I’m sure you’ve heard plenty of tips on how to pack for a move. But what about tips for unpacking after a move? This phase can be just as unpleasant and just as hard to get through.
So here are some tips to help you unpack. Read on to find out more about how to tackle this task efficiently.
Plan the distribution of boxes
Moving days are hectic. Chances are you’re in a hurry to unload the truck or van as soon as possible. It may be tempting to place all your moving boxes near the entrance and organize them later. However, we advise against this. Instead, take the time to place the boxes where they belong.
Any labeling system you have come up with when packing for the move will be a great help here. Ideally, each box should be properly labeled with the room it belongs in (if not, it should be labeled with a description of its contents). Save yourself the hassle of having to rummage through everything again by bringing each box straight from the vehicle to their designated room. This way, unpacking will be neater.
First and foremost, clean
Before a new buyer or tenant arrives, homes must be free of dirt and grime. However, there is rarely time in the midst of all the hustle and bustle to make sure the entire house has been thoroughly cleaned.
With this in mind, before you start unpacking after a move, it’s a good idea to do some cleaning yourself. While unloading the truck, have cleaning supplies on hand, such as paper towels, all-purpose cleaners and a broom. It may be one of the first items you have to unpack.
Arrange rooms according to their importance
When it’s time to unpack, you’ll want to do it systematically. We recommend unpacking in order of importance, room by room. This means unpacking the entire room at once, rather than grabbing what you need and leaving the rest for later. Yes, it’s a heavier task at first, but you’ll have fewer boxes of non-essential items lying around long after you’ve settled in.
As for the order of unpacking, it’s best to start with the bedrooms. Chances are you’ll be tired after the move and want to get to sleep early. This way, your bed will be ready for you. Next, the kitchen and, lastly, the living room.
Then, you can move on to the less used areas, such as the dining room, the guest bedroom, or any other. Last but not least, you can work on any additional storage space, such as a basement or garage.
Order is essential
There is one golden rule to remember when unpacking: everything has its place. This means you should have a basic notion of where you want to put everything you take out of the box in your new home. And you should put it back right away. Any items you are in doubt about should be returned to the package.
Once you’ve been living in your home for a while, it’s time to take a close look at the items that are still in boxes. Think about whether you really need them – do they really belong in your new home, and do you miss them every day? If you answered no to most of these questions, consider donating or discarding them.
Now is the time to further cut down on clutter. There is no point in keeping half-empty moving boxes indefinitely. Nor does it make sense to keep items that you will probably never use again. It’s best to give them to someone who can put them to good use.
You may be interested: How to stay organized after a move?
