1. Wrap Dresser Drawers
Dressers are heavy and taking out the drawers is a must. This necessity means that you now have extra space being taken up by empty drawers. Putting your drawers to work is one of the first steps in reducing packing time. Instead of transferring items from your dresser into a box take the drawer out and wrap it in plastic wrap. Remove the knobs and store them somewhere safe to prevent any damage. Although normal plastic wrap will do, the Press ‘n’ Seal brand will keep things from slipping through the cracks. Wrap lengthwise followed by widthwise this will keep your clothing secure and provide for double protection. Now your drawers can be packed just like boxes!
2. Plastic Bags and Hangers
Taking clothes off of hangers, folding them, putting them in a box, and then rehanging them at your new residence creates too much unnecessary work. Instead cover as many pieces of clothing as you can with a single trash bag. Separate a handful of clothing from the rest of your closet but leave it on the bar. Place the bottom of the clothing into the trash bag and continue up. At the hook of the hanger tie the trash bag and don’t forget to double knot. If your move is long and has many parts to it wrap the sections hooks together with masking tape to add extra security.
3. Utilize Suitcases
Suitcases are not just for traveling but moving as well. Rather than just packing them empty with the rest of your belongings, use them as packing containers. The rolling feature makes them ideal for carrying heavy items as well as the perfect material to protect your clothing. Fill the bottom of the suitcase with books or heavier items and place clothes on top to protect and utilize space. Jeans and pants work the best as they can be heavy when put all together.
4. Separate Clothes and Shoes
Packing shoes and clothes together while moving is definitely a bad idea. Shoes can be dirty or smelly and rub off on the clothing making extra work to wash all your items. If you have managed to keep your shoe boxes then simply place each pair back where they belong and pack them all in a giant box. If you, like many people, have thrown out your shoe boxes then placing your shoes in a box all to themselves is a good plan. Wrap pairs of shoes with special materials, decorations, or dirt in plastic grocery bags to keep them from sustaining damage or messing up others.
5. Use Storage Bags
Lastly, don’t forget about storage bags. As cheesy as they seem packing clothing in a plastic bag and sucking the air out can actually be very useful for moving. These bags are waterproof and will keep your clothing dry and secure. If you have lots of accessories storage bags work great as well. Scarves, gloves, and hats can all be shrunk down to fit where you need them to go. When moving it’s important to remind yourself that sometimes it’s not about the journey but the destination. By planning ahead and finding the best tips for your move you’re bound to have a smooth and easy transition. Don’t forget to plan for downtime to recuperate and remember that it’s always better to start earlier rather than later. Featured photo credit: Steve Adcock via pixabay.com
