(Updated Sept. 2024)
When preparing for a big move, one of the most stressful tasks is figuring out how to transport your clothing safely. You aren’t in college anymore: you can’t just shove everything into a duffel bag and call it good. Luckily, wardrobe boxes for moving make the process easier and more organized.
These large, sturdy boxes are specifically designed to hold clothes on hangers, making it simple to transfer your wardrobe from your closet to your new home without the hassle of folding, creasing, or damaging your favorite outfits. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using wardrobe boxes effectively, including how to choose the right ones, how to pack them, and additional tips to ensure your clothes arrive in perfect condition.
Moving is a big job, and the right supplies can make all the difference. Wardrobe packing boxes are essential tools that simplify the process of packing your clothes. With built-in metal hanging bars and spacious dimensions, they allow you to easily transfer your clothes from one location to another while keeping them wrinkle-free.
What Are Wardrobe Boxes?
Wardrobe boxes are large, rectangular moving boxes equipped with metal hanging bars at the top. These bars allow you to hang your clothes inside the box just as you would in a closet. Wardrobe boxes come in various sizes, typically offering between 15 and 25 cubic feet of space.
The boxes are made from sturdy, double-walled cardboard to ensure durability during the moving process. Since they are designed to hold clothes without folding them, wardrobe boxes prevent wrinkles, making them ideal for hanging garments like suits, dresses, and coats. If you’re planning a move, wardrobe boxes are a must-have item.
Why Use Wardrobe Boxes for Moving?
Wardrobe boxes for moving are a great investment because they keep your clothes organized and protected. Instead of cramming your clothes into regular moving boxes, which can cause wrinkles and damage, wardrobe boxes allow your clothes to hang freely, just as they do in your closet.
This method reduces the risk of damage and makes unpacking at your new home a breeze—simply transfer your clothes from the box to your new wardrobe. Additionally, wardrobe moving boxes provide a hassle-free way to pack delicate items like suits or dresses that would otherwise require special care.
Benefits of Using Wardrobe Boxes
The benefits of using wardrobe boxes are numerous. First, they protect your clothes from wrinkles and creases, which is especially important for formal wear or delicate fabrics. Second, the metal hanging bars inside the boxes allow you to easily transfer hanging clothes without folding them, saving time and effort. Smooth Move People can help you select the right size wardrobe box for your needs, ensuring your move goes smoothly.
How to Choose the Right Wardrobe Boxes
Choosing the right wardrobe boxes for your move depends on the size of your wardrobe and the types of clothes you need to pack. Please note that wardrobe boxes come in different sizes, ranging from 18 inches to 24 inches. Smooth Move People offers 20-inch wardrobe boxes which is right in the sweet spot.
If you’re packing bulky items like winter coats, you’ll need larger boxes. For lighter, smaller garments, such as t-shirts or blouses, medium-sized boxes may suffice. Make sure to choose boxes with sturdy metal hanging bars to support the weight of your clothes. If you’re unsure, Smooth Move People can guide you in making the best selection.
Preparing Your Wardrobe for Packing
- Declutter
- Sort
- Wash
- Fold
Decluttering Your Wardrobe
Before you start packing, decluttering your wardrobe is an important step. Moving is the perfect opportunity to get rid of items you no longer wear or need. Go through each section of your closet and decide which clothes you want to keep, donate, or toss. This will not only reduce the number of wardrobe boxes you need but also make unpacking easier.
There are many places in the Portland OR metro area to take your hand-me-downs. Plus, it’s a great way to start fresh in your new home with a more organized closet.
Sorting Your Clothes by Type and Season
Once you’ve decluttered, sort your clothes by type and season. This helps when it comes to packing your wardrobe boxes. Separate heavier items like winter coats from lighter summer dresses or shirts. Sorting clothes in this way makes it easier to pack efficiently and unpack quickly once you’re in your new home.
It also helps to organize your clothes in the order you want to unpack them. You can hang your seasonal clothing in the appropriate closets right away or put away certain items in storage until it’s time to break them out once again.
Washing and Drying Your Clothes
Before packing your wardrobe boxes, it’s a good idea to wash and dry your clothes. This ensures that your clothes are clean and fresh when they arrive at your new home. Please note that packing dirty clothes could cause unpleasant odors or even mildew if they’re left in the boxes for a long time.
Washing your clothes before the move also reduces the number of tasks you’ll need to do once you’ve settled into your new space. They can go from the wardrobe box to the closet just like that (you’ll have to imagine us snapping our fingers).
Folding Your Clothes Efficiently
For items that won’t be hung up in wardrobe boxes, it’s important to fold them efficiently to save space in your other moving boxes. Folding clothes neatly reduces the amount of cubic feet needed for packing and helps prevent wrinkles. Stack your folded clothes by size, and use smaller items like t-shirts to fill in gaps.
Efficient folding can make a big difference in how many moving boxes you need and how much space they take up during the move. Depending on the size of your wardrobe boxes for moving, you may be able to put some of these items in the bottom of the box.
Packing Your Wardrobe Boxes
- Laying Out Your Wardrobe Boxes: Before packing, set up your wardrobe boxes in a spacious area. Open each box and securely attach the metal hanging bars across the top. This is crucial to ensure the box can support the weight of your clothes. Please note that it’s important to make sure the bars are firmly in place before loading up your wardrobe. Once your boxes are set up, you’re ready to start packing.
- Packing Your Clothes into the Boxes: Begin packing your wardrobe boxes by hanging your clothes on the metal hanging bars. It’s best to pack your clothes by category, such as keeping all your shirts in one box and pants in another. This makes it easier to unpack once you’ve moved. Avoid overpacking the boxes to ensure your clothes hang freely and don’t become wrinkled or damaged during the move. Make sure the clothes are evenly distributed to prevent the box from tipping.
- Use Moving Paper for Delicate Items: If you have delicate items like formal dresses, suits, or clothes made from sensitive fabrics, it’s a good idea to wrap them before hanging them in the wardrobe boxes. This adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring that your clothes arrive in perfect condition. Wrap each item individually, and gently place them on the metal hanging bars inside the box to prevent wrinkles or damage.
- Filling Any Empty Space in the Boxes: To prevent your wardrobe boxes from shifting during transport, fill any empty spaces in the boxes with small items like scarves, belts, or even soft towels. This helps to stabilize the clothes inside and prevents them from sliding around or getting wrinkled. By making sure there’s no excess space in the box, you’ll keep your items secure and safe throughout the move.
- Sealing the Boxes Securely: Once you’ve packed your wardrobe boxes, the next step is sealing them securely. Use high-quality packing tape to close the flaps of the boxes. Please note that double-taping the bottom of the box provides extra reinforcement. This is especially important for heavier items, as you don’t want the box to give way during the move. Ensuring your boxes are sealed tightly will protect your clothes and keep them safe throughout the moving process.
Additional Tips for Packing Wardrobe Boxes
Labeling Your Wardrobe Boxes Clearly
Label each wardrobe box with a clear description of its contents, such as “Winter Coats” or “Office Attire.” This helps when it’s time to unpack, allowing you to quickly find the items you need. Labeling also helps the movers know where to place each box in your new home.
Packing a Separate Box for Accessories
When packing wardrobe boxes, remember to pack a separate box for accessories like hats, belts, or shoes. This will keep these smaller items organized and easy to find when you’re unpacking. Make sure to label this box as well to avoid any confusion.
Packing a Change of Clothes for the First Night in Your New Home
Set aside a change of clothes for your first night in your new home. Moving can be tiring, and the last thing you want is to dig through boxes to find something to wear. Pack a small bag with comfortable clothes, toiletries, and anything else you might need right away.
Disassembling and Packing Any Wardrobe Components
If your wardrobe includes shelves, rods, or other components, take them apart and pack them carefully. Use bubble wrap or towels to protect fragile parts, and keep screws and small pieces in labeled bags so they’re easy to find when you reassemble your wardrobe.
Don’t Overpack!
A common mistake people make is to put too many clothes or heavy coats and suits in a box, and these boxes cannot withstand this and may break down.
FAQs About Packing Wardrobe Boxes
What size wardrobe boxes should I use?
Choose the size of your wardrobe boxes based on the amount and type of clothing you need to pack. Larger boxes are ideal for bulky items like coats, while smaller boxes work well for lighter clothing.
Do wardrobe boxes come with metal hanging bars?
Yes, wardrobe boxes are equipped with metal hanging bars, or thick cardboard slats, that allow you to hang your clothes securely inside.
How many clothes can fit in a wardrobe box?
Most wardrobe boxes can hold about 2 to 3 feet of hanging clothes, depending on their size and weight.
Are wardrobe boxes sturdy enough for heavy items?
Yes, wardrobe boxes are made from strong, double-walled cardboard and can handle the weight of heavy clothes like winter coats when packed correctly.
Can I reuse wardrobe boxes?
Yes, wardrobe boxes can often be reused if they remain in good condition after your move. Be sure to store them flat to save space.
Do wardrobe boxes require assembly?
Wardrobe boxes do require some assembly, including placing the metal hanging bars inside. However, the process is quick and easy.
Can I pack other items in wardrobe boxes?
While wardrobe boxes are designed for clothes, you can also pack other lightweight items like pillows or towels to fill empty spaces.
Do you need help with your moving project? Our team at Smooth Move People will help get you packed, moved, and unloaded into your new home in no time at all. No matter how big or small your moving project is, we have the experience to get the job done quickly and efficiently, so you can get life started in your new place.
And you don’t need to run all over town to a local store or Home Depot to get your supplies. In addition to great customer service, we have all the supplies you need, including wardrobe boxes, packing tape, paper, and other packing necessities. We offer free move estimates, will deliver your stuff to your new home or storage unit, and do all of the unloading, too. Contact us today for details.
