Is It Good to Keep Old Used Furniture in Your Bedroom?

Recently, someone pointed out to me that the moment a piece of furniture leaves the box, it becomes 'used.' Furthermore, every day, it continues to age. This realization makes it difficult to believe that it is merely 'good' to throw away old and used furniture in the bedroom. In fact, considering the value and potential of these items, it is quite the opposite – it is necessary.

For context, I too was recently told by my mother to dispose of my old, used furniture. My mother has always been quite practical when it comes to household items and she has a wealth of knowledge about this matter. Clearly, the state of the furniture ultimately determines whether it should be kept or not. If the furniture is in good condition, it can be refurbished and revitalized with little effort and cost. Hundreds of cleaning and polishing products are available, making it easy to restore the furniture to its former glory. Moreover, slipcovers can add a fresh look to your furniture at a fraction of the cost of replacing it.

The Case for Restoring Old Furniture

Restoring good quality old furniture is much more economical than purchasing new furniture. Unfortunately, today's affordable new furniture is often made from plywood or particle board, whereas pieces from the past were crafted from hardwood. As a result, old furniture is frequently of higher quality and more durable. Additionally, some pieces of old furniture, while not in the best condition, can still hold significant value and be worth much more than their original price. My mother, who has an extensive collection of both valuable and antique furniture, could attestation to this.

Antiquity and Valuable Pieces

Antique and valuable pieces of furniture are extremely rare and can hold sentimental or financial value. If your mother has items that are truly valuable, she should be encouraged to preserve and keep them. However, it is important to note that not everything old is valuable. To avoid disposing of valuable items, especially antiques, there are a few steps you can take: Research the value of the furniture before disposing of it. Consider donating the furniture to a charity or antique store if you do not have space for it. Look for local markets or online sales platforms where you can sell the furniture.

Hoarding and Decluttering

Hoarding, a serious condition where individuals accumulate a large amount of possessions, often to the point where it creates living challenges, is a different issue. If you find it challenging to maintain organized living spaces and your family or friends are concerned about the clutter, it might be wise to consider professional help. A therapist experienced in hoarding can provide valuable support and guidance.

Conclusion

In summary, it is better to consider the options of restoring or donating old furniture rather than throwing it away. Depending on the condition of the furniture, keeping it might be the more economical and environmentally-friendly choice. It is important to evaluate whether the furniture is still functional and being used effectively in your living space. If not, it may be time to release some items and create more open living areas that are easier to manage and use. Seek professional help if hoarding is becoming a significant problem in your life.