Let’s be honest; your nightstand might be a little out of control. It starts with a book or two, then suddenly it’s a graveyard of empty cups, old receipts, and dusty decorations. If your bedside table has become a cluttered mess, it’s time to reclaim that space! Here are 8 things to ditch from your nightstand today for a more organized, stress-free bedroom. Clearing unnecessary items will create a calm, functional space that helps you sleep better.
1. Extra Books: Keep It to One
We all love a good bedtime read, but do you really need five books stacked up? Unread books collect dust and make your bedroom space feel chaotic. Choose a single book to rest on your nightstand while placing all others on a proper shelf.
Not only will your space feel tidier, but you’ll also actually finish the book you’re reading. A single book placed near you provides easy reading comfort before bed while avoiding excessive bedroom clutter.
2. Paperwork and Receipts: They Belong Elsewhere
Bills, receipts, and random papers shouldn’t live next to your bed; they’re the things to ditch from your nightstand. Old receipts are the main offenders when it comes to creating untidy spaces that cause stress. You should store all your papers in a specific file, which can be on your desk or inside a drawer. Waking up to a neat space can set a positive tone for the day, helping you start fresh without a pile of extra distractions right by your side.
3. Empty Water Bottles and Cups: Hydrate, Then Toss
Keeping water nearby is fine, but do you need three empty cups and an old water bottle from last week? Having too many creates unnecessary clutter. Get into the habit of taking them back to the kitchen every morning so your nightstand stays clear and fresh.
A single reusable water bottle or glass is enough, keeping your nightstand practical and mess-free without turning it into a mini kitchen sink.
4. Random Gadgets and Cords: Tidy Up the Tech
Chargers, earbuds, smartwatches—you name it, they pile up fast. Tangled cords make your nightstand look messy and uninviting. Use a small organizer or drawer to neatly store them away. A clean space leads to better sleep. Having a designated charging station elsewhere can help free up space, reducing the mess and making it easier to unwind without a tangle of tech cluttering your bedside table.
5. Dusty Decorations: Less is More
We all love a little decor, but too many dusty decorations make your nightstand feel overwhelming. It might be time to say goodbye if you haven’t dusted that candle holder or picture frame in months. Keep it simple with one or two meaningful pieces.
A clutter-free nightstand makes dusting easier and ensures the decor you do keep remains intentional and visually calming rather than overwhelming and forgotten.
6. Expired Medications and Skincare Products: Check the Dates
If you’re storing old medications or dried-up lip balm, they’re part of the things to ditch from your nightstand. Expired products don’t just take up spaces; they’re also ineffective. Keep only the essentials and store the rest in a medicine cabinet or drawer. Regularly checking expiration dates prevents unnecessary clutter and ensures everything you keep is actually usable, keeping your nightstand neat and your nighttime routine efficient.
7. Unnecessary Beauty Products: Minimize the Mess
Your nightstand isn’t your vanity. Too many lotions, perfumes, and creams make it a cluttered disaster. Pick your absolute must-haves and move the rest to your bathroom or a proper organizer.
Keeping only the essentials within reach creates a cleaner and more peaceful space. It also makes it easier to find what you need without digging through a pile of half-used bottles and jars.
8. Loose Change and Random Knick-Knacks: Get a Small Tray
Coins, bobby pins, and random trinkets somehow always end up on the nightstand. Instead of letting them pile up, use a small tray or drawer organizer. This simple trick keeps your nightstand neat while still having essentials within reach. A dedicated catch-all tray prevents small items from spreading everywhere, making your space look effortlessly put together while still being functional.
Time for a Nightstand Makeover
Your nightstand should be a peaceful space, not a chaotic mess. If you know what to ditch from your nightstand, you’ll wake up feeling refreshed and organized.
Ready to declutter? Start with one category at a time and see the difference it makes! You see these small bedroom organization hacks? You can never go wrong with them.
