How to Pack Clothes Safely Before the Moving Trucks Arrive
If you are planning to move in the coming months, ask yourself this question. Are you comfortable throwing delicate and expensive wardrobe items in bags and boxes? The time and energy you put into selecting clothes that reflect your style and personality have intrinsic value. They’re also costly to replace if you can find new ones.
Lack of planning for transporting clothes often results in rushed packing that leaves prized party dresses, three-piece suits, and evening attire wrinkled and sometimes damaged. Rather than feel remorse after garments are ruined, there are professional-level steps you can take. The following packing tips can ensure your favorite outfit survives the move.
Take a Moment to Get Clothes Organized
Consider moving to another neighborhood or community as an opportunity to leave underused clothes behind. Those 11 socks that no longer have a match, the slighted stained sweatshirt you forget to toss, and the slacks and shirts that no longer fit comfortably have no business making the trip.
Start by taking items out of drawers and spreading them on a bed or table. Create a pile for things that no longer serve a purpose. As this process unfolds, organize others into groups that make sense to pack together. This may include whites, silk, suits, athletic wear, dresses, and undergarments, among others. The point is to group like items that will later get properly folded and packed together. This strategy will also save time unpacking on the other end.
How to Fold Clothes When Moving
Although many people have a preferred method of folding clothes, not every garment is created equal. Most people wouldn’t fold expensive business attire the same way they handle T-shirts. Beyond your tried-and-true technique, it may be worthwhile to match the folding process with the item. Consider the following approaches to ensure your wardrobe’s safe journey.
- Flat Fold Technique: This commonly used option involves laying an item on a flat surface. Managing a blouse, for example, would require you to fold the sleeves inward and then smooth out any wrinkles. Then the bottom is folded toward the top, and the wrinkles are again removed. You can now layer flat-folded items on top of each other for efficient packaging.
- Military Roll: This technique works effectively for people with lots of T-shirts. Lay the shirt on a flat surface, fold the sleeves toward the middle, and fold the entire shirt over vertically. As the moniker suggests, grip it from the bottom and roll tightly. You can secure it in this position with an elastic band for space-efficient packing.
Another strategy that proves valuable involves “as-is” packing. Use wardrobe boxes. It’s like using portable closets with hangers and garment bags; dresses, suits, and other attire won’t go through the folding process.
Packaging That Help Keep Clothes Safe
The old garbage bag may fit plenty of items but rarely is the safest standalone way to transport clothes. But using a large plastic bag as a cardboard box liner adds a layer of protection in the event it rains on moving day or someone spills a coffee. It might be best for you to secure fragile and pricey garments in wardrobe boxes. Garment bags that allow users to vacuum out air for a tight, secure seal minimize the risk of items getting wet or soiled.
Moving Help
It’s not unusual for people to organize, fold, and pack their wardrobe before the professional movers arrive. But if you feel overwhelmed by the process, full-service moving companies can take on this and other tasks. If you prefer to relax and delegate the packing to professionals, reach out to us for a budget-friendly quote.
