Hoarder House
Cleanout Services
Hoarder House Clean-Out:
At Ditch It, we offer compassionate and thorough hoarder house cleanout services, designed to handle even the most challenging situations with care and respect. Hoarding can create overwhelming clutter that poses safety risks and emotional strain for homeowners and their families. Our experienced team understands the sensitivity required in these cases, and we approach every project with professionalism and empathy. We work step-by-step to remove accumulated items, whether it is furniture, personal belongings, or hazardous materials, ensuring the home is left clean and safe. With a focus on discretion and efficiency, Ditch It helps restore the home to a livable condition, giving homeowners a fresh start. Let us take the weight off your shoulders while providing a clean, clutter-free space that promotes well-being and safety.
7 Steps to Cleaning up a Hoarder House:
1. Assess the Situation
Inspect the Property: Evaluate the extent of clutter and identify safety hazards such as mold, sharp objects, or structural issues.
Prioritize Areas: Decide which rooms to tackle first, typically high-traffic areas like the kitchen or bathroom.
Plan for Disposal: Determine what types of waste are present (e.g., hazardous materials, recyclables, general trash) and how each will be removed.
2. Gather Supplies and Protective Gear
Equip the team with gloves, masks, and protective clothing to protect against allergens, mold, and debris.
Have cleaning supplies on hand: trash bags, heavy-duty boxes, disinfectants, scrub brushes, mops, and vacuum cleaners.
Arrange for dumpsters or junk removal services, as large amounts of waste may require professional hauling.
3. Sort and Organize
Set Up Sorting Stations: Create designated areas for items to keep, donate, recycle, and throw away.
Work with the Resident (if possible): Respectfully involve the resident in the sorting process if they’re able and willing. If not, proceed with caution and compassion.
Tackle Small Sections at a Time: Avoid overwhelming yourself by focusing on small, manageable areas instead of attempting to clear an entire room at once.
4. Dispose of Unwanted Items
Hazardous Waste: Properly dispose of chemicals, expired food, and other hazardous materials according to local regulations.
Bulk Removal: Consider hiring a junk removal service to handle bulky items, which may be too difficult to manage without professional help.
Donate Usable Items: Set aside items that are in good condition and can be donated to charities.
5. Deep Cleaning
Vacuum and Disinfect: Vacuum floors, wipe down surfaces, and disinfect areas where items were removed.
Check for Mold and Pests: Treat mold with appropriate cleaning agents and contact pest control services if necessary.
Deodorize: Air out the house and consider using odor-neutralizing sprays or products.
6. Final Organization and Restoration
Organize Remaining Items: Place items in designated areas, ideally in storage containers or shelves.
Restock Essentials: If the resident intends to stay in the home, help them stock up on essentials like food and cleaning supplies.
Inspect for Necessary Repairs: Check if any structural or electrical repairs are needed, and make referrals if needed.
7. Follow-Up
Provide Resources: If appropriate, connect the resident with resources for mental health or support groups for hoarding behavior.
Maintenance Plan: Discuss a cleaning and maintenance plan to prevent future clutter build-up, offering periodic check-ins if needed.