Poorly packed clothing can cause a lot of headaches. Pants and shirts may arrive wrinkled and dirty, and possibly even damaged. Clothes that are packed in a hurry often end up messy. Instead of saving time, they actually make unpacking more difficult and time-consuming. On the other hand, knowing how to pack clothes properly saves both time and effort. They arrive at your new home clean, fresh and organized — easy to unpack and put away. Make sure your clothes are packed safely and snugly for the journey by following the tips below.

Purge Your Wardrobe

Most people have at least a few items of clothing they haven’t worn in a while: an old T-shirt, a faded pair of jeans, a jacket that no longer fits, etc. Before you begin packing, take the time to go through your clothing. Anything that’s tattered, ill-fitting or has been sitting unused 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 (hot to cold or vice versa), you may need to pare down your wardrobe even further, keeping only what’s practical to wear in your new location. Focus on the clothes you wear often or that hold sentimental value. Decluttering saves time, money and effort. The less you have to pack, the less time it will take. You’ll also spend less on shipping costs.

Sort Your Clothes

Once you know what’s coming with you, group your clothes according to season. Depending on your moving date, you may not need your summer or winter outfits for a while. Pack anything that’s out of season first and save anything you might need for last. While it may be tempting to save boxes by packing everything together, it’s better to pack everyone’s clothes in separate boxes. That way, you can assign each box to a specific room and won’t have to re-sort everyone’s clothes when you arrive at your new home.

Assemble Plenty of Boxes

Not every box is the right fit for every piece of clothing. While standard moving boxes work well for some items, others are better suited for specialized containers. Fortunately, when it comes to packing clothes, there are plenty of options, such as:

  • Wardrobe Boxes: Tall boxes with a hanging bar that allow you to transport clothes on hangers. A bit more expensive than ordinary boxes but the best way to keep clothes safe.
  • Moving Boxes: Made from double-walled, corrugated cardboard, these boxes are ideal for clothes you fold and place in your dresser. Though large boxes are available, small-to-medium boxes are easier to carry and less likely to be overloaded.
  • Suitcases: Strong, sturdy and easy to maneuver, suitcases are an excellent way to transport clothing. Pack as much as you can into them.
  • Plastic Bins: More expensive than cardboard but excellent for keeping clothes dry. Plastic bins are indispensable if you’re moving during a time of year when you might encounter rain or snow.
  • Garbage Bags: Cheap and easy to carry, garbage bags are a practical way to pack items you don’t need to worry about getting wrinkled, such as underwear and socks.
  • Vacuum Bags: In addition to waterproofing their contents, vacuum-sealed bags help save space by compressing bulky items, such as heavy jackets, sweatshirts and sweaters.

Choose a Folding Method

How you fold your clothes matters. It saves space, prevents wrinkles and reduces the risk of damage. While there isn’t one universally accepted folding method, the three most popular are:

  • Flat Fold: The most common way to fold clothes. Start by laying your shirt flat then fold both sleeves toward the middle. Finish by folding the bottom of the shirt up and smoothing out any wrinkles. For pants, lay them flat and fold one leg over the other. Then fold them in thirds, smooth them out and pack them away.
  • Military Fold: Perhaps the best way to save space. First, lay the shirt flat, flip the bottom inside out and roll it up a few inches. Then fold the sleeves toward the center and fold the shirt in thirds so each side meets in the middle. Finally, roll the shirt up as tightly as possible, straightening it as you go to prevent wrinkles. Pants are even simpler. Flip the top inside out and roll it up a few inches. Next, lay the pants flat and fold one leg over the other, then roll them up from the bottom as tightly as possible.
  • KonMari Fold: Professional organizer Marie Kondo’s favorite folding method. Fold one side toward the center, making sure it is 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 in thirds and pack it on its side to save as much space as possible.

Launder Your Clothes

Stains and odors set in over time. Since your clothes are going to be packed tightly together for the entire trip, washing them helps ensure they remain fresh. It also eliminates sweat and bug residue. While you can’t see them, clothing tends to accumulate both over time and they can cause significant discoloration. Running your clothes through the washing machine or sending them out for dry cleaning before you move not only keeps them looking great, it also extends their lifespan.

Protect Your Shoes

Shoes are made to be durable but that doesn’t mean they’re indestructible. While their soles can take a beating, the rest of the shoe is likely to be crushed or scuffed when tossed into a shipping container. Stuff them with packing paper to help them maintain their shape and prevent creases, then wrap them to protect against scrapes and other damage.

Pack Jewelry Separately

Jewelry is both valuable and fragile. Mixing it in with the rest of your apparel will usually leave it scratched and tangled. Packing it in separate containers and compartments is the best way to keep it safe. And because you don’t want it to be jostled around, carry it with you during your move rather than loading it onto a truck with the rest of your belongings.

Wrap Delicate Clothing in Garment Bags

Packing expensive clothes or formalwear generally requires more care than outfits you wear every day. Wardrobe boxes are the best way to transport suits, gowns and other valuable items. But before packing them, add an extra layer of protection. Garment bags keep your clothing free of dust, dirt, hair, and odor while preventing wrinkles, snags, and pulls, so your clothes arrive looking as good as new.

Label Every Box

Once a box is full, write its contents on the label, along with the room it belongs in and whose clothes are inside. That way, the movers will know exactly where to place it and your family can quickly find any item of clothing they need.

Packing with STI Moving & Storage

STI is a full-service moving company. We assist you every step of the way, from packing to transportation and setup. Our teams have a huge supply of wardrobe and moving boxes. They can even step in and help you pack. Make sure your move runs as smoothly as possible. Contact us today for a free quote.