Fix a messy dresser top
If you are looking for a fast and easy fix for a space that tends to get cluttered often, this article on how to fix a messy dresser top is a great project.
How to declutter your entire home by focusing on one simple project at a time. Break it down so you can create a home you love in just minutes a day!

I am all about easy, and this is especially true when I have a project I do not want to do, like decluttering.
To make this headache of a goal easier, tackling small areas is the fast fix you need. I also love to stop clutter hot spots by using easy organizing solutions to keep areas neat and tidy going forward.
And that is just what today’s project is. An easy one you can do in just a few minutes and a solution to a common clutter hotspot in your bedroom.
Before we dive in, let’s first answer a common question.
Do you need to have dressers in a bedroom?
The answer to this question is yes AND no. Let’s take a look at each.
Answer #1, Yes
While having a dresser is not a necessity in a bedroom, it can be an essential piece of furniture for many people.
Dressers provide valuable storage space for clothing, accessories, and personal items.
Answer #2, No
Years ago, we decided not to have a dresser in our master bedroom. By organizing our closet space, we are able to keep this large furniture item out of the bedroom, giving a more open and organized look.
It’s true, this approach forces you to pare down on the clothes you wear, but it is a game changer to try out.

If you want to have a more streamlined and inviting space to sleep in, removing some of the furniture in your room might be the answer.
We loved the look so much that we removed the dressers in two more bedrooms in our home.
If you decide to have dressers in your bedroom, be sure to setup organizers to keep the tops from getting messy. This one tip will change the entire look of your bedroom.
fix a messy dresser top
Let’s look at this step-by-step approach to decluttering, cleaning and organizing the top of the dresser in your bedroom.
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Step #1. Set up Sorting Bins
Before you start any decluttering project, it is important to have the tools you need ready. This will help to keep yourself focused so you are more apt to finish this project all the way to done.
I like to have a decluttering kit set up and ready to go whenever I see a project that needs my attention.
The sorting bins you will need are:
- Trash – Anything that is obviously trash or a recyclable.
- Donate – Anything that is in good shape, but you no longer need or use.
- Put away – Anything that belongs in another room.
- Keep – Anything that will stay on the dresser.

Step #2. Start Sorting
Remove one item at a time, putting it into the container where it belongs. The trick here is to ensure that every item goes into a container.
Do not pick up another item until you have made a decision on what you are holding in your hands.
By giving yourself an answer to the question of where this item belongs, you will make the sorting process less overwhelming.
Step #3. Clean
Once you have sorted and removed every item from the top of your dresser, take a few minutes to wipe things down.
Without any clutter in the way, this should only take a few minutes. Wipe down the top of your dresser, the front, the sides, and even the back. Do a thorough job now so you know this piece of furniture is clean and ready to be organized.
Step #4. Organize
After everything is decluttered and cleaned, it’s time to organize the items you have decided to keep.
Some useful tips for organizing your dresser top include:
- Utilize decorative trays or small bins to group similar items together.
- Place frequently used items within easy reach.
- Consider using decorative bowls, jewelry stands, or compartment organizers for smaller items like jewelry or accessories.
- Use decorative boxes or baskets to hide less frequently used items.
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While organizing, keep in mind the following:
- Place the items you use most often on top of the dresser.
- Think about how you can arrange items to save space and make everything easy to access.
- Group similar items together for a more organized look. For example, put all your beauty products in one area and all your accessories in another.
- Use labels or tags to easily identify what is inside a specific container.
Remember, the goal is to create a functional and clutter-free space that makes getting ready in the morning a breeze. With these tips, you can transform your dresser top from a messy catch-all to an organized space.
Step #5. Finish Up With the Sorting Bins
Before we can call this project complete, you will need to take care of your sorting bins.
- Put the trash in the trash can and any recyclables in your recycling area.
- Put donation items into a box or a bag, label it, seal it, and put it in the back of your car. The next time you are out running errands, be sure to drop this box off.
- Walk your home and put away any items that are inside your “Put Away” bin.

Congratulations, you have now successfully organized your dresser top and decluttered another space in your home!
Remember to maintain this organization by regularly sorting through items and putting them back in their designated place. This will not only keep your dresser top tidy but also help you save time in the long run.