Hoarding can creep up slowly, and before you know it, a house has become cluttered and unmanageable. Hoarding can lead to a whole host of problems, including health and safety risks, inability to use spaces as intended, and social isolation. But, if you're looking to get started with restoring a hoarded home, help is available. In this blog post, we'll share everything you need to know before you take on this journey. Whether it's someone you know, a loved one, or someone who has overcome hoarding, these tips can help make the process more tangible.
Step 1: Creating a Plan of Action
It's important to have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish, set realistic goals, and establish a timeline for completion. Your plan should include the following:
- Identify areas of the home that need attention
- Prioritize the areas of the home that are most hazardous
- Set realistic goals for each area
- Develop a timeline for completion
- Consider hiring professional help if necessary
Step 2: Clearing the Clutter
With a plan in place, tackling the clutter is the next step. It can be overwhelming and intimidating to look at a cluttered home, but remember that every small step is progress. Start by deciding what needs to be kept and what should be discarded. To simplify this process:
- Create "Keep" and "Discard" piles
- Ask if the item has been used in the past year
- If an item is broken, consider replacing rather than keeping
- Work with family or friends to make decisions about sentimental items
It's recommended that you also work with a professional to organize and restore the home more efficiently. If you work with someone knowledgeable in the field of removing clutter, they can help you determine what needs to be kept and discarded.
Step 3: Cleaning and Disinfecting
If the property has been cluttered for a while, it may be necessary to have the space professionally cleaned and disinfected. Hoarding can lead to health hazards such as mold growth, pests, or vermin. To properly clean and disinfect the home:
- Ventilate the area by opening doors and windows
- Use an all-purpose cleaner to wash down surfaces
- Vacuum furniture, carpets, and floors
- Disinfect commonly touched surfaces such as doorknobs or light switches
- Be sure to wear protective gear if needed when cleaning
Use a disinfectant solution to clean surfaces thoroughly and ensure that even the smallest details are taken care of. Don't forget to clean fabrics and carpets, as these can easily catch dirt and germs!
Step 4: Reorganizing and Designing
Consider the use of storage solutions such as shelving, cabinets, and bins to keep things organized and accessible. Design the space according to the individual's preferences and needs, again, keeping realistic goals. Personalize the house with items that evoke positive memories! Restoring a hoarded home restoration doesn't have to be overwhelming; with careful planning, it can become a rewarding experience.
Step 5: Mental Health Support
The process of restoring a hoarded home is not just about cleaning and organizing. It's also important to provide psychological support to those affected by hoarding disorder. Connecting with a licensed therapist or certified professional organizer can be beneficial for those looking for support during this difficult time. Help is available; don't hesitate to reach out for advice and assistance!
When Restoring a Hoarded Home, Don't Hesitate to Reach Out to Bio-One!
Restoring a hoarded home is no easy feat. The key is to break the process down into manageable tasks and stick to your timeline. Remember to be kind to yourself, or your loved one, throughout the process. Hoarding is a mental health disorder, and it takes time to overcome. By following these steps, you can at least have a clearer vision of how to rejuvenate and restore the property. This process must come along with assistance from a mental health professional to ensure there are no long-term issues.
