1. CLUTTER OF ANY KIND
Even if we're not conscious of it, our things talk to us. Clutter can be an unhelpful reminder of jobs we need to do, which we certainly don't need right before bedtime. Kellie Burke, an interior designer, says nightstands should be simple and clean. 'Clutter causes chaos,' she says, 'and when you are finally ready to settle into your bed to relax and rejuvenate your mind and body from the day, you should not be wrought with reminders of tasks to be done.' She recommends decluttering your nightstand and adding a few essentials: a beautiful lamp (with a plug-in dimmer, at Amazon) a lavender-scented candle or aroma, and a tray to hold your glasses and if necessary your cell phone.
2. YOUR CELL PHONE
We all know that blue light affects our ability to sleep, and if you often end up scrolling late at night, we'd recommend investing in a sunrise alarm clock, at Amazon, so there's no need to keep a phone handy. If you prefer to keep your phone nearby in case of an emergency, find bedside furniture that will conceal it.
3. FOOD
Breakfast in bed sounds nice, but can get a little messy, says Denise Clifford a professional organizer at Dee-cluttered. 'Try to avoid the crumbs by keeping food out of your bedroom, off of your nightstand, and in the kitchen where it belongs. Eating before bed also contributes to poor sleep, indigestion, and slowing your metabolism.' Charlie Victor, a Destin-based interior designer and decorator agrees: 'aside from the fact that spills can happen (and nobody wants to wake up to a sticky mess), it's not the most hygienic place to store edibles. Keep snacks and drinks in the kitchen or dining area where they belong.'
4. YOUR LAPTOP AND OTHER ELECTRONICS
Designers advise against keeping electronics beside you while you sleep, so try placing your laptop in another room. This will discourage you from late-night browsing or watching a series and keeps ugly chargers out of the way.
5. PAPERWORK
Kim Jones from Lock and Key Home recalls seeing clients' nightstands covered with bills and other paperwork. 'This is usually one of the last areas you see before dozing off and I am not sure if anyone can have a peaceful sleep knowing there are bills stacked up next to them,' she comments. 'So eliminate anything stressful in your bedroom at all.'