Does your bedroom feel cluttered and overwhelming? Is it a place of calm and relaxation, or do you look around and get stressed out by all mess? According to a survey by the National Sleep Foundation, 75% of people reported getting a better night’s sleep when their bedroom environment was clean and organized. Decluttering can directly improve sleep quality by reducing visual distractions and promoting relaxation. With our step-by-step guide, you have a focused plan so you can transform your bedroom into a serene sanctuary in just one weekend. Block out your calendar for two consecutive days, and let’s do this!
Day 1: Preparation and Sorting
1. Set Clear Goals
Begin by envisioning how you want your bedroom to look and feel. Define goals such as creating more space, improving organization, or enhancing the aesthetic appeal. Or create even more specific goals such as getting rid of the piles of clothing, moving work-related items to your home office, and getting the nightstands and dresser tops cleared of clutter.
2. Gather Supplies
Collect bins, boxes, garbage bags, labels, markers, and cleaning supplies. Having everything on hand will streamline the process and keep you focused.
3. Start Small
Choose a manageable starting point, such as a single corner or a nightstand. Breaking down the task into smaller segments will prevent overwhelm and help you maintain momentum.
4. Sort Items
Sort through each area systematically, categorizing items into three main groups: keep, donate/sell, and discard. Use the “one-year rule” for decision-making—items unused for over a year are candidates for removal. For instance, if you’re holding onto items that no longer fit and you haven’t worn it in over a year, it’s time to donate it. Once you do get back to that size, it’ll be a lot more fun to reward yourself with a new, more fashionable replacement!
5. Evaluate Furniture and Extras
Assess if any furniture pieces hinder your bedroom’s functionality or aesthetics. Consider removing unnecessary items or replacing bulky pieces with streamlined alternatives to maximize space. If you’ve got workout equipment or chairs in your room that you’ve been using as a clothing pile-on spot, think about moving it to another room to discourage future pile-ups.
6. Clear Surfaces
Clear of nightstands, dressers, and shelves. Designate specific spots for essentials like books, lamps, and decor items. Minimize clutter by only displaying items that serve a purpose or bring joy.
7. Take It Away
Items and clothing that are for donations should be bagged or boxed, and placed into your car for you to drop off next time you do errands. The ones for discard should be bagged and put into the waste bin. Trust us, keeping these in your home brings about the temptation to reintegrate them—don’t do it!
Day 2: Organizing and Beautifying
1. Clean Thoroughly
Once all the non-keepers are out of the way, give your room a deep clean before you start organizing. Dust surfaces, vacuum carpets, wipe down baseboards, and launder curtains and linens. If you can, move furniture and vacuum and dust those spots that haven’t seen daylight in years. A fresh, clean space will enhance the impact of your decluttering efforts.
2. Create Storage Solutions
Invest in storage solutions that fit your needs, such as under-bed storage containers, closet organizers, or floating shelves. Utilize vertical space and hidden areas to maximize storage without adding clutter. Be sure to measure meticulously before you buy anything—even 1/8 of an inch will make a difference.
3. Organize Clothing
Arrange clothing by category (e.g., tops, pants, accessories) and color for a visually appealing wardrobe. Invest in slim hangers to maximize closet space and consider folding techniques like the KonMari for drawers.
4. Minimize Digital Clutter
Tackle digital clutter in your bedroom to reduce mental clutter and improve sleep. According to the Sleep Foundation, using electronic devices at night can interfere with both the quantity and quality of sleep. To counteract this, an increasing number of sleep experts recommend keeping technology out of the bedroom.
5. Maintenance Is Key
Establish daily habits such as making your bed each morning and dedicating a few minutes each day to tidying up. Regular maintenance will prevent clutter from accumulating and ensure your bedroom remains a tranquil retreat.
Decluttering your bedroom in one weekend is achievable with careful planning, commitment, and a systematic approach. By purging unnecessary items, optimizing storage, and enhancing aesthetics, you can create a space that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Remember, the key is not just in clearing physical clutter but also in creating a harmonious environment that supports your well-being. Take this opportunity to transform your bedroom into a sanctuary where you can unwind, recharge, and start each day with clarity and peace of mind.