Packing for a move can feel overwhelming. And when it’s time to pack the kitchen, dread might rear its ugly head. The prospect of packing dishes, utensils, and appliances isn’t much fun. But if you make a plan, you can get your kitchen packed and ready to go within one or two days.
Here are five tips from this moving company for packing and organizing kitchen items for your next move. You’ll need boxes, bubble wrap, wrapping paper, grocery bags or tote bags, and packing tape before starting.
1. Unclutter Your Cabinets, Pantry, and Fridge
Why waste time packing things you likely don’t need? Right before a move is the perfect time to declutter your kitchen. Sort food, condiments, and seasonings and toss out anything spoiled or beyond its expiration date. Donate edible but unwanted items to a local food bank or shelter. Pack what you want to keep in tote bags or grocery bags to carry with you.
2. Plates and Glasses
Place two to three layers of bubble wrap on the bottom of a packing box. Wrap each plate in packing paper. Stack the plates one at a time inside the box. Add another layer of bubble wrap between every two or three dishes.
For coffee mugs and glasses, wrap them individually in bubble wrap and pack them in a separate box. Pad spaces with packing paper or bubble wrap to keep items from shifting. Label the box as fragile, and indicate which side is up.
3. Silverware and Cutlery
Loose cutlery and silverware can get damaged or even damage other items when packed in a shared box. To make it easy, sort silverware and cutlery by type and secure with a rubber band. Silverware and cutlery don’t need much space, so pack these items in a shoebox secured with packing tape.
4. Small Appliances
It’s best to pack small appliances in their original boxes. If that’s not possible, then medium-sized packing boxes are best. You may also clean and dry the appliances before you start packing.
Wrap fragile pieces in bubble wrap. Use bubble wrap or packing paper for plastic and metal pieces. Heavier items must go at the bottom of the box while lighter items and small items go on the top. Remember to pack instruction booklets or warranty papers with them.
5. Cookware
Choose a box in which to pack your pots, pans, and skillets. These items are generally heavy, so avoid stuffing everything into one large box. You might need several boxes to pack all of your cookware securely. Whichever size you choose, make sure you can securely tape them closed.
Stack your cookware into the box, minus any glass lids. Wrap glass lids in bubble wrap and place them on top of the heavy cookware. Mark the box as fragile and indicate which side is up.
Packing the Kitchen
The tips mentioned here will give packing and unpacking your kitchen less hassle. Following a plan saves time and your sanity.