Last year, a small remodeling endeavor unexpectedly expanded into a complete kitchen overhaul. That’s a tale for another time. Yet, the changes, especially our DIY charging drawer, have been truly rewarding.
During the remodel, I added more drawers to the lower cabinets, enhancing practicality and usability. This created extra space, leaving me with drawers without a set purpose. Recalling an idea I saw on Pinterest about a charging drawer, I decided to put it into action.
Our charging drawer quickly became one of the most frequently used, right after the silverware and spice drawers. It has contributed to healthier tech habits as well.
In this post, I’ll detail how I converted an existing drawer into a charging hub and discuss the importance of keeping our devices out of the bedroom. I’ll also share the impact this simple change has had on our family’s technology habits.
Why It’s Important to Keep Devices Out of the Bedroom
Firstly, let’s explore why a charging drawer in a common area, like the kitchen, is transformative, particularly for sleep hygiene and overall health. Many people bring phones to bed for social media, emails, or endless scrolling, but it’s not the healthiest choice.
The Impact of Blue Light on Sleep
One major reason to avoid devices in the bedroom is their blue light emission. The screens emit blue light, which can interfere with melatonin, the hormone that controls our sleep-wake cycle. Studies have shown blue light exposure before bed can delay sleep onset and affect sleep quality.
Keeping devices out of the bedroom helps your body wind down naturally. If you’ve ever struggled to sleep after scrolling on your phone, you know this firsthand. The solution is to designate a charging space outside the bedroom, like our charging drawer.
If moving your devices isn’t feasible, consider using a red light filter, wearing blue-light blocking glasses, or switching to something like the Daylight Computer for nighttime journaling and writing.
Reduce Late-Night Distractions
Devices near the bed can constantly tempt you to check them, whether for work emails, messages, or news. This connectivity can lead to late-night distractions and prevent relaxation.
A charging drawer establishes a boundary between your bedroom and the online world. By mandating devices charge in the kitchen, you’re less likely to check them during the night, improving your sleep quality and presence with family.
Improved Focus and Connection
With devices stored in a drawer, focusing on the present is easier. For families, this means more quality time without distractions from texts, games, or browsing. A designated charging area encourages mindful technology use.
Now, I’ll explain how I created this essential charging drawer in our home.
How I Created My DIY Charging Drawer
Building a charging drawer in my kitchen was simple, requiring few tools and skills. Using an existing drawer, with minor adjustments, I turned it into an organized charging hub.
Step 1: Find the Right Drawer
I selected an underused, disorganized drawer in the kitchen, ideal for transformation. The chosen drawer should be accessible yet not in a high-traffic area. The kitchen location suits our family’s activities but isn’t where we unwind.
No need for a new drawer; find one in your kitchen, office, or living area that’s not fully utilized. Swap smaller drawers for deeper ones if needed.
Step 2: Install a Power Strip Inside the Drawer
The key is adding a power strip inside the drawer, allowing device charging in one spot. I chose a well-fitting power strip with enough outlets, ensuring a long cord reaches the nearest outlet, and included surge protection. Ensuring airflow prevents overheating. I rewired a cabinet plug to face inward, leaving the lower cabinet open for storage.
Add ample charging cords to reach from the power strip to devices. Keep a variety for different devices, like iPhones or tablets.
Though specialized power strips exist, my DIY approach was cost-effective and satisfying.
Step 3: Add a Silicone Mat to Protect the Drawer
After installing the power strip, I placed a silicone mat at the drawer’s bottom for surface protection and to prevent slipping. Heat-resistant, non-slip, and easy to clean, silicone mats aid in organizing and tidying up devices.
Step 4: Organize the Cords and Devices
Organization time: I neatly coiled cords and secured them with clips to prevent tangling, leaving room for each device to rest while charging.
The charging drawer is now the family’s go-to spot for phones and tablets. Everyone knows where to find chargers without needing to search or compete for plug-ins.
Our Family’s Charging Routine and Screen Time Habits
Adding the charging drawer helped establish healthier device habits for our family. Here’s how we use it:
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Devices are charged overnight in the kitchen: Phones and tablets charge in the drawer overnight, deterring nighttime checks. We wake up to fully charged devices, ready for the day.
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No screens after dark: Screen use is avoided after dark, especially in the hour or two before bedtime. With the charging drawer, devices remain out of reach and out of mind, improving sleep, particularly for the kids.
- Family-wide tech detox: We keep screens off during family meals, fostering connection and conversation without distractions.
Conclusion: The Benefits of a DIY Charging Drawer
Implementing a DIY charging drawer in our kitchen was transformative for our family’s technology habits. It’s a simple change that aids better sleep, reduces distractions, and promotes mindful device use. By designating a space for devices, we’ve set clear boundaries, enhancing relaxation and overall well-being.
If you seek an organized, tech-friendly home, I highly recommend creating a DIY charging drawer. It’s low effort, with significant benefits!
Happy charging, and here’s to promoting healthier tech habits for your family!
What are your family’s rules and habits around devices? Let us know!
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