This is a question that I have long pondered.  When I ask my kids to make their beds they retort “We are just going to mess them up again tonight!”  I have struggled to find a good comeback. Until now.

As a professional organizer, I can answer questions such as “Why do I have to put things away?” by pointing out the savings in time and money and frustration.   But the act of making a bed doesn’t fit the normal profile of maintaining order.  It isn’t as though the bed is going to be lost if it is left unmade.  Making a bed doesn’t save time, it takes time.  Making a bed doesn’t save money either.  Not having the bed made doesn’t really affect how efficient and effective one is during the day.  So why make a bed?

 The obvious reward of bed making is the nice feeling one gets when the bed is made and the room is picked up.  For the “messies” in this world that just isn’t enough to motivate them to spend an extra two minutes making a bed in the morning.  They need to be reminded of the not so obvious reasons which make this chore an important and necessary one.

The answer to the question, “Why make a bed?” lies in the effect completing this chore can have on the person doing the bed making.  In his book entitled Ending The Homework Hassle, John Rosemond speaks of the Seven Hidden Values of Homework.  Six of these values apply directly to the question of why everyone should make his or her bed as well.

Responsibility – Making one’s bed shows self initiative and ownership.  The bed belongs to the one who sleeps in it and is not a responsibility of the parents.

Autonomy – Making his bed and doing chores are the earliest opportunities for a child to stand on his own.

Perseverance – This chore teaches a child to do something on a regular basis even when his emotions tell him he doesn’t want to do it.  It is an opportunity to complete what he started with determination.

Time Management –Requiring a child to make his bed gives him the opportunity to manage his time in order to get the job done without being late or sacrificing something else.

Initiative – Giving the child the job of making his bed every day allows him to become self motivated.  “Initiative is like a muscle”, says Rosemond.   “If it’s exercised, it strengthens.  If, on the other hand, other people are assuming initiative for the child, he will not ever develop the strength to exercise it on his own.”

Self Reliance – Giving the child the chance to successfully complete an assigned task helps him develop a trust and confidence in himself and  his ability.

As you can see, the simple act of making a bed has effects far beyond visual neatness.  It helps shape character.  It helps children grow into responsible adults. 



Sandra Forbes is a professional organizer and coach, speaker and writer on home management .  She is a mother of seven children ages ranging from 1 to 18.  She shares organizing tips and insights on her website Forbesorganizing.com

Dear Sandra, I am so edified by this article; in particular, how you explain the impact upon the person, and the analogy of the use and strengthening of a muscle. This ability to take initiative, especially in tasks that might not be our favorite, is such a striking life skill and building block for virtue. What an awesome thing to pass along to the adults of our tomorrows!! The principles you have described here can be applied to so many other areas. Thank you!!!

Great article! Such a unique perspective.

Well said Sandra. These are great principles for everyday life. Who knew making a bed could be so inspiring? Thank you for your insight!

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