Nightstands are often magnets for clutter and they take up a good deal of space in a small room. We recently removed the two nightstands that flanked our bed and donated them to charity because I didn’t like waking up and looking at clutter first thing each morning.

Since bedrooms are your sanctuary and retreat from the responsibilities of the world, clutter is a no-no in your bedroom. If your nightstand is also a home for forgotten things, consider getting rid of it or giving it a much-needed decluttering session.

If you don’t have space for a nightstand or are thinking about getting rid of yours like I did mine, consider these alternatives to give you the convenience of a nightstand without all the clutter:

1. Lose the table and replace it with a small bedside caddy. These are great for dorm rooms, too.
2. Install a wall-mounted light fixture if you like to read in bed.
3. If you rent instead of own, a clip-on light might be a better alternative to a permanent fixture.
4. A wall-mounted book and magazine rack can get reading materials off flat surfaces and free up floor space.

Good luck turning your clutterstand back into a nightstand!