What is the best way to unpack after a move? The answer depends on what is most important to you. As professional organizers specializing in helping clients unpack and set up their new homes we apply best practices with input from the client to unpack in the order that is most important to them. Moms for example will invariably want their kids’ rooms and kitchen set up first.
Below are 5 tips on the best way to unpack after a move:
- Enlist the help of family and friends– unpacking is a massive undertaking and can be overwhelming. Enlist the help of your spouse, children, housekeeper, nanny, relatives or friends. It makes the job easier and allows people to participate in the joy of helping set up your new home. We especially recommend having your nanny set up your kids’ rooms.
- Focus on getting rid of boxes – Start with wardrobe boxes – they are big and bulky and you’ll want to get rid of them ASAP. Hang up your clothing but don’t worry about organizing them just yet – you can do the fine-tuning after all the boxes have been unpacked. To keep empty boxes organized, break them down, and using a wardrobe box, create what we call a “box of boxes” – put the flattened boxes inside one large box.
- Sort before putting things away – In the kitchen, use the counter and your dining table to sort items into categories. This will help you figure out which cabinet to use for each category. In the bedroom use the bed to sort clothing and accessories before putting things away. Sort shoes and boots on the floor.
- Map out your kitchen – Use post-its and a sharpie to map out your kitchen before putting things away. Here are the most common categories – dishes, glasses, pots and pans, gadgets, cutlery, spices, oils and vinegars, baking, small appliances, large appliances, junk drawer and entertaining. You can make adjustments later but this will make it easer when putting things away.
- Keep a notepad handy – keep a running list of items “to buy” such as a new cutlery tray if your existing one doesn’t fit for example. You’ll also want to keep a running “to do” list to make note of handyman items. This way all your notes are in one place making it easier and more efficient when you go shopping and when you have the handyman come in.
Unpacking is a massive undertaking. The best way to unpack after a move is to prioritize the rooms that are most important to you, map things out before putting things away and of course don’t go at it alone – enlist the help of family and friends.
If you need help with your unpacking project, whether just one room or your entire apartment, my team and I are available to help. We typically unpack and set up a new home within in 1-5 days depending on the size. Contact Us for a complimentary phone consultation!