1. Perishable Food and Expired Items
It’s common to find food in the pantry or fridge after someone passes away.
But perishable items can spoil quickly, and expired goods may be unsafe to consume.
➡️ Do not keep:
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Opened food packages
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Expired canned goods
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Perishable items like dairy, meat, and leftovers
Tip: Donate non-perishable, unopened items if they’re still within the expiration date.
2. Medications
Medications can be dangerous if kept without proper handling. They may also be misused if they fall into the wrong hands.
➡️ Do not keep:
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Prescription medications
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Over-the-counter medicines
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Supplements and vitamins
What to do instead:
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Return them to a pharmacy for safe disposal
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Follow local guidelines for medication disposal
3. Personal Hygiene Items
These items are deeply personal and can carry bacteria or other contaminants.
➡️ Do not keep:
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Toothbrushes
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Razors
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Makeup and skincare products
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Used personal care items
Tip: If you want a keepsake, consider keeping only unopened or unused items.
4. Clothing That Has Been Stored Too Long
Clothing can hold strong emotional memories, but it can also attract mold, insects, or dust if stored improperly.
➡️ Do not keep:
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Clothes that smell musty
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Items with mold or stains
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Underwear or socks that are worn
What to do instead:
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Donate gently used clothing
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Create a small keepsake box with one or two meaningful pieces
5. Broken or Damaged Furniture
It’s understandable to want to keep furniture that holds memories, but broken items can become a safety hazard.
➡️ Do not keep:
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Broken chairs or tables
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Furniture with mold or rot
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Items that are unsafe to use
Tip: Consider keeping a photo of the piece instead.
6. Hazardous Materials
Some items can be dangerous if kept in the home.
➡️ Do not keep:
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Cleaning chemicals
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Paints, solvents, or gasoline
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Old batteries
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Pesticides
Tip: Contact your local waste management facility for safe disposal options.
7. Items With Unresolved Legal or Financial Issues
Some belongings may have legal implications or outstanding debts tied to them.
➡️ Do not keep:
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Property without proper transfer of ownership
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Items that are part of an estate dispute
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Assets with liens or unpaid taxes
Tip: Consult an attorney or estate planner if you’re unsure.
What Should You Keep Instead?
If you want to hold onto memories without holding onto everything, here are some meaningful options:
✔️ A small keepsake box with a few sentimental items
✔️ Photos or a digital archive of their belongings
✔️ A piece of jewelry or a watch that can be passed down
✔️ A favorite book or handwritten letter
Final Thoughts
Grief is a deeply personal journey, and there’s no “right” way to handle a loved one’s belongings.
The key is to choose what honors their memory, while also being practical and safe.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it may help to take it one step at a time or seek support from family or a professional organizer.
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