When planning a residential move, it’s easy to leave specific tasks until the end. After all, you’ve got a lot on your to-do list, from disassembling furniture to carefully wrapping breakable items to keep them safe.
It’s all too easy to leave the contents of your dresser and closet until the end. Unfortunately, that means your clothes are thrown haphazardly in boxes — then come out at the other end of the move wrinkled and musty.
Fortunately, some methods can help keep your garments fresh and damage-free. Read on for clothes-packing tips to ease your next move.
Curate Your Collection
A move is a perfect time to go through your closet and get rid of any clothes you no longer need. Sort your clothing and identify items you won’t wear anymore, such as
- Damaged or stained pieces
- Items that haven’t fit or you haven’t worn for a year
- Clothing that’s outdated or no longer fits your style
- Garments that feel uncomfortable
Donate clothing that’s still wearable. If an item is damaged, don’t throw it away. Most textiles are recyclable, so keep them out of landfills.
Bag and Hanger Method
Now that you’ve pared down your wardrobe, how do you decide the best way to pack it all up? The bag and hanger method is one of the easiest ways to pack a closet.
Leaving your garments on their hangers, slide several pieces close together. Next, open a drawstring garbage bag. Slip the opening over the bottom of the hanging clothing.
Bring the bag up to the top and tie the drawstring securely around the necks of the hangers. Leave the hooks out. The bagged clothing can be left on the hanger until you’re ready to load the moving truck. Transfer the hanging clothes bags to moving cartons to make them easier to transport.
Pro tip: If your hanging clothing is delicate, use a garment bag instead of a garbage bag. Secure the hanger hooks with a twist tie or rubber band.
Wardrobe Box Method
When hanging garments need more protection, use a wardrobe box. These large, sturdy boxes have a hanger bar built right in.
Leave your delicate clothing on their hangers, and transfer them directly into the wardrobe box. Place pillows or light comforters below the clothes if you need extra packing space for these items. Make sure you don’t put heavy items in the box since it is already large and loading it with heavy things will make it challenging to carry.
Suitcase Method
Suitcases and duffel bags are designed to transport clothing. So, why not use them when you’re moving, too?
Start by neatly folding bulky clothing, such as jeans, sweaters, and sweatshirts. Then stack the folded items into piles and layer them in the suitcase. If you have vacuum-sealing bags, this is the perfect time to use them.
Smaller, light items, such as t-shirts, can be rolled. The so-called “ranger roll” method saves space and helps prevent wrinkles.
Dresser Drawer Method
If your clothes are already neatly folded and stacked (or rolled) in your dresser, you can leave them where they are. Then on moving day, remove each drawer and wrap it with plastic wrap to keep clothing in place.
When you arrive in your new home, simply remove the wrap. Then the drawers can go right back into your dresser, clothes intact!
Moving Tips
These tips can help you move your clothing without fear of damage. Contact us for a quote. We can help make your entire move a success.