If clothes are not packed properly, they can create a lot of problems during a move. Shirts and pants might arrive wrinkled, dirty or even damaged. When clothes are packed in a rush, they usually end up messy. Instead of saving time, this often makes unpacking harder and takes more effort.
When you know how to pack clothes the right way, you save both time and energy. Your clothes reach your new home clean, fresh and well organized, making them easier to unpack and put away. Follow the tips below to pack your clothes safely and keep them secure during the move.
Purge Your Wardrobe
Most people have a few clothing items they haven’t worn in a long time — an old T-shirt, a faded pair of jeans or a jacket that no longer fits. Before you start packing, take some time to go through your clothes. Items that are worn out, don’t fit well, or have been sitting in your closet or drawer for more than a year should be sold, donated, or thrown away.
If you’re moving to a different climate — for example from hot to cold or the other way around — you may also want to reduce your wardrobe and keep only the clothes that make sense for your new location. Focus on the clothes you wear regularly or the ones that have sentimental value. Decluttering will save you time, money and effort. The fewer clothes you pack, the faster the packing process will be and you may also reduce your shipping costs.
Sort Your Clothes
Once you decide which clothes you’re taking with you, start organizing them by season. Depending on when you’re moving, you may not need your summer or winter clothes right away. Pack the clothes that are out of season first and leave the ones you may still need for last.
Even though it may seem easier to save boxes by packing everything together, it’s better to keep each person’s clothes in separate boxes. This makes it easier to place the boxes in the correct room at your new home and prevents you from having to sort through everyone’s clothes again after the move.
Assemble Plenty of Boxes
Not every box works well for every type of clothing. Some clothes can be packed easily in regular moving boxes, while others are better packed in special containers designed for certain items. The good thing is that there are many options available when it comes to packing clothes, such as:
- Wardrobe Boxes: These are tall boxes that come with a hanging bar, allowing you to move clothes while they are still on hangers. They cost a bit more than regular boxes but they are one of the best ways to keep clothes safe and wrinkle-free during the move.
- Moving Boxes: These boxes are made from strong, double-walled corrugated cardboard and work well for clothes that are folded and packed inside. While large boxes are available, small or medium boxes are usually easier to carry and help prevent overpacking.
- Suitcases: Suitcases are strong, durable and easy to move around, which makes them a great option for transporting clothes. Try to pack as many clothes in them as you can.
- Plastic Bins: These cost more than cardboard boxes but they are great for keeping clothes dry. Plastic bins are especially useful if you’re moving during a season when rain or snow is possible.
- Garbage Bags: Inexpensive and easy to carry, garbage bags are a simple way to pack clothes that don’t wrinkle easily, such as underwear and socks.
- Vacuum Bags: These bags help protect clothes from moisture and also save space by compressing bulky items like heavy jackets, sweatshirts and sweaters.
Choose a Folding Method
The way you fold your clothes can make a big difference. Proper folding helps save space, keeps clothes from getting too wrinkled and lowers the chance of damage during the move. There isn’t just one correct way to fold clothes but the three most common methods are:
- Flat Fold: This is the most common way to fold clothes. Start by laying your shirt flat, then fold both sleeves toward the center. Next, fold the bottom of the shirt upward and smooth out any wrinkles. For pants, lay them flat and place one leg over the other. Then fold them into thirds, smooth them out and pack them away.
- Military Fold: This method is one of the best ways to save space. Start by laying the shirt flat. Turn the bottom edge inside out and roll it up a few inches. Then fold the sleeves toward the center and fold the shirt in thirds so both sides meet in the middle. Finally, roll the shirt up as tightly as you can, smoothing it as you go to help prevent wrinkles. Pants are even easier. Turn the waistband inside out and roll it up a few inches. Then lay the pants flat, place one leg over the other and roll them tightly from the bottom.
- KonMari Fold: This folding method was popularized by professional organizer Marie Kondo. Start by folding one side of the shirt toward the center, making sure it stays flat and smooth. Then fold the other side the same way. Next, fold the shirt in half lengthwise, leaving a small gap at the top. Finally, fold the shirt into thirds and place it on its side when packing to save as much space as possible.
Launder Your Clothes
Stains and odors can settle into clothes over time. Since your clothes will be packed closely together during the move, washing them beforehand helps keep them fresh. It also removes sweat and small residues that may build up over time. Even if you can’t see them, these can lead to discoloration if left untreated. Washing your clothes or sending them for dry cleaning before the move not only keeps them looking good but can also help them last longer.
Protect Your Shoes
Shoes are built to be strong but they are not completely damage-proof. While the soles can handle rough surfaces, the rest of the shoe can easily get crushed or scuffed if they are thrown into a moving container. To protect them, fill the inside with packing paper so they keep their shape and avoid creases. Then wrap them properly to guard against scratches and other damage during the move.
Pack Jewelry Separately
Jewelry is both valuable and delicate. If you pack it together with the rest of your clothes, it can easily get scratched or tangled. The best way to keep it safe is to place it in separate containers or small compartments. Since jewelry is fragile, it’s also a good idea to keep it with you during the move instead of loading it onto the moving truck with the rest of your belongings.
Wrap Delicate Clothing in Garment Bags
Packing expensive clothes or formal outfits usually requires more care than everyday clothing. Wardrobe boxes are one of the best ways to move suits, gowns and other valuable garments. Before placing them inside, add an extra layer of protection by using garment bags. These bags help keep clothes safe from dust, dirt, hair and odors while also preventing wrinkles, snags, and pulls, so your clothing arrives in great condition.
Label Every Box
After filling a box, write what’s inside on the label, along with the room it should go to and whose clothes are packed in it. This helps the movers know exactly where to place the box and makes it easier for your family to quickly find any clothing item they may need.
Packing with STI Moving & Storage
STI is a full-service moving company in Phoenix that supports you through every step of the moving process, from packing to transportation and setup. Our team has a large supply of wardrobe boxes and standard moving boxes to help pack your clothes safely. If you need extra help, our movers can also assist with the packing. Let us help make your move as smooth as possible. Contact us today for a free quote.
