The Appropriate Time to Hold Onto Birthday Cards: A Personal Decision

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to deciding whether, when, and how long to keep birthday cards. It's a deeply personal choice that can vary widely from person to person.

Personal Desire to Keep or Toss Out Birthday Cards

Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Some choose to keep every card they receive, while others might only keep a selection. The cards that are kept often hold sentimental value due to the content or the occasion they commemorate. For instance, a milestone birthday card might contain a funny joke that brings a smile to your face every time you read it.

Kept Birthday Cards as Part of Treasured Memories

Moms and dads often keep birthday cards from their children, often in a box or container within easy reach. These cards serve as a window into their children's emotional and creative growth over the years.

For example, my friend keeps all of her son's birthday cards from childhood to adulthood. The cards themselves offer a sentimental peek into her son's life and his evolving sense of humor and creativity as he grows older. The messages inside the cards reveal the feelings her son had on that specific day, which are precious to her as a mother.

Comfortable Personal Choices

It's entirely up to you to decide what feels right. Some people keep cards for extended periods, while others prefer to hold on to them for a short while. The cards can bring comfort and joy when you need them, whether for a few weeks or a few years, as they serve as a reminder of loved ones and special occasions.

For instance, my husband is a sentimental man and keeps every card I've given him since we started dating. He even writes the date on the back of each one as they range from sentimental to silly. Similarly, I keep cards from family and friends for a few years, storing them in a container. On days when I'm feeling down, I pull out a few cards to remind me of happy moments and positive feelings.

No Definitive Time Frame

The appropriate time frame for keeping birthday cards varies and depends on personal preference. Some people might choose to keep the cards as long as they need them as a reminder of their loved ones, while others might only keep them for a short period before discarding them.

In my experience, sentimental value and personal attachment don't just fade with time. I have cards from my grandma and favorite uncle that I've had for 35 years, even though they're no longer with us. The cards hold a special place in my heart and remind me of them fondly. Similarly, my husband and daughter's cards are all carefully stored, and I love looking at the changes in the cards from my preschool daughter, comparing them to the beautifully written ones from today.

When it comes to finding a sensible answer, many people choose to hold onto birthday cards at least a week after their birthday or possibly by the end of the month. However, this can vary based on personal preference and whether the card holds particular importance.

Ultimately, the decision to keep or discard birthday cards should be based on what feels comfortable and meaningful to you. Whether you choose to keep them forever or just a few years, these small, physical reminders of love, joy, and creativity are worth cherishing in their own unique way.