The Fascinating World of American Collections: What People Collect and Why

From quirky knick-knacks to truly bizarre treasures, a recent survey of 2,000 Americans has revealed the diverse, surprising, and often strange things people collect. Whether it’s a massive assortment of sports cards or a decades-long accumulation of fingernail clippings, it turns out that Americans have some truly unique and fascinating collections. Conducted by Talker Research on behalf of College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving, the survey sheds light on the hidden treasures, emotional attachments, and cluttered lives of everyday people. This article dives into the findings, exploring the surprising things people collect, where they store them, and how they feel about their possessions.

The Strange and Wonderful Collections People Keep

The survey uncovered a wide range of unusual and impressive collections that defy imagination. One respondent proudly owns over 300 coasters from breweries they’ve visited, while another has amassed more than 200 oil-burning lamps. Other notable mentions include collections of gnomes, uranium glass, clowns, vintage handkerchiefs, and even porcelain pigs. For some, their collections are deeply personal and thematic: one Elvis Presley fan has dedicated their life to gathering Elvis memorabilia, while another has created a heartfelt tribute to Princess Diana through her mementos and memorabilia.

But these collections aren’t just limited to inanimate objects. Some respondents have taken their passion for collecting to the next level with taxidermy displays, featuring everything from tigers and cobras to parrots and penguins. These unique treasures not only reflect the individuality of their owners but also highlight the emotional and often sentimental value behind these possessions.

The Stuff We Own: Functional vs. Non-Functional

The survey also revealed that a significant portion of Americans’ possessions are non-functional—things they neither use nor need. A staggering 34% of respondents admitted that their belongings fall into this category. Diving deeper, 13% of these non-essential items are pure junk, 21% are things they no longer need but haven’t gotten rid of, and 27% are sentimental keepsakes. Another 10% are items that don’t even belong to them but have ended up in their possession, while 29% are collections or items that simply bring them joy.

What’s even more surprising is how people feel about their clutter. Nearly half (47%) of respondents expressed confusion about how they’ve accumulated so much stuff, while a quarter (27%) admitted feeling embarrassed by the sheer amount of junk they own. This disconnect between possession and purpose raises questions about why we hold onto so much and how we decide what’s worth keeping.

Where Do We Store All This Stuff?

With so much stuff to manage, it’s no wonder that many Americans are turning to unconventional storage solutions. While 20% of respondents currently use storage units, others have taken a more creative approach. Some have resorted to hiding their belongings in freezers, chimneys, air vents, outhouses, crawlspaces, or even burying them underground or stashing them in hollowed-out trees. These unusual storage methods highlight the challenges of managing clutter and the lengths people will go to avoid letting go of their possessions.

Nick Friedman, co-founder of College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving, comments, “It’s normal to love your possessions and build up an assortment over the years, but it can be shocking when you realize how much stuff you’ve accumulated. Sometimes, people end up keeping things in odd places rather than decluttering. This is where professional help can make a big difference.”

Decluttering: A Daunting but Necessary Task

Despite the emotional attachment many people have to their belongings, most respondents are looking to downsize in the near future. A majority of 56% plan to declutter this spring, with the average person aiming to get rid of a staggering 34% of their stuff. However, the task of decluttering is no small feat. Respondents estimated it would take an average of 14 hours to sort and dispose of their unwanted items, while 17% said it would require a full work week (40 hours). In fact, the average person would be willing to pay over $1,300 to have their clutter magically disappear.

When it comes to deciding what to do with discarded items, most respondents (86%) try to donate them to charitable organizations, friends, or resale shops. However, 64% struggle with determining whether items are suitable for donation, even though 80% want their possessions to go to the most environmentally-friendly destination possible.

The Emotional Toll of Decluttering and the Importance of Professional Help

Decluttering is not just a practical challenge but also an emotional and sometimes overwhelming process. Friedman explains, “Downsizing can be tough—emotionally, physically, and time-wise. To make it easier, it’s important to schedule time for the task, ask for help from friends and family, and consider hiring professionals if needed.”

The survey’s findings underscore the complexity of people’s relationships with their possessions. While many of us treasure our collections and keepsakes, the sheer volume of stuff we accumulate can become overwhelming. As the respondents look to declutter and simplify their lives, the lessons learned from this survey remind us that it’s okay to let go—and sometimes, seeking help can make all the difference.

In the end, the survey paints a vivid picture of Americans’ unique possessions and the emotions tied to them. Whether it’s a collection of Elvis memorabilia, a taxidermy penguin, or a freezer full of mysterious items, our stuff tells stories about who we are, where we’ve been, and what we value. But as we look to the future, it’s clear that many are ready to simplify, let go of the past, and embrace a more streamlined life—one possession at a time.