I donated within two months all of my hubby's clothes. His business attire I donated to an organization that helps young fathers interview for gainful employment.
His fishing gear I donated to someone I knew, who saw that they went to fellow fishermen who could use them.
I kept a few of his clothing items that I toss on in the colder months.
His personal care products, those went rather quickly. I only kept his one bottle of cologne.
There is no timeline for departing with your dear wife's items. But I came to know they do not "live" in these things. They live in our hearts.
There were many times I started the process, then realized the time wasn't right. I just stopped, then resumed the task later when the time was right. I tackled this in very small steps.
I do have a small bin with intimate personal items - one of his favorite ties, the red suspenders he wore when I first met him, all of the cards he sent to me, and many other items. It took quite a while to visit them, but oh how I treasure them with love in my heart. No sadness.
Hugs,
Shirley