When it’s time to pack your linens and bedding, there are a few tips that can help streamline the process. The good news is that packing these items will likely be one of the easier tasks you can check off your “moving to-do list.” The key to ensuring your bedding and soft goods arrive clean, safe and ready for use is to plan ahead and gather the right packing materials for the job.
At Mayflower, we strive to make your moving experience as hassle-free as possible. That’s why we’ve created these step-by-step instructions on how to pack and protect your linens along with packing instruction videos. We’re here to guide you Every Step of the Way® and make your move experience that much easier!
Interested in comprehensive moving services from Mayflower? We can customize a packing plan that fits your unique needs. Mayflower offers customizable packing services including full and partial packing, custom crating for more fragile or specialty items, as well as unpacking services.
Soft Goods Are Vulnerable During A Move
Did you know that moisture, mold and insects can wreak havoc on bedding and natural linens? Don’t make the mistake of assuming that because your soft goods are not breakable or “fragile” they can’t be damaged during your move. Incorporating a little extra prep time when packing your soft goods will not only save you time in the long run, but it could also save you space (which could mean money savings to you!).
Make sure you have the following packing supplies ready to go when you start to pack your linens and other soft goods:
- Moving boxes (large)
- Paper pads (a multilayered paper wrap that can be used to wrap larger items)
- Padded hangers and pins (to secure curtains and draperies)
- Wardrobe boxes (for curtains and draperies)
- Packing paper (also known as newsprint, which is NOT newspaper)
- Packing tape
- A marker
Learn how to pack your soft goods like a pro with this instructional video! Soft goods include textiles such as blankets, towels, bedding, linens, drapes, curtains and rugs.
Packing Linens & Bedding
The most important thing to remember when packing bedding and linens is to maximize the space inside your boxes. To do this, you will need to compress the items frequently by pressing down and releasing any trapped air. Also, be careful not to overpack the boxes; leave enough room at the top so you can create a tight seal with tape without items bulging out. If you want to get extra creative with space-saving techniques, try using vacuum storage bags – they really do shrink!
Moving Tip: Blankets, bedding and towels can be packed as linens and bedding, but they are also well suited for use as packing material. Be sure to set some of these aside to help pad your boxes as needed.
Here are a few more tips and tricks for packing your linens and bedding:
- Focus on one bedroom at a time. This will help keep you organized.
- Use large boxes for your bedding. Be mindful of the weight because bedding can get heavy quickly.
- Line the bottom of boxes with clean packing paper or newsprint.
- Fold packing paper over the top before closing the box. This provides a shield against insects and moisture.
- Seal the boxes with packing tape.
- Label the boxes according to bedroom. If you are using your bedding as cushioning for fragile items, be sure to label the boxes accordingly.
Packing Rugs & Curtains
How to Pack Rugs
Follow these simple tips for the transport of your rugs:
- Make sure your area rugs have been cleaned and vacuumed before moving day.
- If you don’t have the proper packing materials, leave rugs on the floor for the moving company to handle. If they’ve just
- been returned from the cleaners, leave them rolled.
- The most important thing to remember when wrapping a rug is to protect the ends. Larger rugs may require two people to wrap.
- Roll from a short end of the rug; roll so that the back of the rug is on the outside.
- Use a paper pad (multilayered paper wrap) to wrap the end of the rug, leaving about 6 inches.
- Secure the paper pad with tape and repeat on the other end.
How to Pack Curtains
A wardrobe box is a large box the includes a metal hanging bar. Frequently used to move hanging clothes, wardrobe boxes are also perfect for moving curtains and draperies. Follow the tips below, and when you arrive at your new home, your curtains will be as seamlessly packed as everything else in your wardrobe box!
If you choose not to use wardrobe boxes, curtains and drapes may also be ironed and folded before being packed in boxes lined with packing paper or newsprint.
- Clean your curtains before you move.
- Fold curtains lengthwise and place over a padded hanger.
- Pin securely (this can help prevent wrinkling).
- Hang on the wardrobe bar.
- Be careful not to overfill the carton.
- Do not place items in the bottom of the box.
- Tape and label the box, including what room the curtains should go in.
Packing Pillows, Blankets and Towels
Pillows:
Pack small pillows in bureau drawers.
Medium and large pillows (that you aren’t taking with you in the car) can be packed along with your linens and bedding.
Blankets and Towels:
Blankets and towels can be packed the same way as linens and bedding. Remember, these items also serve as excellent padding for fragile items!
Professional Packing Services
We strive to make our customers’ moves easier with professional and convenient, value-added service options. Mayflower can tailor packing services to fit your timeline, budget and moving needs. From partial packing to full packing services, let Mayflower guide you Every Step of the Way®.
No matter which option you choose, we always take care of the loading, transportation and unloading of your belongings. Plus, you’ll get our Full-Value Protection included with your initial quote and the help of a move coordinator to support you throughout your move. Get a quote!
For additional moving advice and tips for a successful move, check out the following articles:
