It’s a common sentiment among parents: we hold on to certain items, thinking they will be cherished by our children in the future. But oftentimes, our kids see these things as just more junk to deal with when it’s time to declutter. Here are 11 trinkets you might be keeping that your children will most likely toss.
1. Old Magazines
If you have been saving old magazines because of a unique cover or a specific article, chances are your children won’t want them. Magazines take up a lot of space and, with the internet providing access to nearly every piece of information ever printed, they are largely obsolete. Instead of keeping the whole magazine, consider cutting out the articles or covers you love and putting them into a scrapbook. It will take up less space and be more personal.
2. Figurines
Those little glass or porcelain figurines might hold sentimental value for you, but for your kids, they’re just dust collectors. While a few special pieces might be kept, the majority of them will likely end up in a donation box. If you truly want to pass them down, consider giving each one a story that ties it to your family. That might make it harder for them to part with.
3. Commemorative Plates
Commemorative plates are another item that many of us hold onto, thinking they will increase in value or be of interest to our kids. Unfortunately, they often end up in the “donate” pile. If you love them, keep them, but don’t expect your children to hold onto them.
4. Old Tech
That old rotary phone or first-generation iPod might seem like a cool retro item to you, but your kids are likely to see them as outdated and unnecessary. Unless your child has a specific interest in old technology, these items are likely to end up in the trash or at a thrift store.
5. Costume Jewelry
While some costume jewelry can have value, most of it does not. Your kids are likely to see it as gaudy and old-fashioned. If there are a few pieces you love, consider having them made into something new that your children might appreciate.
6. Old Cookbooks
Old cookbooks are another item that you might think your children will treasure, but with recipes readily available online, they’re likely to be seen as clutter. If there are family recipes in these books, consider copying them and creating a new book for your kids.
7. Large Furniture
That giant armoire or four-poster bed might be grand, but large, heavy furniture can be a burden to your kids. Many young people prefer smaller, more minimalist furniture, and moving and storing large pieces can be a hassle. If there are pieces you truly love, talk to your kids about them now and see if they have any interest.
8. Old Records and CDs
Unless your children are music aficionados, your old records and CDs are likely to be seen as unnecessary clutter. With digital music being so accessible, physical music collections are often seen as outdated. If there are albums you love, consider converting them to a digital format for your kids.
9. Antiques
While some antiques can be valuable, many are not. And even if they are valuable, your children might not want to deal with the hassle of selling them or keeping them in good condition. If there are pieces you love, talk to your kids about them now and see if they have any interest.
10. Old Linens
Old linens, particularly those that are handmade or embroidered, might hold sentimental value for you, but unless they’re in excellent condition, your kids are likely to see them as old and worn. Instead of storing these away, consider using them or displaying them now.
11. Outdated Fashion
That old fur coat or those vintage designer dresses might be treasures to you, but to your kids, they’re just old clothes. Unless they have a specific interest in vintage fashion, these items are likely to be donated or sold. If there are pieces you love, consider passing them down now, while you can share the stories behind them.