packing clothes efficiently

The Best Ways to Pack Your Clothes When You Move

Let’s face it: nobody wants to go without clean underwear for a week after moving. Unfortunately, that’s what happens to lots of people! Moving involves so many details. In the midst of it all, it’s easy to forget to focus on the simple things – like how we pack clothes.

If you’re facing a big move and you want to reduce stress, one of the best things you can do is improve your packing style, especially where your wardrobe is concerned. When you prioritize packing clothing, you can settle into your new home with ease.

How to Pack Clothes During Your Move: 3 Pro Tips

Do you have a large closet? Don’t despair. The way you pack clothes makes all the difference. And, fortunately, packing even a large closet is possible when you know what steps to take. With this in mind, follow this approach to a perfectly packed closet:

Step 1: Ditch Everything You Don’t Need

Nobody wants to draw out their move by transporting big, bulky bags of clothing they never wear. It’s probably this tendency that makes many Americans believe moving is more stressful than spending a week in jail. To avoid this, go through your closet before you start your move. Get rid of anything you haven’t worn in a year, doesn’t fit, or which needs alterations you aren’t likely to make.

If you’re at a loss as to where to start, the Marie Kondo method can be helpful.

Step 2: Prepare a Suitcase

For most people, it takes about a week to get settled into a new house after a move. To streamline your transition, pack yourself a suitcase as if you were going on a weeklong vacation.

Fill it with your favorite clothes, toiletries, medications, a few changes of shoes. This prevents you from scrounging around at the bottom of the bag for some sweatpants or wondering where the heck your sneakers went.

Step 3: Optimize Your Packing

You wouldn’t fold a suit up and stuff it at the bottom of the box, would you? When it comes to packing, there is no one-size-fits-all rule for clothing. Instead, follow these guidelines:

  • Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes. Wardrobe boxes allow you to transfer your hanging clothes right to a box – hangers and all. They’re inexpensive and straightforward to use.

  • Leave drawers full. If you’re hiring movers, leave your clothes in your drawers. Moving companies have the equipment needed to lift heavy things, and this tactic will make unpacking a breeze.

  • Wrap your hanging clothes. Take a large trash bag and drape your hanging clothing right into it. Fasten the cinches around the necks of the hanger and viola! Drape the bag over a cart or box to help the clothes maintain their shape.

  • Vacuum seal off-season clothing. You won’t need to access your off-season clothes right away. With this in mind, vacuum seal them to keep them clean and safe during your move.

An Easier Move Starts With Clothing

Knowing how to pack clothes for a move goes a long way toward decreasing the headaches associated with the process. Pack your clothing correctly, and they’ll arrive easy to unpack, undamaged, and minimally wrinkled.

Meanwhile, simple tricks like packing a suitcase and keeping much-used items at the top of your boxes will ensure you’re dressed and anxiety-free when you hit the ground at your new place.

Need professional assistance with your move? Contact Master Movers today. We’re Portland’s most trusted moving company, and we’re here to help you with your big transition!