Write an article based on this "Get your parent's permission before you get rid of anything. Enlist other family members' help. Use a dumpster service. Tackle one room at a time. Sort items as you go. Get as much done in one session as you can."
Even meaningless items may have sentimental value to a hoarder. Respect your parent's freedom to do whatever they like with their stuff, whether or not you agree, and don't throw anything out until they give you permission. Even if you live with your parents, you should still respect their possessions. Have them sit down with you and create a list of things you can start getting rid of. Making a contract with your parent can also be helpful. For example, you may promise that they can keep 1 item out of every 10 items. This may help them to be more conscientious about the value of their belongings. Sometimes it may even be helpful for the parent to go away for a few days while the house is being cleaned. Offer to send them on a short vacation or to put them up in a hotel for a few days if you are able. Don't try to tackle a hoarder's house alone. Get other family members or friends to help you, if possible. If you live in the home, reach out to adult family members and encourage them to talk to your parents. You might say, "Aunt Pam, I'm really worried about Mom and Dad's hoarding. There's hardly any room to move around in our house. Can you talk to them and maybe help us clear out some of the clutter?" A professional cleaning service is another option, although these can be expensive. Costs will vary based on where you live, how much space you need cleaned (i.e. square footage) and the severity of the clutter. You will probably have to throw out more stuff than you expect. Arrange to have a dumpster dropped off as close to the house as possible. When your parent gives you permission to throw something out, take it to the dumpster right away so they can't change their mind. Keep in mind that electronics and hazardous materials usually can't go in dumpsters. Renting a dumpster can range from about $100 to $800, depending on how large a container you need and how long you need it. If you can't afford to hire a dumpster service, ask friends and family if they have trucks or trailers to help you haul items to a nearby dump or recycling plant. Before you start cleaning, make a plan. Work on clearing one area before you move on to another. You'll be able to see your progress more easily that way. It might be best to start in areas with the least clutter and then build up to more congested areas. Divide items into three categories things to keep, things to donate, and things to throw away. Take trash to the dumpster immediately. Have bins or bags ready for items to be donated. Don't let your parent deliberate too long over what to do with things, or they might change their mind about getting rid of them. You might give a time limit of about five minutes for them to deliberate on an item. Thinking on it too long will only allow them to come up with more reasons to keep things. Short cleaning sessions won't make much of a dent in your parent's clutter. Plan to clean all day, or at least for several hours, so you'll actually make some progress. Your parent will probably clutter their living area again when you leave, so short cleaning sessions may not do any good in the long run.