Having a well-organized and clutter-free nightstand is important for creating a relaxing and serene sleep space. Many of our clients come to us seeking advice on how to declutter their nightstands and create a peaceful environment for a good night’s rest. After all, a cluttered nightstand can add unnecessary stress to your nighttime routine and make it difficult to find the things you need.
When it comes to decluttering your nightstand, the first thing you should do is sort through all the items on it. Start by determining which items are truly necessary and which ones can be stored elsewhere. Professional declutterers often suggest using drawers or small storage boxes to keep everything organized and out of sight.
It’s also a good idea to consider the aesthetics of your nightstand. Choose pieces that not only store your essentials but also add to the overall design of the room. Remember, your nightstand should be a functional and visually pleasing part of your bedroom. That being said, it’s important not to overcrowd it with too many items.
One helpful approach to organizing your nightstand is to create designated zones for different types of items. For example, you could have a section for personal care items such as hand cream or vitamins, another section for small electronics like your phone or alarm clock, and another section for everyday essentials like a notepad and pen. This will make it easier to find what you need without searching through a jumbled mess every morning.
Decluttering your nightstand not only helps create a more peaceful sleep space, but it can also have a positive impact on your overall well-being. Studies have shown that a cluttered environment can contribute to stress and anxiety, so keeping your nightstand clear and organized can lead to better sleep and a more relaxed state of mind.
Clearing out your nightstand can be a daunting task, but with a few handy tips and some time dedicated to the task, you can create a clutter-free sleep space that promotes a healthy and restorative night’s rest. Start by sorting through the items on your nightstand and determining which ones you truly need. Then, find storage solutions that seamlessly fit your space and can reduce clutter. Don’t be afraid to let go of items you no longer use or need – decluttering is all about creating a space that is both functional and visually pleasing.
So, whether you’re looking to create a more relaxing and organized space or just want to find a better way to store your items, decluttering your nightstand is a small but important step towards a clutter-free bedroom and a healthier sleep routine.
How to declutter a nightstand
When it comes to creating a clutter-free sleep space, decluttering your nightstand is an important part. Experts say that having an organized nightstand can have a big impact on your overall well-being.
For many people, the nightstand serves as a convenient storage area for those everyday essentials that we use before bedtime and first thing in the morning. However, it’s easy for the nightstand to become a cluttered mess, making it difficult to find what you need when you need it.
Ashley, a professional organizer, suggests starting the decluttering process by determining the purpose of your nightstand. Is it mainly for storage, or do you also use it as a bedside table? This will help you determine what items should stay and what should go.
One of the first tips for decluttering a nightstand is to clear everything off the surface. Empty the drawers, remove any electronics or other items that don’t belong there. This will give you a clean slate to work with.
Next, Ashley recommends sorting through the items you’ve removed and deciding what is truly essential. Place these items back on the nightstand and organize them in a way that makes sense to you. For example, you might want to keep a lamp on one side of the nightstand because it’s important for nighttime reading, while a small glass for water might be kept on the other side.
If you’re a big fan of drawer organizers, now is the time to put them to use. Drawer organizers can help keep your belongings tidy and make it easier to find what you need in the morning.
For those looking for a minimalist or cleaner look, consider using a tray or basket to store your essentials. This can help to keep everything contained and create a more organized look.
Another tip is to store any items that you don’t use on a daily basis in a different location. This might include items like extra chargers or knick-knacks that you don’t need to have within arm’s reach.
Although nightstands can be small, they can still bring a touch of design to your sleep space. If you’re feeling inspired, consider adding a small plant or a decorative item to your nightstand to bring some life to the area.
In conclusion, decluttering your nightstand is not only a matter of tidying up, but it can also have a positive impact on your nighttime routine and overall sleep quality. By following these tips and ideas, you can create a more organized and peaceful sleep space.
1 Take everything out at once
One of the first steps in decluttering your nightstand is to take everything out at once. This approach allows you to see the full extent of the clutter you’re dealing with and helps you create a clutter-free sleep space.
Amélie Sicherman, a professional organizer and author of the book “The Clutter-Free Home,” published by Saint-Jacques Publishing, recommends removing all the items from your nightstand in order to start with a clean slate. “When you take everything off, you can really see what you have and determine what you truly need,” she says.
Ashley Jain, an organizer and founder of the website The Clutter-Free Home, also encourages this method. “Start by taking everything out of your nightstand and placing it in a high-privacy area like a table or even a small corner so you can clearly see what you have,” she says. “This will help you determine what items are essential and what can be decluttered.”
By having a clear view of all the items that were previously hidden away in your nightstand, you can begin to think about what you actually need to keep there. It’s easy for nightstands to become cluttered with everyday essentials like glasses, a book, or a phone charger, but this is a chance to reduce the excess and only keep the truly necessary items for your nighttime routine.
Some experts even recommend using this opportunity to give your nightstand a good dust and clean over before organizing the items. Amélie Sicherman suggests using a dust cleaner and wiping down the surface thoroughly.
By taking everything out at once, you’re able to clear out the clutter and create a clean and relaxing sleep space. This will not only encourage better sleep but also make your morning routine more efficient.
Now that you have all the items from your nightstand in front of you, it’s time to determine what should go back and what should find a new home elsewhere in your home.
2 Clean your nightstand while it is clear
Once you have cleared off your nightstand, it’s the perfect time to give it a good cleaning. Dust and dirt can accumulate on the surface, making it look messy and dull. Cleaning your nightstand regularly will not only keep it looking nice, but it will also help to extend its lifespan.
You can start by dusting off the surface using a microfiber cloth or a dusting spray. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, including the corners and edges. If you have any small items or pieces of decor on your nightstand, remove them and dust them off as well.
Rachel Chalmers, a professional organizer and declutterer, suggests using a simple approach to keep your nightstand clean. In her published organizing book, she advises readers to create a cleaning routine for their nightstand. This can be as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth every morning or giving it a more thorough cleaning once a week.
If you have a drawer in your nightstand, take the opportunity to organize it as well. Use drawer organizers to keep everything neat and tidy. Sort items into categories such as books, electronics, and personal care products. This will make it easier for you to find what you need when you’re getting ready for bed or in the morning.
Aesthetics are also important when it comes to cleaning your nightstand. Keep the design of your nightstand in mind and choose organizers that match the overall style of your bedroom. This will not only keep your nightstand organized but also enhance the visual appeal of your sleep space.
By cleaning your nightstand while it is clear, you can ensure that it stays clutter-free for longer. Besides, tidying up your nightstand can be a relaxing and satisfying experience. As organizing expert Marie Sicherman suggests, “Having an organized nightstand is a small way to bring more peace and tranquility into your life.”
- Dust off the surface of your nightstand with a microfiber cloth or a dusting spray.
- Remove small items or pieces of decor and dust them off as well.
- Create a cleaning routine for your nightstand, whether it’s a quick wipe-down every morning or a more thorough cleaning once a week.
- Organize the drawer of your nightstand using drawer organizers.
- Choose organizers that match the design of your nightstand and bedroom.
- Tidying up your nightstand can bring more peace and tranquility into your life.
3 Reconsider what you class as an essential
When it comes to decluttering your nightstand, it’s important to take a close look at the items you currently have on it and determine what is truly essential. Many people tend to accumulate a variety of items on their nightstand, often without realizing it. By reassessing what you truly need and use on a daily basis, you can free up space and create a clutter-free sleep space.
1. Evaluate your everyday essentials:
Start by going through the items on your nightstand and considering which ones you use on a daily basis. This could include things like a lamp, a book, or your phone. Anything that you use every day should be considered essential and worth keeping on your nightstand.
2. Consider alternative storage options:
If you find that you have more items on your nightstand than you actually need, it may be time to think about alternative storage options. An organizer or small drawer unit can be a great way to keep your essentials nearby but out of sight. Consider using baskets or bins to store items that you don’t need immediate access to but still want to keep in your bedroom.
3. Prioritize privacy and relaxation:
When thinking about what you truly need on your nightstand, prioritize items that contribute to your privacy and relaxation. For example, you may want to keep a small box or drawer for storing personal items that you don’t want others to see. Additionally, consider incorporating items that promote relaxation, such as a scented candle or a small plant.
4. Reduce the number of electronics:
Many people have a habit of keeping multiple electronic devices on their nightstand, such as phones, tablets, and chargers. While it may seem convenient to have these items within reach, they can also contribute to a sense of clutter and make it harder to relax before sleep. Consider reducing the number of electronics on your nightstand and finding a designated charging spot elsewhere in your bedroom.
5. Embrace a minimalist approach:
Experts like Amélie Sicherman, owner and organizer of Tidy Gardens, encourage a minimalist approach when it comes to nightstand essentials. By keeping only the most essential items on your nightstand, you can create a clean and organized space that promotes relaxation and a clutter-free sleep environment.
Remember, your nightstand should be a place of simplicity and calm. By reconsidering what you truly class as an essential, you can declutter your nightstand and create a more peaceful sleeping environment.
4 Banish your phone
One of the biggest sources of clutter on a nightstand is electronics, particularly smartphones. It’s all too easy to fall into the habit of keeping your phone by your side every night, checking social media or emails before bed and even reaching for it as soon as you wake up. However, experts suggest banishing your phone from your nightstand for a cleaner and more relaxing sleep space.
Ashley Jain, a professional organizer and founder of The Clutter Cure, says, “The first thing I always recommend to my clients is to get their phones out of the bedroom altogether. This not only helps reduce nighttime screen time, which can interfere with sleep quality, but it also helps to declutter the space.”
Not only does removing your phone from your nightstand clear visual clutter, but it also helps improve your sleep quality. The blue light emitted by electronic screens can interfere with your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
If you rely on your phone as an alarm clock or for other nighttime functions, consider using a traditional alarm clock or investing in a separate device dedicated to these tasks. By keeping your phone out of reach, you can eliminate the temptation to check it in bed. This simple change can make a big difference in creating a clutter-free and tranquil sleep environment.
5 Think about what you need easy access to
When decluttering your nightstand, it’s important to consider what items you need to have easy access to while in bed. What you keep on your nightstand will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle, but here are some common items that many people find helpful to have within reach:
- Bedside lamp: A lamp provides soft lighting for reading or creating a cozy ambiance in your bedroom.
- Alarm clock or phone: If you use an alarm to wake up in the morning, it’s convenient to have it right by your bed.
- Glasses or contact lenses: If you wear glasses or contacts, keeping them on your nightstand ensures you don’t have to search for them in the morning.
- Water bottle: Staying hydrated is essential for a healthy sleep experience, so having a water bottle handy can prevent you from having to go to the kitchen in the middle of the night.
- Books or magazines: If you enjoy reading before bed, having a small stack of books or magazines next to you can help you unwind and relax.
- Notepad and pen: If you often have ideas or thoughts that come to you in the middle of the night, having a notepad and pen can be useful for jotting them down.
- Medication: If you take medication before bed or in the morning, keeping them on your nightstand ensures you don’t forget to take them.
- Tissues or handkerchief: Having tissues or a handkerchief on your nightstand can be handy for allergy-prone individuals or if you tend to get a runny nose during the night.
Remember, the goal is to have only the essentials on your nightstand to create a clean and clutter-free sleep space. Keep in mind that everyone’s needs and preferences are different, so feel free to adjust this list to fit your own lifestyle.
6 Consider a drawer organizer
If your nightstand has drawers, a drawer organizer can be a great addition to keep everything in its place. This handy organizer can help you sort and organize your items, making it easier to find what you need and keeping your nightstand clear of clutter.
When looking for a drawer organizer, consider the size and shape of your drawers. You should also think about what you want to keep in your nightstand and determine the best way to organize it. Ashley Sicherman, a professional declutterer, suggests using drawer organizers for different categories of items, like electronics, everyday essentials, or small personal items like jewelry.
Amélie Saint-Jacques, the owner of an organizing company, recommends using clear drawer organizers, as they can easily blend in with the room’s aesthetics and make it seamless to find what you need. She also notes that using an organizer can encourage you to keep your drawers organized over time.
Prerna Malik, a professional declutterer, published an article on organizing nightstands and suggests using drawer organizers with different-sized compartments to accommodate various items. For example, you can use sections for keeping your phone, charging cables, pens, notebooks, or glasses neatly organized.
Having a drawer organizer not only keeps everything in its place but also makes it easier to clean your nightstand. You can simply remove the organizer, clean the surface, and put it back. This approach saves you time and eliminates the stress of dealing with a cluttered nightstand.
So, if you want to declutter your nightstand and have a clutter-free sleep space, consider investing in a drawer organizer. It can be a small but important piece that brings together the aesthetics and functionality of your nightstand, keeping your essentials organized and your space clear.
Why decluttering a nightstand is important
Having a clutter-free nightstand can make a significant difference in creating a peaceful and relaxing sleep environment. When your nightstand is cluttered with random items, it can make it difficult to find what you need, cause unnecessary stress, and disrupt your sleep routine. Decluttering your nightstand can help promote a sense of calm and organization in your bedroom, making it easier for you to unwind and fall asleep at night.
For some people, a nightstand may only be used for holding a few essential items, like a lamp, a book, or a glass of water. However, for others, their nightstand may also serve as a place to store electronics, medications, and personal items. Keeping all of these items organized and easily accessible is essential for a clutter-free sleep space.
Professional organizers like Rachel Chalmers and Amélie Lancaster encourage their clients to declutter their nightstands as part of creating a more organized life. Rachel suggests sorting through everything on your nightstand and determining which items truly belong there. Prerna Sicherman, another professional organizer, recommends having different organizers, like trays or drawer dividers, to help keep items separated and seamlessly organized.
One of the reasons why decluttering your nightstand is so important is because it can affect your sleep quality. Having a clear and tidy bedside table can promote a sense of relaxation and tranquility, helping you drift off to sleep more easily. It also eliminates the need to search through piles of items in the middle of the night when you’re in need of something specific.
Another important aspect of decluttering your nightstand is the privacy it provides. Ashley Lancaster, a professional organizer, points out that your nightstand may contain personal items, such as medication or vitamins, that you may not want others to see. By organizing these items in a drawer or a decorative box, you can create a sense of privacy in your bedroom.
Decluttering your nightstand also makes it easier to stay organized in general. When everything has a designated place, it’s much simpler to put things away and keep them organized over time. It also prevents the accumulation of unnecessary items on your nightstand, ensuring that only the essentials remain.
In summary, decluttering your nightstand is important for several reasons. It can promote a healthy sleep environment, reduce stress, create privacy, and make it easier to keep your bedroom organized. Whether you follow the advice of professional organizers or use your own approach, taking the time to declutter your nightstand will have a positive impact on your sleep and overall well-being.
The best places to buy nightstands
When it comes to creating a clutter-free sleep space, having a nightstand can be incredibly helpful. Not only does it provide a convenient surface for your everyday items, but it also helps in keeping the bedroom clean and organized. If you’re looking to buy a nightstand, there are several places where you can find the perfect one for your needs.
One popular option is to visit furniture stores, both online and offline. Many furniture retailers offer a wide range of nightstands in different styles, sizes, and materials. This allows you to choose a nightstand that not only fits your space but also matches your overall bedroom decor. Some well-known furniture stores include Ikea, West Elm, and Pottery Barn.
If you’re looking for a more unique or vintage nightstand, you might want to consider visiting antique shops or thrift stores. These places often have one-of-a-kind nightstands that can bring character and charm to your bedroom. While the selection may be more limited, you may find a hidden gem that perfectly fits your style.
For those who prefer online shopping, e-commerce websites like Amazon and Wayfair offer a wide variety of nightstands to choose from. These platforms allow you to easily compare prices, read customer reviews, and have the nightstand delivered right to your doorstep. Additionally, you can often find great deals and discounts online.
If you’re looking for something more affordable or want to get creative, consider checking out DIY stores or websites. Here, you can find ready-to-assemble nightstand kits or even get inspiration to create your own unique piece. This option allows you to customize the nightstand to your exact specifications and can be a fun project to tackle.
Lastly, don’t forget to check out local artisans and craftsmen in your area. Often, they create beautiful handcrafted nightstands that are made with high-quality materials and attention to detail. Supporting local businesses not only helps the community but also allows you to have a unique piece of furniture in your home.
When choosing where to buy your nightstand, it’s important to consider factors like price, quality, style, and convenience. Take your time to browse different options and read reviews before making a decision. Remember that a nightstand is not only a practical piece of furniture but also an important part of creating a relaxing and clutter-free sleep space.
FAQs
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Q: Should I prioritize aesthetics or functionality when decluttering my nightstand?
A: It ultimately depends on your personal preference. If having a clutter-free and visually appealing space is important to you, prioritize aesthetics. However, if convenience and functionality are more crucial for easy access to your essentials, then focus on functionality.
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Q: Should I remove all electronics from my nightstand?
A: If you find that having electronics like a phone or tablet on your nightstand affects your sleep quality or encourages distractions, it’s best to remove them. However, if you use these devices to read or listen to calming music before bed, keeping them on your nightstand may be helpful.
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Q: Are there any tips for organizing the drawer of my nightstand?
A: One helpful idea is to use drawer organizers to separate and categorize different items. You can use a professional organizer or simply repurpose small containers like empty glasses or jars to keep things tidy and easily accessible.
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Q: Is it necessary to have a lamp on my nightstand?
A: Having a lamp on your nightstand is not a requirement, but it can be a practical and stylish addition. A lamp provides both functional lighting for reading and creates a cozy ambiance in the room.
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Q: Should I store personal items like medications in my nightstand?
A: It’s important to prioritize your privacy and security when storing personal items. If you feel comfortable keeping medications or other sensitive items in your nightstand, ensure they are stored safely and securely.
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Q: Will organizing my nightstand help in reducing stress?
A: Yes! Keeping your nightstand clutter-free and organized can contribute to a sense of calm and peace in your sleep space. It helps create a visually appealing and relaxing environment, reducing stress and promoting better sleep.
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Q: Are there different ways to declutter nightstands?
A: Yes, everyone has their own unique organizing style. Some people prefer a minimalistic approach with only essential items on their nightstand, while others like to have a few personal touches like photos or small décor items. Experiment with different decluttering techniques to find what works best for you.
What should you keep in your nightstand
When it comes to keeping your nightstand clutter-free, it’s important to know what items are essential and should be kept within reach. Here are some items that experts suggest you keep in your nightstand:
- Books: Keeping a book or two in your nightstand is a great way to unwind before bed. Whether it’s a novel, a non-fiction book, or a magazine, having reading material nearby can help you relax and prepare for a good night’s sleep.
- Vitamins and medications: If you take daily vitamins or medications, your nightstand can serve as a convenient spot to keep them. This way, you won’t forget to take them before bed or first thing in the morning.
- Phone and charger: Although it’s best to limit screen time before bed, many people use their phones as alarm clocks. Keeping your phone and charger in your nightstand ensures that you can easily charge your phone overnight and have it within reach in the morning.
- Notepad and pen: If you have a habit of getting ideas or remembering things right before falling asleep, keeping a notepad and pen in your nightstand can be helpful. You can jot down any thoughts or reminders without having to get out of bed.
- Eye mask and earplugs: For those who are sensitive to light and noise while sleeping, keeping an eye mask and a pair of earplugs in your nightstand can be a game-changer. These items can help create a more relaxing and quiet sleep environment.
- Hand lotion or lip balm: Keeping a small tube of hand lotion or lip balm in your nightstand can be useful, especially during the drier months. Applying lotion or lip balm before bed can help keep your skin hydrated.
Remember, the items you choose to keep in your nightstand should be based on your personal needs and preferences. Everyone’s nightstand essentials may vary, so feel free to customize your nightstand to suit your own lifestyle.
What do you put at the bottom of a nightstand
When it comes to organizing your nightstand, it’s important to think about what you’ll put at the bottom. This part of the nightstand can often be overlooked, but it serves an important purpose in creating a clean and clutter-free sleep space. Here are some helpful tips and suggestions for what to put at the bottom of your nightstand:
- Books: Having a few books at the bottom of your nightstand can encourage nighttime reading and provide a sense of calm before bed. Choose books that align with your personal interests or those that promote a healthy mindset.
- Electronics: While it’s often suggested to keep electronics out of the bedroom for a better night’s sleep, some may find it helpful to have a designated spot for them. Keeping a charging station or organizer at the bottom of the nightstand can be a handy way to keep them organized and out of sight during the night.
- Lamp: A bedside lamp is an essential part of any nightstand. Placing a lamp at the bottom of the nightstand ensures that it is easily accessible and can provide the right amount of light for reading or other activities.
- Organizers: Using drawer organizers or small trays can help to keep smaller items, such as vitamins or personal care products, in place and prevent them from getting lost or creating clutter.
Rachel Chalmers, a design expert, suggests that besides these common items, you should also consider using the bottom of your nightstand to store things like a journal, a pen, or even a notepad. These can be helpful to have on hand in case you have any thoughts or ideas that you want to jot down before sleep or first thing in the morning.
In addition to these suggestions, it’s important to remember that the bottom of your nightstand should always be clear and organized. Avoid placing too many items or cluttering up the space, as this can create a less peaceful and more chaotic atmosphere in your sleep space.
Creating a clutter-free nightstand is not only visually appealing, but it can also contribute to a more peaceful and relaxing sleep experience. So, think about what you want to have at arm’s reach while in bed, and only bring those items to your nightstand.