Packing up all your belongings to move to your new house can be stressful. Then, once you get in your new house unpacking can seem like a monster you just don’t want to tackle. However, with a little organization and taking one thing at a time, you could be unpacked and be able to enjoy your home in no time! Plus, with the holidays coming up, you will definitely want to be unpacked as soon as possible. So, check out these 11 steps to getting unpacked before the holidays!
Pack a “Day 1” Box
This “Day 1” box is designed to get you through the first 24 – 48 hours in your new house. So, it should contain all your essentials like pajamas, contact solution, and phone chargers. Basically, whatever you typically bring to a hotel is what you will need for your first few days. Also, make sure that your “Day 1” box contains a few box cutters, you will surely need to cut open a few boxes these next few days.
Prep the New House
Create a clean canvas at your new house. The best time to do this is before all your stuff arrives. Ensure that the floors are spotless, and the counters are cleaned. You will want a clean slate to go along with your new home.
Take Inventory
We know you are probably ready to start unpacking but before you dismiss your movers, give everything a once over. Don’t sign anything from the movers or shipping company until you inspect your packages. Although this may seem like a pain, it is well worth it. Once you sign, you are accepting their state of delivery. The last thing you want to do is sign and then realize that one of the boxes was damaged and possibly some of your belongings.
Do Some Laundry
As soon as you get into your new house, do a load of laundry that consists of towels and bed linens. That way you are ready for your first shower and sleep in your new house.
Purge
This should be done before you pack, but if you didn’t, take this time to purge before unpacking. Start a donation pile so all the things you don’t find useful anymore can be something for somebody else. If you haven’t worn your high school letterman jacket since the 80’s or 90’s, it may be time to throw it away.
Create an “Elsewhere Bin”
The purpose of the “elsewhere bin” is to place it in each room as you unpack. If you come across something that you thought would look great in the living room but have since decided that you would rather have it in the dining room, you can place it in the elsewhere bin. This prevents you from getting distracted and keeps you working on the room you are currently in. Then, when you are done, you can head to the other room.
Unpack the Kitchen
Ordering pizza and take out can get old pretty fast. So, unpacking your kitchen so you can use it will go a long way. Start by unpacking the items you use daily like your cutlery. Then, move on to your plates, cups, and glasses. Keeping the cutlery in the drawer next to the dishwasher, pots, and pans near the stove, and plates & glasses in the upper cabinets is a good idea.
Move on to the Bathroom
To start, unpack the shower curtain, shampoo and conditioner, body wash, and clean towels. You can unpack your other bathroom gear later.
It’s Not Going to Be Perfect
Perfect takes time and, in order to get unpacked fast, you need to be able to move fast. Loosely arrange each room by placing large, already assembled items where you think they should go. Getting each room unpacked and set up is really all you need to do. Once you are done you can go through each room again but spend a little more time getting things exactly how you want them.
Leave the Garage for Last
Don’t try to unpack your garage and storage spaces right away. Since they are typically pass through areas of the house you can take your time getting everything set up.
