10 Things You Should Never Store in Your Bedroom Closet (And Smart Storage Tips)

Your bedroom closet should be a sanctuary of organization—a space where you can easily access the clothes and accessories you need daily. But if it’s stuffed with items that don’t belong, it quickly turns into a source of stress and chaos. To help you streamline your closet and improve your daily routine, here are 10 things you should never store in your bedroom closet, along with smarter storage tips for each one.

1. Seasonal Clothing You’re Not Wearing

We all love our winter coats, cozy sweaters, and summer dresses, but if you’re not wearing them, why let them crowd your bedroom closet? Keeping off-season clothing in your closet takes up precious space and makes it harder to find what you actually need. A better idea? Store these items in vacuum-sealed bags or plastic bins under the bed, in the attic, or in a designated storage space. This keeps your closet clear for the season’s essentials.

2. Shoes You Rarely Wear

Special occasion shoes like those fancy heels or dress shoes don’t need to live in your closet full-time. By storing rarely worn shoes in your bedroom closet, you’re cluttering the space and making it harder to access the shoes you wear every day. Instead, use shoe organizers or clear plastic bins in another location—like an entryway closet or under-bed storage. This will keep your closet free for your go-to footwear, making your mornings easier.

3. Old Electronics

Your bedroom closet is no place for outdated phones, unused tablets, or dusty gaming consoles. These items are not only cluttering your space but can also be damaged due to poor storage conditions. Rather than letting old tech gadgets pile up in your closet, consider recycling, donating, or storing them in a more suitable spot, like a tech bin in your office or basement.

4. Books and Magazines

It’s tempting to stash your favorite books or those unread magazines in your closet, but this can lead to clutter and damage. Paper materials can absorb moisture over time, leading to mold and mildew, especially in small, poorly ventilated closets. Instead, store your books on a bookshelf or in a storage bin designed to protect them. Not only will this prevent damage, but it will also make your closet feel more organized and spacious.

5. Extra Bedding and Pillows

Keeping extra bedding or pillows in your closet is an easy way to crowd out your clothing and other essentials. These bulky items take up valuable real estate in your closet, creating a messy and disorganized look. Instead, store them in under-bed storage containers or a linen closet. This way, you’ll still have easy access to your linens without sacrificing precious closet space.

6. Sentimental Items

Your bedroom closet should be reserved for items you use on a daily basis, not a catch-all for mementos and keepsakes. While it’s natural to want to keep sentimental items close by, they can quickly add to the clutter in your closet. Plus, they’re more likely to get damaged when mixed in with your everyday items. Store these treasures in a dedicated memory box or storage trunk that you can keep in a climate-controlled area, ensuring they remain safe and sound.

7. Exercise Equipment

Storing your dumbbells, yoga mats, or other fitness gear in your bedroom closet can turn into a cluttered nightmare. These items tend to be bulky, heavy, and awkward to store in a small space, making your closet feel chaotic. Instead, designate a workout area in your home or store these items in a different closet. Keeping your exercise gear out of your bedroom closet will help maintain order and make your fitness routine more efficient.

8. Personal Care Products

Stashing beauty products like makeup, perfumes, or lotions in your bedroom closet can lead to messy spills and stains. Some products are also sensitive to temperature and humidity changes, which can cause them to spoil or lose their effectiveness. A better option is to keep personal care products in a bathroom vanity or on a dresser where they’re easy to access and less likely to cause damage to your clothes.

9. Toys and Kids’ Items

If your kids’ toys and belongings are taking over your bedroom closet, it’s time for a change! While it may seem convenient to toss them in there, these items take up space that should be reserved for your essentials. Set up a designated storage system for your kids’ toys in their room or play area. This will help keep your closet organized while teaching your children about the importance of cleaning up after themselves.

10. Food and Snacks

It may sound odd, but some people keep snacks or non-perishable food in their bedroom closet. This is a huge no-go! Food in your closet can attract pests like ants and mice, and it can also spoil if not stored correctly. To keep your bedroom and closet clean, store snacks in the kitchen or pantry, far away from your clothes. Not only will this prevent infestations, but it will also keep your closet smelling fresh.

Final Thoughts

Organizing your closet doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. By avoiding storing items like old electronics, out-of-season clothes, and exercise equipment in your bedroom closet, you can free up space for what truly matters—your daily wardrobe and essentials. Opt for smart storage solutions like under-bed bins, memory boxes, and designated shelving for items that don’t belong in your closet. This will not only make your closet easier to navigate but will also create a more peaceful, organized space in your bedroom.