7 Things You Should Never Have in Your Den

7 Things You Should Never EVER Have in Your Den: A Guide to Creating the Perfect Sanctuary.

Your den is supposed to be your personal sanctuary—an area where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether it’s a quiet reading nook, a cozy hideaway to watch your favorite movies, or a space for personal reflection, the den should be a place that promotes relaxation, comfort, and peace of mind. But, to ensure your den remains a calming space, there are certain things you should never have in it.

Let’s dive into the seven things you should avoid, as well as some expert insights on creating the perfect den.

 

 

1. Sharp Objects or Hazardous Items

Why You Should Avoid Them: Sharp objects or hazardous materials in your den can pose serious safety risks, especially in areas where children or pets might wander. Items like scissors, knives, or even broken glass can be easily overlooked and cause injury. Moreover, materials such as cleaning agents or chemicals, if stored incorrectly, can emit fumes or cause harm if ingested or touched.

Expert Insight: According to child safety experts like the American Academy of Pediatrics, keeping sharp objects out of reach and securing any dangerous chemicals is vital for creating a safe living space. Children are naturally curious, and any item left out in the open can turn into a potential hazard.

 

Quote for Inspiration: “A clutter-free home is a safe and peaceful home.” — Marie Kondo, Tidying Up Expert

 

2. Clutter or Too Much Stuff

Why You Should Avoid It: Your den should be a peaceful, inviting space. However, cluttering your den with too many items can create stress rather than relaxation. Overcrowding the space with unused furniture, random decor, or piles of unorganized belongings can cause mental clutter. This not only affects your ability to unwind but can also make the space feel chaotic and uncomfortable.

Expert Insight: Gretchen Rubin emphasizes the importance of decluttering as a means to reduce stress. Rubin, author of The Happiness Project, suggests that keeping your den uncluttered will allow you to find peace of mind. Too much visual stimulation in your den can reduce its ability to function as a retreat space.

 

Quote for Inspiration: “Clutter is nothing more than postponed decisions.” — Barbara Hemphill, Author and Clutter Expert

 

3. Flammable Materials (Without Proper Safety)

Why You Should Avoid Them: A den is often a cozy, comforting space, but it should always be a safe one. Keep flammable materials—such as gasoline, unmonitored candles, or paper piles—out of your den. While candles can add ambiance, they can also be a fire risk if left unattended. Similarly, keeping flammable substances like lighter fluid or aerosols in your den could lead to accidental fires.

Expert Insight: The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) advises against leaving candles or other open flames unattended in any room, especially in a den where you might often get distracted or fall asleep. Installing a smoke alarm and keeping fire extinguishers nearby are crucial for ensuring safety.

 

Quote for Inspiration: “Safety isn’t expensive, it’s priceless.” — Author Unknown

 

4. Overly Loud Electronics

Why You Should Avoid Them: While it’s tempting to have a giant flat-screen TV or surround-sound system in your den, excessively loud electronics can disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of your space. If you intend for your den to be a place for relaxation, it’s crucial that the noise level is kept at a moderate level. Too many distractions from technology can reduce the tranquil ambiance you’re aiming for.

Expert Insight: A study from Harvard Health shows that prolonged exposure to loud noises can increase stress levels, negatively affecting both your mental and physical well-being. While it’s fine to use electronics for entertainment, make sure the volume levels are adjustable and considerate of the quiet environment.

 

Quote for Inspiration: “The quieter you become, the more you are able to hear.” — Rumi, Poet and Philosopher

 

 

5. Uncomfortable Furniture

Why You Should Avoid It: When designing your den, comfort should be your top priority. Uncomfortable furniture—whether it’s a stiff chair, a worn-out couch, or an awkward table—can make the space less inviting. A den should be a place where you feel physically at ease, allowing you to rest, read, or unwind for hours. Furniture that’s too hard, too soft, or poorly designed can turn your cozy space into a place you’d rather avoid.

Expert Insight: Furniture designers recommend that when creating a personal retreat space like a den, comfort is key. According to the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), investing in ergonomically designed furniture can lead to better posture and overall well-being.

 

Quote for Inspiration: “A home should be a place of comfort and refuge, not an obstacle course.” — Susan Cain, Author of Quiet

 

6. Items That Cause Allergies

Why You Should Avoid Them: If you suffer from allergies or asthma, your den should be a sanctuary of comfort, not a place that exacerbates your symptoms. Dusty rugs, pet dander, certain plants, and poorly maintained air filters can trigger allergies. To create a healthy space, it’s important to avoid keeping items that might compromise air quality and make it difficult to breathe.

Expert Insight: Dr. James Sublett, an allergy expert, recommends using air purifiers and cleaning your den regularly to ensure a clean and safe environment. If you have pets or houseplants, be mindful of how they affect your air quality.

 

Quote for Inspiration: “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” — Abraham Lincoln, U.S. President (In the context of building a healthier home environment)

7. Excessive Technology

Why You Should Avoid It: While technology can be a useful tool in your den, having too much can lead to distraction. Excessive screens—from smartphones to tablets and gaming systems—can make it difficult to unwind. Your den should be a place where you disconnect from technology and focus on self-care or other activities that bring you joy, like reading a book or enjoying a peaceful moment.

Expert Insight: According to experts at Psychology Today, constantly engaging with screens can increase stress and disrupt your mental health. It’s important to balance screen time with activities that promote relaxation and connection with the real world.

 

Quote for Inspiration: “Sometimes the best way to be happy is to learn to be content with being offline.” — Anonymous

 

Conclusion: Creating Your Perfect Den

Your den is a space that should offer comfort, safety, and relaxation. By avoiding these seven things—sharp objects, clutter, flammable materials, overly loud electronics, uncomfortable furniture, allergy triggers, and excessive technology—you’ll create an ideal environment for unwinding after a long day. With a little attention to detail, you can turn your den into a sanctuary that promotes emotional well-being, peace of mind, and an overall sense of calm.

For more expert insights on home safety and interior design, feel free to explore resources like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 

By following these tips, you’ll create a den that is not only visually appealing but also conducive to your overall health and happiness. Keep it safe, comfortable, and free from distractions for the ultimate retreat space.