The bedroom. In my opinion, this is the most important area of the home for organization. An uncluttered and peaceful room will help you sleep better, it will create a space where you can escape from life’s stresses at the end of the day, and it will help you (just going to say it) connect with your partner better.

But so often, the bedroom ends up becoming a dumping grounds for clutter. Dirty clothes, your kids’ toys, toiletries, the laptop, your work report, books, homework, etc. It’s time to cleanse that room and let it serve its true purpose: peace and quiet.

Here are 5 tips to achieve a peaceful bedroom:

1. Declutter. This is always my first rule when it comes to getting something organized. Remove everything that doesn’t belong in your bedroom. If there’s another room in the house where an item is better suited, it’s time to relocate that item. When it comes to nightstands, keep only what’s necessary on them. This could be a clock, a cup of water, a lamp, and maybe a candle or some flowers. Believe me when I say it: less is more in this room.
2. Remove distractions. Make your bedroom a technology-free zone. We’ve all heard the rule that you shouldn’t have a television in your bedroom, but it’s true. No TV will help you sleep better and feel more rested. Keep your laptop out of the room as well because we all know how tempting it is to stay up checking on emails, Facebook, and Twitter. Also, I suggest charging your phones outside of the bedroom at night. This will remove the temptation to check it as you wake up during the night.
3. Treat the sheets. When it comes to the actual bed, don’t skimp. Purchase the softest, nicest sheets you can afford. Shop at T.J. Maxx, Marshall’s, or some other store that offers designer and luxury brands for a discounted price. During winter, keep enough blankets on your bed so you don’t wake up shivering. For summer, purchase a lighter blanket and replace the heavy winter ones. Here’s a rule of thumb my mom taught me: If you wake up with the blankets all strewn about or on the floor, you need lighter blankets because they’re making you too hot.
   .
   Also, make your bed every day. This will keep your blankets feeling fresher longer — and it will prevent dirt and creepy crawlies from getting under the sheets – ew. Make a point to wash your sheets at least every other week. But if you have time, once a week is recommended by experts.
4. Use it right. Reserve your bedroom for its true purposes. Don’t let it turn into your office, kitchen, or entertainment center. Don’t work or eat in bed — ever. Keeping your bed a peaceful place for sleep will improve your sleeping habits and patterns.
5. Add ambiance. Once you have your bedroom back to the basics, you can add a little ambiance. Just enough to enhance its peaceful state. You could paint your room’s walls a soft, neutral hue. Add a couple pieces of peaceful artwork — but not too much! Leave the windows open on cool, breezy days for some fresh air at night. Burn a candle in a soft scent (no pie or cookie odors here). Lavender, jasmine, chamomile, and sandalwood are all known to be relaxing and soothing scents. Also, add a bouquet of fresh flowers to your bedside table or dresser.

If you follow these tips, you’ll notice yourself sleeping better, waking up more rested, and truly enjoying the “vacation” your bedroom allows.

Image source: Apartment Therapy