A clean bedroom promotes better sleep. Fortunately, bedrooms are relatively simple to maintain compared to kitchens and bathrooms. The key is keeping clutter under control and maintaining bedding regularly.
Daily Habits (2-3 minutes)
Make Your Bed
This single habit transforms the room instantly. It takes 1-2 minutes and makes the entire space feel tidier. Do it right after getting up—before you leave the room.
Put Clothes Away
Clothes on the floor or draped on furniture are the main source of bedroom clutter. Either:
- Put clean clothes in drawers/closet
- Put dirty clothes in hamper
- Hang clothes worn briefly that don't need washing yet
Clear Nightstand
Don't let cups, books, and random items pile up. Return things to their place daily.
Weekly Tasks (15-20 minutes)
Change Bedding
Sheets should be washed weekly. This is the most impactful bedroom cleaning task:
- Strip bed and put sheets in laundry
- Put on fresh sheets
- Fluff and rotate pillows
- Shake out comforter/duvet
Dust Surfaces
- Nightstands and dressers
- Headboard
- Shelves and decor
- Lampshades (use lint roller or soft cloth)
Vacuum/Mop Floor
- Vacuum carpet or rugs
- Vacuum/mop hard floors
- Get under the bed (at least partially)
- Don't forget corners
Quick Declutter
Take 5 minutes to put away anything that doesn't belong in the bedroom.
Monthly Tasks
- Wash pillows: Most pillows can be machine washed (check labels)
- Wash duvet/comforter: Or dry clean if needed
- Vacuum mattress: Use upholstery attachment
- Clean under bed: Move furniture to vacuum thoroughly
- Wipe door handles and light switches: Often overlooked
- Clean closet: Organize and remove items you don't wear
- Wash curtains or dust blinds: Collects dust over time
Seasonal Tasks
- Rotate mattress: Every 3-6 months
- Swap seasonal bedding: Lighter for summer, heavier for winter
- Deep clean closet: Seasonal clothing swap is a good time
- Wash blankets and throws: That don't get washed regularly
Keeping Bedroom Clutter-Free
The Bedroom Is for Sleep
Keep non-sleep items to a minimum:
- Work materials belong in a workspace
- Exercise equipment should have designated spots
- Limit hobby materials and supplies
Flat Surfaces Attract Clutter
Every flat surface is a potential clutter magnet:
- Dresser tops: Keep minimal items
- Bed: Don't use as a catch-all during the day
- Floor: Keep clear for easy vacuuming
- Chair: Not a clothes rack
The Laundry Chair Problem
Almost everyone has a chair that collects clothes. Solutions:
- Put clothes away immediately
- Use a designated "worn once" spot in the closet
- Accept the chair's purpose and keep it contained to that one spot
The Made Bed Effect
Studies suggest people who make their beds report feeling more productive and rested. Whether causation or correlation, a made bed costs nothing and takes 60 seconds. It's the highest-impact bedroom habit.