While all 3 involve the accumulation of objects, even when the number of items seems extreme to others, there is still a distinct difference: Collecting: Loves finding treasures. Focuses attention on organizing and displaying their collections. Takes great pride in showing off their collections with others. Home resembles a large tidy display case. Cluttering: Loves finding treasures or great deals. No time to deal with incoming objects “right now”, so objects end up unorganized in the basement, attic or spare room. Might be somewhat embarrassed by messy basement, attic or spare room. Rest of home is in normal liveable condition. Hoarding: Can’t let anything go, even when no sentimental attachment. Piles of objects along with garbage eventually fill every room in home. Often isolated and struggles with depression or anxiety. Home becomes unsafe to live in because of blocked exits, unsteady towering piles of stuff, blocked access to washrooms and kitchen, bacteria, insect infestations, etc.