Why It’s Completely Fine That My Kids Skip Making Their Beds (And I Do Too)

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“The state of your bed is the state of your head.” This phrase pops up frequently in discussions about the benefits of making your bed, claiming that it leads to greater happiness and productivity. If that’s the case, my mind must be a bit tousled and chaotic—and honestly, I’m perfectly fine with that.

I don’t insist that my children make their beds either, even though it would be a breeze for them. We all use duvets, which means no sheets to tuck or blankets to fold back. It’s an easy task, sure, but in the hustle of our daily lives, I’ve chosen to focus on what truly matters—and bed-making just isn’t one of them.

Let’s explore the common reasons given for making your bed, and I’ll share my counterpoints:

1. It’s a Simple Task.
   They say: Doing it takes hardly any time and can help you organize your mental to-do list for the day.
   I say: Honestly, I need a more compelling reason. I prefer using my shower time to plan my day, and my kids are more in the moment than thinking ahead. They’re not exactly known for their long to-do lists!
2. It Fosters a Sense of Accomplishment.
   They say: As Admiral McRaven said, making your bed each morning gives you a sense of pride and sets a productive tone for the day.
   I say: I feel accomplished every morning after getting up early, showering, dressing, emptying the dishwasher, brewing coffee, and feeding our cat. My kids, on the other hand, feel proud when they finally make it downstairs for breakfast after a few calls.
3. It Reduces Clutter and Enhances Aesthetics.
   They say: A tidy room contributes to a calmer mind and less stress.
   I say: I focus my decluttering efforts on the spaces we actually use, like the kitchen and the living room. The kids may not grasp the importance of picking up after themselves, but when they see a clean living room, they understand the value of a tidy space.
4. It Boosts Productivity and Happiness.
   They say: Surveys show that 71% of people who make their beds report feeling happy, while 62% of non-bed-makers express unhappiness.
   I say: I must be in the minority because I genuinely enjoy my job and would feel more exhausted if I spent time on that task! Plus, my kids are happy enough without adding one more chore to their busy mornings.
5. It Prepares You for Unpleasant Tasks.
   They say: Making your bed teaches you to tackle things you’d rather avoid.
   I say: We already have enough tasks my kids don’t want to do, like brushing their teeth or putting away their dishes. I don’t see the need to practice unpleasantness!
6. It Leads to Better Habits.
   They say: Making your bed can be a “keystone” habit that encourages other positive habits.
   I say: Nobody in our home enjoys making the bed, and I question whether these so-called “gateway” habits really hold water.

Interestingly, the article concludes with some advantages of not making the bed at all, like preventing dust mites. So, there we are—my family is on a noble quest to keep dust mites at bay!

In all honesty, we have plenty of areas we could improve upon to enhance our home and our lives. If letting something as trivial as bed-making slide creates a bit of peace in our household, I’m all for it. If you’re curious about more parenting insights, check out this post on cervical insemination and its implications for family planning. And for those considering at-home options, you can find a reputable insemination kit at Make A Mom. For further information on the insemination process, the Cleveland Clinic provides excellent resources too.

Summary:

Skipping the ritual of making beds can be a liberating choice for families, allowing for more focus on what truly matters in daily life. While some argue that making the bed enhances productivity and happiness, it can also add unnecessary pressure. Embracing a bit of chaos can lead to a more harmonious home environment.