Hoarders are individuals who struggle with an obsessive-compulsive disorder that compels them to collect and hoard items beyond what is considered normal.
As a result, their living space can become cluttered and unsafe. Cleaning a hoarder’s house can be a daunting task, but it is necessary for their safety and well-being. In this article, we will discuss the fastest way to clean a hoarder’s house, step-by-step.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Assess the Situation
Make a Plan
Get the Right Supplies
Start with the Garbage
Sort and Categorize Items
Clean and Sanitize
Declutter and Organize
Hire Professional Help
Dispose of Unwanted Items
Maintain a Clean Living Space
Seek Professional Help
Conclusion
FAQs
Introduction
Hoarder’s houses are often cluttered with various items ranging from clothes to broken electronics, and sometimes even animals.
This clutter can pose a risk to the individual’s health and safety, and the cleanup process can be overwhelming.
However, there is a solution. By following the steps outlined below, you can clean a hoarder’s house in the fastest and most efficient way possible.
Assess the Situation
Before starting the cleaning process, it’s essential to assess the situation.
Determine the severity of the clutter and identify any items that may be hazardous or require special handling, such as biohazards, chemicals, or sharp objects.
This step will help you determine the necessary supplies and level of effort required to complete the cleanup.
Make a Plan
Once you have assessed the situation, create a plan for the cleanup process.
Start by identifying the rooms that require the most attention and prioritise them accordingly.
Determine the order in which you will clean each room and establish a timeline for completion. Having a plan in place will help keep you organized and motivated during the cleaning process.
Get the Right Supplies
Cleaning a hoarder’s house requires the right supplies.
Stock up on garbage bags, cleaning products, and personal protective equipment such as gloves and masks.
You may also need to rent a skip or storage unit to hold items that cannot be disposed of immediately.
Start with the Rubbish
The first step in cleaning a hoarder’s house is removing garbage.
Start by identifying items that are obviously rubbish, such as food waste or broken items, and dispose of them immediately.
Use gloves and masks to protect yourself from any potential hazards.
Sort and Categorise Items
Once you have removed the rubbish and junk, it’s time to sort and categorize the remaining items.
Create piles for items that can be donated, sold, or thrown away. Use boxes or containers to help keep items organized and easy to move.
Clean and Sanitise
After sorting through items, it’s time to clean and sanitize the living space.
Wipe down surfaces with disinfectant and clean any areas that may have been neglected, such as the floors or walls.
Declutter and Organize
Once the space is clean, it’s time to declutter and organise.
Keep only essential items and find a place for everything.
Use storage solutions such as shelves or containers to keep items organized and easy to find.
Hire Professional Help
Cleaning a hoarder’s house can be a massive undertaking, and sometimes, it may be necessary to hire professional help like Keke Waste Disposal.
Professional cleaners can help remove larger items, such as furniture or appliances, and handle any hazardous waste.
Dispose of Unwanted Items
Once the house is clean and organised, it’s time to dispose of unwanted items properly.
Depending on the items’ condition, you may be able to sell or donate them to local charities or thrift stores.
If the items are beyond repair, they should be thrown away.
Maintain a Clean Living Space
After completing the cleaning process, it’s essential to maintain a clean living space.
Encourage the hoarder to adopt new cleaning habits, such as throwing away rubbish, waste, and junk immediately and keeping items organised.
Regular cleaning and maintenance will prevent the clutter from returning.
Seek Professional Help
Cleaning a hoarder’s house can be a challenging and emotional experience, and it’s essential to seek professional help if necessary.
Consider therapy or counselling for the hoarder to address the underlying causes of hoarding behaviour.
Conclusion
Cleaning a hoarder’s house is a challenging task that requires careful planning, organisation, and patience.
By following the steps outlined above, you can clean a hoarder’s house in the fastest and most efficient way possible.
Remember to prioritize safety, dispose of unwanted items properly, and maintain a clean living space.
FAQs
Can a hoarder’s house be cleaned in one day?
Cleaning a hoarder’s house can take several days or even weeks, depending on the severity of the clutter.
Can a hoarder’s house be cleaned without professional help?
It is possible to clean a hoarder’s house without professional help, but it can be a challenging and overwhelming task.
What should I do if I find hazardous materials while cleaning a hoarder’s house?
If you come across hazardous materials while cleaning a hoarder’s house, such as chemicals or biohazards, seek professional help immediately.
Can a hoarder’s house be cleaned without the hoarder’s consent?
No, it is essential to have the hoarder’s consent and involvement in the cleaning process to address the underlying causes of hoarding behaviour.
How can I prevent the hoarder’s house from becoming cluttered again?
Encourage the hoarder to adopt new cleaning habits, such as throwing away garbage immediately and keeping items organized. Regular cleaning and maintenance will prevent the clutter from returning.
