5 Misconceptions About the Hoarding Cleanup Process

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If you’ve been paying attention to reality television, it’s likely that you’ve seen an episode or two depicting hoarders. Unfortunately, television does not do a great job of explaining the true process involved. Let’s take a look at five misconceptions about hoarding cleanup.

Misconception #1: Hoarding Cleanup Will Solve the Problem

Many believe that undertaking a cleanup of a hoarding home is all that’s required to get the job done. Hoarding cleanup is rarely a one-and-done process, though. This is due to the misconception that hoarding is merely collecting too many things. In most cases, hoarding is a complicated mental condition that will require a complex treatment plan to avoid relapse. Patience is a vital component of cleanup and support.

Misconception #2: Hoarders Are Just Lazy

It’s dangerous and unfair to assume that hoarders are dirty or lazy people. In many cases, those involved in active hoarding often keep clean homes aside from the clutter related to their hoarding. It should also be noted that hoarding can begin as a response to a traumatic loss. While it might seem helpful to push hoarders to clean up their acts quickly, it’s essential to act with compassion, support, and empathy when helping them to begin hoarding cleanup.

Misconception #3: Hoarding Cleanup Should Always Include the Hoarder

While it might be deemed beneficial to actively involve the hoarder in the cleanup process, it’s not always appropriate. This is because hoarding cleanup often involves the removal of items from the home. Given the complex mental and physical challenges of hoarding, some people may find it too stressful to see their cherished belongings taken away. When scheduling a hoarding cleanup, it’s crucial to adjust the plan to the needs of the hoarder.

Misconception #4: Hoarding Cleanup Can Happen Quickly

Even though the process of a cleanup can be expensive, it is not wise to try to rush it. While most individuals will understand a to-do list of priorities, this is not often the case for hoarders. While establishing expectations and tasks is important to be effective, hoarders often prefer to undertake the process slowly and methodically. This is key to helping them move forward. Talking through the cleanup process rationally and at their own pace can be incredibly beneficial.

Misconception #5: A Cleanup Has to Be Stressful

While cleaning will likely be difficult, the idea that it has to be stressful is untrue. When undertaken with care and flexibility, helping a hoarder to clean up their home space can be a rewarding process that helps them to improve their situation.

One of the easiest ways to reduce stress is to hire the right team to assist with the hoarding cleanup process. When you’re ready to begin, contact Kelley Klean to learn more!