Losing a loved one is so difficult in so many ways. We can empathize with the great waves of continual grief that comes with sorting through your loved one’s belongings.
Today we will share expert tips on tackling this tough task when the time is right…
Tip #1: Give Yourself Space and Grace
When losing a loved one, give yourself permission and time to process and grieve before making any decisions. Only you will know when the timing is right to sort and get rid of your loved ones belongings that you no longer need. Tackling this with support can be helpful. They can act as a neutral party in disposing of certain items properly and supporting you along the way.
Tip #2: Sort Small & Make a Plan
Before you begin sorting, maybe think through how you want things handled and have a plan. Begin with less emotional rooms, like the bathroom, where it can be easy to separate items for toss, donate, or keep. Then work up to more sentimental spaces, like closets or valuable collections.
For more tips, read Downsize, Declutter, and Start Fresh.
Tip #3: Set Boundaries for Time and What You Keep
We recommend setting deadlines for yourself so you do not have to linger on each item. If you truly cannot make a decision about a certain item, leave it and come back to it later. Try to set limits on what you keep vs. what you have space for.
We encourage you not to keep items that will just collect dust in the attic. Pick your favorite things and gift or donate the rest. You can take pictures for memory sake if you choose.
Tip #4: Honor Your Loved One and Release with Confidence
For things of value, be realistic and fair when it comes to selling items. Reasonable prices should be set, and try to leave emotion out of negotiations. Keep in mind the idea of finding a “perfect new home” for an item you let go. We suggest always honoring your loved one’s wishes for the items first and then offering the items to family before trying to sell. To avoid stress and save time, you might consider an estate sale company if there is a lot to sell.
We want to encourage you to cherish the memories, not the stuff left behind. In difficult times, reach out to those that can help you get through. Whether it be other friends or family, or services providers. Here at Pretty Neat, we want to offer our heartfelt condolences and our professional services that can help in hard times and times of transition for your family. Reach out today, if we can help you.
Key Takeaways: Sorting Through a Loved One’s Belongings
- Give yourself time to grieve before starting the process of clearing out belongings.
- Start small and plan ahead by focusing on less emotional spaces first, then working toward sentimental areas.
- Set boundaries for time and space so you don’t feel overwhelmed and only keep what brings comfort or has purpose.
- Honor your loved one’s wishes by offering items to family first, then donating or selling them.
- Consider professional help such as a local estate sale company or professional organizer in your area to reduce stress.
Have a question about our process of respectfully journeying through a loved one’s belongings? Just ask. We’re here for you and your family!
See you soon,
Audra
Meet the Designer
Pretty Neat OKC is a home organization company based in Oklahoma City, founded by Audra, a former physical therapist turned professional organizer.
With over 13 years of experience as a physical therapist and a lifelong passion for order and structure, Audra helps clients create organized spaces that feel calm, functional, and sustainable—tailored to each family’s lifestyle and needs.
