When it comes to moving, transporting clothes is much simpler than moving other items. In this guide, we provide information about the process of moving clothing. We offer practical and real-life tips to help you pack your clothes for a move, ensuring that your favorite garments reach your new home without wrinkles and are ready to be worn. Whether you're moving locally or across the country, properly packing your clothes can save you time and effort when unpacking.
Sorting and Preparing: The First Step
Before diving into packing, take a moment to review your wardrobe. Sort your clothes into three piles: keep, donate, and discard. Wash, dry, and iron the clothes you're holding, and make any necessary repairs. It's well-known that the average person only wears about 20% of their wardrobe regularly. Imagine how much easier your move would be if you let go of the remaining 80%!
Categorize like a pro.
Now that you've trimmed your wardrobe, it's time to get organized. Group your clothes by type (pants, shirts, dresses), season (summer, winter), and frequency of use (everyday wear, special occasions). This method makes packing more efficient and simplifies unpacking in your new home.
The Art of Packing Non-Hanging Clothing
Boxes: The New Best Friend
Opt for medium and small boxes when packing clothes to prevent overpacking and back injuries. Pack heavier items like jeans and jackets at the bottom and lighter items like t-shirts on top.
To Fold or To Roll? That is the question.
The three primary techniques for packing clothes are flat fold, rolling, and military roll. The flat fold is perfect for bulky items like sweaters and jeans, rolling is ideal for maximizing space and minimizing wrinkles in t-shirts and light fabrics, and the army roll is space-efficient and keeps clothes wrinkle-free.
Vacuum Sealing:
Vacuum-sealed bags are essential for bulky items or out-of-season clothes. They can reduce the volume of clothing by up to 75%. However, avoid vacuum sealing the entire wardrobe unless you want to look like you're wearing a deflated balloon when you arrive at your new place.
Hanging Clothes: The VIP Treatment
Wardrobe Boxes: The Rolls-Royce of Moving Clothes
Wardrobe boxes are the way to go if you want to treat your clothes right. They keep the clothes hanging, protected, and wrinkle-free, making unpacking a breeze.
DIY Alternatives: For the Budget-Conscious Mover
Here are some wallet-friendly alternatives if you can't invest in wardrobe boxes. You can use the trash bag method or create a makeshift garment bag with a large garbage bag.
Additional Tips and Tricks
The Essential Box: The First Night Lifesaver
Pack a separate box or suitcase with essentials like pajamas, a change of clothes, and any items you'll need immediately.
Suitcases and duffel bags: The Unsung Heroes
Use your existing luggage to pack clothes you'll need soon after the move. They are simple to transport and identify among a sea of cardboard boxes.
Should I empty the dresser drawers?
If the dresser is sturdy enough, consider leaving clothes in the drawers. Just be sure to secure them with plastic wrap to prevent embarrassing underwear avalanches during the move.
Final Touch: Labeling and Organization
An innovative labeling system is the key to maintaining sanity during and after the move. Label each box with its contents and the room in which it belongs. For extra organization, create a master inventory list.
