Traditions tend to evolve with each generation. That’s also true for home organization habits, according to a survey of baby boomers vs. millennials and Generation Xers.

ClosetMaid conducted a 2020 study of 1,000 U.S. adults to learn about their home organization and decluttering habits. The results underscore the differences between baby boomers, Gen Xers and millennials, and some similarities.

In this battle of the generations, the retailer learned three things:

  • 3 out of 5 millennials have organized their home in the past six months, compared to two out of five baby boomers
  • 1 in 5 millennials would have no problem tossing something they despised that belonged to their significant other, compared to 5% of baby boomers
  • 44% of millennials prefer to sell their unwanted or gently used items, compared to baby boomers and Gen X members, who would rather keep or donate these items.

Much has been written about the battle between baby boomers vs. millennials; however, despite their differences, some things are common across the generations.

For instance:

  • Everyone primarily stores clothes and outerwear in their closets, according to the survey. And old boxes clutter everyone’s closets.
  • Everyone holds onto older things in their closets — although, for baby boomers and Generation Xers, those items are up to 21 years old, whereas millennials have items up to 10 years old.
  • Finally, most people in each age group feel their attic is the most organized space, and that their bedroom and garage need the most improvement.

Here’s an infographic from ClosetMaid breaking down the survey and its results.

ClosetMaid survey results featuring baby boomers vs. millennials and generation xers
(ClosetMaid)

Do you have unique closet organization tips? Share them in the comments!

Watch the video above to find out more.


Editorial Contributors
avatar for Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

Learn More