Living in the same house with a hoarder can be an unpleasant experience. The cleaning process is not only very exhausting and time-consuming but also challenging and emotional to deal with. To make it easier for you, here are a few tips on keep or donate.
How to Clean After Hoarding
1. Start With a Small Room
Many hoarders often overlook sanitation, which might result in many health hazards, particularly in the kitchen and bathroom. So it is important to prioritize and clean and sanitize these areas first. It is recommended to start with a small area like the bathroom so that you can finish quickly and access to soap and clean water. After that, sanitize the whole surface and move on to your kitchen. Immediately get rid of any food containers and remains, as well as trash to avoid the risks of infections. Also, clean an area so that you can take a rest and sit during the cleaning process.
2. Empty the Whole Room
The first thing you need to do in other rooms is to remove all the trash, including garbage and filthy or damaged items. Make sure to check the local rules for handling these stuff properly. Put aside those materials which might be recycled and dispose of the others safely. Keep in mind to start from the top by taking out those items which are stacked up on chairs, beds, or tables and working down to the floor. Look through purses and pockets to check for jewelry and cash.
3. Sort Out the Items
Sort out all of the items into three groups: stuff that you will keep, what you will donate, and trash. Once you’ve have thrown away what you won't keep or donate, it’s time to organize the remaining things. Be careful when working with old papers such as family photos, bank account, life insurance, or receipts, which might be mixed with old newspapers, magazine, and letters. Also, make sure everything you want to donate or keep should be cleaned thoroughly and safe to use. Most charities often come to get your donation, but it is best to call in advance..
4. Deep Clean and Repair the House
Do you Know How to Clean After Hoarding?
When it comes to knowing how to clean after hoarding, it can look like a daunting task from afar. The four steps above help it seem more achievable if tackled a seciton at a time. It is best to categorize your items so you can see the organizing happening as you clean away the hoarding.
