When you think about passing down your belongings, it’s natural to assume your kids will want the things you treasure most. But the reality often surprises people. Many items you consider valuable may not hold the same appeal for your children.
Understanding what your kids are likely to keep can save you time, space, and even family tension. It’s about knowing which possessions really matter to them—and which ones might just end up as clutter.
Covered casserole dishes
You might think your covered casserole dishes are treasures, especially if they’re vintage. However, most of these won’t hold much value to your kids unless they’re rare brands like CorningWare in a sought-after pattern.
Even then, the appeal is limited. Many people prefer newer, more stylish cookware today. So, don’t expect your casserole dishes to pass down as must-have heirlooms.
Silver meat platters
You might think silver meat platters are a great heirloom, but most kids won’t share that opinion. They often see these items as bulky and high-maintenance.
Polishing silver requires effort, and if the brand isn’t well-known, they won’t find much value in it. Your kids are more likely to toss or store them away instead of using them.
If you want to keep silver platters in the family, make sure your kids understand their worth and are willing to care for them. Otherwise, they could end up forgotten.
Vintage candy dishes
You might think vintage candy dishes are a nice collectible, especially if they’re from brands like Fenton. Some can be worth a bit, even a few hundred dollars if they’re rare.
But your kids probably won’t see the value in them. They might just view these as old dishes taking up space. If you want to keep them, consider taking a photo before donating or selling.
Decorative serving bowls
You might think decorative serving bowls are great heirlooms, especially if they’re unique or handmade. But your kids probably won’t feel the same way.
These bowls often need delicate care, and younger generations tend to prefer more practical kitchen items. Rustic wooden or artisan ceramic bowls can look nice, but they may just end up stored away or unused.
Antique tea services
You might think your antique tea set is a treasure, but many kids today don’t share that interest. These sets, especially if they’re over 100 years old, can have value, but the charm often doesn’t translate into family appeal.
The design and craftsmanship might impress you, but younger generations may see them as just fragile and outdated. If your kids aren’t interested, consider selling or donating the set instead of holding onto it.
Ornate gravy boats
You might have a fancy gravy boat with gold trim or floral designs passed down through generations. While it looks elegant, your kids might not see it the same way.
These pieces often take up space and aren’t practical for everyday use. Unless it’s from a well-known brand, it’s unlikely to hold much value to younger family members.
Porcelain butter dishes
You might think your porcelain butter dish is a charming heirloom. But chances are, your kids won’t see it the same way. These dishes aren’t usually dishwasher safe and often hold little resale value.
Modern alternatives with airtight seals and durable materials have mostly replaced them. Your butter dish might end up tucked away in a cabinet or given away. It’s nice, but probably not something your family will fight over.
Brass candelabra
You might think a brass candelabra is a classy and valuable piece. It often looks elegant and can be a nice decoration for your home.
However, your kids probably won’t share the same enthusiasm. These heavy, outdated candle holders don’t fit modern tastes or lifestyles. They may see them as dusty or awkward to display.
Even if they are vintage or ornate, brass candelabras are usually passed over in favor of more practical or contemporary items.
Handmade Christening clothes
You might think your handmade christening gowns are priceless family treasures. They often carry sentimental value because someone put time and care into making them.
But your kids may not feel the same connection. These delicate clothes can be hard to preserve and might seem outdated or fragile to them.
If you want to keep them, consider displaying or photographing the gowns instead of expecting future generations to use or keep them. Otherwise, donating or passing them on might be easier.
Old wedding dresses
Your old wedding dress might feel priceless to you, but your kids probably won’t share that feeling. They may not want to keep it or even store it.
Instead, you could donate it to someone who can use it, like brides who can’t afford a dress. Some also turn them into burial gowns for stillborn babies or sell them at resale shops.
If you want to keep it, think about creative ways to preserve the memories without passing on the actual dress.
Quinceañera gowns
You might think that Quinceañera gowns hold special value, but your kids probably won’t want to keep them. These dresses are often expensive and made for one-time use.
After the event, they usually just take up space or get donated. Your child may have no interest in wearing or preserving a gown they see as “old” or out of style.
If you want to save money or avoid clutter, consider renting or borrowing instead of buying a pricey dress.