Clear the Clutter: 8 Things to Get Rid of in Your Bedroom, According to Professional Organizers

As we grow older, it becomes increasingly important to make our living spaces more comfortable, calming, and practical. Nowhere is that more essential than in the bedroom—a place meant for rest and relaxation. But too often, our bedrooms become crowded with things we don’t need, haven’t used in years, or don’t even like anymore. If you’re a baby boomer looking to simplify your space, improve sleep quality, and make your home feel more manageable, it’s time to declutter.

According to professional organizers, your bedroom should function as a peaceful retreat, not a secondary storage unit. Whether you’re retired or just entering that next stage of life, here are eight things you should consider getting rid of in your bedroom today—along with expert-backed tips for how to do it right.

Discover 8 things to remove from your bedroom for better sleep and less clutter—expert organizing tips perfect for baby boomers simplifying their space.

1. Worn-Out or Extra Bedding You Never Use

It’s amazing how many of us accumulate linens over the years—extra sets of sheets, heavy comforters, and old pillowcases that haven’t seen daylight in ages. You might even have some hidden away that were inherited or gifted but never used. Professional organizers recommend paring down your bedding collection to no more than two complete sets per bed. This way, you always have one in use and one in the wash—no more overflowing linen closets or stuffed drawers. Donate gently used items to local shelters or animal rescues, and repurpose the rest as cleaning rags. Your storage space—and your sleep routine—will thank you.

2. Clothes That No Longer Fit or Suit Your Lifestyle

Still holding onto suits from your working years? Or those “goal weight” jeans from the ’80s? You’re not alone. Many baby boomers find it hard to part with clothing, especially items tied to specific memories or periods in life. But organizers agree: if it doesn’t fit or reflect your current lifestyle, it’s just taking up valuable closet space. Go through your wardrobe and remove anything you haven’t worn in the last year. Prioritize comfort, function, and style that aligns with who you are today. You’ll not only free up space, but you’ll also make getting dressed each morning quicker and far more enjoyable.

3. Old Books and Magazines Gathering Dust

A cozy stack of bedtime reads is perfectly fine—but if your nightstand has turned into a leaning tower of paperback novels, magazines from a decade ago, or travel guides for trips never taken, it’s time for a cleanup. Books and magazines can accumulate quickly and collect dust, allergens, and clutter. Keep only a small selection of current or favorite reads within arm’s reach and consider donating or recycling the rest. Libraries, senior centers, and local book swaps are great places to pass along gently used materials. Less clutter on your nightstand means more room for that reading lamp, glass of water, or even a journal.

4. Expired Medications and Old Toiletries

Raise your hand if you have a drawer or basket in your bedroom filled with old pill bottles, expired ointments, or hotel-size toiletries you forgot you had. Professional organizers recommend tackling this sneaky source of clutter with care. Medications that are expired or no longer needed can pose a health risk, and old lotions or creams may have lost their effectiveness—or worse, developed bacteria. Sort through everything, check expiration dates, and dispose of medications responsibly at a pharmacy or designated drop-off site. Toss outdated toiletries and keep only the products you use regularly. Your drawers will look cleaner, and you’ll avoid the dreaded “Where did I put that?” scramble.

5. Decor That No Longer Brings You Joy

We all have items we’ve kept for years simply because they’ve always been there—a dusty faux plant, an outdated wall print, or decorative pillows that haven’t been fluffed in months. But if your bedroom décor doesn’t make you feel calm, cozy, or content, it’s probably doing more harm than good. Professional organizers suggest evaluating each item and asking, “Does this still reflect my taste or serve a purpose?” If the answer is no, it might be time to let it go. Replace those old décor pieces with something that lifts your mood—maybe a soft throw, a meaningful photo, or a favorite color on the walls. Your bedroom should feel like a reflection of your current self, not a collection of leftovers from decades past.

6. Unnecessary Furniture That Crowds the Room

As the years go by, we often accumulate more furniture than we need. That second dresser you never open, the old armchair used only to hold laundry, or the clunky bench at the foot of the bed might be taking up space without adding any real function. Crowded bedrooms can feel claustrophobic and are harder to clean—not to mention potentially dangerous if you’re navigating the space in the dark. Organizers suggest re-evaluating your furniture layout with safety and simplicity in mind. Remove or repurpose anything that doesn’t serve a clear purpose. The result? A more open and serene environment that feels easier to maintain and move around in.

7. Technology That Disrupts Your Sleep

From glowing alarm clocks to buzzing cell phones and flashing TV standby lights, technology can quietly sabotage your sleep. Many of us keep these gadgets nearby out of habit or convenience, but professional organizers (and sleep experts) agree that cutting back on bedroom tech can improve your rest and reduce nighttime stress. Ditch the electronics you don’t use, move charging stations to another room if possible, and turn off screens at least an hour before bed. Opt for analog alternatives like a soft-glow alarm clock or a white noise machine. The result is a quieter, darker, and more sleep-friendly space—a true gift for anyone over 50 looking to wake up feeling refreshed.

8. Sentimental Clutter That No Longer Serves You

Sentimental items can be the hardest to part with—love letters, old photos, souvenirs from family trips—but when these things start to overflow from boxes and shelves, they can weigh you down emotionally and physically. Organizers aren’t suggesting you become cold-hearted; rather, they recommend curating your keepsakes. Choose a few special items that truly mean something and consider displaying them thoughtfully. Others can be scanned or photographed for digital preservation and then let go. This approach honors your memories without allowing them to take over your space. Your bedroom should reflect who you are now—not just who you were decades ago.

Final Thoughts

Decluttering your bedroom doesn’t mean you have to get rid of everything you love—it means letting go of the things that no longer serve a purpose so you can make room for comfort, rest, and ease. For baby boomers especially, creating a bedroom that’s both beautiful and practical can improve your day-to-day life, promote better sleep, and even reduce anxiety.

If you’re ready to begin, start small. Pick a single category—like nightstand clutter or linens—and focus your attention there. You don’t have to tackle the entire room in one go. Progress is more important than perfection. With a little effort and intention, your bedroom can become the restful, clutter-free retreat you’ve always wanted.

Remember: clearing space in your room often clears space in your mind. And at this stage of life, that’s one of the best gifts you can give yourself.