We mentioned that to be productive, it is important to a get good night’s sleep. That can be hard to do when your bedroom is chaotic and you get stressed out looking for clean pyjamas under the piles of work you haven’t been able to complete. It doesn’t set you up for a restful night. An organized bedroom is conducive to rest, relaxation, and a good sleep. Read on for bedroom organizing tips and storage solutions.
Declutter First
It’s easy to say, “remove everything from the bedroom that doesn’t have to do with sleeping,” but that isn’t always practical. Many people live in small spaces so the bedroom may also serve as a workspace and storage area. However, decluttering is an important first step in bedroom organizing. Take the empty coffee mugs to the kitchen. Get rid of old magazines. Return books to the library.
Of course, you will want to launder your dirty clothes and eliminate those you no longer wear or want. We’ve discussed sorting and getting rid of clothing as well as ways to organize closets so look through those previous posts for getting your wardrobe in top shape. This post focuses on organizing solutions for things in your bedroom, some of which can be used for clothing.
Once you have decluttered, it is time to look at what you need to store in your bedroom and the available storage space.
Under-the-Bed Storage
If you are looking for under-the-bed storage options make sure you measure the space between the floor and bed. Because dust and debris can easily accumulate under the bed, it is best to have a container that closes securely. This plastic bin with locking lid is great because it has wheels that allow you to roll it easily. However, at almost 18 cm tall (7 inches) it might be too tall to fit under some beds.
Vacuum bags are a popular option because they save space however, they are slippery and do not stack well so they may get lost under the bed. Fabric totes – especially these ones with clear tops – are great because you can see what is inside, they zipper closed to keep out dust, and they can be slightly squished to fit under the bed if required.
You might also consider beds with hidden storage. Expand Furniture right here in Vancouver offers a wide selection of Lift & Storage beds that are able to store an amazing amount of linens, suitcases, off-season clothing, etc. IKEA also has a selection of bedframes with built-in storage.
Nightstand Storage
A nightstand with drawers can double as extra storage for undergarments, socks, scarves, or other accessories. This fancy 3-drawer filing cabinet could double as a nightstand while keeping your files neat and tidy. Feng Shui experts might not be happy that work/finances are being stored in the bedroom but with homes being so small, you may not have a choice where to store items – just make sure your files are well organized.
If you don’t have space for a nightstand try this bedside caddy. It fits between your mattress and foundation and will hold your phone, eyeglasses, book, and it even has a built-in water bottle holder. It certainly saves space while keeping your essentials handy.
Headboard and Footboard Storage
Using a headboard that incorporates shelving will give you space for everything from books to knick-knacks to those special adult items hidden in decorative boxes. You can purchase headboards with shelves, or a wall-slat system headboard that you customize by adding shelves and hooks.
Add a trunk, chest, or ottoman with storage at the foot of the bed to store off-season clothing or linens. Cubbies and baskets are also an attractive option for storing smaller items like clothing and shoes.
Bedroom Organizing Tips
Keep a small, decorative, (but functional) trash bin and a recycle bin in your bedroom. It will help keep rubbish from piling up in corners and on every surface.
If you have your office in your bedroom, use a privacy screen or curtain to hide your desk from the rest of the bedroom. It will keep you from thinking about work and block out all of the blinking computer lights that may disturb your sleep.
Decorative throw pillows can make a bedroom look attractive but not when they are all over the floor. Use a basket to corral them when sleeping and changing the bed linens.
Use small bowls on your dresser or night stand to confine keys, coins, and anything else that comes out of your pockets.
This over-the-door hanging mirror from Bed, Bath & Beyond also stores your jewelry and accessories – and no tools are required for installation.
If you need some help with bedroom organizing to create a relaxing, restful space, contact the Out of Chaos team. You can also reach us by email at info@outofchaos.ca or by phone at 604-813-8189.
Image by Sidekix Media on Unsplash
