How to Prep & Wrap Furniture for Your Move

Introduction

Moving to a new home marks a significant chapter in life, brimming with excitement and the promise of new beginnings. However, amidst the anticipation of a fresh start, the process of relocating can often seem like an overwhelming task, particularly when it comes to packing and moving furniture. Ensuring the safe transportation of your cherished belongings is a paramount concern during any move, and mastering the art of wrapping furniture becomes an indispensable skill.

In this comprehensive guide, we present you with an arsenal of 10 essential tips and tricks that can be employed by absolutely anyone to wrap furniture effectively for a seamless move. Regardless of your level of moving experience, these practical strategies are designed to simplify the process, lending a layer of protection to your furniture while making the transition to your new abode smoother than ever.

From selecting the right wrapping materials to tackling dismantling challenges, each tip in this guide is crafted to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to safeguard your furniture. We delve into the intricacies of using stretchable plastic wrap, moving blankets, bubble wrap, and cardboard to shield your possessions from potential bumps and scuffs during transit. We guide you through the nuances of disassembling furniture, be it beds, tables, or chairs, and highlight the importance of documenting your furniture's pre-move condition through photographs.

Furthermore, we recognize that different items demand tailored care. Delicate glass tabletops, ornamental carvings, and electronics require unique attention, and our guide provides insights into ensuring their safety. We delve into the significance of layering materials, securing wrapping with appropriate tapes, and even explore the option of seeking professional assistance for valuable pieces.

As you embark on the journey of moving, our aim is to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of how to protect your furniture investment. By following these tips and tricks, you'll not only safeguard your belongings but also infuse the moving process with a sense of ease and efficiency. Welcome to a guide that empowers you to master the art of furniture wrapping, creating a seamless bridge between the old and the new as you embark on this exciting new phase of life.

See Angi's guide for wrapping furniture here.

1. Gather Wrapping and Packing Materials

The safe transportation of your furniture hinges on the quality and appropriateness of the wrapping and packing materials you use. Selecting the right supplies is crucial to ensure the protection of your furniture while in the moving truck or shipping crate. The popular options you should consider include:

• Bubble wrap
• Stretchable plastic wrap
• Moving blankets
• Sofa and mattress covers
• Corrugated cardboard sheets
• Sealable plastic bags
• Packing tap

Remember, when it comes to moving valuable items, it is better to trust the professionals. See our services here.

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2. Document Your Furniture with Photos Before Packing

When working with a reputable moving company, they'll typically maintain an inventory list noting the state of your belongings. Before the movers get there, snap photos and record videos of your furniture. This ensures you have a visual record of its pre-move condition. For those managing a move on their own, these images and videos can guide furniture positioning and reassembly in your new residence.

3. Prep Your Furniture by Cleaning

Moving into a new home offers a fresh start. To ensure your furniture remains pristine upon arrival, it's essential to clean it before wrapping. To maintain the integrity of the finish, adhere to these cleaning steps:

• Remove any food remnants from furniture.
• Apply a gentle furniture soap for wooden surfaces.
• Ensure glass components are spotless.
• Address any stains on upholstery fabrics.
• Thoroughly dust nooks and crannies.

4. Break Down Furniture When Feasible

Furniture that can be disassembled into smaller components is simpler to wrap, box, and transport. Take apart as many items as possible to protect your door frames and walls from potential damage. Utilize sealable plastic bags to organize small parts, and tape these bags to hidden areas of the furniture to prevent loss. Here are some common disassembly tasks:

• Detach knobs, casters, and other hardware.
• Carefully unscrew glass doors to wrap separately.
• Remove legs from tables and sofas.
• Disassemble beds for easier handling.

5. Employ a Variety of Materials to Safeguard Your Furniture:

Both professional moving services and do-it-yourself movers often rely on a mix of materials such as stretchable plastic wrap, moving blankets, bubble wrap, and cardboard to shield furniture. The optimal combination for you will depend on the quantity, size, and nature of the furniture you're moving. Feel free to experiment with different packing materials to find the perfect fit for your needs.

6. The Essential Role of Stretchable Plastic Wrap In Your Move

Stretchable plastic wrap is an indispensable tool for any relocation. Its ability to cling to both furniture and itself makes it an excellent protector for your belongings. With characteristics akin to a rubber band, it ensures that drawers and doors remain closed during the move. Since the roll is typically large, you may require assistance to wrap the furniture effectively. Here's how stretchable plastic wrap can be utilized in your move:

• Securing Unremovable Components: It can be used to keep doors, drawers, and panels in place if they cannot be removed.
• Guarding Fabric Items: It offers protection to fabric pieces, preventing tears and scratches.
• Bundling Smaller Items Together: It's useful for grouping smaller furniture pieces, making them easier to handle.
• Protecting Soft Furnishings: It acts as a shield for sofa and mattress covers, keeping them intact and clean.

7. Moving Blankets Offer Decent Protection During Transportation

Moving blankets are far from the cozy bed covers you might be familiar with. These are thick, specially designed coverings meant to shield your furniture from potential bumps and abrasions during transit. Depending on the size and shape of the furniture, one or two blankets may be used for each item. Start by draping the moving blanket over the furniture, then tuck it in to form "corners" where possible. Secure the blankets with packing tape and stretchable plastic wrap. While moving blankets can be used for most furniture pieces, they are particularly useful for covering exposed areas, such as the backsides of items, and for protecting doorways during the move.

8. Use Plastic Bubble Wrap for Specialty Items or Fragile Items

Bubble wrap is not just a fun stress-reliever; its protective qualities for delicate items are unparalleled. While it's suitable for most objects, caution is needed if your furniture has sensitive finishes such as faux paint or antique glass, as the plastic might adhere to it. In such cases, it's wise to layer the furniture with packing paper before applying bubble wrap. For electronics, only use anti-static bubble wrap to prevent potential damage. Here's a list of furniture items that can greatly benefit from the use of bubble wrap:

• Wooden furniture legs, if they cannot be removed
• Glass tabletops and furniture pieces
• Fixed glass inserts in furniture, like shelving or door panels
• Mirrors
• Decorative elements on furniture, such as carvings

9. Use Cardboard as a Protective Layer in Moving

Corrugated cardboard is a versatile moving tool that can be a lifesaver when you need it. Acting as a shock-absorbing layer, it provides additional protection between items during transit. Here's how you can incorporate cardboard into your furniture wrapping strategy:

• Covering Unprotected Areas: Use it to provide additional coverage for exposed parts of furniture.
• Protecting Glass and Mirrors: Sandwich glass items and mirrors between two sheets of cardboard for extra safety.
• Creating Corner Protectors: Fashion corner protectors for wooden and glass furniture to prevent damage to vulnerable edges.
• Adding Extra Layers in the Truck: Place cardboard between furniture pieces in the moving truck for an added layer of protection.
• Serving as a Makeshift Dolly: In a pinch, cardboard can be used as a makeshift furniture dolly to help slide furniture across the floor.

10. Consider Professional Help for Valuables

Moving valuable items requires extra care and attention. When it comes to items of significant worth or delicate nature, enlisting professional assistance can provide you with peace of mind. Here's why you should consider seeking expert help for your cherished possessions:

Valuables Demanding Expert Handling: Items with high monetary or sentimental value, like antiques, artworks, and family heirlooms, often require specialized packing and handling techniques to ensure their safety during transit.

Tailored Protection: Professional movers possess the knowledge and experience to customize packing materials and methods to suit the unique needs of each valuable item. This level of attention helps minimize the risk of damage.

Specialized Equipment: Fragile or bulky items might require specialized equipment, such as custom crates or rigging systems, which professional movers are equipped to provide.

Insurance and Accountability: Reputable moving companies offer insurance options to cover valuable items, providing financial protection in case of unforeseen accidents or mishaps.

Reduced Stress: Entrusting your valuable items to professionals allows you to focus on other aspects of the move, knowing that trained experts are handling your treasures.

Whether it's fine art, fragile collectibles, or family keepsakes, seeking professional help for your valuables ensures their protection and safe arrival at your new destination.

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