Your bedroom should be a clean and restful space, free of clutter and unnecessary items. Here are 14 things you should banish from your bedroom for a calmer and more nurturing environment.

1. Unwashed clothes
If the sight of laundry doesn’t make you want to sort it out, the smell might. Overflowing baskets of laundry add to the clutter of your bedroom and can be a source of stress. Dedicate some time to clearing the backlog of clothes and stay on top of it – or simply move the basket to the laundry.

2. Old technology
It’s easy to accumulate piles of old mobiles, chargers and laptops. If you have a stash sitting in a drawer, have a clean-out and ditch anything that is outdated or doesn’t work.

3. Old makeup
Take all of your makeup out of its bag or drawer and consider each item. Take the opportunity to give everything a clean, and throw out anything that’s expired or unused. Scientists from the London Metropolitan University found traces of harmful bacteria in four out of five items of expired makeup, which is another good reason to check the expiration dates.

4. Old or unused clothes
It’s time to clear out your wardrobe. Toss multiples of clothing or items you don’t wear. How many red t-shirts do you really need?

5. Old books
Pop anything you haven’t read in a charity box, and clear the space on your bedside table. You’ll feel more relaxed at night time without clutter next to your head.

6. Things that don’t belong in the bedroom
It’s amazing how easy it is for items to migrate to your bedroom, like bowls, mugs and children’s toys. Take a basket and fill it with everything that belongs elsewhere in your home. Return everything to its rightful space and enjoy your clutter-free space.

7. Saggy pillows
Your pillows have an expiration date, so don’t hang on to anything that’s saggy or discoloured. You’ll get a better night’s sleep if your pillows are fresh and supportive.

8. Your desk
You may have the space for it, but it’s not a good idea to have a desk in your bedroom. It’s a source of stress and tension: a permanent reminder of work, unpaid bills and tax returns. Move your desk out of your room and create a calmer, more nurturing environment.

9. Your pet
Studies have found that owners who allow their pets in bed with them get less sleep. Animals can also introduce dirt and harmful germs into your bed. Keep your pet out of your room and enjoy a good night’s sleep – and a cleaner bed.

10. Piles of old magazines
Just like books, it’s easy to amass a pile of magazines in your bedroom. Banish them to the recycling bin.

11. Mobile phone
It might be tempting to keep your phone on your bedside table, but researchers have found that reading your mobile at night leads to less sleep. Keep it on charge in the kitchen instead.

12. Old receipts
You don’t need to hang on to every receipt you’re giving – and certainly not in your bedroom. Keep receipts you need to keep in a box or folder elsewhere at home, and bin the rest.

13. Charity box
If you’ve filled a box of items for donation, don’t let it pile up. Take the box to your car so you can drive it to your local charity.

14. Things under your bed
You’ve probably forgotten most things you’ve stored under your bed. Clear it out and toss anything you don’t need anymore.
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