Hoarding Cleanup for Beginners

Dealing with hoarding cleanup is overwhelming. Not only is cleaning a large task, but the emotional toll of helping a hoarder is tough. Whether it’s a loved one, friend, or yourself, hoarding cleanup is an uphill battle mentally and physically. Not sure where to start? Read on to determine the first steps in tackling tough hoarding cases.

Hoarding Cleanup and Mental Health

Hoarders are often diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and/or depression.  Symptoms of hoarding are frustrating for loved ones and friends. Hoarders have severe anxiety about throwing away items. As debris piles up, they may display obsessive thoughts and actions. Don’t be surprised if a hoarder shows suspicion when you are in their home to try to help them.

Protective Equipment for Hoarding Cleanup

Safety is crucial for the hoarding cleanup process.  At the very least, wear gloves and face masks to prevent exposure to bacteria such as Staph or E.coli. You also need to wear long sleeves and long pants to protect skin from puncture wounds. At Kelly Klean, we ensure all employees working on hoarding sites wear hazmat suits and protective gear to prevent injury or illness. Additionally, we abide by OSHA policy when cleaning up bio-hazardous material.

Use the “3 Group” Rule When Discarding Items

When examining items, allow for three possibilities: keep, donate, and garbage. If determining which items to trash is a struggle, ask if the item was used in the past year.  Exceptions to the year-usage rule are personal items or family heirlooms with sentimental value. Many hoarding experts agree that items not used in the past year should be thrown away or donated. Any item growing mold should immediately be tossed into the trash.

When in Doubt, Call a Professional

Homes with hoarding problems require more than just a thorough vacuum and dusting. Hoarders often have years of debris in unorganized piles. The longer debris sits, the more dirt, dust, and mold accumulate. Do not hesitate to call a professional cleaning service. Kelly Klean will help you devise a cleaning strategy and follow through with removal and restoration.

Hiring professional cleaners to alleviate hoarding mess can help ease a stressful situation. Kelly Klean has years of cleaning up hoarding sites for homeowners of all ages. Our experienced technicians turn over every item in your home to give you a fresh new start.  Visit our website or give us a call today at 573-535-6719.