I think I'm a hoarder. Any advice on cleaning a two rooms in the condition they're in?

Good on you for seeking help!

Just letting the realization that there is a problem dawn on you is truly half the battle.

I think it is important to not let this task overwhelm you by looking at it as an all or nothing project. This is a lot of work for one person, and it won't be done overnight. The good thing is, any progress is better than no progress.

My advice would be to tackle it in sections. First, focus on the bed. It's the most important part of the room. Get a bucket for the liquids, throw out the garbage, if there is any laundry on the bed, clean that. Wash your sheets and put them back on. It should only take a little more than 2 hours, even with the laundry cycles included, and it will give you some visible progress. Plus, sleep will be much better once this is done. And you can call that a full day of progress. Once the bed is done, relax. Congratulate yourself for taking the next big step by beginning to clean. Take some time to feel good about it.

The next day, clear off the top of your dresser. Again, get rid of the liquids by dumping them in a bucket and then in the toilet. Get a garbage bag for whatever wrappers and other trash are on the surface of it. Don't over do it or you'll lose that steady momentum. Once the dresser is done, take a break. Now try to keep the dresser and bed clear, and on the third day tackle your desk.

Eventually when all the surfaces are clean, you can divide the floor by types of stuff. Like almost making a game out of it. Say one day you just get a garbage bag and go through the rooms looking for all the paper that needs to be thrown out. The next day get a new bag and throw out all the food wrappers. Eventually only laundry will be left, and you can begin to tackle that.

I understand what you're saying about logistics, and the fact is, this isn't going to go off without a hitch. Some of the process isn't going to be ideal, and some of it will feel like two steps forward and one step back. Unfortunately you just have to let that go. You may have to throw out some cans that still have liquid in them. You may have to put clean clothes in a dirty dresser. You may forget yourself and start to gather clutter on your desk again. Don't lose heart. Just remember that any progress is better than no progress. And think of how good it will feel to live in a clean space.

Basically, if you don't try to do everything at once, but keep a good pace, this situation will be cleared up before you know it. Just set small goals and achieve them one at a time. It will be well worth your while and I know you can do it!!

/r/Advice Thread