Spring Clean Your Way to Better Sleep

If you’ve followed us for a while, you know that we nerd out on the latest sleep research and pass along any tips to achieve better sleep. But what if we told you the secret to catching some Z’s might be as simple as cleaning your bedroom? Taking time to declutter and refresh your room can create a calming environment and headspace that promotes restful shuteye. Keep reading for tips on how to clean your way to better sleep.

How a Tidy Bedroom Can Improve Your Sleep

Research shows a direct link between a clean room and a peaceful night’s sleep. Individuals with cluttered homes tend to suffer from insomnia and feel more tired, according to studies at St. Lawrence University and Princeton University. This is because their mental energy is spent on the stress of clutter.

Regular tidying your bedroom is critical to good sleep hygiene. Seasonal assessment of your bedding can help you stay cool and comfortable so you can snooze like a champ. Routine cleaning also serves as a reminder to wash your bedding, which helps to eliminate bacteria and allergens. Cleaning your pillows and linens enhances your comfort and breathing for a truly rejuvenating sleep experience.

Tips to Clear the Clutter and Catch Some Zs

Nothing quiets the mind and creates a relaxing sleep environment like a clean and organized room. Imagine the peace you feel walking into a fresh hotel room. What if you could create and maintain that feeling in your own bedroom? Here’s how to get started:

Tip 1: Declutter Your Bedroom

Our brains thrive on order and visual organization. Clutter spikes anxiety makes it difficult to relax (physically and mentally), and generates more stress hormones (cortisol) in the brain. Without realizing it, that pile of dirty clothes and the collection of electronic cords could be keeping you up at night. Use our declutter tips to quiet your mind, lower stress levels, and positively impact sleep:

• Purge things you no longer need

Decide what is misplaced vs. what is wasted. For example, the collection of glasses on your nightstand can be returned to the kitchen. But the stack of magazines and Post-it notes may be better off in the trash. Grab a garbage bag and toss any items you haven’t noticed or used in weeks (or months). It’s amazing how good it feels to let go of things that simply take up space. You’ll feel lighter, and your mind will start to calm.

• Invest in storage solutions

Without proper storage, it’s easy for items to accumulate in the bedroom, leading to a chaotic and overwhelming environment. Shelving units are a great way to display decorative items while also providing storage for books, boxes, or other small objects. Underbed storage containers are perfect for keeping extra linens, clothing, or other large items out of sight. Decorative baskets and bins are a stylish and functional way to store throw blankets, magazines, water bottles, cords, and jewelry. When everything is put in a dedicated place, it’s easier to unwind and relax in your space.

• Start new daily habits to keep the space tidy

Establishing daily habits for cleaning and decluttering can have a significant impact on mental clarity and maintaining a relaxing environment in the bedroom. To get started, set a specific time each day for cleaning and create a checklist of chores to complete. A timer may help keep you accountable without making the task seem too daunting. The effort it takes to maintain a clean bedroom will pay off with increased focus, reduced stress, and better sleep.

Tip 2: Swap Out Bedding for Seasonal Comfort

We sleep better when our bodies are cool. It’s true! Scientists have conducted many studies and found that our body temperature naturally drops as we drift off to dreamland. So, when Springtime rolls around, ditch the heavy winter bedding to find the perfect temperature and sleep like a pro.

• Put away winter bedding

Strip off the thick winter comforters and flannel sheets for the warm months ahead. Check out our tips to store your winter bedding for the summer. Replace your winter linens with lightweight comforters and cooling blankets.

• Upgrade your Spring and Summer Bedding

For the best sleep experience during warm months, invest in crisp and breathable cooling bedding for Spring and Summer. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, allergy-friendly bedding offers some relief from nighttime ailments that disrupt sleep.

Tip 3: Clean your Bedding and Carpets

Washing linens and vacuuming is crucial for a clean and healthy sleep environment. In fact, those who regularly wash their bedding sleep 20% better than those who don’t, according to a study by the National Sleep Foundation. Cleaning your bedroom eliminates dust mites, allergens, and bacteria that accumulate over time, resulting in a fresher atmosphere and better breathing. Here’s how you can incorporate these cleaning habits into your routine:

• Wash your pillows and bedding

Cleaning your pillows, comforter, and sheets on a regular basis significantly enhances your comfort and quality of rest. Over time, pillows tend to accumulate oils, dead skin cells, and dust, which impact their support and cushioning. Washing pillows helps restore their fluffiness and resilience, offering optimal comfort for your head and neck. It’s easy to wash your bedding at home, and the feeling of freshly washed sheets makes it easy to unwind and drift into a deep, restorative sleep.

• Vacuum your carpet and rugs

Regular vacuuming is essential to remove dust, pet dander, and other particles that can irritate the airways. Aim to vacuum at least once a week to enhance indoor air quality and minimize potential sleep disruptions. If you suffer from allergies or respiratory issues, consider pulling out the vacuum 2-3 times weekly. Not only will this clear the air, but you’ll maintain a tranquil and inviting environment reminiscent of a hotel room.

If happiness is a freshly cleaned house, then a peaceful bedroom is the ultimate sanctuary. Now that you have the tools to declutter and establish daily routines, you can create a peaceful environment for blissful sleep. This Spring, say hello to restful nights and mornings of feeling energized and ready to conquer the day.

Photo by freemockups.org