Over a Third of Homeowners Say Messy Bedrooms Impact Their Wellbeing

New research from The Panelling Centre explores how the ‘floordrobe’ has become a familiar feature in many Irish bedrooms — and how clutter can affect mood, relationships, and wellbeing.

Over a Third of Homeowners Say Messy Bedrooms Impact Their Wellbeing
Over a Third of Homeowners Say Messy Bedrooms Impact Their Wellbeing

Key Findings

  • 1 in 3 (36%) of homeowners say messy bedrooms negatively impact their mood.
  • 1 in 4 (27%) are unhappy with their bedroom storage, with over half (55%) admitting to keeping a ‘floordrobe’.
  • 83% of tradespeople say homeowners underestimate how much storage they need in their bedroom.
  • 4 in 10 (40%) have avoided a date night at home because their bedroom was too messy.
  • 2 in 5 (40%) say they’ve been turned off dating someone with a cluttered room.
  • 3 in 10 (30%) say bedroom mess sparks arguments, mostly between partners (76%).

Over a third (36%) of homeowners say a messy bedroom has a negative impact on how they feel, and over half (55%) admit to keeping a floordrobe — letting clothes pile up on the floor. That’s according to new research from The Panelling Centre, Ireland’s leading destination for fitted wardrobes, kitchens, and appliances.

The study, conducted among 750 homeowners and 175 tradespeople, reveals how bedroom clutter affects mood, relationships, and the growing demand for smarter storage solutions.

As part of the campaign, The Panelling Centre partnered with Dr Clodagh Campbell, also known as The Wellness Psychologist, to highlight how our surroundings influence mental wellbeing — and how smart, well-designed storage can help create calmer, more positive spaces.

Romance on the Rocks

According to the study, bedroom mess doesn’t just affect peace of mind — it’s also impacting love lives:

  • 4 in 10 (40%) have avoided inviting a romantic interest over because of how messy their bedroom was.
  • The same number (40%) say a messy bedroom has turned them off dating someone.
  • 3 in 10 (30%) admit that clutter leads to household arguments, most often between partners (76%).

Clothes, Clutter, and Chaos

More than half of homeowners (55%) say clothes left on the floor are their biggest source of clutter, while 47% blame bedside tables and 22% point to overflowing laundry baskets.

Nearly half (47%) of those who share a bedroom say they both tidy to keep things neat — yet 47% still admit to living with clutter.

“Our surroundings have a powerful influence on our mental wellbeing. The bedroom should be a sanctuary — a place to rest, reset, and restore — but when it’s full of clutter, it can have the opposite effect.”

“The Panelling Centre’s research shows that over a third of homeowners (37%) feel a clean, tidy bedroom improves their mood and mental health, while 36% say mess has the opposite effect. Simple changes like adding smart storage, decluttering, or improving layout can make a profound difference to how we feel, sleep, and even connect with others.”

– Dr Clodagh Campbell, The Wellness Psychologist

Storage to the Rescue

When asked what would help, homeowners were clear — better storage is key:

  • 1 in 4 (27%) say they’re dissatisfied with their current bedroom storage.
  • 37% stash clothes on chairs, 24% in suitcases, and 21% on the floor.
  • The dream solutions? Built-in wardrobes (35%), walk-in wardrobes (19%), and clever furniture storage (16%).

Gary Higgins, General Manager at The Panelling Centre, said: “Clutter in the bedroom isn’t just about mess — it affects mood, mindset, and even relationships. The right storage can transform a space. At The Panelling Centre, we offer clever, customisable solutions that make the most of every room — from built-in wardrobes to walk-in designs — helping homeowners create stylish, clutter-free spaces.”

The Experts Provide Solutions

Most tradespeople (83%) believe clients underestimate how much storage they need, and 62% say they’ve been asked to help tackle clutter. They agree the main causes are insufficient built-in wardrobes (54%) and poor room design (39%).

  • 61% opt for custom built wardrobes.
  • 38% recommend wardrobe accessories like pull-out racks, rails, and shelving.
  • 30% install walk-in wardrobes.
  • Only 13% suggest adding a larger wardrobe — bespoke designs are most effective.

Design a Bedroom That Works for You

The Panelling Centre’s expert team is available to guide homeowners through storage options tailored to their needs. Visit The Panelling Centre to request a free appointment with a consultant and create a bedroom design that’s stylish, calm, and clutter-free.