8 Apps And Tech To Help Hoarders

Every now and then, we may be guilty of holding onto an item because it could be sentimental. Even if its usually shoved to the back of our cupboards, we seek comfort in knowing that it’s still there.

This isn’t hoarding, which is more than just keeping a few extra things around. Hoarding is a complex issue that can affect your mental and emotional well-being, as well as your physical space.

 

What Is Considered Hoarding?

 

Hoarders struggle to let go of some objects, even if they no longer serve an actual purpose. The reason for this is usually because hoarders have an emotional attachment to the item or feel that the item gives them a sense of security.

According to Hoarding Disorders UK, between 2.5% and 6% of the UK population are affected by a hoarding disorder. The issue with these disorders is that over time, it can result in an overwhelming amount of clutter that can interfere with your daily activities and cause stress.

 

8 Apps And Tech To Help With Hoarding

 

It may seem like an impossible task, but breaking free from hoarding can be made easier with a little help. We’ve rounded up the top 8 apps that you can use if you, or somebody that you know, struggles with hoarding.

 

1. Tody

 

 

The Tody app was designed to help you regain control over your cleaning habits, in a fun and interactive way. With this app, you will receive an automated to-do list to prioritise the tasks that will give you the cleanest home with the least amount of effort.

To keep yourself on track, you can use Tody’s built-in focus timer where you can select specific time frames for cleaning sessions. Additionally, you can participate in a monthly challenge where you compete against ‘Dusty’ in cleaning challenges for a little extra motivation, which we all need from time-to-time.

 

 

2. Clutterfree

 

 

With the Clutterfree app, decluttering experts will provide you with a personalised step-by-step guideline on how to clear out your home. You can track your progress and attempt daily challenges to help you complete the to-do list to tackle each room in your house.

The brains behind the app is Joshua Becker, who has spent the last decade teaching individuals how to reduce their possessions to maintain a minimalistic lifestyle.

 

3. Home Routines

 

 

The ultimate to-do list guide, Home Routines allows you to create a list of tasks that need to be completed within the same time frame, or on the same day. These routine lists will automatically appear when you need to complete them, and as you mark off each one, you get a gold star to recognise your achievement.

The app also has an accomplishments list, where you can see what you achieved on a particular day. This can help hoarders significantly by letting them see their progress visually, and be motivated to continue.

 

4. Spotless

 

 

Spotless is a household task manager app that you can use with members who you live with. You can set up each room in your home, and create separate task lists for each one. You will see an overview of what needs to be done, and receive reminders to stay on track.

The app will also tell you which task requires the most attention so that you can manage your time accordingly.

 

 

 

5. Let Go

 

 

Let Go is a free app where you can sell items that you no longer need. Once you have set up your profile, you can upload images of items with descriptions and pricing, available for purchase by people in your area.

There are different categories that you can choose from, including furniture, home goods, sports equipments and books to name a few.

 

6. Centriq

 

 

We all know the feeling of purchasing a new home item whether it be washing machine, microwave or kettle and wanting to keep the manuals in case something goes wrong. With Centriq, you can scan the product model and upload it to the app, where it will show you the specific user manual for that model.

Additionally, you can keep track of your warranties and manufacturer contact information along with guides on parts and accessories if you need to replace or repair the item.

 

7. Decluttr

 

Decluttr is an app that allows you to sell any tech-related items from games and consoles to outdated CDs or DVDs. Once you have downloaded the app, you can scan the barcode of the item that you want to sell and select the model based on the options that will be provided.

 

8. Sweepy

 

 

Sweepy is an app that all family members can participate in. You can create a list of all cleaning tasks that need to be done, and assign them to members of your household. It also offers a Smart Schedule which can automatically generate cleaning lists depending on your availability for the given day.

To add an element of fun, family members can compete for the top spot on the family leaderboard.