Practical Decluttering Tips for Hoarders and Pack Rats

A true hoarder needs professional help in order to deal with their  disorder. In this article when we refer to hoarders, we are actually speaking of the habit of some people to hold onto useless or excess  items or in other words to people who may often be referred to as a pack  rat. If you are a pack rat or know someone that is, then understanding why  you need to hold onto so many items will help you or them to stop the behavior and declutter their home.

1. Fear of not having things when they need them. 2. The belief that you will need or use things you are not using now in the future. 3. Too many collections.

Why People Become Pack Rats

The first step in decluttering your home is to stop bringing in more items that will clutter up your living space.

Start by Stopping Clutter

While decluttering your entire home may seem too overwhelming, you can break everything down into smaller tasks.

Start Small

Take a picture before tackling a decluttering task, then take another once the task is completed. Visually being able to see your progress will help you keep motivated.

Visually Track Your Progress

Once you have decluttered the tops of your tables, stands and  countertops and your floors and furniture and can see and feel the difference whenever you walk into a room, you will feel better about  yourself.

Start With the Areas You Can See

Get a garbage bag and begin by throwing out what is obvious garbage  first, such as last month’s grocery list, and those old to-do lists.

Get Rid of the Obvious Trash First

If you organize as you declutter you will know what you have space for  and what you don’t. It will also allow you to see if you have too many  of any one thing.

Organize as You Go

In most cases, you don’t have to go it alone. Most people have friends  or family members that will come in for a couple of hours and help you  work on decluttering.

Get Help if You Need it

Swipe up for more information on decluttering tips for hoarders