5 Things That Don’t Belong in Your Bedroom—But You’re Keeping Them Anyway

It’s easy to see how too much TV or screen time can disrupt your restful sleep and even pull your attention away from your partner. Studies from around the turn of the millennium showed that couples who keep a TV in the bedroom tend to be less intimate—today, smartphones and tablets often take that role instead. Besides the distraction, electronics emit harmful rays, so it’s best to keep them away from your bed. If you can’t banish your phone overnight, at least switch it to airplane mode.

Do you tend to toss your worn clothes on a chair or valet stand, thinking they’re out of sight? It’s time to break that habit. A cluttered, messy space can make falling asleep harder and stir up more restless dreams. Aim for a calm, harmonious bedroom with only the essentials around when you hit the pillow.

Choosing a good book over your phone before bed is a great step toward peaceful sleep. Just be mindful not to pile up books on your nightstand—keep only the one you’re currently reading there. Books collect dust, and too much dust isn’t great for your health or sleep quality. Once you finish a book, return it to the shelf and keep only the current read within arm’s reach.

Work papers and bills have no place in your bedroom. If you’ve been dropping them on your dresser, it’s time to clear the clutter and find a better spot. Like books, they collect dust, and more importantly, your bedroom should be a sanctuary free from anything that distracts you from rest and connection with your partner.

If you keep some cherished mementos from past relationships, it’s best to pack them away in a box and tuck them deep in your closet or a drawer—especially if you share your bedroom with your current partner. Even if you’re single, these items can pull your mind back to the past. Keeping them out of sight helps you stay focused on the present and your own peace.