If you’ve ever had to clean out the home of someone who hoards, you know it can be an overwhelming and seemingly impossible task. Hoarder homes are often packed floor-to-ceiling with belongings, making it difficult to even walk through rooms, let alone start the clean-out process. However, with the right plan and mindset, it is possible to clean a hoarder’s house relatively quickly and efficiently.
This detailed guide will walk you through the fastest way to tackle this monumental cleaning challenge. We’ll cover everything from the initial preparation to the final clean-up, with plenty of tips and advice for making the job as streamlined as possible. Let’s get started!
Preparation is Best: From Hoarders To Home
Before you start cleaning, it’s crucial to prepare properly. This initial planning stage will help the entire process go much more smoothly.
- Gather Supplies
You’ll need plenty of supplies like large plastic totes with lids, contractor trash bags, box cutters, cleaning products, gloves, face masks, etc. It’s wise to have more than you think you’ll need.
- Create a Plan
Decide if you’ll be sorting items to keep, donate, recycle, or trash. Designate areas for each category. Having a clear system will save time.
- Get Professional Help
Cleaning a hoarder’s home is an enormous job. Consider hiring a professional company that specializes in estate cleanouts and hoarding situations if possible.
- Arrange for Dumpsters
You’ll accumulate a staggering amount of trash and unwanted items. Have multiple large dumpsters delivered to make disposal easier.
- Clear Pathways
Make walkways and paths through the home as early as possible. This will allow people and supplies to move freely during the clean-out.
The Clean-Out Process
With planning complete, you’re ready to start the intense clean-out stage. Follow this step-by-step process:
- Identify High-Priority
Areas Begin in the most crucial areas like the kitchen, bathrooms, and any space with spoiled food, human waste, or hazards. Removing these right away improves safety.
- Work Systematically
Divide the home into sections and complete one section at a time, rather than moving randomly between areas. This method is much more efficient.
- Don’t Get Sidetracked
When coming across sentimental items, fight the urge to reminisce. Make quick decisions and keep moving to maintain momentum.
- Sort As You Go
As you’re cleaning out each area, continuously sort items into your pre-designated categories – keep, donate, recycle, trash. Use common sense for sorting.
- Load Dumpsters
Efficiently Flatten boxes and break down large items to maximize dumpster space. Tightly pack and compress trash bags before loading them.
- Donate Responsibly
Only donate items that are clean and in good, usable condition. Let charities decide what they can accept to avoid overwhelming them.
- Recycle Properly
Learn what can and cannot be recycled in your area. Keep recyclables properly separated as you clean.
Extra Tips for Hoarding Solutions
- Work as a team if possible and assign specific tasks to each person.
- Play motivating music to help energize the group.
- Keep hydrated and nourished by having drinks and snacks on hand.
- Open windows and doors when possible to improve airflow.
- Use cleaning machines like carpet cleaners to save effort.
- Don’t get bogged down by difficult decisions – keep moving.
- Temporarily relocate any present occupants for their safety.
The Final Clean
Once you’ve cleaned and cleared every room down to the walls, you can begin the final clean:
- Air Out the Home
Open all windows and use fans to eliminate any lingering odors from the hoarding.
- Change HVAC Air Filters
Replace all HVAC air filters now as dust and debris are removed.
- Clean Floors and Walls
Thoroughly clean all floors by sweeping, mopping, and scrubbing. Wipe down walls and wash away any soiled areas.
- Clean Frequently-Touched Areas
Disinfect things like door knobs, light switches, railings, handles, etc.
- Consider Painting
A fresh coat of paint can revive the space and help cover stains.
- Conduct Deep Clean
Perform a final deep cleaning of the kitchen and bathrooms, paying special attention to appliances, counters, sinks, tubs, and toilets.
- Replace Essential
Items Put back minimalist, basic furnishings and household items so the home is functional
Conclusion
Although exhausting, restoring a compulsive hoarder’s home to a clean, sanitary living environment is incredibly rewarding. You can transform even the most extreme hoarder home into a clean place with perseverance and the help of Hoarders Cleaning Company.
We at Life Cycle Transitions are aware of the difficulties in handling hoarding circumstances. Our cleaning business specializes in offering hoarders professional and empathetic cleaning services. We provide a secure and encouraging atmosphere for our clients by approaching every task with empathy and respect as a team of skilled specialists.
FAQs
What should I do with all the stuff I’m getting rid of?
Sort items into piles for keeping, donating, recycling, and throwing away. Only donate things that are clean and in good condition. Use large dumpsters to trash everything else.
What’s the hardest part of the clean-out?
Many people find it emotionally difficult to decide what to keep and what to get rid of, especially with sentimental items. Try to make quick choices and keep moving efficiently.
Should I clean one room at a time or go back and forth?
It’s the fastest to fully complete one room before starting the next. Going back and forth between rooms can slow you down and cause disorganization.
How can I make the space look nice after cleaning out all the hoard?
Deep clean everything including floors, walls, and frequent touch points. Consider repainting, replacing air filters, and adding back basic furnishings to make it feel fresh.
