37 Essential Bedside Items to Put in Your Nightstand Drawers

Having a nightstand drawer can make a big difference to your pre-bed routine. That is, if you have the right items in place.

In this article, you’ll discover 37 things to put in your nightstand drawers that will improve your pre-sleep routine and keep your belongings within reach.

37 Items to Keep in Your Nightstand

Essential Electronics

Keep the following electronic items at arm’s reach in your nightstand drawer:

• Phone charger: It’s always helpful to have a spare charger in your so you can make sure that your phone is always charged and accessible.
• Power bank: This portable charger comes in handy during power outages or if your phone’s battery runs out just before bedtime.
• Spare batteries: Keeping spare batteries in the drawer ensure that you’ll always have power for devices like flashlights or remote controls.
• Remote controls: Storing remote controls for the television, fan, or other devices can keep them organized and within reach.

Related: Learn how to match your nightstands

Health and Wellness

Your overall health and wellbeing can be improved by keeping these items close:

• Lip balm: Nothing is worse than waking up with dry, chapped lips. Keep a lip balm next to your bed, and make sure to slather your lip with it before you go to sleep.
• Hand lotion: A mini bottle of hand lotion can relieve dry and rough skin, which can be especially annoying to deal with during the colder months.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, allergy medication, or prescription medication can be stored for easy access.
• Water bottle: A reusable water bottle can help you stay hydrated throughout the night so you won’t need to get up for a drink.
• Tissues: A small pack of tissues can be handy for allergies, colds, or emotional moments.
• Snacks: A small, non-perishable snack like nuts or granola bars can help curb late-night hunger.
• Sleep tracker or smartwatch: Storing a sleep tracker or smartwatch in the nightstand drawer can help monitor and improve sleep quality.
• Sleep aids: Melatonin, herbal teas, or supplements designed to promote sleep can be stored for easy access.
• Eye drops: Keeping eye drops nearby can provide relief before bedtime.
• Nail care items: Nail clippers, a file, or cuticle oil are always handy to have if you want to do a little pampering before bed.
• Sleep diary: Keeping a sleep diary can help track sleep patterns and identify any issues that may be impacting sleep quality.
• White noise machine: A small, portable white noise machine can help create a consistent and soothing sleep environment.
• Travel-sized toiletries: Miniature versions of personal care items like facial cleansers, moisturizers, or deodorant can be helpful for late-night touch-ups or early-morning routines.
• Heating pad or ice pack: Provide relief for aches, pains, or injuries.
• Digital thermometer: Keeping a thermometer nearby can be useful for monitoring health, especially during cold and flu season.

Comfort and Convenience

For added comfort in your sleeping space, consider these items:

• Sleep mask: Block out unwanted light.
• Earplugs: Earplugs can help block out unwanted noise, which is especially helpful for those of you living in noisy cities.
• Journal and pen: Keeping a journal and pen in the nightstand drawer allows for easy access to jot down thoughts, ideas, or dreams upon waking up.
• Hair care items: Hair ties, clips, or a brush can help keep hair tidy and away from your face during sleep if you have long hair.
• Aromatherapy items: Essential oil diffuser, lavender pillow spray, or scented candles can create a relaxing atmosphere for better sleep.
• Sleep headphones: Soft, comfortable headphones designed for sleeping can help listen to music, podcasts, or white noise while drifting off.
• Pocket-sized calendar or planner: Having a calendar or planner nearby can help you plan out the following day or remember important dates.
• Stress-relief toys or tools: Fidget spinners, stress balls, or other stress-relief items can help calm the mind and promote relaxation.
• Gratitude journal: Writing down things to be grateful for before bed can promote positive thinking and better sleep.
• Disposable wipes: Always handy to have on hand.

Related: Some Great Nightstand Alternatives for a Small Space

Reading

Ensure you have these items for a peaceful bedtime routine:

• Books or e-reader: A book or e-reader for nighttime reading can help relax the mind and promote better sleep.
• Bookmark: Keep your place in your favorite book without damaging the pages by utilizing a bookmark.
• Reading light: A compact reading light can brighten your book without disturbing your partner’s sleep.
• Reading glasses: If you need to wear reading glasses, having a pair in the nightstand drawer makes it convenient for bedtime reading.
• Relaxing puzzle or activity book: Sudoku, crosswords, or coloring books can help unwind and clear the mind before sleep.

Safekeeping and Security

Storing these items in your nightstand can offer peace of mind:

• Emergency contacts: Keep a list of important phone numbers readily accessible in case of emergencies.
• Insurance Information: This also a helpful item to have on hand in case of late night emergencies.
• Flashlight: A small flashlight can be invaluable during power outages.

Organizing Your Nightstand Drawer

Use of Dividers

One of the most effective ways to organize your nightstand drawer is by using dividers. Dividers help separate and categorize items such as:

• Electronics
• Books
• Medications

Stick to simple, adjustable dividers that fit your drawer’s dimensions. You can find these essential organizers in various materials like plastic, wood, or metal.

Prioritizing Accessibility

When organizing your nightstand drawer, identify the items that you use most frequently. Place essentials, such as reading glasses or a book you’re currently reading, at the front for easy reach. Keep less-used items at the back.

If you need to store medications in your drawer, consider using a small, clear container so you can always see and access them easily. Take note of expiration dates and rotate medications accordingly.

Creating a Personalized Space

Creating a calming and peaceful environment within your nightstand drawers is important for a good night’s sleep.

Let’s dive into how to make your nightstand an extension of your personality and reflect your aesthetic preferences.

Aesthetics and Ambience

Consider the overall vibe you want to create in your bedroom. A well-designed nightstand can contribute to the ambiance of the room. Some ideas include:

• Natural elements: Incorporate materials like wood, stone, or plants into your nightstand décor.
• Color: Choose soothing colors that complement your bedroom’s color scheme, such as pastels or neutrals.
• Lighting: Place a soft light source within your nightstand drawer, like a small LED light or a candle, to create a warm glow when you open it.

Reflecting Your Personality

Your nightstand should also be an extension of your personality. Here are some ideas to infuse your style into your nightstand storage:

• Hobbies: If you have a hobby or passion, use themed items to decorate your nightstand. For example, if you love to read, consider having a dedicated space for books within your drawer.
• Inspiring quotes: Add personalized notes or quotes that inspire or motivate you. Place these in small frames or write them on sticky notes inside your drawer.
• Photos: Tuck in a few cherished photographs or prints of loved ones, whether it’s family, friends, or pets, to bring a heartwarming touch to your space.

Remember, your nightstand is a reflection of your style and personality. By incorporating your tastes and interests, you’ll create a space that’s comfortable and uniquely yours. You’ll also make your pre-bed routine just that much more pleaseant.