7 tips that make packing your kitchen simple

Packing a kitchen can be one of the more complex tasks when moving due to the variety of items, from fragile glassware to bulky appliances. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make packing your kitchen easier:

1. Gather Supplies:
   1. Boxes: Get a mix of small and medium boxes. Use smaller boxes for heavier items like canned goods and dishes to make them manageable to lift.
   2. Packing Paper and Bubble Wrap: These are essential for wrapping fragile items like glasses and dishes.
   3. Tape: You’ll need plenty to seal up boxes.
   4. Permanent Markers: For labeling each box.
   5. Stretch Wrap: For wrapping items together, such as cutlery or to protect items in drawers.
2. Sort and Declutter:
   1. Evaluate: Before you start packing, determine what items you no longer need. Consider donating, selling, or discarding items that haven’t been used in a long time.
3. Pack in Stages:
   1. Non-essentials First: Begin by packing items that you seldom use, such as special occasion dishes, vases, or certain appliances.
   2. Everyday Items Last: Items like daily use dishes, silverware, and basic cookware should be packed closer to moving day.
4. Packing Specific Items:
   1. Dishes: Place a cushioning layer of crumpled packing paper at the bottom of the box. Wrap each plate individually, then bundle 4-6 together, and place them vertically (on their sides) in the box.
   2. Glasses: Wrap each glass individually with packing paper or bubble wrap. Consider purchasing or obtaining cell dividers for boxes to keep glasses separated and safer.
   3. Pots and Pans: Stack them with the largest on the bottom, and wrap each with a single sheet of packing paper. Place them in medium-sized boxes.
   4. Cutlery: Group them by type, wrap each bundle in packing paper or stretch wrap.
   5. Small Appliances: If you have the original boxes, use them. Otherwise, ensure each appliance is clean and dry, then wrap in bubble wrap or a towel, and place in a box.
   6. Perishables: Closer to moving day, consider consuming or giving away most perishables. For the move day, use coolers with ice packs for items from the refrigerator.
5. Label Boxes Clearly:
   1. List Contents: Write a general overview of the box’s contents on the side (so it’s visible when stacked).
   2. Fragile Items: Clearly mark boxes containing fragile items with “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP” to ensure they’re handled properly.
   3. Room Designation: Label each box with “Kitchen” to ensure it’s placed in the right room at the new home.
6. Safety Precautions:
   1. Sharp Items: Ensure sharp knives or other utensils are wrapped securely so that they don’t pose a risk when unpacking.
   2. Sealable Bags: Use these for any loose, small, or potentially leak-prone items.
7. Prepare an Essentials Box:
   1. Pack a box with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. This could include a pot, a pan, a few dishes and utensils, a dish soap, a sponge, and any other basics.

Remember, careful packing will not only ensure the safety of your kitchen items but also simplify the unpacking process in your new home. Take your time, and it’ll be worth the effort!