Your bedroom should be a comfortable and functional space, but sometimes certain items stick around long after they’ve stopped serving a real purpose. Over time, some bedroom essentials that were once popular or useful can become outdated or even clutter your space.
Knowing which bedroom items have outlived their usefulness can help you create a more efficient and enjoyable room. This article will guide you through common bedroom essentials that you might want to reconsider or replace for a fresher, more practical setup.
Flimsy IKEA side tables
You might find some IKEA side tables convenient at first. They are affordable and fit well in small spaces.
However, many feel flimsy after a short time. The materials can be thin, and the tables may wobble with regular use.
If you want something sturdy, these might not be the best choice. Consider tables with stronger construction to support your things safely.
Rotary phones
You might still have a rotary phone tucked away in your bedroom. These phones were once essential, but today they can feel slow and outdated.
Using a rotary phone means dialing each number by spinning a dial, which takes more time than pressing buttons. Plus, they don’t support modern features like caller ID or voicemail.
While some people enjoy the retro look, for everyday use, a rotary phone has mostly outlived its usefulness in the bedroom.
Typewriters
If you still have a typewriter in your bedroom, it’s likely more of a decorative piece than a tool you use. Modern computers and tablets have replaced the need for these bulky machines.
Typewriters can be charming, but they take up space and require ribbons and maintenance. You might enjoy them as a nostalgic item, but they have largely outlived their practical purpose.
Conventional wristwatches
You might find that conventional wristwatches have become less necessary in your bedroom. With smartphones always nearby, checking the time on a watch is often redundant.
Although mechanical watches can last for generations with proper care, you don’t need to wear one to track the time. Many people now prefer smart devices or clocks that don’t require winding or batteries.
If you have a sentimental watch, it still makes a stylish accessory, but it’s no longer an essential bedroom item for most people.
Globe décor items
You might have a globe sitting on your desk or shelf, thinking it adds character. However, globe décor has largely outlived its practical use.
With digital maps and apps, you can explore the world instantly on your phone. While a globe can still look nice, it’s mostly just decorative now.
If you prefer to keep one, consider smaller, modern designs that suit your space without taking up too much room.
Bulky boob ceiling lights
You’ve probably seen those round, flush-mount ceiling lights often called boob lights. They are common but tend to feel outdated and bulky.
These fixtures can make your bedroom ceiling look low and cramped.
Replacing them with sleek, modern flush mounts or more stylish lighting options can brighten your room without the bulky look.
Updating your ceiling light is a simple way to refresh your space and improve the overall vibe without a big renovation.
Outdated medical devices
You might still find old medical gadgets in bedrooms, like basic thermometers or manual blood pressure cuffs. These devices worked before but are now often replaced by more accurate digital versions.
Using outdated tools can slow down monitoring your health. Newer devices offer easier and quicker readings, helping you keep better track of your well-being.
Old humidifiers
If you still have an old humidifier, it might not be doing its job well. Newer models offer features like quiet operation, adjustable humidity levels, and easy maintenance.
Old humidifiers can be noisy and hard to clean. Some models also lack safety features, which newer versions include.
Upgrading can make your bedroom feel fresher and more comfortable. Plus, smart humidifiers now let you control moisture from your phone.
Plastic wardrobe organizers
You might find plastic wardrobe organizers convenient at first. They come in stackable designs and clear varieties, making it easy to see your clothes or items.
However, these organizers often take up more space than expected. They can also look bulky and may not fit well in modern, slim wardrobes.
If you prefer a sleek, flexible option, consider alternatives like fabric bins or adjustable dividers instead of plastic.
Cheap particleboard furniture
You might be tempted by particleboard furniture because it’s affordable and easy to find. It’s common in many bedrooms, especially for desks, beds, and storage units.
However, particleboard is less durable than solid wood. It can warp or break more easily, especially with regular use or moisture.
If you want furniture to last, you may want to rethink sticking with particleboard. It often needs replacement sooner than sturdier options.
Non-LED bedside lamps
You might still have traditional bedside lamps with incandescent or halogen bulbs. These bulbs use more energy and create extra heat compared to LED options.
Switching to LED lamps can save you money and reduce your environmental impact. Plus, LED lamps often offer adjustable brightness, better durability, and less eye strain.
Keeping non-LED lamps around may feel familiar, but upgrading could improve your bedtime routine and your electricity bill.
