Ultimate Moving House Hacks!
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Finding Free Boxes
- Creating Handles for Boxes
- Decluttering Before Packing
- Using Vacuum Pack Bags
- Packing Clothes
- Packing Essentials for the Bathroom
- Packing Essentials for the Kitchen
- Protecting Plates and Artwork
- Labeling Boxes and Fragile Items
- Packing Tips for Tape and Scales
- Using Suitcases for Heavy Items
- Creative Packing Hacks
- Labeling and Organization Techniques
- Photographing Shelves for Reference
- Saving Screws and Hardware
- Protecting Furniture Legs
- Conclusion
18 Packing Hacks for a Smooth House Move
Moving to a new house can be overwhelming, but with the right packing hacks, You can make the process more organized and efficient. In this article, we will share 18 practical tips and tricks to help you pack your belongings effectively and ensure a smooth house move. From finding free boxes to protecting fragile items, we've got you covered. So let's dive in and discover how to make your move hassle-free!
1. Finding Free Boxes
One of the first things you'll need when moving house is boxes. Instead of purchasing them, save some money by sourcing free boxes. Many supermarkets, shops, and even friends and family are willing to give away boxes they no longer need. If you're using a removals firm, they may provide boxes, but if you're doing it yourself, take AdVantage of the free options available.
2. Creating Handles for Boxes
While free boxes are great, they often lack handles, making them difficult to carry. A simple hack to solve this problem is to use an X-ACTO knife to cut two slits in the box and Create your own handle. You can cut the slits in a triangle or rectangle Shape, whichever is more comfortable for you. This will make carrying the boxes much easier and save you from potential strain or accidents.
3. Decluttering Before Packing
Before you start packing, take the time to declutter your belongings. Over the years, we tend to accumulate things we no longer need or use. Donate or get rid of items that no longer serve a purpose in your life. Decluttering not only reduces the number of items you have to pack and move, but it also allows you to start fresh in your new home.
4. Using Vacuum Pack Bags
Maximize space and protect your clothes by using vacuum pack bags. These bags can be purchased at a low cost and are incredibly useful when it comes to packing bulky clothing items like jumpers, duvets, and blankets. Simply place the items in the bag, seal it, and use a vacuum to remove the excess air. This will significantly reduce the size of the items, making them easier to pack and transport.
5. Packing Clothes
When packing hanging clothes, consider using the bin bag hack. Place a bin bag underneath a group of hanging clothes and tie it at the top where the hangers are. This will protect your clothes from dirt and Dust during the move. You can do this in groups of around 10 items at a time to make the process more efficient.
6. Packing Essentials for the Bathroom
Ensure easy access to essential items in your new home by packing a basket or box with bathroom essentials. Include items like HAND wash, a hand towel, first aid kit, toothbrushes, and toilet Roll. This way, anyone using the restroom can find what they need immediately without having to search through unpacked boxes. Also, pack a separate suitcase with your evening essentials, such as pajamas and personal belongings, to make the first night in your new home more comfortable.
7. Packing Essentials for the Kitchen
Similarly, create an essential box for your kitchen. Pack items like a kettle, coffee, tea, mugs, bowls, plates, surface spray, cloth, tea towels, and chargers. These essentials will come in handy when you arrive at your new home and want to quickly settle in and have a hot drink or a bite to eat. Keep these boxes in your car, so you have easy access to them throughout the move.
8. Protecting Plates and Artwork
When packing plates and artwork, provide extra protection by using party plates or coffee filters as cushioning. Place the party plates or coffee filters between the plates to prevent them from rubbing against each other and potentially breaking. Additionally, pack framed artwork horizontally, rather than vertically, in boxes. Fill any gaps within the box with items like clothes or towels to ensure the frames are secure.
9. Labeling Boxes and Fragile Items
Labeling your boxes is essential to keep things organized during the move. You can either use traditional labels with descriptions of the contents or adopt a color-coding system. Assign a different color to each room, making it easier for you or your helpers to quickly identify where each box belongs. Use fragile tape to label boxes containing delicate items, ensuring they are handled with care.
10. Packing Tips for Tape and Scales
Before you start sealing your boxes with tape, fold over the end of the tape. This will save you time and make it easier to remove the tape when unpacking at your new house. It's also a great way to preserve your manicure during the packing process. Additionally, consider using a Scale to weigh your boxes and ensure they don't exceed a certain weight limit. This will make it safer and more manageable for you and anyone helping with the move.
11. Using Suitcases for Heavy Items
For HEAVIER items like books, consider utilizing your suitcases. Suitcases are designed to be wheeled and can provide better protection for heavy items compared to regular boxes. Use them to transport your books, saving space and making it easier to move.
12. Creative Packing Hacks
When it comes to packing, get creative and use whatever items you have on hand. For sharp knives or scissors, pack them inside an oven mitt to protect both the items and the people handling them. Use cozy socks to provide padding for fragile glassware like wine glasses or champagne flutes. Consider using handbags, plastic bags, or baskets to pack miscellaneous items. The goal is to make the most efficient use of available resources.
13. Labeling and Organization Techniques
In addition to labeling boxes, take quick photos of your shelves or other areas you've curated in your home. This way, you can reference the photos when setting up your new home and recreate the same arrangement. Another helpful tip is to save screws and hardware from any disassembled furniture or fixtures. Place them in a Ziploc bag and attach them to the corresponding item for easy reassembly.
14. Photographing Shelves for Reference
If you've spent time arranging and decorating shelves in your Current home, document the setup before packing. Take a few photographs of the shelves from different angles. This will serve as a reference and guide when setting up your shelves in your new home, saving you time and effort in recreating the same look.
15. Saving Screws and Hardware
When dismantling furniture or removing fixtures, make sure to save the screws and any other hardware. Place them in a small baggie, label them, and tape them to the corresponding item. This way, you won't lose any vital pieces during the move, and you'll have everything you need for reassembly.
16. Protecting Furniture Legs
To prevent scratching your new floors or damaging your furniture legs, place newspaper or padding on the bottom of the legs before taping them. This simple hack will make it easier to slide furniture across the floor without leaving any marks or causing damage.
17. Conclusion
Moving house can be stressful, but with these 18 packing hacks, you can streamline the process and ensure a smooth transition. From finding free boxes to using creative packing materials, these tips will save you time, effort, and potentially even some money. Follow these hacks, stay organized, and enjoy the excitement of settling into your new home.