Whether it’s antique heirlooms or old newspapers, it’s common to attach sentimental value to all types of items. However, if you have a family member or loved one who is a hoarder, this is a more serious problem. Hoarding can affect all aspects of life, from daily productivity to physical health. To help them begin the hoarding clean out process, keep the following do’s and don’ts in mind.

Do:

Encourage them to seek help.

Hoarding is a disorder that affects the physical and emotional health of your loved one. Have a calm discussion so you can address your concerns; avoid placing judgment. You should also encourage your loved one to seek the help of a therapist to prevent the clutter from building up again after the clean out. 

Hire a hoarding clean out professional.

Depending on the severity of your loved one’s hoarding problem, the clutter can be a biohazard. Do not touch or attempt to clean up the items on your own. Hire a professional hoarding clean out service. They have the expertise and equipment to do a thorough clean-up of the property and to properly dispose of the clutter and waste. 

Don’t:

Put pressure on your loved one.

Be gentle when talking to your loved one. They may feel shame or be unwilling to acknowledge their problem and losing your patience won’t help the situation. Rather than put them on the defense, work with them to create goals for dealing with their hoarding issue. 

Forget to check on them. 

After the hoarding clean out, continue to check on your loved one. You should tackle clutter problems at the beginning of their development rather than wait for them to turn into full-scale hazards. Be sure to offer praise for steps they’ve taken, whether it’s seeking help or cutting down on their possessions. 

 

If you need a hoarding clean out, put your trust in the team at Bill’s Junk Be Gone in Ulster County, NY. With over 20 years in the industry, these professionals specialize in waste removal for residential and commercial businesses. From estate and hoarding clean outs to demolition clearing and dump runs, their specialists offer a variety of affordable solutions. Call (845) 389-2969 today to set up an appointment. You can also visit their website for more information about their full list of services.