How to Handle Estate Clean-outs: A Sensitive Guide for Grieving Families

By Arie Kopman - Probate Property Advocate

There's nothing that quite prepares you for the task of sorting through a loved one's belongings after they've passed. Every drawer opened, every closet explored, every box discovered brings a mixture of memories, emotions, and decisions that can feel overwhelming—especially when you're still grieving.

An estate cleanout is both a practical necessity and an emotional journey. You're not just clearing a house; you're saying goodbye to a lifetime of collected memories, honoring the person who lived there, and making countless decisions about what stays and what goes.

This guide is here to help you navigate this difficult process with compassion, practical advice, and reassurance that what you're feeling is normal. Whether you're handling this yourself or considering professional help, you'll find guidance for moving through this chapter with care and intention.