What to Keep: Rethinking Storage with Intention

In a previous blog, S.T.O.R.A.G.E. – Stuff That Overwhelms Rooms And Gathers Everywhere, I talked about the kinds of things we can confidently let go of. But what about the things we should keep? What belongs in storage, and what doesn’t?” 

Here is a definition I found on the web about storage.

I looked up the definition of “storage,” and this part really got me:

Storage: “The act of storing; a place or space in which things are stored.”

It comes from the word “store”, which means: “To collect or reserve for future use.”

Here’s the part that stopped me: It doesn’t say “for possible future use” or “just in case.” It’s intentional.

We’re keeping something because we know we’ll use it again, not because we might, someday, or because we feel guilty letting it go.

“To collect or reserve for future use.”
That part got me. It doesn’t say “for possible future use” or “just in case.” It’s very intentional. It means we’re keeping something because we know we’ll use it again, not because it might be useful someday or because we feel guilty getting rid of it.

When I think about what truly belongs in storage, the first — and maybe only — category that makes sense to me is seasonal items. These are the things that have a clear and consistent use at certain times of the year. For example:

• The giant roasting pan that only sees the light of day every Thanksgiving
  
• Outdoor furniture that needs to sit out the winter in a dry spot so it doesn’t get ruined
  
• Recreational items like skis, winter coats, or camping gear
  

Another big one?  Holiday decorations.
Let’s just be honest, Christmas stuff is hands-down the #1 culprit in this category when it comes to taking up space. I’d even go so far as to say it’s a huge contributor to stress, during the Most Wonderful Time of the Year. The sheer energy it takes to dig everything out and decorate (and then un-decorate) during an already packed season can really push people over the edge.

Now, even though it might sound like I’m giving you a free pass to keep all these things because they’re “seasonal,” I want to make it clear: this is not a green light to keep everything that could possibly fall into that category.

All the same decluttering and simplifying guidelines still apply here. Ask yourself:

• Do you really need 16 strands of lights for your tree?
  
• Are you holding onto broken decorations out of guilt or habit?
  
• Are you keeping sentimental ornaments your kids made or that were handed down from your grandparents, but never actually use?
  

If the answer is yes, then you need to pause and rethink. I’m not saying you have to get rid of them, just that you need to make a conscious decision: either find a new way to use them (maybe display them in a shadow box, frame them, or repurpose them into a wreath) or pass them on to someone who will actually enjoy them.

Another area to watch out for in storage? Duplicates. These often sneak in under the radar, but they add bulk without adding value.
Let’s say you’re a skier and you have an older set of skis you’ve outgrown. Maybe they were perfect for you three seasons ago, but now they’re collecting dust. If you’re not actively using them, pass them along. Donate them, gift them to a fellow skier, or set them free and trust the universe to take care of it.

Now, maybe you loved those old skis and want to keep them, great. But instead of letting them clog up your closet, think creatively: hang them up as wall décor, turn them into a funky shelf or a towel rack. There are ways to honor what something meant to you without letting it pile up in storage.

And here’s a common mindset trap: “What if the one I use now breaks?”
Sure, that’s always a possibility. But how likely is it, really? If the odds are low, don’t hang onto the “runner-up” just because it’s still in good shape. You’re not obligated to keep backups for everything. Let go of the clutter and keep your focus on what’s actually serving you.

At the end of the day, storage should be purposeful.
Keep only what you’ll definitely use—and when in doubt, remind yourself: you’re not just protecting your stuff. You’re protecting your peace of mind.

Simply put—and easy to remember—S.T.O.R.A.G.E. stands for:

• Seasonal – Items used during specific seasons (coats, camping gear, decorations)
  
• Time-bound – Used at certain times of the year (Thanksgiving pan, summer fans)
  
• Occasional – Rare but definite use (air mattress for guests)
  
• Recreational – Sports or hobby items used seasonally
  
• Actively Planned – Things you know you’ll use again
  
• Guaranteed Use – A real reason and timeframe for use
  
• Essential to Protect – Needs shelter from damage (e.g., patio furniture)