Assessing the Situation
When faced with a hoarding situation that has gotten out of control, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. The most important first step is to fully assess the extent of the clutter and disorganization.
Walk through each room and make notes about the types and volume of items accumulated. Pay attention to blocked pathways, spoiled food, and pest infestations. These present safety risks that will need to be addressed right away. Also note any structural damage like leaks, mold, or collapsing surfaces under the weight of the hoarded materials.
Speaking with a professional organizer can help me formulate a plan of attack based on the specific details of my situation. They can also refer me to resources like cleaning services or haulers to help remove trash and heavy debris. I may need extra helpers to assist with sorting, cleaning, and organization down the line.
Establishing Priorities and Goals
Once I have thoroughly evaluated the full scope of the clutter, I can begin identifying priorities and setting some initial goals.
The top priorities are always health, safety, and accessibility. Clearing blocked doorways, removing hazards like sharp objects or moldy food, and creating clear pathways should happen first. This allows me and any helpers to move around safely as we work.
Early goals can target quick wins like:
- Filling one trash bag per room
- Cleaning the kitchen and bathroom surfaces
- Clearing off beds so they can be slept in
- Securing any valuables like important documents
Starting small helps create momentum without getting overwhelmed. And gained space makes it easier to keep organizing.
Sorting and Purging
The bulk of a hoarding cleanup involves sorting through the accumulated items and deciding what to keep versus purge. This process can become emotional, so I should expect it to go slowly.
As I work through each area, I can try categorizing items into simple groups:
- Trash – anything expired, spoiled, or ruined beyond use
- Recycling – cans, bottles, paper, cardboard
- Donate – gently used items that someone else could use
- Sell – valuables or vintage items to recoup some money
- Keep – meaningful items I wish to keep
- Unsure – decide later when I feel less overwhelmed
I may need to call on an organizational coach or therapist to help me overcome Attachment to possessions and not get bogged down agonizing over each decision. Their support helps me stay focused on my goals and priorities.
Maintaining Progress
Once spaces start opening up, it can be tempting to fill them again. To maintain my progress, I need to establish new habits and routines focused on preventing re-accumulation.
Daily tidying, immediately putting items away, regular trash/recycling disposal, and setting limits on acquiring new things are all small habits that make a big difference. I can tackle new spaces incrementally so I don’t get too overwhelmed.
I may stumble at times on this journey. But staying focused on health, safety, and quality of life for myself and loved ones helps me get back on track when the clutter starts creeping back. With consistent effort, I can reclaim my space and my mind from the chaos of compulsive hoarding.
