Packing clothes might seem like one of the easiest parts of moving compared to everything else, but it has its tricks. Sure, you could toss everything into a big bag, but that doesn’t mean your clothes will come out wrinkle-free. However, with a little bit of guidance, you can save space, keep your clothes protected, and avoid having to iron your entire wardrobe after the move.

Declutter and Wash First

Two things that seem obvious but are easy to forget during a busy move.

Start by Downsizing

Don’t pack clothes you don’t wear anymore. When you’re in the middle of moving, it’s tempting to just grab everything and throw it into a box, but that only takes up space and adds on more work. Set aside anything you don’t use, don’t want, or don’t see yourself wearing again.

Then, Wash What You’re Taking

Try not to move a pile of laundry with you. After a move, doing laundry is the last thing you would want to do. Bringing everything clean keeps odors or dirt from transferring onto the rest of your clothes.

Folding vs. Hanging: What Makes More Sense?

The simplest way to decide is this: fold the clothes that don’t wrinkle much, and hang the ones that do or pieces that you want to keep exactly as they are

Things like T-shirts, jeans, leggings, and everyday basics are easy to fold or roll, and they’ll be fine in boxes, bags, or suitcases.

Clothes that wrinkle fast like dresses, blouses, button-downs, coats, are better left on hangers so they stay in good shape and are quicker to unpack later.

Packing Clothes You Want to Keep Hanging

For the pieces you want to keep on hangers, you have a couple of options.

Wardrobe Boxes 

Wardrobe boxes are tall boxes made for hanging clothes. They have a built-in bar, so you can move everything straight from the closet into the box without removing a single hanger.

To make the most of them, just move your clothes over on their hangers, keep similar items together, and leave a bit of space so nothing gets crushed. You can also place a few light items at the bottom such scarves or a couple pairs of shoes

Garment Bags

Garment bags are ideal for clothes that wrinkle easily or need extra care. They protect fabric from dust and damage while everything’s in transit. Just zip your clothes inside on their hangers, then place the bag in a wardrobe box or lay it flat on top of other packed items.

How to Pack the Clothes You’re Folding

Once you set aside the hanging pieces, the rest should be easier. Folded clothes fit into almost anything, whether it’s a suitcase, a box, or a duffel bag. Use whatever feels easier for you.

If you’re using boxes, fold or roll your clothes so they sit flat and don’t shift around. Put heavier pieces at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Avoid stuffing the box too full, since clothes get heavy fast and can wrinkle more when packed tightly.

Suitcases are also a good idea. They work well because they hold their shape and the wheels make them easy to move. Pack sturdier or heavier pieces at the bottom, then tuck lighter clothing into open spaces so everything stays in place and creases less during the move.

Finally, bags work best for soft, everyday clothes that don’t wrinkle easily. Fold your clothes the same way you would for a drawer or roll them into tight cylinders. Place the rolled or folded pieces in layers so the bag fills evenly. Fill it enough so it holds its shape, but not so much that everything gets crushed.

A quick note: If you don’t have a huge amount of clothing, you can absolutely use wardrobe boxes for almost everything and keep the process simple. It all depends on how much you’re moving and how you prefer to organize things.

Extra Tips to Prevent Wrinkles and Save Space

• Keep your essentials separate. Pack pajamas, a change of clothes, underwear, and anything you’ll need for the first night and next morning in a small bag.

• Handle accessories the smart way. Stuff hats with soft clothing so they don’t lose their shape. Roll scarves and belts so they don’t tangle.

• Bundle your hangers. Tie them together with a rubber band or string so they don’t become a mess inside a box.

• Use tissue paper between delicate items. Sliding a sheet between blouses, dresses, or anything silky keeps them from rubbing together and forming deep creases.

• For anything that wrinkles easily, pack it last. Don’t bury it under heavy items. Lay it on top so it gets the least amount of pressure.

• Keep a mini lint roller or steamer handy. It saves you from digging for one when you’re tired and just want your clothes to look normal again.

Need Help Packing Your Clothes?

If you’d rather not deal with packing your closet, we can take care of it for you. Our team handles packing every day, so your clothes are packed safely and you don’t have to spend hours sorting and folding. The only clothing task on your mind should be picking something comfy to wear on moving day.

If you want more info or you’re curious how packing fits into your move, you can request a free quote anytime. We’re here to make the whole process easier.