Keeping Sentimental Items Organized
We all have those cards, letters, ticket stubs, event programs, and other reminders of fun and meaningful times of our lives that we want to keep forever. Seeing them allows us to experience again the joy of that occasion and relive those treasured memories.
But what do we do with them? So often we just leave them out on the counter or desk because we don’t want to lose them and enjoy seeing them. But what is the best way to organize our keepsakes?
These are my tips for keeping and organizing sentimental items so we can preserve and keep them safe for future enjoyment.
For clothing or fabric like your child’s outfit, blankie, or christening gown, you first need to make sure it is clean before putting it away. I recommend folding these and putting them in a plastic container with a lid or fabric container that zips. Both of these will protect it from dust and general wear and tear.
You can also preserve fabric items in a shadow box to make it a piece of artwork. This is perfect for sports jerseys or race T-shirts
For letters, cards, loose photos, and paper, I recommend a lidded box. It could be decorative that is kept on a shelf or a plastic one you keep in a closet. Label the box so you don’t forget what’s in there!
If you have sentimental jewelry that you don’t want to be out with your everyday pieces, you may want to invest in a safe. Or put it in jewelry bags or boxes and then contained together in a closet.
I highly recommend framing and displaying photos and other artwork so that you can see it. These frames are perfect for kids’ artwork because it’s easy to update the picture as new work comes in. Plus it’s easy to change the orientation.
The best way to keep and organize sentimental items is to have a container with a lid to keep them safe and dust free. While a lid can be a barrier to getting things put away in a timely fashion, it is essential for things that we don’t access everyday.
Label the box. You’ve got plenty to remember plus you can instruct others where these items are stored.
The things we use most often should have the easiest access and everything needs a home. Sentimental items that you don’t access on a regular basis are perfect for higher shelves or infrequently used closets. I just wouldn’t store these items in a garage, basement, or attic unless the space is conditioned.
