Are you an avid interior design fan who has worked for years to curate your home’s aesthetic? If so, the thought of moving and potentially damaging your beloved decorations probably sends shivers down your spine. But fear not! Between disassembling your most cherished pieces and ensuring Grandma’s vintage china makes it out in one piece, there’s an art to packaging. Here’s everything you need to know about safeguarding your home treasures during a move.
Assessing Your Decor Collection for Packing
Moving is the perfect time to conduct a thorough review of your home decor pieces. Start by examining the fragility of each item, noting any existing damage, and taking measurements. Fragile items will need to be handled with extra care. Utilize measuring tapes to ensure any potential boxes or packing material will provide an adequate fit without too much extra space, which could lead to movement and breakage.
Tools and Materials
Before you begin wrapping and boxing, equip yourself with:
- High-quality packing tape
- Bubble wrap or packing paper
- Sturdy, appropriately sized moving boxes
- Packing peanuts or air-filled packing pillows
- Styrofoam or protective foam liners for high-value items
Packing Techniques for Various Decoration Types
Each type of decor requires a different approach to packing. Here’s a rundown of the best practices for safeguarding common home embellishments:
Glassware
For glassware, start by filling any empty space inside the item with packing paper or bubble wrap to minimize movement. Wrap the entire piece in several layers of bubble wrap and secure it with tape, then place it in a box that is padded with more bubble wrap at the bottom and around the sides. Ensure there is no rattling around in the box by filling the gaps with additional paper or packing peanuts.
Art Pieces
Art pieces such as framed photos or paintings should be handled delicately. Use corner protectors and a glassine sheet to safeguard against scratches on the frame and cover with bubble wrap, securing with tape. If available, use specialized artwork moving boxes that are padded and tailored to the shape of the frame.
Textiles
Fabric items, including curtains and throws, can be more challenging as they can easily catch and fray. Ensure they are thoroughly clean and dry before packing, then fold or roll them to reduce wrinkles and space. Place them in a durable plastic bag to protect them from moisture and dust before putting them into moving boxes.
Figurines
For smaller items like figurines, nestle them carefully in a layer of bubble wrap, ensuring protruding parts are adequately covered to prevent damage. Place them in a box with a tight-fitting lid and secure with tape. For any open space left in the box, fill it with crumpled paper for extra cushioning.
Organizing and Labeling
Organization is your best friend during a move. Label all sides of the box with its contents and which room they belong in at the new home. Group similar items together inside the box. This will make unpacking and setting up your new home a much smoother process.
Special Considerations for High-Value Items
Irreplaceable or high-value items may require additional steps to protect them during a move. It’s worthwhile considering professional packing or insurance for such belongings.
Insurance and Professional Packing
For items with monetary, sentimental, or historical value, consider hiring professional packers and movers overland park, skilled in moving fine art or antiques. Alternatively, check your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies to see how they cover your belongings during a move and adjust coverage accordingly.
Ensuring Safety
Whether you pack it or a professional does, ensuring that high-value items are clearly labeled and tracked during the move is crucial. It’s a good practice to create an inventory of these items and photograph them for documentation before packing.
Preparing Larger Decor Items
Bulky items bring their share of challenges, but with a little preparation, they can be moved without a scratch.
Packing Furniture
Disassemble furniture whenever possible, keeping screws and bolts in labeled bags. Wrap in moving blankets or specially designed furniture covers. If using moving blankets, secure them with packing tape or shrink wrap to protect your furniture from dust and moisture.
Lamps
Separate lamp bases from shades and bulbs. Use bubble wrap or blankets secured with tape to cover the bases. Pack lamps in their own boxes, if possible, with plenty of padding.
Wall Art
For large, unframed art, use a mirror box or construct one using multiple boxes taped together. Place blankets or thick foam between the art and the box to avoid damage.
Storing and Transporting Packed Decorations
Once everything is packed, it’s essential to store and transport your belongings in a way that minimizes the risk of damage.
Choosing the Right Containers
Select sturdy moving boxes, preferably brand new, and of varying sizes to accommodate different items. Ensure the bottom is reinforced with extra tape and pack heavier items in smaller boxes to avoid breakage and injury.
Loading and Securing
Arrange items in the moving truck strategically, placing heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Use tie-downs to keep items from shifting during transit. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of delicate ones.
Keep Calm and Pack On
Moving can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to safeguarding your home decorations. By following these tips, you can ensure that your decor not only arrives at its new destination in one piece but is also well-organized for an easy unpacking process. Safe moving and happy decorating!
