Sleep experts urge you not to follow this popular design trend – here's why
The controversial movement continues to divide designers – but psychologists warn against incorporating it in the bedroom
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Cluttercore – the most talked-about trend of the season – has made headlines in the interior design industry.
The aptly-named movement – that urges you to fill your home with curated clutter – originated on social media last year. Since then, maximalists have had every excuse to bring mismatched belongings into the forefront of their scheme – whether it's through antique heirlooms or eccentric accessories.
Cluttercore shows no signs of slowing down – but there is one room where you should avoid incorporating the interior design trend – and that's the bedroom.
Yes, sleep experts have warned against experimenting with clutter as it may be stopping you from getting a good night's sleep. Here's what you need to know before following the trend.
Why you should avoid Cluttercore in the bedroom – according to sleep experts
'A cluttered bedroom can certainly drive sleep disorders,' says licensed clinical psychologist Nancy B. Irwin (opens in new tab). The psychologist explains that everything in your bedroom should reflect its primary purpose – sleep. Therefore, simplicity is key.
Nancy recommends opting for soothing paint ideas, aromas, and soft fabrics that won't overpower your scheme. 'For optimal sleep, it helps to have your bedroom set up so that when you walk in at night, you feel like you are walking into a spa,' she says.
Vanessa Osorio, who is a Sleep Health Content Specialist at Sleepopolis (opens in new tab), also reinforces Nancy's argument.
'It's no doubt that clutter is obtrusive to look at, but it's even more obtrusive for sleep. It over-stimulates the mind, distracts the senses, and makes relaxation difficult,' she adds.
She references a recent study (opens in new tab) that revealed that bedtime routine and sleep quality were improved among individuals with insomnia after decluttering their sleep space.
'Thankfully, there are easy solutions to saying "goodbye" to clutter and "hello" to better sleep,' Vanessa says. She recommends choosing 'minimalist furniture such as platform beds, lean and simple dressers' – and only keeping the essentials on your nightstands.
Similarly, when it comes to gallery wall ideas, some pieces are better left out of the bedroom. The expert urges you to choose 'relaxing, minimalist art' – for example, a large canvas above the bed. This simple decor decision might just save your sleeping pattern.
Will you be keeping one of 2022's biggest trends out of the bedroom?
Megan is a News Writer across Future Plc’s homes titles, including Livingetc and Homes & Gardens. As a News Writer, she often focuses on micro-trends, wellbeing, celebrity-focused pieces, and everything IKEA.
Before joining Future, Megan worked as a News Explainer at The Telegraph, following her MA in International Journalism at the University of Leeds. During her BA in English Literature and Creative Writing, she gained writing experience in the US while studying in New York. Megan also focused on travel writing during her time living in Paris, where she produced content for a French travel site. She currently lives in London with her antique typewriter and expansive collection of houseplants.
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