Many Baby Boomers tend to keep certain items on display that younger generations might find outdated or unnecessary. These objects often hold sentimental value or represent a mindset of holding on “just in case.”
Understanding which items to put away can help you create a more organized and functional space. By re-evaluating what you display, you can refresh your environment and make room for things that better suit your current lifestyle.
Faded family photo collages
You might have a family photo collage hanging on your wall that has started to fade over time. The colors soften and the pictures lose their clarity, making it harder to appreciate the memories.
Keeping these collages on display can make your space look dated. Instead, consider storing the photos safely or digitizing them for a fresh way to enjoy those moments.
Switching to digital displays or creating new photo books can brighten your home and keep memories alive without the wear and tear of old paper.
VHS tape collections
You might have a shelf or box filled with VHS tapes from years ago. These tapes often hold family memories or favorite movies that you once enjoyed.
Even if your VCR no longer works, keeping these tapes on display can feel comforting. But most people don’t use them anymore, and they can collect dust.
If you want to free up space, consider digitizing these memories. It keeps the moments safe without the clutter of old tapes.
Old ceramic knick-knacks
You might notice old ceramic knick-knacks sitting on shelves or mantelpieces in many Boomer homes. These little items often remind them of past holidays, gifts, or special moments.
While they hold sentimental value, these ceramics can easily create clutter if you display too many.
If you want to refresh your space, consider putting some away or rotating the ones you show. This keeps your home feeling neat without losing those memories.
Vintage magazines stacked on shelves
You might notice vintage magazines proudly displayed on shelves in many Boomer homes. These stacks often hold memories and a sense of nostalgia.
While it feels special to keep them, these magazines usually just gather dust. Most of their content is now available online, making the physical copies less useful.
If you want to clear space, consider digitizing your favorites or recycling the rest. This way, you keep the memories without the clutter.
Outdated collectible figurines
You might have seen those porcelain or ceramic figurines your parents or grandparents proudly display. Once, these pieces were popular collectibles, often bought with the hope they’d increase in value.
Today, most of these figurines don’t hold much market value and can feel more like clutter. Younger generations often view them as outdated decorations rather than treasures.
If you have some tucked away or on display, consider putting them out of sight. This frees up space and gives your home a fresher, more modern look without losing the memories connected to these items.

