Emptying the home of a hoarder is an extremely challenging task — both physically and mentally. There is a tremendous amount to take into consideration, from the psychology of the resident to the logistics of trash pick-up. Here’s a rundown of the best practices when undertaking this task to ensure that it is seamless and efficient. 

4 Steps to Take When Cleaning a Hoarder’s Home

1. Begin With the First Room By the Door

There is usually so much clutter in a hoarder’s house that it can be difficult for cleaners to gain access to every room. As you plot your strategy, it’s a good idea to begin close to the door since that will help carve a path to other places. This will give you an easier task to start with since you won’t have to haul the items as far to the trash pick-up spot. 

2. Give Yourself Ample Breaks

With a hoarder’s house, there can be so much trash to remove that it can quickly become overwhelming and seem impossible. That’s why it’s crucial to go room by room and give yourself and your team an ample amount of breaks. Consider taking a break between each area where you leave the house and separate yourself from the mess inside. With that tactic, you’ll avoid a situation where you feel tempted to give up, and you will have something to look forward to as you finish a specific area. 

3. Allow the Resident to Be Elsewhere 

Seeing their items removed can be very stressful and disturbing to a hoarder. Most times, they are keeping these items for some underlying reason, whether it be sentimentality or mental illness. Sometimes, it’s best to give them the option of being somewhere else during the day of cleaning — that way they can enjoy their time instead of worrying about every belonging headed for trash pick-up. 

4. Donate Useful Items

As part of the job, it can be a little depressing to throw so many things out. In a time where conservation is necessary, you should consider recycling, upcycling, or donating certain items. It will help raise morale and also lower the burden on local landfills if you create a pile of valuable goods that may be appropriate to donate. Speak to a Salvation Army or Goodwill location near you about what types of items they accept. 

Once you get all the items out of the house, you can count on Rainbow Waste Services in Oahu, HI, for fast and efficient trash pick-up. Serving the community since 2000, the garbage collection specialists have 50 years of combined experience. The waste management crew is always able to provide service within 24 hours to ensure that you never have to wait to keep your home clean! To make an appointment, call (808) 682-4797. Learn more about the company by visiting their website.