There’s something about a tidy nightstand that feels downright luxurious. Maybe it’s the sense of calm it brings when you step into your bedroom at the end of a long day, or perhaps it’s the simple pleasure of having everything you need within arm’s reach.
Whatever it is, a clutter-free nightstand is one of those little things that instantly elevates your space—and yes, even your mood. “Nightstands are the last thing we see at night and the first thing we see in the morning,” reminds decluttering expert Tracy McCubbin. “To go to bed or wake up next to piles of clutter is not good for your brain.”
Here’s everything you need to know about how to simplify, style, and, most importantly, declutter your nightstand, so that you can wake up to a calm, functional environment and retire to a serene, peaceful sleep.
Tracy McCubbin, organization expert, author, speaker, and founder and CEO of dClutterfly a premiere decluttering home service
Step 1: Remove What Doesn’t Belong
Decluttering your nightstand is about more than just tidying up a space—it’s about creating a peaceful, functional environment where everything has its place. By keeping only what’s truly essential and letting go of the excess, you’ll find your bedroom transforms into a restful retreat that’s ready to help you unwind at the end of every day.
Tracy McCubbin
I think a nightstand should only have the essentials for sleep: a lamp, any meds taken in a.m. or p.m., a glass of water, hand lotion, and what you are currently reading.
— Tracy McCubbin
Start paring down by eliminating the following items ASAP.
Paperwork and Receipts
“One thing I see regularly on my client’s nightstands are piles of paperwork,” shares McCubbin. “Paperwork should be on your desk or in your files, especially if it’s bills or legal documents. You aren’t going to do your taxes before bed.” That also goes for things like crumpled-up receipts and notes you meant to throw away. “The bedroom is for getting a good night’s sleep,” McCubbin reminds.
Empty Water Bottles and Cups
Many people like water at night. but leaving bottles or cups that have been sitting around for days is both unappealing and unsanitary. Invest in a nice, reusable water bottle or personal carafe you can refill each evening—something that feels like a luxe addition to your nighttime routine.
Disorganized Medications
Not only are disorganized medications cluttering the space, but they can also pose a safety risk. Clear them out and create a designated place for any necessary nighttime medications or supplements. Stashing a pill organizer inside a luxe trinket box, for example, can eliminate the visual clutter.
Piles of Books
Having multiple unfinished reads taking up space adds clutter and can stress you out. “I think looking at a pile like that makes you feel overwhelmed and can encourage negative thinking like, ‘I’m not reading fast enough,'” shares McCubbin. “I recommend establishing a designated shelf on your bookshelf for your to-be-reads, not a leaning tower of books on the nightstand.”
Dozens of Skincare Products
As enticing as the latter is, your skincare routine should be done in the bathroom or at a vanity—not in bed. A small hand cream or lip balm is great; they’ll help keep your skin feeling soft and hydrated as you sleep. The other bottles and potions though? Put them back where they belong.
Step 2: Determine Your Nightstand Essentials
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Now that you’ve cleared out the clutter, it’s time to hone in on what should actually live on your nightstand. Think of these items as the minimalist essentials that enhance your nighttime routine and contribute to a peaceful, relaxing environment.
A Dimmable Lamp
Whether it’s for reading or creating an ambient glow, a good nightstand lamp is a non-negotiable. Choose one with soft, warm light. (You’ll want to avoid harsh, bright lighting that could disrupt your cozy atmosphere.) A dimmable lamp or one with a soft white bulb works wonders for setting the mood before bed.
An Elegant Charging Station
Instead of letting devices clutter up the surface of your nightstand or constantly losing your charging cable, consider investing in a chic charging dock or stand. This simple addition instantly elevates your space and keeps everything in its place.
An Alarm Clock
“I recently added an alarm clock to my nightstand as I’m not sleeping with my phone in my bedroom anymore,” says McCubbin. “It’s been six months without my phone at night, and not only am I sleeping so much better by skipping scrolling before bed, but I’ve read about 10 books!”
Take a note out of McCubbin’s playbook and add an alarm clock to your nightstand to make your bedroom a phone-free zone. Just be sure its light or glow isn’t disruptive to your sleep.
Step 3: Style for Calm—and Maintain It
The key to an aesthetically pleasing nightstand is embracing the concept of less is more. You don’t need to overstuff the space to make it functional or stylish. Think clean lines and neutral tones. Avoid overwhelming your space with too many items, even if they’re functional. Keep your nightstand streamlined so it feels open and welcoming.
One or two personal touches—maybe a favorite picture frame or a treasured memento—are a lovely way to add warmth and character, but don’t go overboard. After all, your nightstand should promote calm, not chaos.
And here’s a hard-truth: Your nightstand won’t stay clutter-free unless you actively maintain it. “Decluttering nightstands should become a regular practice, ideally daily, but weekly for sure,” says McCubbin. “Remove the empty water glasses and detritus from the night before and start the day off with a tidy space.” A quick, regular tidy will make sure your serene sleep haven stays that way.
