What to Do with Inherited Silver: Creative Ways to Repurpose Family Heirlooms

Inherited silver you don’t use? Discover creative, modern ways to repurpose family silver while keeping memories alive.

Don’t know what to do with your parents’ or grandparents’ silver? If you can’t bear to part with it, you’re not alone.

Times have changed—most of us don’t host formal dinners anymore, we move often, and we prefer everyday dishes that can go right into the dishwasher. That leaves many families wondering what to do with the beautiful but often-unused silver passed down through generations. And let’s face it—the idea of donating such meaningful pieces to Goodwill can feel almost painful.

The good news? You don’t have to. Instead, you can give those heirlooms new life by weaving them into your everyday spaces. Silver pieces don’t just belong on a dining table—they can add elegance, charm, and a personal touch to nearly every room in your home.

Here are a few creative ideas:

• On Your Desk: Use a silver cup as a pen or pencil holder.

• In the Bathroom: Bowls make perfect holders for Q-tips, cotton balls, or soaps.

• On Your Vanity: A tray can organize makeup, perfume, or jewelry.

• In a Child’s Room: Use a small cup or dish for hair ties or clips.

• By the Door: A silver bowl makes a lovely catch-all for keys and coins.

• In the Kitchen: Place a dish near the sink to hold your rings while you cook or clean.

The possibilities are endless—you just have to get creative. Even better, every time you glance at these pieces, you’ll be reminded of the loved ones who once treasured them. Instead of gathering dust in storage, your silver can sparkle with new purpose and bring joy to your everyday life.