10 Things You Should Never Keep in Your Bedroom

Your bedroom should feel like a sanctuary—a space for rest, relaxation, and intimacy. It’s where your mind and body recharge at the end of each day. But for many of us, the bedroom unintentionally becomes a storage space or an overflow area for items that disrupt its purpose.

These distractions can prevent you from fully unwinding or even getting a good night’s sleep.

The good news? Small changes can make a big difference. By removing certain items from your bedroom and relocating them elsewhere, you can create a more peaceful, inviting space.

Here are 10 things that don’t belong in your bedroom and some helpful tips for where they might go instead.

1. Exercise Equipment

While having a treadmill or exercise bike in your room might seem convenient, it adds an element of “work” to a space meant for rest. Even if you don’t notice it consciously, exercise equipment can create a mental distraction. Consider placing your workout gear in a separate room or a corner of your home dedicated to fitness.

2. Television

Many people love the idea of watching TV in bed, but it’s not as relaxing as it seems. The blue light from screens interferes with your sleep patterns, and it’s easy to lose track of time binge-watching shows. Keep the TV in your living room and enjoy a screen-free bedroom that promotes better rest and intimacy. Here are 18 compelling reasons to remove it.

3. Work-Related Items

Your bedroom shouldn’t double as an office. Papers, laptops, and other work-related materials can remind you of tasks and responsibilities, making it harder to disconnect. Create a separate workspace in your home, even if it’s just a small desk in another room.

4. Boxes of Clutter

We all have those mystery boxes filled with odds and ends we haven’t sorted through yet. Storing them in your bedroom only creates visual and mental clutter. Take some time to go through these boxes and either discard, donate, or organize the contents. If you’re not ready to tackle them, find a storage spot outside your bedroom.

5. Children’s Toys

If you’re a parent, it’s normal for your kids to bring toys into your bedroom during the day. However, their permanent home should be elsewhere, like a toy bin in your child’s room or a playroom. This helps maintain your bedroom as a peaceful retreat.

6. Dirty Laundry

Laundry piles not only create a mess but also remind you of chores waiting to be done. Place a hamper in your closet or laundry area to keep dirty clothes out of sight and out of your mind while you’re trying to rest.

7. Food and Dishes

While breakfast in bed can be a treat, keeping food or dishes in your bedroom on a regular basis invites crumbs, spills, and even pests. Keep meals and snacks in the kitchen or dining room and enjoy a clean, fresh bedroom.

8. Too Many Books

A small stack of books or magazines for bedtime reading is fine, but an overflowing pile can quickly turn into clutter. Limit your bedside collection to one or two items and store the rest in a bookshelf or another room.

9. Unnecessary Furniture

Extra furniture, like unused chairs or large storage units, can make your bedroom feel cramped and less relaxing. Opt for only the essential pieces that serve a purpose, such as your bed, nightstands, and a dresser.

10. Personal Memorabilia

Photos, keepsakes, and mementos are wonderful, but too many of them can overwhelm your bedroom. Select a few meaningful pieces to keep in this space and display the rest in shared areas of your home, like a living room or hallway gallery wall.

Transforming your bedroom into a peaceful, intentional space doesn’t require perfection. Start with one or two items from this list and see how it feels to have a more restful environment. Remember, the goal isn’t to deprive yourself but to create a space where you feel calm and at ease. By making small, thoughtful changes, you can enjoy a bedroom that truly supports your well-being.