How to best pack your dishes? | Are you getting ready to move and wondering?

How to best pack dishes is a common concern when preparing for a move, particularly when the kitchen is filled with daily-use, fragile items. We’re here to alleviate your worries with some expert tips. This article will guide you through safe and efficient methods of packing your dishes, along with providing some extra advice to ensure a smooth transition. Let’s jump right in and master the art of packing dishes for a move.

When it comes to packing dishes, Shannon Campanella, from USA Moving Solutions, suggests packing the kitchen last and unpacking it first. This way, you can minimize the amount of time your dishes spend in boxes and reduce the chances of them getting damaged during the move. For plates, it is best to wrap each one individually in packing paper and stack them vertically in a small box. This will help prevent them from breaking or chipping during transit.

Cups, glasses, and stemware require special attention. These items should be stuffed with paper to provide extra cushioning and then packed upright in a box. This will help prevent them from tipping over and breaking during the move. Additionally, large kitchen items such as pitchers should be wrapped individually, with the handles wrapped separately for added protection. Teapots should also be wrapped with paper around the handle and spout, and then placed upside down in a stack of packing paper.

Packing materials you need to pack dishes

When it comes to packing dishes for a move, having the right materials is essential to ensure that your fragile items stay safe and secure. Here are the packing materials you will need:

Choosing the right boxes

To begin, you will need sturdy boxes specifically designed for moving. These boxes should be of high quality and able to withstand the weight and pressure of your dishes. It is recommended to use small to medium-sized boxes for dishes, as larger boxes can become too heavy and increase the risk of breakage.

Packing paper and bubble wrap

Next, you will need packing paper and bubble wrap to provide cushioning and protect your dishes during transit. Wrap each dish individually in packing paper to prevent them from hitting each other during the move. Bubble wrap can also be used for added protection, especially for fragile items like stemware or delicate ceramics.

Markers for labeling boxes

Lastly, you will need markers for labeling your boxes. It is crucial to label each box clearly to indicate that it contains fragile items. Additionally, labeling the boxes with “this side up” will help movers handle them correctly and avoid any potential damage to your dishes.

How to best pack dishes: general steps

Now that you have gathered your packing materials, let’s go over the general steps on how to pack your dishes safely:

Wrap each plate individually

Begin by wrapping each plate individually in packing paper. Start by placing a sheet of packing paper on a flat surface, and carefully place the plate in the center of the paper. Fold the paper over the plate, tucking in the corners, and continue to roll the plate in the paper until fully wrapped. Secure the paper with tape if necessary.

Stack plates vertically in a small box

After wrapping each plate, stack them vertically in a small box. This vertical stacking method helps distribute the weight evenly and reduces the risk of breakage. Place a layer of packing paper or bubble wrap at the bottom of the box to provide cushioning and prevent the plates from shifting.

Properly cushion the bottom of the box

To ensure additional protection, remember to properly cushion the bottom of the box before placing your stacked plates in. This can be done by adding a layer of packing paper or bubble wrap. You can also use crumpled newspaper or foam inserts to create a soft base for your dishes.

How to pack bowls and plates

Bowls and plates require similar packing techniques as they are both flat and easily breakable. Here’s how to pack them safely:

Wrap each bowl individually

Just like with plates, wrap each bowl individually in packing paper. Start by placing a sheet of packing paper on a flat surface, and carefully place the bowl in the center of the paper. Fold the paper over the bowl, tucking in the corners, and continue to roll the bowl in the paper until fully wrapped. Secure the paper with tape if necessary.

Nest bowls and plates together in a larger box

After wrapping each bowl, you can nest them together with the wrapped plates in a larger box. Place a layer of packing paper or bubble wrap between each bowl to prevent them from touching and potentially breaking. Fill any gaps in the box with packing paper or bubble wrap to provide additional cushioning.

Fill any gaps with packing paper

It’s important to fill any gaps in the box with packing paper to prevent items from moving around during transit. This will help minimize the risk of breakage. Gently shake the box to see if there is any movement. If you feel items shifting, add more packing paper until everything is snug in place.

How to pack cups, mugs, and glasses

Cups, mugs, and glasses are delicate and require careful handling. Here are the steps to pack them safely:

Stuff cups, mugs, and glasses with packing paper

To protect cups, mugs, and glasses, stuff them with crumpled packing paper. This will prevent any empty space inside the cups, reducing the risk of them bumping into each other. Be sure to stuff them tightly, but not too forcefully, to avoid any breakage.

Pack them upright in a box

Next, carefully pack the cups, mugs, and glasses upright in a box. This will help prevent any potential damage during transit. Similar to packing bowls, place a layer of packing paper or bubble wrap between each item to create a protective barrier.

Securely tape the box

Once all the cups, mugs, and glasses are in the box, securely tape the box shut to prevent it from opening during the move. Be sure to reinforce the bottom of the box with tape for added strength. Label the box as “fragile” and mark it with “this side up” to ensure careful handling.

How to pack stemware

Stemware, such as wine glasses and champagne flutes, is delicate and requires extra care when packing. Follow these steps to pack stemware safely:

Wrap each stemware with paper

Begin by wrapping each stemware individually with packing paper. Start by placing a sheet of packing paper on a flat surface and carefully place the stemware in the center of the paper. Wrap the stem of the glass first, folding the paper over it, and then wrap the bowl part of the glass. Secure the paper with tape if necessary.

Pack them upright in a box with dividers

Once each stemware is wrapped, pack them upright in a box specifically designed for stemware. These boxes usually come with dividers to keep the glasses separated and prevent them from hitting each other. The dividers will help minimize the risk of breakage during transit.

Add extra cushioning

To provide additional cushioning for your stemware, consider adding extra packing paper or bubble wrap in between each glass. This will reduce movement and keep them secure during the move. Fill any empty space in the box with packing paper to prevent shifting.

How to pack pots and pans

Pots and pans are heavy items that require careful packing to avoid damage. Follow these steps to pack them safely:

Wrap pots and pans individually

Begin by wrapping each pot and pan individually in packing paper. Start by placing a sheet of packing paper on a flat surface and carefully place the pot or pan in the center of the paper. Fold the paper over the item, tucking in the corners, and continue to roll it in the paper until fully wrapped. Secure the paper with tape if necessary.

Nest them together

After wrapping each pot and pan, nest them together to save space and protect them during transit. Place a layer of packing paper or bubble wrap between each item to prevent scratching or damage. If there are any lids, wrap them separately and nest them on top of the pots and pans.

Protect handles with packing paper

To protect the handles of your pots and pans, wrap them individually with additional layers of packing paper. This will prevent any potential damage during the move. Secure the paper with tape if necessary..

More tips for how to pack dishes

Here are some additional tips to help you pack your dishes safely:

Label boxes as ‘fragile’

It is crucial to label each box clearly as “fragile” to ensure careful handling. This will alert the movers to handle the box with extra care. Use a waterproof marker to write “fragile” on all sides of the box to make it clearly visible.

Label boxes with ‘this side up’

In addition to labeling boxes as “fragile,” it is also important to label them with “this side up.” This will ensure that the box is always handled in the correct orientation, reducing the risk of damage to your dishes. Mark the arrows on the box to indicate the correct direction.

Avoid overpacking boxes

While it can be tempting to fit as much as possible into each box, it is important to avoid overpacking. Overpacking can lead to boxes becoming too heavy and increases the risk of breakage or damage. Distribute the weight evenly among the boxes and always prioritize the safety of your items.

Conclusion

Properly packing dishes is essential for a successful move. By following these tips and using the right materials, you can ensure that your dishes arrive at your new home in excellent condition. Remember to wrap each dish individually, stack them properly, and use cushioning materials to protect them during transit. Additionally, label your boxes as “fragile” and “this side up” to ensure careful handling. With these guidelines, you can have peace of mind knowing that your dishes are well-protected and ready for your new kitchen.