Getting Ready for your Hoarding Cleanout day

1. Initial Assessment

  • Identify Areas: Determine which areas need the most attention and the best starting point for our crews, especially if they will need to be taking items back & forth to a Dumpster
  • Set Priorities: Decide which rooms or sections to focus on first.

3. Sorting Items

  • Gather Supplies: Get boxes, bags, markers, and labels.
  • Categorize:
    • Keep: Items you use regularly or have sentimental value.
    • Donate: Items in good condition but no longer needed.
    • Toss: Broken, expired, or unusable items.
    • Unsure: Items you are undecided about (limit this category).

4. Labeling Items

  • Use Clear Labels:
    • Keep: Use green labels.
    • Donate: Use blue labels.
    • Toss: Use red labels.
    • Unsure: Use yellow labels.
  • Write Details: Brief descriptions on labels for easy identification.

5. Organizing Items

  • Keep Items Together: Place all “Keep” items in one designated area.
  • Separate Trash: Put all “Toss” items in garbage bags or bins.
  • Donate Box: Collect all donation items in labeled boxes.
  • Create a Staging Area: A temporary space for sorting and organizing.
  • If you need to add Boxes to your Booking, you can learn more about this service by clicking here.

6. Preparing for the Cleaning Team

  • Clear Pathways: Ensure there’s enough space for the cleaning team to move around.
  • Communicate: Share your sorting system with the cleaning team.
  • Be Present: Stay available to answer any questions the cleaning team may have.

7. Post-Deep Cleaning

  • Review: Check all areas to ensure nothing important was discarded.
  • Organize: Arrange “Keep” items neatly in their designated places.
  • Follow Up: Schedule regular maintenance cleanings if needed.

8. Mental Health Considerations

  • Support System: Have a friend or family member for emotional support.
  • Professional Help: Consider therapy or counseling to address hoarding behavior.