I'm putting my organizing hat on today so we can talk a bit about our bedrooms. 

Why is it that so often the master bedroom gets neglected?  So quickly they can become a dumping ground of clutter and clothes.  Perhaps it's because the master bedroom isn't generally a room guests visit so it's easy enough to throw things in and quickly shut the door or maybe it's just last on the list because so many other areas need in the house need tending to first.

Whatever the reason, I’d like to challenge you a little bit on that today.  We spend so much time in our bedrooms, and yes most of that time is sleeping, but it's also a place we should be able to come to unwind and relax and eventually sleep after a long day. Tell me how a cluttered room can be relaxing?  It’s a constant reminder of something that still needs to be done, it's not so easy to turn that off when it's all around you.  You deserve better than that.  I know everyone reacts differently but visual clutter could be why you are having trouble falling asleep at night.
This is the case with my daughter and I always know when it’s time to
organize her room again. I’ve posted about that before here and here.

It’s time to create a sanctuary in our bedrooms, a retreat clear of clutter and chaos, a place to unwind by yourself or with a loved one, a haven to settle in with a good book, somewhere to relax and just shut the world out for a little while without all the distractions of stuff everywhere.

Doesn't that sound nice?  Here are some tips to help you make that happen.

image courtesy of sarahleeab

1.  Take a look at your space with fresh eyes.

We get so use to our spaces and the clutter around us that we often stop seeing it.  Spend some time really looking at your surroundings.  Are there piles of clothes on the floor or the dresser?  Knicknacks galore that haven't been dusted in ages?  Dishes or papers piled up?  Bottles of neglected perfume or unread magazines littering the dresser shelf?

2.  Remove, sort and purge

This step refers to removing everything from on top of those surfaces, gathering stuff that has collected on the floor and making a big pile of these items in the middle of the bedroom floor.  I'm not a fan of the "organize by shuffle" method that so many people try to do.  Instead piling it all into one area really gives you a feel for what it is you have and what multiples you may have generated over time.  Start sorting everything in front of you into like minded piles ~ toss, keep, donate, relocate and laundry.  This is where you can be ruthless.  If it isn't something you actually use or even love, please think about purging it.  Be realistic with your expectations.  For example, if the magazines have been collecting dust for months, chances are you aren't going to read them in the future.  Be strong!

3.  Containerize

Now that you've managed to clear out the clutter you can get to what I call the fun part.  Containerizing is exciting!  Not only because there are so many possibilities for every budget imaginable but also because of the function they serve.  Containers allow you to set some limits and boundaries to your space helping to prevent you from purchasing more than you ultimately have the space for as well as keeping your stuff from spreading farther than it should.  Brilliant!

Some ideas to think about include:

Can you add a closet organizer to double your closet space

Can you add a nightstand with drawers and/or shelves

Do you have an adequate dresser or bookshelf available

What about a chest or container at the end of your bed for keepsakes or blankets

Don't neglect storage space underneath your bed...ideal for things like out of season clothes

4.  Atmosphere

You've tackled the clutter, now it's time to add some ambiance.  How about a nice relaxing paint color and some of your favorite family photos framed on the walls.  Maybe a few candles, some soft light and perhaps some soft and lucurious bedding.  If lack of funds prevent you from decorating you may have to get a little more creative but adding some mood to room can definitely be done on a budget.

One of my favorite posts on how to turn a cluttered and boring bedroom into a well-ordered and restful retreat belongs to Lylah from Simple Home Living.  Her post titled Create Sanctuary in Your Master Bedroom is so encouraging with many wonderful ideas to assist you.

For further information on clutter control and containerizing please visit my blog I'm an Organizing Junkie.

How's your bedroom looking?  Is it the retreat you long for or a place you'd rather avoid?