Navigating your 20s can be challenging, to say the least. Amid the youthful yearning for carefree conduct is the sudden weight of career choices and major life decisions. What's more, many 20-somethings must navigate a limited budget. The latter doesn't help much when it comes to decorating your first apartment, which is typically a mix of family hand-me-downs and thrift store finds — whatever you can get your hands on. But that's OK, because your 20s are meant for exploration and discovery while you figure out your personal tastes, loves and dislikes.

By the time your 30s arrive, however, your palette is more refined, your salary is more substantial, and you'll likely have a new passion for crafting an intimate, soothing space at home. To help you enter this new decade of your life in the grandest style, we've compiled a few things we strongly suggest you toss by age 30.

Futons

The futon is something we've all owned at least once in our lifetime, especially in our 20s. It's a sofa that doubles as a bed; who wouldn't see the functional beauty in that? While traditional Japanese futons are built to last, the sofa kind isn't, and time really isn't kind to this furniture style. When your 30s come around, upgrade your living room to reflect your elevated aesthetic.

Old linens

While good bedding should be a priority at every age, quality linen can be costly. But once you hit your 30s, try to treat yourself better. Dump any worn-out, stained or ratty linens you still own. There are plenty of affordable options out there to replace mismatched and shabby bed sheets from your 20s.

Unframed artwork

Original artwork is key to making a place feel uniquely yours, but those unframed posters stuck to the wall with tape at each corner just won't cut it in your grown-up home. Think framing is too costly? Guess again. There are plenty of affordable online framing companies, from Framebridge to Simply Framed, but you can do it yourself too. The Ikea Ribba frame is inexpensive yet adds a luxe touch to any piece of art. So your beloved movie poster, kid's drawing, poetry, or flea market find can look polished and chic.

Hand-me-down furniture

Your family and friends meant well by giving you that old side table, desk and armchair, but your 30s officially mark the time you should retire hand-me-downs. After enduring your 20s (and use by prior owners), it's safe to say these pieces have lived long lives. It's time to move on. Invest in quality furniture and decor that reflect the new era of your life.

Cheap rugs

Cheap rugs look exactly that — cheap. And unlike vintage wool rugs, they don't get better with age. So add a new or antique rug to your list of necessary purchases, and start putting money aside now. Ginna Christensen, creative director of rug company Woven Accents, recommends buying a vintage or antique rug because they're tough and can handle stains.

“Antique and vintage rugs, if they have been properly cared for, are the most durable because of the fabrics used, mostly wool, and the nature of how the rugs wear,” she said. “They are easier to clean and also hide dirt easily.”

Wire hangers

Wire hangers just won't cut it with your new elevated and organized wardrobe. These inexpensive hangers tend to bend easily and can snag material. Invest in wooden hangers instead. Ikea has stylish, affordable options. Your new wardrobe is worth it.

Plastic dishware

As you start to entertain more at home during your 30s, remember, a good host or hostess never serves on plastic. Formal dishware doesn't need to be expensive either. The beauty of upgrading your cups and plates is being able to display them on open shelving.

Dated mirrors

If there's one piece that can really date a home fast, it's a mirror. They have the ability to open up a space and serve as a beautiful accent to any room, but if they're badly framed or a frumpy shape, they can really offset the balance. So it's officially time to retire that old bathroom mirror. You'll notice the difference, trust us.

Mismatched flatware

In the kitchen you can conjure up delicious holiday meals, experiment with new desserts and perfect your morning routine. It's also where you'll prepare for dinner parties. Make dinners events to remember by tossing mismatched forks and spoons and purchasing flatware that elevates your table and makes you — and your guests — feel special every time you dine.