The Essential Guide on How to Move Hanging Clothes

Moving can be a real whirlwind, and packing clothes often feels like the eye of the storm. Getting your clothes from your old closet to your new one can be a recipe for wrinkles, damage and a whole lot of disorganization, especially when moving long distances. No one wants to arrive at their new home faced with a mountain of ironing or, even worse, discover their favorite outfit got snagged or torn in transit.

But don’t worry! Moving your clothes doesn’t have to be a fashion emergency. With the right approach and a few handy tips, you can ensure your garments arrive looking as good as they did when you packed them. This guide will walk you through simple and effective solutions for moving your hanging clothes, whether you’re just hopping across town or embarking on a cross-country adventure.

How to Pack Hanging Clothes for Short Moves

Moving across town? Lucky you! When it comes to shorter distances, you have some super simple options for relocating your hanging clothing without a lot of fuss. Here are two methods that work like a charm:

The “Bunch and Bag” Method

To pack clothes for a short move, try the “bunch and bag” method: simply gather a group of hanging clothes (aim for 5-10 items to keep it manageable), and slide a large trash bag over them, bunching the hangers together at the top. Secure the bag around the hanger hooks with a rubber band or, for extra security, poke a small hole in the bottom of the bag and pull the hooks through.

Tip: Smaller bundles are easier to carry and less likely to strain the hangers. Plus, they’re easier to maneuver through doorways!

This method is perfect for quick, local moves because it requires minimal supplies and keeps your clothes together and relatively wrinkle-free during a short trip.

The “Sheet Wrap” Technique

If you have old sheets you’re leaving behind, use them to pack your clothes! Lay a sheet on your bed, gather a section of hanging clothes, and lay them on the sheet with the hangers at one end. Wrap the sheet snugly around the clothes, tucking in the sides to create a secure bundle.

This method is best for in-town moves because it offers a bit more protection than trash bags. It’s also a great choice if you have an extra set of hands to help carry the bundles, as they can be a bit bulkier than bagged clothes.

How to Pack Hanging Clothes for Long-Distance Moves

When you’re moving a long distance, your clothes need extra TLC to survive the journey. Here’s how to keep your wardrobe safe and organized for the long haul:

Wardrobe Boxes: Your Closet on Wheels

Wardrobe boxes are the MVPs of long-distance clothing moves. These tall, sturdy boxes come with a built-in hanging bar, so you can literally transfer your clothes straight from your closet into the box. No folding, no fuss!

To make the most of your wardrobe box:

Fold bulky items: While most clothes can hang as they are, folded clothes like sweaters and jeans maximize space and prevent creasing.
Fill the base: Wardrobe boxes can also help you pack non-hanging clothes. Use the bottom of the box for folded items like sweaters and jeans, or use the extra space to pack shoes, purses, or folded linens.
Layer strategically: Place lighter items at the top and heavier items at the bottom for stability.

Wardrobe boxes are a game-changer for long-distance moves because they keep your clothes wrinkle-free, organized, and protected. Plus, unpacking is a breeze – just lift the clothes out and hang them in your new closet!

Garment Bags: Extra Protection for Special Items

For delicate items like silk blouses, evening gowns or suits, garment bags offer an extra layer of protection. They help prevent snags, tears, and wrinkles and they keep dust and dirt at bay.

Affordable options: A lightweight garment bag is great for basic protection.
Premium choices: Invest in breathable, fabric garment bags for your most prized possessions.

Tip: If you’re storing clothes long-term, consider vacuum seal bags to save space and protect against moths and moisture.

Packing Those Tricky Closet Items

We’ve got your clothes covered, but what about all those other things hiding in your closet? Shoes, belts, hats, jewelry—all these accessories need special attention too! Here’s how to pack these closet oddballs with care:

Shoes: To pack shoes effectively, stuff them with socks or packing paper to help them maintain their form. This prevents them from getting squashed or losing their shape during the move. Place each pair in a separate bag to keep them from dirtying your clothes, and if you have the original boxes, use those for extra protection. If not, any sturdy box will do!
Belts: Belts are easy to pack. Simply roll them up neatly to save space and prevent unsightly creases. You can also loop them around the inside of garment bags or suitcases to keep them organized and out of the way.
Hats: Just like shoes, hats can lose their shape if not packed correctly. Stuff them with soft materials like packing paper to help them hold their form. You can even nest smaller hats inside larger ones to save space. For delicate hats, use hat boxes or sturdy cardboard boxes for added protection.
Jewelry: Take a moment to untangle any necklaces and bracelets to prevent knots and damage. Use a jewelry organizer or small pouches to keep individual pieces separate and secure, and wrap delicate items in soft cloth or tissue paper for added protection.

Extra Tips for Your Clothes

Want to make your move even smoother? These extra tips will help you pack like a pro and arrive at your new home ready to unpack with ease.

Declutter Before You Pack

Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter your wardrobe. Before you start packing, take some time to sort clothes and donate or discard anything you no longer wear, need or love. This will not only lighten your load (literally!) but also make unpacking in your new home much more enjoyable.

Keep Essentials Separate

Imagine arriving at your new place after a long day of moving, only to realize your pajamas and toothbrush are buried deep within a box. Avoid this scenario by packing a small bag with essential clothing items and toiletries. Think of it as your “first night” bag, containing everything you’ll need to freshen up and relax after the move.

Use Suitcases

Suitcases are your best friend if you want to efficiently pack folded clothes. To make the most of your suitcase space, try the “rolling” method. Instead of traditional folding, tightly roll each garment –t-shirts, jeans, even sweaters– to create compact bundles that fit snugly in your suitcase. This helps you fit more clothes inside and keeps them wrinkle-free.

Separate Dirty Clothes

Don’t let your dirty laundry mingle with your clean clothes during the move. Pack a separate bag or hamper specifically for dirty clothes. This will make it easier to do laundry once you’re settled in your new home and prevent any unwanted odors from affecting your clean clothes.

Wardrobe Woes: Don’t Let These Mistakes Ruin Your Clothes

There are a few common pitfalls that can turn your unpacking experience into a frustrating fashion show. Avoid these mistakes to keep your clothes looking their best:

1. Skipping the Protection

Whether you’re using wardrobe boxes, garment bags or even the “bunch and bag” method, it’s crucial to protect your clothes from dust, moisture and snags. Don’t just toss them in a box and hope for the best! Use proper packing materials and techniques to shield your garments from the bumps and grinds of the moving process.

2. Overpacking Wardrobe Boxes

Wardrobe boxes are amazing, but they’re not magic! Resist the urge to cram every single item into a single box. Overpacking can lead to wrinkles, creases and even damage to your clothes. Remember to fold bulky items, layer strategically and leave some breathing room for your garments.

Feeling Overwhelmed? Consider Calling in the Pros!

Between packing, organizing and coordinating all the logistics, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when moving. And when it comes to your clothes, you want to make sure they’re handled with care. If the DIY approach is feeling a bit too daunting, it might be time to consider hiring professional movers.

Here’s why professional movers can be a lifesaver for your wardrobe:

Expertise: Professional movers have the experience and know-how to pack your clothes efficiently and safely. They’ll come equipped with the right materials and techniques to prevent wrinkles, damage and disorganization.
Efficiency: Professional movers can get the job done quickly and efficiently, freeing up your time to focus on other aspects of your move.
Peace of mind: Knowing that your clothes are in the hands of experienced professionals can give you invaluable peace of mind during an already stressful time.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to hire professional movers is a personal one. But if you’re looking for a hassle-free way to move your clothes, enlisting the help of the pros is definitely worth considering.

Stress-Free Moving for Your Wardrobe

And there you have it! From quick and easy methods for short moves to pro-level packing for long-distance journeys, you now have the tools and knowledge to move your clothes without stress. Remember, the key is to choose the right strategy for your needs and take the time to protect your garments.

But if DIY packing isn’t your style, Armstrong is ready to take the worry out of moving your clothes. Our team knows the tricks of the trade to ensure your garments are packed efficiently and safely, using high-quality materials and proven techniques to prevent damage and keep everything organized. We even take special care with delicate items, ensuring they arrive in pristine condition. With Armstrong, you can relax knowing your clothes are in expert hands.

Ready to make your next move a breeze? Contact The Armstrong Company today for a free quote and let our expert team handle your wardrobe with the care and attention it deserves.