Your kitchen is sometimes a very difficult room to pack because it ranges from very large appliances to your best china. In addition, there are usually perishables like food which take special care.
Here's how to approach this room:
- Take your time and pack carefully. Think about what to keep and what to give away or sell.
- Consider the new kitchen you are moving into and the space that it allows you. If you are ‘downsizing’ it might be wise to unload some of your items before your move. Go through each cupboard and drawer and decide what should be sold vs. what should be moved.
- Make one ‘essential’ box of items you will need from the kitchen during the move or as soon as possible after you move into your new home — items such as dishes, silverware, cups etc. for the family and other items like salt, pepper, sugar, coffee, dishtowels, cleaners and soap etc.
- Take an inventory of everything in your kitchen and to then note the items and what box they are packed in. Every box should be labeled and numbered.
- Make sure you have the proper packing supplies. Large boxes would be for lightweight items such as plastic kitchenware, small and light appliances, etc. Medium boxes would be for heavier items such as pantry items, pans and pots, silverware and of course cookbooks. Heavy duty boxes are usually very think and are perfect for packing heavy and fragile items such as plates, glasses etc. There are also special boxes you can purchase for china.
- When moving your dishes, individually wrap each piece and use special boxes for kitchen appliances and dishes. Pots, pans, etc. can be stacked in a box with packing paper between them. Glasses should be wrapped separately in packing paper or bubble wrap.
- Pack small appliances in original container or a moving box cushioned with packing paper. With major appliances, check with the appliance dealer for special moving instructions. For all large appliances, remove loose fittings and accessories and pack separately. Tie down, tape or wedge all movable parts and doors. If you are moving the refrigerator it should be unplugged at least 12 hours in advance. If you have a gas stove be sure to contact an expert before moving. Make sure the gas is safely disconnected.
- If you are packing your fancy china, be sure to put packing material (bubble wrap or Styrofoam) in the bottom of the box and around all of the sides. In addition, wrap each piece in tissue paper. Mark the boxes ‘fragile’.