Do’s and Don’ts of Hoarder Cleanouts: Navigating the Process with Care

Hoarder cleanouts are rarely a simple and easy process. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), hoarding is characterized by persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value. Individuals with hoarding disorder experience distress at the thought of getting rid of items, leading to excessive accumulation of clutter in living spaces, which can pose health and safety risks and significantly lower their quality of life. It can be difficult to know where to start with a hoarder cleanout. With professional experience in cleaning out hoarding situations, MSR Restoration offers some guidelines for what you should and should not do when working with someone suffering from this serious condition.

Essential Do’s for a Successful Hoarder Cleanout

Successful hoarder cleanouts begin with establishing a connection and open communication with the individual. Emphasizing that you’re there to support them through the cleanout process creates a personalized connection with the person.

Hoarder Cleanout Support Tips:

• Taking small steps respects the hoarder’s pace and autonomy, while gently encouraging decision-making.
• Talk about safety with the hoarder, highlighting how this process will create a safer home environment.
• Confidentiality should be discussed and respected.
• Respectfully question why certain items are being kept which will encourage an internal evaluation.
• Promote donations to empower the individual to let go of unneeded items to someone in need, which may motivate them to continue the cleanup.

When the relationships with the hoarder are already strained, it’s extremely beneficial to hire a professional experienced in hoarding cleanouts to preserve the relationship and minimize tension while successfully bringing their home back to a livable condition.

Crucial Don’ts for a Safe and Respectful Hoarder Cleanout

During hoarder cleanouts, it’s vital to prioritize safety and respect for the individual’s feelings and possessions. Speaking to the person about their situation in a mocking or disrespectful way is guaranteed to slow, halt, or reverse the cleanout progress. Avoid judgment, criticism, and treating the individual like a child as these actions can exacerbate feelings of shame and reluctance to cooperate. When helping a hoarder, mentally prepare yourself ahead of time so you don’t get angry or stressed out with the person or the situation. Plan to take things slow and don’t start touching their belongings right away; it’s best to involve the hoarder in the planning process from the start to avoid a relapse.

Do: Communicate during a Hoarder Cleanout

Communication is a key factor in hoarding cleanouts, especially following up, so they are motivated to follow through too. Offer emotional support throughout the cleanout, acknowledging feelings and validating experiences. Above all, approach the situation with patience, compassion, and a genuine desire to help improve their living environment and overall well-being. Create a safe and judgment-free environment, gives the hoarder the opportunity to make choices about what to keep, donate, or discard during hoarder cleanouts.

Do: Implement Structured Decluttering Techniques

A systematic approach to decluttering can significantly ease the hoarder cleanout process. One helpful method is the “Four-Box Method“, which sorts items into four categories: Keep, Donate/Sell, Trash, and Store. This provides a clear framework for decision-making and helps prevent the accumulation of unnecessary items. Another effective strategy is the “One-Touch Rule,” which encourages individuals to handle each item only once, making immediate decisions to prevent procrastination.

Starting with less emotionally charged spaces or items can help build momentum and ease anxiety around letting go. These structured techniques not only streamline the cleanup process but also foster a sense of control and active participation for the individual.

Do: Set Realistic Expectations: Don’ts Overwhelm Yourself During a Hoarder Cleanout

Hoarder cleanouts are a large undertaking, both the process and the mental toll it takes on those emotionally invested in the situation. Setting realistic expectations is important for success. Break down the decluttering tasks into manageable steps, setting achievable milestones along the way. Emphasize that change takes time and setbacks are normal but celebrate small victories to maintain motivation. Encourage flexibility and adaptability, recognizing that adjustments may be necessary as circumstances evolve.

Do: Prioritize Safety: Ensure a Hazard-Free Hoarder Cleanout Experience

Making safety a key concern from the beginning of hoarder cleanouts is important. An initial assessment of any health and structural safety concerns should be done before any cleaning starts. Floors, walls, beams or other portions of the home’s framing can be damaged from mold, water, rodents or insects and the change in weight distribution can cause collapse and serious injuries. Many hoarding cleanouts encounter mold, pests or other biohazards and require the appropriate PPE to ensure a hazard free experience. Don’t go it alone: contact professionals with experience in removing these types for hazards.

Do: Support Emotional Well-Being During a Cleanout

Involving a mental health professional in the cleanout process can be immensely beneficial. A therapist specializing in hoarding disorder can provide strategies to manage anxiety and resistance, facilitating a smoother transition. Their involvement ensures that the individual’s emotional well-being is prioritized, making the cleanout more compassionate and effective.

Additionally, creating a visual progress chart can motivate and encourage the individual. By marking off completed areas or tasks, they can visually track their accomplishments, fostering a sense of achievement and control over the process.

Don’t Take it on Alone: Contact MSR Restoration for Professional Hoarder Cleanouts

Bringing a home back to a livable condition while preserving relationships with loved ones is what hoarder cleanouts are all about. The mental load of this process weighs more than all the items in a hoarder’s house. Only a compassionate and experienced professional hoarder cleanout team like MSR Restoration recognizes and addresses each sensitive aspect of the process, while also managing the physical hazards. We take pride in our professional courtesy and ability to help individuals and their loved ones address this serious condition. Contact us today for your free estimate!