Bio-One of Marion County decontamination and biohazard cleaning services

Hoarding vs Collecting: Where Do We Draw the Line?

Hoarding vs Collecting: Where Do We Draw the Line? - Bio-One of Marion County

In the endlessly fascinating human spectrum of behaviors, hoarding and collecting stand as two sides of the same coin, characterized by acquiring and keeping items. However, while one side is often marked by admiration and organization, the other can be fraught with challenges and emotional distress. Let's take a look into the defining features of hoarding vs. collecting, the psychological roots, and the importance of offering guidance and support for individuals and families navigating through this complex terrain.

hoarding example e waste

The Curious Case of Hoarding

A Definition of Hoarding

Hoarding is a mental health condition associated with the compulsive acquisition of items, often with little regard for their actual worth and an inability to discard them. At its core, hoarding is a profound attachment to material possessions, driven by various emotional and behavioral factors that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life.

Psychological Factors Contributing to Hoarding

The triggers behind hoarding are as varied as the possessions gathered, yet common threads of anxiety, indecisiveness, perfectionism, and the perceived utility of items weave a complex tapestry.

The Art of Collecting

A Definition of Collecting

Collecting, on the other hand, is a hobby characterized by the purposeful and organized accumulation of specific items based on a chosen set of criteria. Whether it's stamps, coins, or antique cars, collectors often derive pleasure and identity from their collections, which are meticulously curated and maintained.

Motivations Behind Collecting

The motivations for collecting are as diverse as the myriad of collected items. For some, it's a sense of nostalgia and history, while for others, the aesthetic value and the thrill of the hunt are the driving forces. Collecting can be a deeply satisfying and engaging hobby when managed healthily. A sense of control and enjoyment defines healthy collecting behaviors.

stamp collection display example

Hoarding vs. Collecting: Different but Similar

Contrasting Features of Hoarding vs. Collecting

While hoarding and collecting both involve the acquisition of items, they are distinguished by the intent, organization, and emotional attachment associated with them. Hoarders often feel overwhelmed and distressed by their possessions, while collectors experience a sense of pride, community, and identity.

The fine line that separates hoarding from collecting is often emotional and subjective. It hinges on the level of distress and impairment an individual experiences.

How to Help a Loved One with Hoarding

Traversing the Journey of Recovery

Hoarding often requires a combination of therapy, support groups, and, in severe cases, professional intervention. The support system that surrounds the individual is integral to this process, offering understanding, patience, and the necessary tools for managing and reducing clutter.

elderly person treatment example

Thankfully, the resources for those struggling with Hoarding Disorder continue to grow. From self-help books, and online resources, to professional organizers and hoarding cleanup companies, there are strategies and services designed to guide hoarders and their families through the often overwhelming process of reclaiming their lives and homes.

Bio-One of Marion County Can Help

When hoarding behaviors spiral out of control, they can have detrimental effects on individuals and their families. Recognizing the signs of hoarding vs. collecting and seeking early intervention is critical. Furthermore, combating the stigma surrounding hoarding and promoting understanding can lead to increased support and successful treatment outcomes.

example of hoarded house garage waste

When the clutter has reached unmanageable levels, the intervention of a professional hoarding cleanup service is often necessary. For anyone in Marion County, IN, Bio-One is a name you can trust to handle your unique situation delicately. Our compassionate approach and experience in this sensitive area ensure the process is as smooth and respectful as possible.


Bio-One specializes in blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, sewage backups, and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.

Connecting the Dots: Understanding Causes of Hoarding Behavior - Bio-One of Marion County

Even with all the resources and information about the condition, hoarding is still misunderstood and stigmatized. It involves accumulating and saving large quantities of items, even if they have little or no value. This behavior typically results in cluttered homes or environments, difficulty discarding possessions, and feelings of distress when trying to get rid of items. Hoarding can have serious consequences on an individual's physical and mental health, as well as their relationships and daily functioning. Around 2-6% of the general population struggles with hoarding behavior, making it a common yet often overlooked issue. Let's delve into the causes of hoarding behavior and connect the dots to better understand these circumstances.

hoarding environment

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors can play a significant role in the causes of hoarding behavior. For some people, growing up in an environment where material possessions were highly valued or scarce may have influenced their beliefs about owning and discarding items. Additionally, traumatic events can lead to hoarding behavior as a coping mechanism and may include experiences such as loss, poverty, or abuse.

Genetics and Brain Function

Though research is not conclusive, some studies have shown that genetics may also contribute to hoarding behavior. Studies have found that individuals with a family history of Hoarding Disorder are more likely to develop the behavior themselves. Similarly, brain imaging studies have revealed differences in brain function and structure in individuals with hoarding, suggesting a neurological basis for the behavior.

hoarding and mental health
Image by Freepik

Mental Health Disorders

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is one of the most commonly associated disorders, as hoarding can be seen as a subtype of OCD. Other conditions such as depression, anxiety, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have also been linked to hoarding behavior.

Is Hoarding Related to Other Mental Health Disorders?

Yes.  Hoarding behavior often co-occurs with other mental health disorders. This is a comorbidity, and complicates the diagnosis and treatment of Hoarding Disorder. Professional intervention is highly advisable, and it's essential for individuals struggling with hoarding behavior to receive treatment that addresses all underlying mental health conditions.

hoarding hazardous environment

Emotional Attachment

For some people, hoarding may stem from a strong emotional attachment to objects. This can be especially true for sentimental items or possessions with memories of past experiences. The act of discarding these items may feel like letting go of those memories, which can be emotionally distressing.

Emotional Distress and Hoarding

The emotional attachment to objects can lead to significant distress in individuals with hoarding behavior. The thought of getting rid of items may trigger intense feelings of anxiety, guilt, or sadness. As a result, they avoid discarding items and continue to accumulate possessions, creating an environment that is not only dangerous for them but also for others.

Is There a Treatment for Hoarding Disorder?

Yes, there are various treatment options available for Hoarding Disorder. These may include psychotherapy, specifically cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication management. CBT can help individuals identify and challenge their thoughts and behaviors related to hoarding, while medication can address any co-occurring mental health disorders that may be contributing to the hoarding behavior.

Learn more: Hoarding Treatment Options: Recommendations from Experts

How to Intervene in a Hoarding Situation

If you suspect that a loved one may be struggling with hoarding behavior, it's essential to approach the situation with sensitivity and compassion. Hoarding is a complex condition, and the person may feel shame or embarrassment about their behavior. Here are some tips for intervening in a hoarding situation:

  1. Educate yourself about Hoarding Disorder: Understanding the causes of hoarding behavior, symptoms, and treatment options can help you approach the situation with compassion and knowledge.
  2. Express your concerns in a non-judgmental way: Instead of criticizing or shaming, express your concern for their well-being and how the hoarding behavior may be impacting them.
  3. Offer support and resources: Let your loved one know that they are not alone and that there are resources available to help them manage their hoarding behavior.
  4. Encourage them to seek professional help: Hoarding is a mental health condition, and it's important for individuals to receive professional treatment from a therapist or psychiatrist.
hoarding before and after scenario

Bio-One of Marion County Can Help

Our team at Bio-One recognizes the importance of treating our customers with empathy and respect, and we always work closely with them to develop a customized cleaning plan that meets their needs. Our services include decluttering, organizing, and deep cleaning of the hoarded spaces. If you or a loved one are struggling with hoarding behavior, reach out to Bio-One of Marion County. We are here to help.


Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. We specialize in all types of extreme cleaning, including blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, rodent droppings, sewage backups, hoarding, gross filth, virus/bacteria disinfection and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.

Hoarder Help: Tips, Tools, and Supportive Ways to Assist - Bio-One of Marion County

At first glance, hoarding may start as a harmless collection of items, but it can quickly spiral out of control and turn into a dangerous situation. Hoarding can be dangerous to both the hoarder and those around them, as it poses significant health and safety hazards. If you have someone close to you dealing with hoarding, it's essential to know the right ways to help them. This blog post will provide you with tips, tools, and supportive ways to assist a loved one with hoarding and the restoration of their home.

Understand the Situation

Before jumping in to help, it's crucial to have a basic understanding of Hoarding Disorder. Hoarding is a mental health disorder that involves excessive accumulation and difficulty discarding possessions, resulting in cluttered living spaces. Hoarding is not a lifestyle choice but rather a manifestation of underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. Understanding the root cause can help you approach the situation with empathy and compassion.

Try to be empathetic and listen to their problems without judgment, and never shame them. Let them know that they can count on you to help them through the journey of recovering their lives and homes.

Try DIY Cleaning Tips and Techniques

Cleaning up a hoarded home can seem overwhelming, but there are several ways to make the process manageable. When providing hoarder help, always wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from bacteria and mold in the home. A simple plan to clean and disinfect the home may include:

  • Creating a cleaning schedule over several weeks to avoid overwhelming the hoarder and yourself.
  • Sorting items into categories: keep, donate, recycle, and throw away.
  • Using storage bins or boxes for organizing items that need to be kept.
  • Utilizing professional organizers or junk removal services to assist with decluttering.
help for hoarders - cleaning hoarder house

Address Health Hazards

A hoarded home poses several health hazards, including mold, mildew, and bacteria buildup. Address these dangers by cleaning surfaces with bleach or antibacterial sprays. Be sure to check and clean air vents, replace air filters, and use dehumidifiers to keep the home’s moisture in check.

Keep in mind that hoarding is a naturally hazardous environment, and in some cases, it's best to seek professional help to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Encouraging a New Mindset

Hoarding is often linked to a fear of letting go and holding onto items for emotional reasons. As you work with the individual, encourage them to develop a new mindset towards their possessions.

  • Remind them that it's okay to let go of things and create space for new memories and experiences.
  • Suggest alternative ways to hold onto sentimental items, like taking photos or creating memory books.
  • Help them find healthier coping mechanisms for their emotions, such as talking to a therapist or engaging in creative outlets.

Remember, recovery from hoarding is a journey, and it takes time and patience.

support hands

Provide Positive Support

Regular encouragement can help your loved one through the process of restoring their hoarded home. Offer ongoing support, offer to go to therapy sessions, and help them develop good cleaning habits by setting up a weekly cleaning schedule to keep the home free of clutter.

Additional Resources for Hoarder Help

For more information on hoarding disorder and how to help a loved one struggling with it, check out these resources:

  • International OCD Foundation - Home
  • Mental Health America - Home
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness - Home 

By educating yourself and others about Hoarding Disorder, we can work toward breaking the stigma. Remember to approach the topic with empathy, understanding, and patience.

Bio-One of Marion County Can Help

If the situation seems too daunting or dangerous, it's best to seek help from professional hoarding cleanup services like Bio-One for professional hoarder help. We are experienced in handling hoarding situations and can work with sensitivity and discretion to restore the home.


Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. We specialize in all types of extreme cleaning, including blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, rodent droppings, sewage backups, hoarding, gross filth, virus/bacteria disinfection and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.

Deep Cleaning Services: What Situations Require Them? - Bio-One of Marion County

Unwanted scenarios like hoarding, water damage, and biohazardous waste require deep cleaning services. It entails thoroughly restoring every nook and corner of a room or property to eliminate dust, dirt, and other harmful substances that can threaten your health. In this blog post, we highlight common scenarios that may require deep cleaning services and how you can get help from the experts.

example of hoarded home needing deep cleaning services

Hoarding Situations and Hoarded Homes

Hoarding is a mental health disorder that causes people to collect items and have difficulty discarding them excessively. This leads to an accumulation of belongings in their homes, making it challenging to clean or organize. Hoarding situations can quickly become hazardous as the collected items may block entrances and exits, create fire hazards, or harbor mold growth.

Cleaning a hoarded home requires a professional cleaning service that specializes in hoarding cleanup.

example of mold damage in kitchen

Mold and Water Damage

Water damage can occur due to various reasons like floods, broken plumbing, and roof leaks. Water damage can cause mold growth, which may result in respiratory health issues like asthma. Deep cleaning services are required to ensure that water damage is dealt with effectively, and mold is eliminated.

Must read: 4 Clear Signs of Mold and Water Damage - Bio-One of Oceanside

Sewage Backups

Sewage backups can occur from clogged pipes or blockages in the sewage system. These backups can result in biohazardous waste, which poses severe health risks if not handled correctly. Deep cleaning services are essential to clean up waste and sanitize the affected area properly.

example of cluttered garage

Unorganized Homes and Cluttered Spaces

An unorganized home or a cluttered space can have a significant impact on your mental health. Unorganized homes can cause stress and anxiety, and it can be hard to focus on daily tasks. Deep cleaning services can help organize and declutter homes to make them more livable and give peace of mind.

Biohazard Scenarios

Biohazardous waste such as bodily fluids and fecal matter can pose a health risk if not cleaned correctly. Biohazard scenarios can occur in various settings, like crime scenes, or unattended deaths. These situations require specialized deep cleaning services to ensure proper disposal and disinfection of the affected areas.

help and support for hoarders

Bio-One of Marion County Can Help

Deep cleaning services are a necessity in various circumstances. Bio-One can remediate any situation no matter how challenging it might seem. Our professional team knows how to deal with each situation and ensures that the environment is clean and safe. Don't hesitate to reach out to Bio-One for all your deep cleaning needs!


Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. We specialize in all types of extreme cleaning, including blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, rodent droppings, sewage backups, hoarding, gross filth, virus/bacteria disinfection and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.

A Fresh Start: Expert Tips for Cleaning Up After Hoarding - Bio-One of Marion County

Hoarding can leave behind lots of mixed feelings and emotions: guilt, anxiety, and even exhaustion. From a safety standpoint, it can be a danger to those living inside the property and others, causing fire, mold, pest infestations, and more. Cleanup after hoarding is not an easy task, as there are many steps involved in the process, and the end result will depend on a well-designed plan and execution.

In this blog post, we would like to help understand the process of cleaning up after hoarding and offer some expert tips on how to do it right. As you read on, you’ll learn how to assess the damage, establish safety procedures, prepare for cleanup, remove and dispose of hazardous waste, and restore the home to a safe environment for all!

example of hoarding situation

Understand Hoarding

Hoarding affects individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. It is characterized by excessive collecting, saving, and difficulty discarding possessions regardless of their value. Hoarding can quickly escalate to an overwhelming level where clutter takes over the entire home, making it difficult to navigate and poses serious health and safety risks.

There are many reasons why people hoard, such as trauma, loss, or mental health conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Before approaching any cleanup and restoration job involving hoarding, understand that it's not a choice but a result of underlying issues that need to be addressed with empathy.

Assess the Damage

Hoarding can cause significant damage to a property, both visible and invisible. Visible damage includes structural issues like mold growth, pest infestations, and blocked pathways. Meanwhile, invisible damage may include problems with electrical wiring, plumbing, or even gas leaks!

example of hoarded kitchen

With help from professionals, you should check for biohazards, human or animal waste, biological materials, or drug paraphernalia. These hazards require specific cleaning and disposal methods to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the process.

Establish Safety Procedures

Hoarding is a naturally hazardous environment. Before commencing the cleanup process, it's crucial to establish safety procedures:

  • Before entering the property, put on personal protective equipment: gloves, masks, and coveralls.
  • Make sure to open windows or use fans for ventilation and turn off all electrical sources.
  • Establish communication with everyone involved and make a plan for any necessary breaks.
  • Ensure that all cleaning products used are appropriate for the type of damage present in the property.
  • Have a clear plan for disposing of waste and hazardous materials, including proper labeling and transport methods.
  • It’s essential to inform all parties involved, including cleaning crews and emergency responders, of the safety procedures in place.

Prepare for Cleanup

After assessing the damage and establishing safety procedures, it’s time to prepare for cleanup. Here are some steps to follow:

  • Start by focusing on one room at a time.
  • Remove any visible garbage, clutter, or debris from the area.
  • Sort through items and determine what is salvageable and what needs to be disposed of.
  • Use appropriate cleaning products and methods for each type of damage present.
  • Disinfect and sanitize all surfaces, especially in areas where biohazards were present.
bio-one remediation technician

Remove and Dispose of Hazardous Waste

One of the most critical aspects of a hoarding cleanup is the removal and disposal of hazardous waste. This process may be overlooked because there aren't clear rules about what you should do with the waste generated from the restoration process. In reality, disposing of hazardous waste in the wrong way can lead to serious health and environmental consequences.

  • Hazardous waste includes items such as chemicals, biohazards, electronics, and sharp objects.
  • It’s essential to properly label all containers used for hazardous waste and transport them safely to a designated disposal facility.
  • Consider hiring a professional cleanup company with experience in handling hazardous materials to ensure proper disposal.
  • Always follow local regulations and guidelines for disposing of hazardous waste.

Restore the Home to a Safe Environment

Once all hazardous waste has been removed and disposed of properly, the focus can shift to restoring the home to a safe environment. The process may include repairing any structural damage, removing mold and water damage, deep cleaning, and deodorizing the property. Any underlying issues that contributed to the hoarding behavior should be addressed.

What is The Outlook for Hoarding Disorder?

Hoarding Disorder requires management and treatment. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for individuals struggling with hoarding, there are many resources available to help. Treatment may include therapy, medication, and support groups. The outlook for someone struggling with hoarding is positive, as long as there is a willingness to seek help and make changes.

example of help and support

Seek Help & Support

Whether you are dealing with hoarding behavior yourself or know someone who is, it's crucial to seek help and support. Hoarding can be a challenging issue to face alone, but there are professionals, organizations, and support groups that can offer guidance and assistance. Don't hesitate to reach out for help and take the necessary steps towards recovery. Remember, you are not alone in this journey.

Bio-One of Marion County Can Help

Our team at Bio-One is trained, experienced, and equipped to handle any level of hoarding situation with compassion and discretion. Everything from following safety procedures, assessing the damage, removing and disposing of hazardous waste, and restoring the space to a livable condition, we can help.

If you are dealing with hoarding, it’s essential to take action quickly to avoid further damage and potential danger. Our technicians are also available for those who need guidance and support throughout the process!


Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. We specialize in all types of extreme cleaning, including blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, rodent droppings, sewage backups, hoarding, gross filth, virus/bacteria disinfection and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.

Hoarding Treatment Options: Recommendations from Experts - Bio-One of Marion County

Hoarding, or the excessive collection of items regardless of their value, can lead to hazardous living conditions and a decreased quality of life. Treatment may be necessary and can be challenging for both the individual with hoarding tendencies and their loved ones.

There is no universal treatment for hoarding, but there are options available for those seeking help. As a hoarding cleanup company, we work with professionals to provide help and support to individuals dealing with Hoarding Disorder. In this blog post, we’ll share some of the most effective hoarding treatment options.

Disclaimer: We do not hold professional licenses in the field of psychology. Please seek advice from a licensed professional when dealing with hoarding disorder.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a type of talk therapy that aims to help individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns. Through this method, individuals can identify and process the underlying emotions and behaviors that contribute to hoarding. CBT also helps individuals develop coping skills for managing future urges to hoard. 

Motivational Interviewing

Motivational interviewing helps individuals become more aware of the negative impact hoarding has on their lives and relationships. Experts suggest that through empathetic listening and reflection, individuals can become more motivated to make changes.

Support groups

There are a variety of support groups available for individuals dealing with hoarding disorder. Support groups can provide a sense of community, understanding, and accountability. Group members can share experiences and encourage one another to make progress toward their goals.

Find a Support Group in your area: International OCD Foundation - Hoarding Support Groups

Medication

Sometimes, specific symptoms that co-occur with hoarding are addressed using medication. These symptoms may include depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, medication alone is not recommended for Hoarding Disorder.

Understand the Reasons for Hoarding

Hoarding Disorder can affect people of all ages, races, and backgrounds. People often excessively collect and store items that are usually useless or unnecessary. Hoarding behavior can range from mild to severe and can have a significant impact on an individual's daily life. There are several reasons why someone may develop hoarding tendencies:

  • Fear of Losing Important Items: Many hoarders have a strong emotional attachment to the items they collect. They fear that if they throw anything away, they may need it in the future and regret getting rid of it.
  • Perfectionism: Some individuals with Hoarding Disorder have an unrealistic desire for perfection and feel like they must keep everything in order to achieve this. As a result, they end up amassing large amounts of clutter.
  • Traumatic Life Events: Hoarding tendencies can also be triggered by traumatic experiences such as the loss of a loved one, financial instability, or other significant life events. Collecting and hoarding items may provide a sense of comfort and security for some individuals in response to these difficult situations.
  • Difficulty Making Decisions: For some, the act of throwing away or getting rid of items can cause extreme anxiety and can be overwhelming. This difficulty in making decisions can lead to hoarding behavior as a way to avoid dealing with this stress.
  • Mental Health Conditions: Other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and OCD often associate with Hoarding Disorder. These conditions may contribute to hoarding behavior and make it challenging to break the pattern.
  • Environmental Factors: The environment in which one lives can also play a role in hoarding tendencies. Individuals who grew up in cluttered or chaotic homes may be more likely to adopt similar behaviors as adults.

Hoarding Disorder can have severe consequences, both for the individual and their loved ones. One of the most significant challenges is the potential for health and safety hazards.

Bio-One of Marion County Can Help

Recognizing and treating Hoarding Disorder can be challenging, but it is possible with the right resources and support. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, motivational interviewing, support groups, and medication are all viable hoarding treatment options. Each individual should discuss these options with a licensed professional to determine the best course of action.

Hoarding cleanup scenario - Before and after cleanup.

At Bio-One of Marion County, our team is trained to carefully, respectfully, and understandingly handle the delicate nature of hoarding cleanup. We use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to safely remove clutter and biohazards from the affected area, restoring it to a safe and habitable condition. Feel free to reach out to us for immediate assistance!


Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. We specialize in all types of extreme cleaning, including blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, rodent droppings, sewage backups, hoarding, gross filth, virus/bacteria disinfection and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve. 

How to Get Started With Restoring a Hoarded Home - Bio-One of Marion County

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.

Image by Freepik

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. 

Restoring a hoarded home with the Bio-One team!

Thanks to multiple TV shows, I think most of us are at least aware of the term "hoarding" or "hoarders." Maybe you've seen an episode of "Hoarders" where a person's home is overtaken by clutter and filth. Although it may be easy to watch someone deal with this on TV, the reality of hoarding is not dealt with in a single one-hour episode.


Hoarding
is a mental health disorder that causes those suffering to compulsively acquire and keep items that may be considered useless or unnecessary. With hoarding disorder, sometimes even just the thought of getting rid of items can cause major distress for the individual.

 

Bio-One has assisted in the hoarding cleanup process for thousands of people across the US who struggle with this illness. At Bio-One, we take mental health seriously because the impact of those struggles can affect so many people, not just those who are personally afflicted. What may seem like basic clutter could be the early signs of a deeper issue. These situations can be mentally and emotionally taxing for all involved, so it is sometimes necessary to call professionals for help.


At
Bio-One, we take pride in helping others and treating them with the utmost respect, no matter the nature of the scene. We understand how overwhelming and daunting a major cleanup or remediation can be, which is why we are here to help. If you know someone who has hoarding tendencies, there are mental health professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating hoarding disorders.

 

Resources:

International OCD Foundation

hoarding.iocdf.org


American Psychiatric Foundation

 psychiatry.org/hoarding

 

Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and surrounding areas. We specialize in blood, bodily fluid, and feces removal, rodent droppings cleaning, sewage cleanup, hoarding, and pet hoarding cleaning, gross filth cleanup, and odor removal services. Helping people who are faced with difficult situations to get their surroundings and lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year!  Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve. 

Hoarding before and after

The phenomenon of hoarding has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in Massachusetts, an estimated 5% of the population in the United States alone suffers from the disorder. Hoarding is a psychological disorder that can lead to extreme accumulation of items, often creating hazardous living conditions. This can lead to an unsafe environment for the hoarder and any visitors.

Hoarding can pose a serious safety risk. Piles of belongings can create a fire hazard, and the sheer amount of clutter can make it challenging to move around the home safely. When you enlist a hoarding cleaning service like Bio-One of Marion County, they can help restore your home's safety by removing the clutter and ensuring all pathways are clear. 

When a hoarding situation arises, it is essential to enlist the help of a professional biohazard cleaning company like Bio-One of Marion County to ensure the safety of all involved. We specialize in removing hazardous materials, such as human and medical waste, and other items that may have been exposed to various infectious diseases or viruses. Our certified technicians use specialized equipment, such as HEPA filters, to safely and effectively remove these items from home. 

Call us 24/7 at (317) 499-0614 for a free estimate, or find out more about hoarding remediation services at BioOneMarionCounty.com/hoarding-cleanup.

Learn more about the biohazard services we provide to residents in Indianapolis and surrounding areas at BioOneMarionCounty.com/services


Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up Week 4 Hoarding Trauma Scene Back the Blue

Bio-One teams across the U.S. answer calls to help their communities and remediate a variety of scenes. In our new blog series, we'd like to bring you into the Bio-One world by sharing stories of the unique and important work we do for local communities.

Here is Week 5 of our Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up. 

Chocolate Spill Makes for a Sweet Cleanup

In Scranton on March 25, Juan and Nicole Morales received a call for a "chocolate" cleanup. Assuming this was code for a sewage back-up, they rushed to scene to find a different situation entirely. Approximately 100 gallons of milk chocolate had spilled, covering asphalt outside a local business.

This is certainly the sweetest smelling job a Bio-One office has ever taken, but Nicole clarified, "That smell was nice for the first few minutes but at the end I felt sick. Good thing we had an awesome team that pushed through and got this done!" 

After scraping the chocolate with a forklift and pressure washing the area, the Bio-One team received a five-star review. Well done!  

Bio-One Milk Chocolate Spill Review
Bio-One Milk Chocolate Spill Before and After

Behind the Scenes with Citizen's Academy

Many Bio-One owners sign up for their local Citizen's Police Academy to acquaint themselves with the activities of their local police department. This week, Bio-One owner, Ginger Akemon, in Jacksonville, FL earned her Citizen's Police Academy certificate from the Clay County Sheriff's Office

"Definitely a learning process. Each County has their own, my goal is to go to each county's classes. This was 10 weeks long and over an hour drive each way, but well worth it, " said Ginger. 

Hoarding Transformation in Long Beach

In Long Beach, the Bio-One team has been working hard on several hoarding projects. These before and after pictures show the detail and expertise our teams bring to each job.