Fortress of Fragile: How to Pack Dishes for Moving

Moving day. Two simple words that can evoke a whirlwind of emotions – excitement for a new chapter, trepidation about the unknown, and perhaps a touch of dread for the packing process. Among the most anxiety-inducing items to pack? Dishes. Those cherished plates, bowls, and glasses hold memories and deserve a safe journey to your new home. Fear not, intrepid mover! This guide equips you with the knowledge and techniques to transform your fragile friends into a fortress that can withstand the bumps and jostles of relocation.

Gather Your Arsenal:

• ​Moving Boxes: Opt for sturdy cardboard boxes in various sizes. Smaller, heavier dishes require smaller boxes for better weight distribution, while larger, lighter items can go in bigger boxes.
• Packing Paper: Packing paper is your loyal shield against breakage. Invest in a generous amount for cushioning and layering.
• Bubble Wrap: For particularly delicate items, bubble wrap adds an extra layer of protection.
• Packing Tape: Secure your boxes firmly with high-quality packing tape.
• Permanent Markers: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to at your new destination.
• Scissors: Cut packing paper and bubble wrap to size.
• Dish Towels or Packing Peanuts (Optional): Dish towels can provide additional cushioning, while packing peanuts can fill voids in larger boxes.

Prepping Your Platoon: 

​Now that you have your supplies, it's time to prepare your dishes for their move:

• Wash and Dry Thoroughly: Ensure all dishes are clean and completely dry before packing. Moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth during the move.
• Remove Loose Parts: Detachable handles, lids, and knobs should be wrapped separately and packed in a designated box to avoid getting lost or causing damage to other dishes.
• Discard the Weak: Be honest with yourself. Are there any chipped, cracked, or broken dishes? Moving day is a good time to say goodbye to these potential hazards. Donate them or dispose of them responsibly.

The Art of Layering:

​Packing dishes is all about creating a safe haven within the box. Here's the battle plan:

1. Line the Box: Generously line the bottom of the box with packing paper, creating a cushioned nest for your dishes.
2. Wrap It Up: For plates and bowls, use the "individual soldier" approach. Lay out a sheet of packing paper, place a single plate or bowl in the center, and fold the paper over the edges to create a protective envelope. Repeat for each plate or bowl.
3. Stand Tall or Lay Flat? Plates and shallow bowls can be packed vertically or horizontally. Experiment to see what offers the best space optimization and stability. Deeper bowls are best packed upright for added support.
4. The Stacking Strategy: For plates, avoid creating tall, unstable stacks. Instead, create short, staggered layers, with packing paper filling any gaps between plates to prevent them from shifting and clinking.
5. Cupped with Care: For mugs and glasses, use crumpled packing paper to create a supportive nest within the box. You can also nestle smaller glasses inside larger ones for space efficiency, but be sure to pad them generously with packing paper to prevent them from touching.
6. Fill the Gaps: Once you've packed the main dishes, use crumpled packing paper or packing peanuts to fill any empty spaces in the box. A tightly packed box minimizes movement and reduces the risk of breakage.
7. Seal the Deal: Securely close the box with packing tape, reinforcing the bottom and seams for added strength.

Special Considerations:

The Final Frontier:

With a little planning and these essential packing techniques, your dishes can conquer the journey to your new home, ready to continue creating culinary memories for years to come. So, grab your packing supplies, channel your inner knight, and transform those fragile friends into a fortress of resilience. Happy moving!