Hoarder House Cleanouts: How to Do Them Right & Essential Equipment
Hoarder house cleanouts can be overwhelming, but with the right approach and equipment, they can be handled safely and efficiently. Whether you're helping a loved one reclaim their home or preparing a property for sale, following a structured plan is key to success. At Junk It, we specialize in hoarder cleanouts, and we’re here to share expert tips on how to tackle these challenging jobs.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
Before diving in, take a thorough look at the property. Identify hazards such as:
Mold or mildew growth
Pest infestations
Structural damage
Excessive clutter blocking exits
Biohazardous waste (e.g., animal droppings, spoiled food, or human waste)
Once you know the severity of the hoarding situation, you can plan accordingly.
Step 2: Gather Essential Equipment
Hoarder house cleanouts require more than just trash bags. To ensure safety and efficiency, equip yourself with:
Protective Gear – Gloves, masks (preferably N95 respirators), goggles, and coveralls to guard against dust, mold, and biohazards.
Heavy-Duty Trash Bags – Thick, tear-resistant bags are essential for disposing of clutter and waste.
Bins & Dumpsters – Having on-site dumpsters speeds up disposal and keeps work areas organized.
Industrial Strength Cleaning Supplies – Disinfectants, odor neutralizers, and degreasers to sanitize surfaces.
Shovels & Rakes – These help with heavy debris removal and sifting through clutter.
Flashlights & Headlamps – Many hoarder homes have poor lighting due to blocked windows or power issues.
Dollies & Hand Trucks – Useful for moving heavy furniture and appliances.
Sawzall or Bolt Cutters – Occasionally, doors, furniture, or other barriers need to be cut apart to remove them safely.
Air Circulation Equipment – Fans and air purifiers help improve air quality and reduce exposure to harmful particles.
Step 3: Develop a Strategy
Once you have the right tools, create a systematic approach:
Start Small – Begin with a single area (e.g., a doorway or main walkway) and work outward.
Sort Items – Use the “Keep, Donate, Trash” method to categorize belongings.
Prioritize Safety – Remove hazards first, such as broken glass, rotting food, or unstable furniture.
Work in Sections – Tackling one room at a time prevents burnout and keeps progress visible.
Enlist Help – Hoarder cleanouts are labor-intensive. Professional services like Junk It ensure efficiency and proper disposal of waste.
Step 4: Disposal & Deep Cleaning
Once the clutter is removed, thorough cleaning is necessary. This includes:
Vacuuming and scrubbing floors
Wiping down walls and surfaces
Treating mold and mildew
Removing lingering odors
Sanitizing bathrooms and kitchens
Step 5: Prevent Recurrence
For those struggling with hoarding behaviors, providing resources for professional counseling or organizational help can prevent the situation from happening again.
Let Junk It Handle the Tough Work
If you're facing a hoarder house cleanout in Chattanooga, Junk It has the expertise, equipment, and manpower to get the job done safely and efficiently. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate!
Need help with a hoarder cleanout? Call Junk It now and let us do the heavy lifting!