When a loved one passes, their home will need to be emptied, a process that can be both heartwarming and sad. Performing an attic, closet, or basement cleanout can be difficult as you must decide which sentimental items to keep. Here is a guide to help make the process easier, more meaningful, and stress-free.

A Guide to Parting With Sentimental Belongings

1. Know That You’re Not Losing the Memories

People often keep belongings because they bring back memories. However, even when recycling an old photograph or donating someone's clothing during a basement cleanout, you can write down or document your memories. For example, instead of keeping the suit jacket your dad wore to his wedding, consider drawing a picture of it and writing down a description of it. If your loved one had t-shirts from events they went to, take some of them to a sewing shop to have them turned into a quilt.

2. Take Photos

During a basement cleanout, you may find large items that you don’t have space for. Instead of storing them, take photographs and share them with loved ones, so you can cherish them forever. For example, a piano may not fit in your home but you could still hang up a photograph of it to bring back the memories.

If your loved one had a lot of photographs, take them to a document company and have them scan each image. They’ll upload them to a storage drive so that you can easily share the photos with loved ones.

3. Forego Guilt

If you have feelings of guilt about getting rid of sentimental items, donate them to charity; you’ll know that someone less fortunate is benefiting from them. Remember that the person who passed away will always be in your heart, regardless of whether you hold onto their belongings. Make an effort to only keep the items that are especially meaningful to you.

 

If you’re doing an attic or basement cleanout, contact Bill’s Junk Be Gone in Ulster County, NY, for help sorting and moving items. Their team has more than 20 years of experience helping people move and get rid of belongings. Call (845) 389-2969 for a free estimate, or visit their website to learn more about their services.