The first drawer you’ll open in your new place? Probably the one with your pyjamas. Or maybe the kettle cupboard. Either way, packing clothes for a move is one of those tasks that seems simple – until it isn’t. You’ve somehow started with folded piles and ended up with a bin bag full of tangled jumpers and no idea where your gym kit went.
Whether you’re moving house or just swapping postcodes, a bit of forethought goes a long way. This guide walks you through how to pack clothes properly, so your first night in your new home feels like a fresh start, not a rummage sale.
Decide What Deserves to Come With You
Before you reach for the boxes, take stock. Lay everything out. It’s easy to underestimate how much you actually own when it’s all hidden in drawers and wardrobes.
Sort into three piles: what you wear often, what you might donate, and what’s ready to go. Be realistic. That formal dress that’s two sizes too small? Someone else might get more joy from it. Old socks with no partners? Bin them. Once you’ve trimmed things down, packing becomes faster, cheaper, and more satisfying.
Use the Right Packing Materials
Packing clothes isn’t just about stuffing them into whatever you have. Use the right gear, and it’ll save you hassle on the other side.
- Boxes are ideal for folded items like jeans, t-shirts and hoodies
- Wardrobe boxes let you hang your clothes and move them wrinkle-free
- Garment bags are perfect for suits, dresses or anything delicate
- Suitcases and duffle bags can carry heavier items and double as storage
- Vacuum bags are brilliant for bulky coats or off-season clothes
- Bin bags work for a quick fix but choose heavy-duty ones if possible
If you’re using old boxes, check them for rips, water damage, or strange smells. There’s nothing worse than unpacking damp-smelling clothes.
Folding Techniques That Actually Work
There’s no one perfect way to fold. It depends on the item and the space.
- The flat fold works well for bulkier items. Fold sleeves inward, then fold the item into thirds.
- The roll technique saves space in suitcases. Ideal for gym wear and soft fabrics.
- The KonMari method (in short, discarding items that don’t spark joy and then organising the remaining belongings) lets you stand your clothes upright, like filing documents. Great for keeping drawers tidy and visible.
- The fold and roll combo gives you structure without bulk. Fold like normal, then roll tight.
Keep similar items together and stack by category, like pyjamas, jumpers, jeans, so it’s easier to unpack by drawer or shelf.
Hanging Clothes Need Care Too
Some clothes should stay on hangers, especially anything prone to creasing or difficult to fold neatly.
Use non-slip hangers for silk or slippery items. Wardrobe boxes are ideal if you’ve got a fair bit of hanging clothing. For a quick fix, group several hangers, cover them with a bin bag from the bottom up, then tie at the top.
For heirloom or expensive pieces, protect them in proper garment bags and don’t overpack them. Leave a little breathing room to avoid creases.
Keep Clothes in Drawers If You Can
If you’re taking your chest of drawers with you, leave clothes inside. Just secure the drawers with a strap or painter’s tape so they don’t slide open. It saves time and repacking effort. This is especially helpful for undergarments and everyday bits.
Other Smart Packing Tips
- Don’t pack shoes with clothes. You’ll risk scuffs, smells or worse. Keep them in separate boxes or bags.
- Wash everything before you pack. You don’t want to start your new life with a load of laundry.
- Label clearly. Don’t just write ‘clothes’ on a box. Say what’s inside and which room it belongs to.
- Start with off-season clothing. You’re unlikely to need a wool coat in July—pack those items first.
Why Packing Tips Matter in a London Home
Space is tight. Storage is often limited. And your clothes are some of the most-used items in your home. Packing them properly means less creasing, less chaos, and a better start to your new chapter.
If your seasonal items or ‘just for holidays’ gear doesn’t fit in your new wardrobe, there’s always a smarter option nearby.
Keep Your Wardrobe Clutter-Free
Lockit Local offers flexible, lifestyle-friendly storage for the Shepherd’s Bush’s community. Perfect for off-season clothes, formalwear, or just giving your wardrobe a little breathing space.
Join the waitlist today and be the first to access clean, modern, app-powered self storage made for real London living.
