Should you unpack your pots and pans or your cleaning supplies first? While your stomach may vote for the former, do not listen to it! Listen to the experts at Movers.com.
Last time I moved I made a horrible mistake, which turned into a fun little game we called: Pick a box - and whatever you're looking for is not there.
Yeah, I totally forgot to label my boxes - true story! Thinking about how the first thing I unpacked at my new apartment was a fancy pot I've never used in my life is kinda funny now - but it was certainly not funny then. What I needed then was cleaning supplies so I could at least give the cat one room to explore while we cleaned the rest. (Yes, the cat is always the priority. If you have one, you know!)
Anyway, not labeling your boxes - 1/10, do not recommend. Another thing I don't recommend is not knowing where your tools are - you really don't want to wait on the handyman for something you can easily fix yourself. Even if you're not that handy.
But, I'm getting ahead of myself. The point is, I did the research I should have done a year ago and now I have expert tips on the top five things you will need when moving into your new home. If you haven't figured it out by now, I'm not a moving expert - I got my info from experts though: Movers.com.
They have guides on everything that has to do with moving and can provide free estimates, too - but more on that later.
Right now, here are the top five things you should have on hand the moment they enter your new home:
Ideally, you won't need to use your toolbox immediately at your new home, especially if it's brand-new. However, it's still a good idea to have it on hand. If there's a small problem and you can DIY it, why not? It will be much faster and cheaper than calling a professional - even though today that's super easy to do. Plus, you may literally need to take care of something immediately.
Basic tools like screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches could save the day! And all you need to do is label the box and make sure it's easily accessible.
I know, I know... you just packed up a full house of stuff, traveled for however long to your new destination, and here I am telling you to clean! It's not fair - you deserve to collapse on your sofa and watch TV for the foreseeable future. But, unfortunately, we're adults and we have adulting to do - which means it's time to get the vacuum and the sponges and get to work.
It's best to pack all your cleaning supplies in a labeled box, or boxes, and unpack them as soon as possible. Before you even think about unpacking other stuff and arranging the furniture, clean your new home thoroughly. Start from the top and work your way down. Good luck!
Okay, now that your home is clean as a whistle, it's time to start unpacking room by room. And, if you want a nice home-cooked meal for all your troubles, it's best to start with the kitchen. Which is why it's important to have these boxes clearly labeled too. (Are you sensing a pattern?)
If you do that, you'll have no trouble finding your favorite pots, pans, and cutlery for your very first meal at your new home. And well deserved, too!
After all that hard work and a hearty meal, the best thing to do is to hit the shower - and that's why the bathroom is the number 2 room you should unpack. The good news is, most people don't have that much stuff in the bathroom so this should go pretty fast.
I do want to point out though that your personal hygiene items and toilet paper should be packed in your essentials bag and unpacked on arrival... for obvious reasons.
Okay, you had your dinner, you took a shower - and now you're ready to sleep till noon. You've earned it. You just need to unpack your bedroom first! Well, maybe not all of it - just the essential stuff, like the bedding.
Pro tip: if you're moving long-distance, chances are your movers won't arrive with you - so packing an air mattress is a great idea. It sure beats sleeping on the floor. (No matter what The Lumineers say - and I love that song.)
And that's it - you're done. Well, you will be if you follow these tips. And if you need more tips on packing, moving, driving a truck, or anything else moving-related, Movers.com has a whole library of resources. Plus, they offer free moving estimates from up to seven local movers.
Whether you decide to hire professional movers or DIY the whole thing, the cleaning and unpacking will most likely fall onto you. Unless you're willing to splurge and get the full-service experience, and pay someone to clean your new home, too!
