A truly comfortable living room isn’t a cluttered storage space but a central area for relaxation, gatherings, and conversation.
According to experts, there are 5 items you should never place in your living room. After hearing their advice, I realized the nuisances I’d been dealing with all stemmed from seemingly harmless habits.
1. Shoe Cabinets and Open Shoe Racks
Many people place shoe cabinets near the entrance in the living room for convenience when taking off shoes. However, shoes worn throughout the day collect dirt and, in summer, sweat, bringing odors and bacteria into the living space.
Open shoe racks not only spread odors but also detract from the living room’s aesthetics. Even with regular cleaning, the room can still feel stuffy and unpleasant.
Experts recommend placing shoe cabinets in the foyer or entryway if available. For smaller spaces, design a dry-wet separation area to prevent shoe odors from affecting the living room. If no foyer exists, choose a closed shoe cabinet with activated charcoal to eliminate odors, keeping the living room fresh and pleasant.
2. Large Fish Tanks
While a fish tank can add elegance and relaxation, large tanks come with drawbacks. They consume significant electricity due to filters, aerators, and lights running continuously. The moisture they release increases humidity, potentially causing mold and damage to walls and furniture.
Leakage is another concern. A cracked or overflowing tank can damage floors, carpets, and electronics. For most homes, a small desktop fish tank is sufficient to add charm without hassle. If you prefer a large tank, dedicate a separate area to avoid inconveniencing the living room.
3. Exercise Equipment
Treadmills or exercise bikes often start as enthusiastic purchases but end up as unused clutter in the living room. These bulky items occupy space meant for family gatherings, making the area feel cramped and unsightly. Noisy equipment can also disturb household activities and neighbors, especially in apartments.
Many people use these devices only a few times before abandoning them, turning them into makeshift clothes racks. Instead, opt for compact, storable tools like yoga mats, resistance bands, or dumbbells. These meet fitness needs while keeping the space tidy and comfortable.
4. Excessive Indoor Plants
While plants add vitality, too many can backfire. Overcrowded plants attract flies, and soil moisture makes the air feel stuffy. Pollen and mold can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Excessive greenery also blocks natural light and pathways, making the space feel cluttered.
A few well-placed plants are enough to create a pleasant atmosphere. For example, a small plant on the coffee table or a Singapore pothos by the window adds charm without overwhelming the room. Those with refined taste know how to leave space for harmony and comfort.
5. Tangled Cables and Excess Electronics
Modern living rooms often include TVs, speakers, and gaming consoles, but poorly managed cables create an eyesore and safety hazard. Children or pets could accidentally pull or chew on exposed wires. Adding computers or printers further clutters the space, making it feel chaotic and uncomfortable.
Experts advise planning outlet placement and using cable organizers to keep wires tidy. Limit electronics in the living room to maintain its role as a social space, not a tech hub.
Often, we don’t lack decor but the ability to choose wisely. The living room should embody warmth and family connection, not become a dumping ground for clutter. Shoe odors, fish tank humidity, bulky exercise equipment, excessive plants, and tangled cables all subtly diminish comfort.
