Understanding TACT48: Clean vs. Deep Clean in Hoarding Homes

Clean vs. Deep Clean in a Hoarding Home — What Families Should Know

When a hoarding situation is finally addressed, families often expect the home to look and feel “brand new” once the clutter is removed. In reality, there is an important difference between cleaning after remediation and a full deep cleaning service. Understanding that difference helps set realistic expectations and ensures the right services are scheduled at the right time.

At T.A.C.T. 48, our primary role in a hoarding environment is remediation — safely removing excessive contents, debris, and potential biohazards so the home can return to a livable and functional condition.

What “Cleaning” Means After Hoarding Remediation

Per our standard contract, once a room has been remediated, T.A.C.T. 48 performs post-remediation surface cleaning designed to return the space to a safe and stable condition. This includes:

• Removing dirt, dust, and debris from remaining hard surfaces
• Using proprietary cleaning chemicals on counters, cabinets, and tables
• Vacuuming and/or mopping floors as appropriate

In addition, kitchens and bathrooms receive enhanced attention, as these areas often present the greatest health risks in hoarding environments. Our cleaning frequently includes:

• Detailed cleaning of countertops, cabinets, sinks, toilets, tubs, and fixtures
• Interior and exterior cleaning of refrigerators and major appliances
• Removal of spoiled food, residue, and biological contamination

If an appliance or fixture is broken, heavily contaminated, or beyond a safe remediation level, we work directly with the client to explain the condition and recommend repair or removal when necessary. Safety and transparency are always our priority.

When odors remain after removal and surface cleaning, we may also offer chlorine dioxide (CLO₂) treatments for airborne odor neutralization. These treatments help address persistent organic odors and improve overall air quality. For safety reasons, no people or animals may be on the premises during treatment, and arrangements must be made for the property to remain vacant for typically six hours.

This level of cleaning focuses on making the home safe, sanitary, and ready for the next phase — whether that is deep cleaning, repairs, or re-occupancy.

What a “Deep Clean” Includes — And Why It’s Different

A true deep clean goes far beyond surface cleaning and requires specialized equipment and extended labor. Deep cleaning services typically include:

• Carpet extraction and floor scrubbing machines
• Steam cleaning of upholstery and mattresses
• Washing or steaming curtains and fabric window treatments
• Detailed cleaning inside HVAC components

At T.A.C.T. 48, we do not perform full deep cleaning as part of hoarding remediation. We do not bring in carpet scrubbers, steam upholstery, or clean fabric surfaces. These services are best handled by professional residential deep-cleaning or restoration companies once remediation is complete.

Why Remediation Comes First

In hoarding homes, deep cleaning before remediation is often ineffective and wasteful. Hidden debris, dust, pests, and biohazards must be removed first before any meaningful deep cleaning can take place.

Our process ensures:

• Unsafe and contaminated materials are properly removed
• Hard surfaces are stabilized and cleaned
• Kitchens and bathrooms are returned to safe conditions
• Odors are addressed when appropriate
• The home is ready for deep cleaning, repairs, or sale

Setting Realistic Expectations for Families

For families navigating a hoarding situation, it’s important to know:

• Remediation focuses on safety and recovery, not cosmetic perfection
• Surface cleaning and kitchen/bath sanitation are included
• Deep cleaning is a separate service
• Odor treatments are optional and performed safely

This staged approach protects your investment and prevents paying twice for cleaning that would be undone during removal.

How T.A.C.T. 48 Helps

At T.A.C.T. 48, we specialize in hoarding remediation, biohazard cleanup, and extreme cleanouts. We work with families to clearly explain what is included, what is not, and how to plan the next phase — whether that means deep cleaning, odor treatment, repairs, or preparing a home for sale.

Most importantly, hoarding remediation is never a one-size-fits-all process. Every home, every family, and every situation is different. Our team tailors each project to the customer’s specific needs, health concerns, budget, and long-term goals to ensure the best possible outcome.

If you or a loved one is facing a hoarding situation, our team is available 24/7 to provide compassionate guidance and professional remediation.

T.A.C.T. 48 is ready to assist in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Flagstaff, Prescott, Kingman, Sedona and throughout all of Arizona

Have another question you want answered?

Email us at info@tact48.com