Hoarding is a complex issue that goes far beyond just accumulating items. It often involves deep emotional and psychological challenges that make it incredibly difficult for individuals to part with their belongings, even when the clutter has become overwhelming. For those living in such environments, the idea of deep cleaning and decluttering can feel impossible. But with the right approach, a supportive environment, and professional guidance, hoarding cleanup can be done safely and compassionately.
At Grant A Smile Cleaning and Hoarding Services, we specialize in trauma-informed cleaning, focusing on helping individuals who struggle with hoarding disorders regain control of their living space without judgment or pressure. In this blog, we’ll share practical tips for deep cleaning and decluttering if you or someone you care about is dealing with hoarding. By taking a compassionate, step-by-step approach, it is possible to transform a cluttered space into a healthier, more livable home.
Understanding Hoarding and Its Impact
Before diving into practical tips for decluttering, it’s essential to understand what hoarding is and how it can affect both the individual and their living environment. Hoarding disorder is a recognized mental health condition characterized by persistent difficulty in discarding possessions, regardless of their actual value. This can result in severe clutter that disrupts daily living, creates health and safety hazards, and leads to emotional distress.
Hoarding often stems from underlying emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or grief. The possessions people accumulate can become emotionally significant, representing memories, comfort, or a sense of security. Because of this, traditional cleaning methods may not be effective—and may even cause additional emotional harm.
This is why it’s crucial to approach hoarding cleanup with care, sensitivity, and the understanding that the process will take time. Here are some expert tips for safely and effectively decluttering a hoarded home.
Tip 1: Start Small and Take It Step by Step
One of the biggest mistakes people make when tackling a hoarded home is trying to do too much too quickly. For someone who is hoarding, the thought of decluttering an entire home in one go can be overwhelming and may trigger anxiety or emotional distress. Instead, it’s essential to start small and break the process into manageable steps.
Choose a small area to begin with: Start with a single room, corner, or even a closet. This makes the task feel more achievable and helps build momentum.
Set realistic goals: Instead of aiming to clear out an entire room in one day, set smaller goals, such as sorting through one shelf or drawer at a time.
Celebrate small victories: Each step you complete is progress. Acknowledge and celebrate these accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem.
At Grant A Smile, we work with clients at their own pace, providing guidance and support throughout the decluttering process. By taking a step-by-step approach, we help minimize the emotional impact and prevent feelings of overwhelm.
Tip 2: Sort Items into Categories
When decluttering a hoarded space, it’s helpful to organize items into specific categories to make decisions about what to keep, discard, or donate easier. Create the following categories to help guide the sorting process:
Keep: Items that are functional, necessary, or hold significant sentimental value.
Donate or Sell: Items that are in good condition but no longer needed or used.
Dispose: Items that are broken, damaged, or have no practical value.
Unsure: For items that are difficult to decide on, create a temporary “unsure” category. You can revisit these items later after making progress with other categories.
While sorting, encourage a non-judgmental mindset. Hoarders often experience shame or guilt about their belongings, so it’s essential to approach this process with compassion. Allowing individuals the space and time to make decisions helps prevent feelings of panic or distress.
Tip 3: Focus on Health and Safety
In some hoarded homes, the clutter can create serious health and safety risks, including fire hazards, mold, pests, and unsanitary conditions. When beginning the deep cleaning process, focus on areas that are critical for health and safety first:
Clear pathways: Make sure that walkways and doorways are free from obstructions. This is especially important for ensuring safe exits in case of an emergency.
Address pests and mold: If there are signs of pests (e.g., mice, cockroaches) or mold, it’s crucial to address these issues immediately with professional pest control or mold remediation services.
Clean kitchens and bathrooms: These areas are often the most affected by unsanitary conditions in hoarded homes. Pay special attention to cleaning and disinfecting sinks, toilets, countertops, and any surfaces where food is prepared.
If a home poses significant health risks, consider hiring a professional cleaning service like Grant A Smile that specializes in hoarding cleanup. We have experience dealing with hazardous conditions and can provide the necessary equipment and expertise to safely clean and restore the home.
Tip 4: Involve Professional Support
Hoarding cleanup is a challenging process that often requires the support of trained professionals. Hiring a trauma-informed cleaning service can make a world of difference, as these professionals are equipped to handle the unique emotional and practical needs of individuals struggling with hoarding.
Trauma-informed care: A trauma-informed cleaning team approaches the situation with empathy, patience, and understanding, ensuring that clients feel supported rather than judged.
Experience with hoarding: Professional cleaners who specialize in hoarding understand the complexities of the disorder and know how to address both the physical and emotional aspects of the cleanup.
Personalised service: At Grant A Smile, we tailor our cleaning services to meet the specific needs of each client, working closely with them to ensure the process is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
By bringing in professional help, you can relieve the burden of cleaning while ensuring that the process is carried out in a safe and respectful manner.
Tip 5: Address Emotional Well-being
Decluttering and deep cleaning a hoarded home is about more than just physical cleaning—it’s also about supporting emotional well-being. Hoarding is often tied to trauma, and the process of letting go of possessions can trigger intense emotional responses.
To support emotional well-being during the decluttering process:
Be patient and compassionate: Understand that it will take time for the individual to feel comfortable parting with certain items. Allow them to process their emotions at their own pace.
Offer encouragement: Positive reinforcement can go a long way in helping someone feel empowered to continue decluttering. Celebrate their efforts and remind them that each step is progress.
Consider professional therapy: In some cases, working with a therapist who specializes in hoarding disorder can provide additional emotional support during the cleanup process.
At Grant A Smile CIC, we prioritise emotional safety during our cleaning services. We believe that a clean home is a first step toward healing, and we work closely with our clients to ensure they feel comfortable and supported throughout the entire process.
Conclusion: Compassionate Cleaning for Lasting Change
Deep cleaning and decluttering a hoarded home is no small task, but with the right approach, it can be a transformative process. By taking small steps, organizing items thoughtfully, focusing on health and safety, and involving professional support, you can help create a clean, safe, and livable space.
At Grant A Smile Cleaning and Hoarding Services, we are committed to helping individuals dealing with hoarding disorders regain control of their homes and their lives through compassionate, trauma-informed cleaning services. Our team is trained to handle hoarding situations with sensitivity, ensuring that each client receives the support they need to make lasting changes.
If you or someone you know is struggling with hoarding and could benefit from our services, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you create a fresh start, one step at a time. Contact admin@grantasmile.org.uk