A relative lives in a cluttered home: where to start?

Finding out that a parent or friend lives in a severely cluttered home is often a shock. The first reaction is to want to empty everything, fast. That is rarely the right move.

Talk before acting

The person often feels ashamed. A remark about the state of the home can make them shut down. It is better to talk about safety and health than about cleanliness: a fall, a fire risk, a boiler no one can reach. These are concrete arguments that do not judge.

Suggest one step at a time. Freeing up the kitchen or the bathroom is already progress.

Get support

You do not have to carry everything alone. Depending on the situation, several people can help:

• the GP, who can assess the person's health and refer them;
• the local social welfare office (CPAS/OCMW), which can offer social support;
• the health insurer, which often has a social service;
• a home help service, for follow-up after the cleaning.

Prepare the intervention

Once the person agrees, a few photos are enough to get a quote. Write down what must be kept: identity papers, bank documents, photos, objects of sentimental value. We sort according to these instructions and return what we find under seal.

If the person is present during the intervention, we explain each step. If they prefer not to be there, we agree with you on what will be kept, donated or removed.

Afterwards

A restored home is a fresh start, not an end. Regular visits from a relative or a home help make it less likely that the situation returns.