Sheets, pillowcases, or very intimate clothing
Keeping a scarf, a sweater, a notebook… why not. But sleeping in the sheets the person used or wearing their underwear (even washed), that’s something else entirely.
Why avoid these items?
They retain a very physical imprint of the deceased. For some people, this may seem comforting… but for others, it creates an attachment that is difficult to overcome . If these objects rekindle sadness or cause restless sleep, it may be a sign that it’s time to part with them.
Biological remains: hair, teeth, nails
In the past, people sometimes kept a lock of hair in a locket, or a baby tooth as a childhood memento. But in the context of mourning, these items can take on a completely different significance.
Why might this be a problem?
These physical “remains” are symbolically very powerful. They can maintain an overly concrete connection with a deceased person, sometimes making emotional separation more difficult. Not to mention the potential discomfort for other family members.
