What I Keep on My Nightstand: Must-Haves for a Cozy and Functional Space
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Front view of a reading book and an alarm clock on a nightstand with an unmade and defocused bed background at night
I’ve always believed that a well-curated nightstand can make a significant difference in your daily routine and overall well-being. It’s not just about aesthetics, although that’s a big part of it for me, but about having everything you need within arm’s reach. Here’s a peek into my nightstand essentials that keep my space both stylish and practical.
The Glass and Carafe Set
First up is a glass and carafe set. There’s something incredibly charming about those crystal sets where the glass fits perfectly over the carafe like a lid. I love having water at hand throughout the night without having to get up. Plus, it just looks so elegant. It’s not only functional but also adds a touch of class to my bedside table.
Seasonal Scented Candles
Next are my scented candles, which I swap out seasonally to keep things fresh and aligned with the time of year. Right now, I have candles that evoke the feeling of summer – think scents like watermelon, coconut, sea mist, and orange zest. These fragrances transport me to tropical places and help me relax after a long day. When fall rolls around, I switch to warm, cozy scents like apple, cinnamon, and pumpkin. The changing scents help mark the seasons and keep my bedroom feeling inviting all year round.
My Trusty Diary
I’m a huge fan of daily journaling, so having a diary on my nightstand is a must. Whether it’s jotting down thoughts before bed or reflecting on the day first thing in the morning, my leather diary is always there. It’s a great way to clear my mind, set intentions, and keep track of personal goals. There’s plenty of research supporting the benefits of journaling for mental health, which makes this practice even more worthwhile.
Sunrise Alarm Clock
Jarring, anxiety-inducing alarm clocks are just not it for me. I love a sunrise alarm clock on my bedside table that gently wakes me up by mimicking a gradual sunrise, especially in the winter months when waking up can be particularly tough. The gentle light helps me start the day calmly and naturally, without the stress of a loud alarm jolting me awake. Make sure the alarm clock you pick is compact so it doesn’t take up too much space on your side table.
Personal Humidifier
With the air conditioning running all night during the summer, I often wake up with a dry throat and nasal passages. To combat this, I keep a personal humidifier on my nightstand. It not only prevents my skin from drying out but ensures I stay comfortable throughout the night. I recommend getting one with the capacity to run for 10-12 hours on a single refill, so you don’t have to worry about it stopping midway through the night.
Styling Tips for a Tidy and Aesthetic Nightstand
While function is crucial, I also believe in keeping my nightstand visually appealing. Here are a few tips that help me strike the perfect balance:
- Choose Items of Different Heights: This adds visual interest and keeps the space from looking flat. For example, the height difference between my carafe set and a tall candle creates a nice contrast.
- Limit to 3-4 Essentials: Too many items can make your nightstand look cluttered. I stick to the basics – water, candles, diary, alarm clock, and humidifier.
- Opt for Built-In Storage: If you have more essentials, consider a nightstand with built-in drawers. This allows you to hide the clutter and keep only the most aesthetic elements on display.
My nightstand is a reflection of my style and needs, and having these essentials close by makes my bedroom a true sanctuary. Whether it’s staying hydrated, enjoying a soothing scent, or waking up gently, these items contribute to a more peaceful and organized life.
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