Hoarder homes are a serious problem. The mess can be overwhelming, unhealthy, and even life-threatening. The clutter can be hazardous and cause a fire, restrict airflow that could lead to mold, and attract vermin. Many hoarder homes have no sanitary facilities, making the quality of life for the residents extremely poor. If you or someone you know is a hoarder or suspects that hoarding is becoming a problem, it's time to take action. Here are some helpful tips on cleaning hoarder homes and why hiring junk removal services is essential in the process.

Understanding the Problem

Hoarding is not only about clutter but also a mental disorder that requires professional treatment. The first and essential step to cleaning a hoarder's home is understanding that the problem goes beyond just cleaning up stuff. Hoarders have a difficult time parting with things and will require patience and understanding as they learn to let go. Cleaning the hoarder's home will be an emotional and exhausting process and requires a step-by-step approach.

Developing a Plan

Before starting the cleaning process, it's essential to have a clear plan. Develop a workflow, set priorities, and tackle sections rather than the whole house at once. Choosing the easiest section will boost the hoarder's morale; be sure to start with those. Make a complete list of everything that needs to be done, including tasks such as sorting, cleaning, and disposal. When it comes to disposal, it's crucial to have a dumpster or another disposal option that can handle the sheer volume of waste.

Hiring a Junk Removal Service

One of the most challenging aspects of cleaning a hoarder's home is removing clutter, debris, and trash. With so many items to remove and many different types of items to dispose of, hiring a junk removal company is imperative. An experienced company can efficiently and safely remove all the excess material, including hazardous materials that hoarders often keep buried in their homes. A cleanout crew can help with moving heavy items, and it is less dangerous than trying to remove them yourself.

Cleaning and Disinfecting

Once all of the excess clutter, trash, and debris are removed, it's time to start cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, carpets, and other items in the home. Professional cleaning services can help with the cleaning process and destroy bacteria, mildew, mold, and other hazardous agents. This will help ensure that the space is sanitary and safe once the cleaning is complete. Be sure to include the hoarder in the clean-up process as much as possible.

Moving Forward:

Once the home is cleaned, it's essential to establish a system to avoid re-hoarding. The organization is critical. It would be best to develop a cleaning plan and establish routines conducive to keeping the house organized. This will help keep the clutter under control and prevent the hoarder from relapsing into this cycle of behavior.

For more information, contact a junk removal service near you.