3 Things to Declutter in Your 20s, 30s, and 40s, According to Bobby Berk
There are many factors to consider when decluttering; among them, the size of your apartment, aesthetic, and sentimental value. But according to Bobby Berk, there are still other factors you should include: the age of your decor, as well as yours.
On his website, Berk explains that, in the process of decluttering, you should always keep your age in mind. “… Each decade of your life brings about unique changes that can inform what you should be letting go of,” he said. And by doing so, you’ll create a living environment that can help you move from one age bracket to another with ease.
Check out the furniture and decor that you should get rid of in your 20s, 30s, and 40s:
In your 20s: Anything too adolescent
The hardest part about becoming a young adult is the adulting part, which is why many are reluctant to let go of items that are reminiscent of adolescence. Berk says that decluttering childhood furniture and dorm room decor, such as bean bags, mini-fridges, and anything that screams frat party, can help you let go of one life phase and move to the next.
As for those posters on your wall, you don’t have to throw them out. Berk’s advice is to simply add a frame to give your artworks that gallery feel.
In your 30s: Entry-level items that have seen better days
Now that you’re a bit older, you likely have a bigger budget to spend on pieces you actually like, but couldn’t afford when you were younger. Berk recommends saying goodbye to entry-level furniture pieces you’ve worn out over the years. But perhaps, before discarding, try a DIY. There are lots of hacks online —especially on TikTok — that you can use to give that old IKEA bookshelf a fresher look.
Berk also mentions that mismatched kitchen items (that aren’t intentional) should go to lessen visual clutter. “Streamline things by donating your mismatched dishes, cups, or flatware and opting for sparkling new sets instead,” he wrote.
In your 40s: Upgrade your mattress
Berk suggests parting with aging pieces you’ve had since moving into your starter home, including your sofa and well-worn mattress.
“As we get older, a supportive mattress becomes even more of a necessity — and a lifesaver for your back. So, if your mattress has seen more comfortable days, (the average mattress lifespan is 10 years) get yourself a model that will deliver sound sleep.”
Check out all of Berk’s recommendations over on BobbyBerk.com.