7 Tips for How to Deal with Sentimental Items

The most common question I answer is “What should I do with sentimental items?” As I learned the hard way, memory-laced stuff is the most difficult to let go of.

I had a few childhood items that were sold without my permission. Understandably, the seller expected I would not want them. While this is true, we all need time and space to process sentimental items. Time to reminisce about the memories and take photographs. And the opportunity to decide where the items should go. Perhaps passing them on to someone or somewhere specific. So, I won’t be selling my husband’s Hess Truck collection anytime soon.

I’m also accused of not being very sentimental which is completely untrue. I am just very intentional about the sentimental items I keep. And I suggest following a similar “some not none” approach.  For example, I display my grandma’s decorative plate. I walk by it several times a day and smile as I think of her. Some is also her silver locket, a timeless piece, inspiring questions when I wear it, and an opportunity to share her story.

But even as I embrace life with less, sentimental stuff is still hard. Here are some tips for handling your own sentimental items.

7 Tips for How to Deal with Sentimental Items

1. Do This Last

Save the memory-laced items for last. Declutter other areas of your home first. Gain momentum and the ability to let go with other categories.

2. Some Not None

If everything is special then nothing is special, so choose 1 or 2 favorites. Donate the rest.

3. Display Don’t Store

Get sentimental items out of the storage room and give them a place of honor in your home.

4. Memories are Not Locked inside Stuff

We can keep memories without the stuff. If you are having trouble getting rid of a particular item, take a photo of it. Create an album on your phone of sentimental items.

5. Set Limits

I can’t lie, baby stuff was difficult. My husband and I are blessed with one child, but whittling down the baby stuff was hard! Time helped.  And our son is growing up so fast that I don’t want to miss it because I’m re-organizing clutter. Limits are particularly helpful for a large family.

6. Be Intentional

Think about someone who would benefit from the items you’re holding on to. A first-time grandma welcomed our son’s bouncy seat and sends me pictures of her grandchildren in it.

7. Ask for Help

Invite a friend who can be objective. Often we just need to hear that it’s ok to let go. Friends will hold your hand, enjoy the stories and help you box up donations.

What items are you holding on to?

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About the Author: Amy Slenker-Smith is a living simply coach and wonderful writer at Simply Enough. She lives near Washington DC with her husband Steve, son Zack and Zeke the cat. You can also find her on Facebook.