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3 min read
Moving with kids, whether it's local or long-distance, is stressful, but there are ways you can save yourself from the emotional turmoil. Start with the basics and use the right packing techniques and supplies to protect items like your children's toys. Kids may be feeling anxious or insecure about the move so you could even make packing their beloved items a fun family project.
Here’s a simple guide on how to pack toys for your upcoming move:
Your kids have probably collected all sorts of items throughout their childhood—they probably don’t even know they still have.
Moving is the prime opportunity to discard or donate toys your kids have grown out of or simply forgotten about. You can pack toys that kids no longer want in a tote box for donation or prepare them for pickup from friends and neighbors who might need toys for their kids.
It can be tempting to simply pack as much as possible in a larger box and throw it on the moving truck, but you’ll want to make use of smaller boxes for toys so they are packed tightly together. Many small toys have moving parts or fragile pieces that could easily get damaged during a move.
Pick out a variety of small and medium-sized moving boxes and use bubble wrap or paper to fill any spaces between different types of toys to prevent items from shifting and protect the toys during the move.
Crushed packing paper, bubble wrap, newspaper, and towels provide extra cushioning when packing action figures, dolls, handheld games, and other smaller items that no longer have a box. Line your boxes with these packing supplies and fill empty spaces with packing paper or peanuts for extra cushioning and support.
If your kids collect porcelain dolls, vintage toys, or any other collector items that need extra care, you’ll need to pack all of these items separately. Tightly cover all of these toys in bubble wrap, towels, or another packing material before placing them neatly in a box.
If you still have the original boxes for these items, you may find Styrofoam and other packing materials useful to pack toys individually. Be mindful of how many items you place in a box so you don’t overpack fragile items.
You don’t need to box up teddy bears and other plush toys. You may find it easier to pack soft toys in large tote bags or sturdy garbage bags. Just keep in mind that these bags are ideal for moving but not the best choice for storage.
If you plan to leave these toys in the garage, basement, or a climate-controlled storage unit for any period of time, an airtight tote box or similar container will help to protect soft toys from mold and mildew damage.
Boxes of puzzles, boxed book sets, and any other toys that are generally stored in their own box will need to be taped down securely so items inside don't fall out or get lost in transit. Tape down these boxes with masking tape for easy removal. Avoid using packing tape since it can be difficult to remove the tape without damaging the toys.
Don’t forget to mark packed boxes of toys with the name of the person who owns the toys or the room the items belong in since this will make it easier for you or movers to unload the boxes. You could use your kids’ favorite colors to mark up boxes with their names and have them sign their boxes before the final day.
You may need some extra packing supplies and different size boxes to pack toys properly for your upcoming move. Use these tips and ideas to make sure your kids’ favorite toys are packed safely and turn the packing session into a fun event for the whole family.
Looking for more ways to feel organized and prepared for your big move? Get everything in order with some of these moving guides:
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