5 Tips for Hoarding Clean Outs

Hoarding: 5 Tips for Cleaning Out a Hoarder’s Home

As we collect more and more possessions, it can become difficult to manage and organize them. For some individuals, this can reach an extreme and spiral into a condition known as hoarding. Hoarders are unable to part with their possessions, leading to an overwhelming accumulation of items in their homes. This not only creates a physical mess but can also have negative effects on mental and emotional well-being. By making a plan and cleaning out a hoarder’s home, you can not only make them an effective living space but also improve their well-being and quality of life. In this blog, we will discuss five top tips when it comes to tackling a hoarding cleanout.

What is Hoarding?

It is not uncommon for people to have a hard time letting go of their possessions, but hoarding is an extreme form of this behavior. According to the DSM-5, also known as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, hoarding disorder is characterized by “persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value.” In other terms, hoarding is not just about having a lot of stuff, but it also involves the inability to get rid of anything. Over time, this can create a hectic living space and lead to several mental and emotional health issues.

What Are the Causes of Hoarding?

Similar to other diagnoses, hoarding is not caused by just one determining factor. Generally, most hoarders have a history of trauma or loss, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or financial struggles. Usually, these individuals grow a strong emotional attachment to their possessions to fill a void and cope with their emotions. Additionally, hoarding can also be associated with other mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. It is important to note that not every hoarder has a mental health disorder, and some may just have a strong attachment to their belongings.

Top 5 Tips for Cleaning Out a Hoarder’s Home

Approach with Compassion and Understanding

The first tip when it comes to cleaning out a hoarder’s home is to approach the situation with compassion and understanding. Behind every hoarder is a person with their own struggles and emotions. Before just throwing items out and organizing their space, try to put yourself in their shoes and understand their emotional attachment to each item. This will not only help the hoarder feel more comfortable but will also make the cleaning process go more smoothly.

Create a Plan and Set Realistic Goals

With so many items to sort through, having a plan is key. Start by setting realistic goals and break down the cleaning process into smaller tasks. This will prevent you from becoming overwhelmed and help track what has been done and what is left to do. It is also important to prioritize which areas need to be cleaned first, such as high-traffic areas or those that pose a safety hazard.

Organize Items by What to Keep, Sell, Donate, or Throw Away

Not everything inside of a hoarder’s home is garbage. There may be some items worth of value or could help someone in need. As you go through the items, create separate piles for what to keep, sell, donate, or throw away. This will help make the decision-making process easier and prevent any important items from being accidentally discarded.

Rent a Dumpster for Convenient Bulk Trash Removal

On top of general trash and waste, large items such as furniture, appliances, and other bulky items may also need to be disposed of. Renting a dumpster is an efficient and convenient way to handle bulk trash removal during a hoarding cleanout. Having a dumpster on site saves time by having a nearby place to dispose of items rather than making multiple trips to a landfill.

Seek Professional Help for Severe Cases

In severe cases, hoarding might require a professional for assistance. Whether this be a professional organizer or psychiatrist, having someone who can offer guidance and support can be extremely beneficial. In addition to their expertise, they can also provide a neutral-party perspective on the situation and help with decision-making.

Contact Daniel J. Clifford & Son in Abington, & Weymouth, MA for Residential Dumpster Rentals for Hoarding & Big Cleanouts

At Daniel J. Clifford & Son, we offer a variety of roll-off containers and dumpsters in different sizes for all projects and cleanouts. If you are planning to clear out a hoarder’s home or tackle a big cleaning project, our services can help make the process easier and more efficient. With drop-off and pick-up services, all you have to do is fill the dumpster, and we will take care of the rest! To learn more and get a free quote, visit our website or call 781-337-7389.