schedule for deeper cleaning and organization. Regularly reassess your belongings and be mindful of new acquisitions to maintain your clutter-free space.
Q5. How can I create a minimalist bedroom environment? It stars when your declutter your bedroom. Focus on essential furniture pieces that serve multiple purposes. Choose a neutral color palette for walls and furniture to create a sense of calm. Maximize natural light and use strategic lighting for different moods. Opt for closed storage solutions to keep items out of sight. Display only a few meaningful decorative items. Regularly declutter and be mindful of new purchases to maintain the minimalist esthetic.
References
[1] - https://www.homesandgardens.com/interior-design/bedrooms/how-to-clean-a-bedroom
[2] - https://www.thespruce.com/bedroom-cleaning-checklist-8369220
[3] - https://www.verywellmind.com/decluttering-our-house-to-cleanse-our-minds-5101511
[4] - https://goodmagazine.co.nz/tidy-space-tidy-mind-why-decluttering-can-be-good-for-your-mental-health/
[5] - https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-resilient-brain/202302/the-many-mental-benefits-of-decluttering
[6] - https://nourishingminimalism.com/clutter-depression-and-anxiety-a-vicious-cycle/
[7] - https://www.mattressonline.co.uk/blog/sleep-better/11-tips-for-decluttering-your-bedroom-and-why-its-important-for-mental-health/
[8] - https://www.apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/clutter
[9] - https://housewifehowtos.com/clean/weekly-cleaning-routine-the-bedroom/
[10] - https://craftyourhappyplace.com/things-to-dump-when-decluttering-your-bedroom/
[11] - https://amerisleep.com/blog/things-to-get-rid-of-in-your-bedroom/
[12] - https://www.bankwith1st.com/shredding-personal-documents-and-when-to-dispose-of-them/
[13] - https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/january-cure-2023-declutter-expired-items-37195257
[14] - https://www.livesimplybyannie.com/decluttering-broken-things/
[15] - https://www.home-storage-solutions-101.com/declutter-storage-containers.html
[16] - https://creatingmaryshome.com/the-clutter-of-containers/
[17] - https://www.ikea.com/us/en/rooms/bedroom/how-to/sleek-storage-ideas-for-a-minimalist-bedroom-look-pub775b6d90/
[18] - https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/small-bedroom-ideas-the-5-smartest-ways-to-get-more-storage-in-your-sleep-space-207910
[19] - https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/clean-and-organize/how-to-organize-a-closet
[20] - https://www.thekitchn.com/simple-decluttering-method-kitchen-drawer-23691551
[21] - https://greenwithless.com/minimalist-bedroom-storage-ideas/
[22] - https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-organize-your-closet-2648411
[23] - https://maid4time.com/effortless-5-minute-speed-cleaning-routine-for-a-tidy-home/
[24] - https://www.homesandgardens.com/life-design/the-5-minute-cleaning-challenge
[25] - https://puracy.com/blogs/cleaning-tips/the-ultimate-bedroom-cleaning-checklist?srsltid=AfmBOoqAolzGmR-KGmaZo25_7jVF8L02S7lxPRwLf_rz2OSvMPU5hmVu
[26] - https://www.homeaglow.com/hub/content/bedroom-cleaning-checklist
[27] - https://www.marthastewart.com/home-cleaning-schedule-checklists-7377969
[28] - https://www.amenify.com/blog/ultimate-room-cleaning-checklist-daily-weekly-monthly-and-seasonal-cleaning
[29] - https://www.zerowasteweek.co.uk/zero-waste-bedroom/
