When it comes to packing, some rooms are a bigger challenge than others. The bedroom, for instance, tends to be quite easy since clothing isn’t fragile and linens are easy to fit in a box. The kitchen, on the other hand, can be one of the toughest rooms to pack up before a move. Between fragile wine glasses and cumbersome appliances, how do you get it all done? These seven packing tips for the kitchen will help you do this tedious task like a pro!
1. Keep a donation box handy
Packing is a good time to get rid of extra or duplicate items so you don’t have to haul them across the state. Reducing the quantity of your belongings will make the moving cheaper. It’s something any of the movers Virginia, or some other state offers will tell you. Keep a donation box handy in the center of the room as you pack, and toss in anything you don’t need or want. A few good places to donate kitchen items include:
- Thrift stores, which accept everything from appliances to dinnerware.
- Libraries, which are the perfect place to donate cookbooks.
- Food banks, which accept unopened canned goods you don’t want to move.
While you may be able to sell larger items like an extra toaster or microwave, consider whether doing so is worth your time. If the item will only sell for a few dollars, then donating it is a lot easier.
2. Wrap two glasses at once
All of your glasses need to be carefully wrapped so they don’t break during the moving process. Wrapping each glass individually can take hours. However, you can save time and paper by wrapping two at once.
Namely, you should place one glass in the corner of a large sheet of tissue paper. Roll the glass inward, stuffing the ends of the paper into the glass as you roll. Have a friend sit across from you and roll the second glass from the opposite corner. Your glasses will meet in the middle — and both will be fully wrapped.
3. Clean small appliances
Make sure all of your appliances, are completely clean before you pack them. This way, you won’t get crumbs or grease all over your other items as you pack, and you won’t have to clean as you unpack either.
4. Pack appliances in their original boxes
Small appliances like toasters, mixers, and blenders are oddly shaped and tough to pack. If you still have the original boxes, then pack the appliances into them. This not only ensures they fit perfectly but also provides the best protection during the move. Also, make sure you keep the owners’ manuals in the individual boxes as well so you don’t struggle to find them later. If these helpful devices that you own are more particularly expensive, you should seriously consider enlisting the local movers Northern VA has. They will know exactly how to handle them and the chance of something ending up broken will be minimal. Additionally, use bubble packs or packing peanuts to fill any empty spaces in the boxes to prevent the appliances from moving around. Finally, don’t forget to label each box clearly with its contents and handling instructions to aid the movers.
5. Pack plates in buckets – one of the cool packing tips for the kitchen
Packing plates in square boxes can be challenging because the plates tend to slide around. A safer way to pack your plates is to stack them inside an old paint bucket. If you don’t have any paint buckets, you can buy them for a few dollars at a home improvement store. Also, place Styrofoam plates between each ceramic plate for protection. This method is especially useful if you’re working with long distance moving companies Northern VA is famous for as it ensures your plates are secure during a longer journey.
For additional safety, wrap each plate in a bubble pack before stacking them. Don’t forget to tape the bucket lid securely and mark the bucket as fragile to alert the movers. Moreover, you might want to also consider padding the bottom of the bucket with towels or soft cloth for extra cushioning.
6. Secure cords with zip ties
One of the packing tips for the kitchen is to think about the cords as well. Namely, to keep them from getting tangled and damaged during shipment, wrap each cord up into a bundle and secure it with a zip tie. If you do not have zip ties, then a piece of black electrical tape will do. This simple yet effective method helps in organizing your electronics and prevents damage to the cords. Additionally, for cords that are particularly long or bulky, consider using Velcro straps which can be adjusted and reused. In the end, label each bundle with the name of the device it belongs to for easy setup at your new location. It’s also a good idea to take a photo of how your electronics are connected before disconnecting them. This can be a handy reference when setting them up again.
7. Wrap sharp knives carefully
The last thing you need, when unpacking, is to cut yourself with a sharp knife. Prevent such accidents by taking the time to carefully wrap each of your kitchen knives. Here’s the most efficient way to do it:
- Lay down a stack of three sheets of packing paper.
- Place the knives across the sheet, leaving about an inch between the knives.
- Roll the paper over the first knife, and then keep rolling so that the knives end up stacked on top of one another.
- Wrap a layer of bubble wrap around the bundle of knives, and secure it with some tape.
For extra safety, consider using cardboard cut-outs to cover the sharp edges of each knife before wrapping them in paper. This additional step ensures that the sharp edges don’t pierce through the wrapping material. If you’re uncomfortable handling sharp knives, or if you have a large number of them, seeking a professional packing service Northern Virginia companies offer can be a wise choice, as they are experienced in safely handling such items.
Efficient kitchen packing – the key to a smooth and stress-free move
Packing a kitchen correctly is an invaluable step in the moving process, offering significant time-saving benefits both during packing and unpacking. By organizing items properly, using the right materials, and clearly labeling boxes, you not only streamline the packing process but also make unpacking in your new home much more efficient. Proper packing reduces the risk of damage to delicate items like dishes and glassware, ensuring that your belongings arrive safely. Additionally, by following these packing tips for the kitchen, you minimize the stress often associated with moving, allowing for a smoother transition to your new environment.
