Appliances are a major home investment and can be pricey to replace, so they definitely need a little extra TLC when you’re moving. Your fridge, washer or dishwasher take more than just unplugging and hoping for the best to make sure they arrive undamaged, but taking care of them yourself is totally doable with the right steps.

Preparing Appliances for Moving

Refrigerators and Freezers

Your refrigerator needs extra prep before moving day. Empty it completely, then unplug it 24 to 48 hours ahead of time so it has enough time to defrost and dry out.

Remove the shelves and drawers, wipe everything down, and wrap the loose pieces separately so they don’t break during the move. Wrap the fridge in a couple of moving blankets to help keep it from getting scratched up. 

Keep the refrigerator upright during the move. Once it’s in your new home, wait about 24 hours before plugging it back in. 

Washing Machines

Your washing machine should be completely dry before moving day. Disconnect it a day or two in advance, remove the water supply hoses, and drain any water that’s left inside. Place the hoses in a labeled bag and keep them with the washer so nothing gets lost. 

If you still have the original shipping bolts, put them back in before the move to keep the drum from moving around during the drive. If you don’t have them anymore, check your owner’s manual to see what’s recommended for your washer. 

And just like the refrigerator, wrap the washer in moving blankets before it goes on the truck. 

Dryers

Luckily, dryers don’t take much to get move-ready. Unplug the unit, or if you have a gas dryer, have the gas line disconnected safely if you’re not experienced with gas appliances.

Take a minute to clean out the lint trap, secure the power cord to the back of the dryer, and you’re good to go.

Dishwashers

The amount of water hiding inside your dishwasher might surprise you, so disconnect the water supply 24 to 48 hours before moving day and give it plenty of time to drain.

Remove the racks if you can, wipe everything down, and leave the inside nice and dry to help prevent odors or mildew during the move. Then secure the door and wrap the dishwasher in moving blankets for extra protection. 

Small Kitchen Appliances

Small kitchen appliances (air fryers, blenders, mixers) don’t take much work to get ready for moving day. Just give everything a quick clean and make sure it’s completely dry before packing it up. 

Remove any glass or fragile pieces and wrap them separately. If you still have the original boxes, they’re the best option. If not, use plenty of padding and pack each appliance so nothing shifts around during the move.

Let Us Help You with Your Move!

We know this might be one more thing on an already long moving to-do list, but preparing your appliances before moving day helps protect them and can save you from a few unpleasant surprises (and smells) later.

And if you’re looking around wondering how you’re ever going to get everything packed, don’t worry. Eco Movers can help with as much or as little as you need, from full-service packing to loading and transportation. Reach out for a free quote today!