Decluttering Tips for Hoarders: Practical Steps to Start

^{Vacuum cleaner, depicting decluttering tips for hoarders | Photo by cottonbro studio}

Before you identify yourself as a hoarder, let’s check what a “hoarder” means.

According to psychiatry, hoarding is a disorder that involves persistent difficulty in discarding possessions regardless of their actual value. If you have anxiety or attachment to items, you are most likely to hoard items to the point that you clutter your space.

If you think you’re a hoarder and your space is starting to clutter, we can help you. This article provides practical decluttering tips for hoarders like you and us.  

Before we proceed with our list, you might want to get a copy of “WHY IS MY HOUSE ALWAYS A Mess?” by Joanne Radke. This book offers a step-by-step, practical guide to decluttering your home in a month. Grab a copy from your favorite book store.

Practical Steps to Start

It’s hard to let go of things, especially when you find them all important. As hoarders, we can’t seem to find any item “unessential.” But consider this: a decluttered environment stimulates productivity.

So, if I am a hoarder, where do I start?

Step 1. Start with Mindset and Goal Setting

First on our decluttering tips for hoarders is to start with small, achievable goals. Maybe start with one drawer or an area at home. Perhaps, declutter one area at a time.

Also, don’t forget to visualize. Imagine how each space of your home would look like when decluttered.

Step 2. Create a Decluttering Plan

Now that you’ve chosen an area to start with, it’s time to sort your items. Sort your items as “for keeping, for donation, or to discard.” When sorting your items that way, be practical. Think of which items you would use most often or need.

But if it’s too hard for you to decide which is which, maybe you play an “eeny-meeny-miny-moe” sort of game. Maybe close your eyes and point your finger to an item. Then, decide whether to keep it, donate it, or discard the item.

Step 3: Get a Companion

Count on the help of people around you. Reclaim your space by doing the decluttering chores with the family. Or, do it with a friend. The task gets lighter when there’s a supportive presence around you.

If you’re living alone, maybe you can invite a friend over? Hahaha!

Kidding aside, it’s always nice to have someone around you when decluttering your home. Aside from the practical help, having a companion means you can chit-chat while doing the chore. Chatting with someone lightens the task and makes you more productive effortlessly. Ever noticed that?

Step 4: Set Up Simple, Manageable Routines

This is the most practical decluttering tip for hoarders. Make your decluttering chores a routine. In order to make it attainable and sustainable, plot your decluttering calendar. Maybe do it weekly or twice in a week. You do you.

Or, you may consider rearranging your stuff regularly. This gives your space a fresh look every time.

Step 5: Long-Term Maintenance

For these decluttering tips to work, you need to be consistent. As much as possible, designate storage spots for commonly used items. You can either buy a storage box or recycle laundry baskets to place items you want to keep for future donation.

The Most Important Decluttering Tip: Let Go

There’s a reason why we’re hoarders. Mostly, it’s the emotional connection we had with the item(s). Many possessions carry memories. Some items we have carry a sentimental value.

To help you overcome this attachment, focus on the memory instead of the object itself. The most practical thing you can do is take a photo of it. Then, place the photograph in a designated storage area for safekeeping—perhaps a memory box.

It’s a win-win situation. You get to keep the memory imbued by the item while saving up your space from overwhelming clutter.

Are these decluttering tips for home achievable? If you need additional help, “WHY IS MY HOUSE ALWAYS A Mess?” by Joanne Radke is always available at your disposal.

As you finish the book and complete your decluttering chore for the month, maybe you want to read a book with your kid. If you’re looking for a good read, grab a copy of “Jessica the Dreamer” by Joanne Radke. It’s a top pick for a pass-time relaxation activity after a long day of decluttering work, especially when you do it with children.

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Joanne Radke

With over 46 years of experience as a pastor, mentor, counselor, and friend, Joanne Radke has dedicated her life to helping countless individuals find hope and healing. Her deep compassion has led her to serve in six different ministries, including 15 years in children's ministry. Joanne’s impact extends across Canada and around the globe, most notably through her 17-year leadership of the CBA – The 700 Club Canadian prayer center, where she trains and ministers to people daily. Discover more about Joanne's remarkable journey and heart for others.

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