Some habits are hard to break—especially the ones shaped by our childhood. For those who grew up with less, holding onto certain items isn’t just about clutter—it’s about comfort, security, and preparing for the “just in case.”
These aren’t random objects people collect on a whim; they’re the little things that remind us of struggle, survival, and self-reliance. Here are 10 things people often hoard simply because they remember what it was like to go without.
Scrap Metal Pieces
You might find yourself holding onto scrap metal pieces from old projects or repairs. They can remind you of your resourceful upbringing. Growing up without excess often teaches you to save items that could be useful later.
You never know when those metal scraps might come in handy for a home improvement or DIY project. This habit can feel comforting and practical, given your past experiences.
Canning Jars
Canning jars are a staple for many people who grew up preserving food. You might find them saved for everything from homemade jams to pickled vegetables.
These jars aren’t just practical; they also bring a sense of nostalgia and resourcefulness. Keeping them on hand can help you reduce waste and ensure you’re always prepared for canning or storing.
Old Newspapers
You might find yourself holding onto old newspapers from your childhood. They can represent memories or important events that shaped your life. Saving them feels like keeping a little piece of history.
These clippings often evoke emotions and nostalgia, reminding you of moments that were significant. For some, it’s a way to feel connected to their past and to experiences that matter to them.
Plastic Grocery Bags
You might notice that many people hold onto plastic grocery bags. This habit often stems from growing up in households where every item was valuable.
These bags can serve multiple purposes, like storing items or providing padding for packages. They may also remind you of past frugality, making it hard to part with them.
Glass Bottles
You might find that glass bottles hold significant value for you. They can serve as reminders of times when you may have had limited resources.
Collecting these bottles might feel like a way to reclaim what was once scarce. They can also represent creativity, evolving into decorations or storage solutions in your home.
Used Clothing
You might find that used clothing holds a special place in your life. Many people who grew up without access to new clothes often accumulate items from thrift stores or yard sales.
This practice not only saves money but also evokes nostalgia and a sense of comfort. Each piece you collect may remind you of times when clothing was scarce.
Twine and String
You may find yourself holding onto twine and string because they remind you of simpler times. Growing up, these materials were often reused for various tasks around the house.
You might have seen them used for gardening, packaging, or even crafting. Keeping some on hand feels practical, connecting you to your past and the resourcefulness you learned.
Cardboard Boxes
You might find yourself holding onto cardboard boxes without realizing why. Growing up without certain items can lead you to hoard boxes for future use.
They serve various practical purposes, from storage to shipping, making them seem indispensable. Many people, like you, keep empty boxes just in case they need them later.
Ceramic Plates
You may find yourself holding on to ceramic plates, especially if you grew up in a household where they were rare. These plates often carry nostalgia and memories of special meals or family gatherings. Each piece can feel like a reminder of comfort and warmth from your past, making it hard to let go.
Old Books
You might hold onto old books because they carry significant memories. If you grew up in a home where reading was the primary form of entertainment, those books can feel sacred.
Old books also represent knowledge and experiences. They connect you to a time when stories were cherished, making it hard to part with them, even if you don’t read them anymore.
