The Best Way to Pack Clothes
When you move, your different items needs to be packed differently, especially when you are packing clothing. Here are some tips on how to pack clothing and the different items in your wardrobe for moving. best way to pack clothes
Clothes on Hangers
1.) Purchase Several Wardrobe Boxes For High-End Hanging Clothes
When you are packing nice clothes, start with wardrobe boxes. These are cardboard boxes that are essentially portable small closets designed specifically for transporting hanging clothes. Most wardrobe boxes are two feet wide and about three feet long, but sizes can vary. They come with a metal bar built in similar to that of the one in your closet. Also, the corrugated box keeps hanging clothes protected and wrinkle free through the move. These boxes are a little on the spendy side, but many people who buy them say they are well worth the investment.
2.) Large Trash Bags Can Be Used For Other Hanging Clothes
Since wardrobe boxes are a bit expensive, you may want to opt for a cheaper option for your less fancy clothes. Garbage bags are the perfect option. We recommend using drawstring bags that hold anywhere between 30 to 50 gallons. To pack your clothes into the bag; bundle your hangers and clothes together, slip the hanging clothes inside the garbage bag while holding the hangers, tighten the drawstrings around the hanger hooks, tie and secure with the hooks outside the bag.
3.) Use Garment Bag As Protection For Hanging Clothes
Add an extra layer of protection to your hanging clothes by using garment bags. They can be used by themselves or in addition to wardrobe boxes and trash bags. Similar to suitcases, garment bags are meant for transporting clothing and make for a great way to move hanging clothes. The covers typically cost anywhere from $10 to $40, depending on the type and quality of garment bag purchased. But, you can also go to your local dry cleaner and ask for a few of their plastic ones for free. Garment bags provide minimal protection, but they do make it easy to keep hanging clothes together when packed inside of wardrobe boxes.
Clothes in a Box
1.) Clean Your Clothes
Before packing your folded clothes, we suggest washing or dry cleaning them first. Packing dirty clothes in the same box with clean clothes is never a good idea. Not only could dirty and/or damp clothes stink up your wardrobe, but they could also create mildew problems in the future. To protect your clothes, make sure that all items have been thoroughly cleaned and dried prior to packing.
2.) Line Boxes With a Protective Layer
To properly protect folded clothes when packing, we suggest lining boxes with packing paper or plastic wrap. This will protect your clothes from water as well as the general wear-and-tear that comes with moving. If you wish to waterproof your boxes as much as possible, you can also line the box with a raincoat or poncho before placing clothing on top.
3.) Fold Clothes and Place Them Inside the Box
Properly folding your clothes will a) prevent wrinkles and b) maximize the space inside the box. Whatever you do, don’t overstuff your box with clothing. This will only make moving more difficult and will make it hard to find your items after the move. Be sure to label these boxes by item (for example: “sweaters,” “shirts” and “pants.”), so that it’s easier to organize your closet once you move in.
Shoes
1.) Pack Shoes Inside Shoe Bags or Boxes
Kept your original shoe boxes? We recommend re-using these when packing up your high heels, sandals, sneakers, boots, slippers, loafers and other shoes. If you can’t find boxes, try purchasing inexpensive shoe bags. These drawstring storage bags provide a waterproof covering to protect shoes from damage while in transit. Another option is to purchase transparent, plastic shoe boxes from the Container Store. While more expensive than shoe bags, these boxes provide excellent protection and make it easy to find items after the move.
2.) Wrap Shoes in Packing Paper
Before placing your shoes inside boxes or bags, we highly recommend wrapping the outside of the shoes with packing paper. We also suggest stuffing the inside of the shoe with packing paper to help maintain its shape while moving. Secure the packing paper with tape and carefully place shoes inside the box or bag.
3.) Fill Shoe Boxes and Bags With Extra Packing Materials
To prevent shoes from shifting in transit, we recommend filling in the empty space of the boxes and bags with packing paper or peanuts. Looking for an easy, cheap option? Try stuffing boxes and bags with newspapers, washcloths or clean dish rags.
That’s about it! See more tips and tricks for packing to move here.
