How to Pack a Laundry Room

Overview

Why the Laundry Room Needs Extra Attention

The laundry room often gets pushed to the very end of the packing to-do list. Because it is usually a small space, it can seem like an easy job. However, this room holds heavy appliances, bulky accessories, and liquids that can easily spill inside a moving truck. Packing this space safely requires a clear plan, especially when dealing with the washing machine and strong cleaning products. By taking a step-by-step approach, you can prevent water leaks, messy spills, and damaged equipment on moving day.

Sort and Declutter

Step 1: Sort, Purge, and Declutter

Before putting a single item into a box, take inventory of what you actually need to keep. Moving trucks have strict safety regulations against transporting certain hazardous materials, including bleach, ammonia, and aerosol cans. Save yourself the effort of packing things that will ultimately have to be thrown away.

• Safely dispose of empty or nearly empty detergent bottles.
• Give away excess cleaning supplies to neighbors or friends.
• Check the manufacturer guidelines on your washer and dryer to see if they are worth the cost of moving compared to buying new ones.

If you're unsure where to start with the purging process, take a look at our comprehensive guide on how to declutter before moving.

If you discover broken drying racks, old ironing boards, or an outdated appliance you don't want to transport, our Junk Removal service can efficiently handle the heavy lifting and clear those items out of your way.

Gather Packing Supplies

Step 2: Gather Heavy-Duty Packing Materials

Laundry room items are either extremely heavy (like warehouse-sized bottles of liquid detergent) or uniquely shaped. Standard, worn-out cardboard boxes can easily tear under the weight of liquid laundry supplies.

To prevent boxes from breaking open during transit, prioritize durable packing supplies. We highly recommend using plastic reusable moving boxes for this specific room. They are highly durable, waterproof, and will completely protect the rest of your belongings in the unfortunate event of a detergent leak. To make your prep even easier, we are delivering these sturdy boxes—along with moving dollies to help you easily roll heavy items—directly to your front door.

• Use smaller containers for liquids so they do not become too heavy to safely lift.
• Have plenty of packing tape and sealable plastic bags on hand to isolate liquid containers.

Prepare Appliances

Step 3: Prep Your Washer and Dryer

Washers and dryers require specific preparation to move safely. You cannot simply unplug them and load them onto a truck. If you are handling the appliances yourself, give yourself at least 24 to 48 hours before moving day to properly prep them.

• Disconnect and Drain: Turn off the water supply, disconnect the hoses, and completely drain all water from the washing machine to prevent mold or freezing during transit. Keep the hoses stored in a bag taped to the back of the machine.
• Clean and Dry: Run a clean cycle on your washer, then leave the door open for 24 hours so the interior completely dries. Thoroughly clean the lint trap and exhaust vent on your dryer.
• Secure the Drum: Washing machine drums must be immobilized using transit bolts (often called shipping bolts). These prevent catastrophic internal suspension damage while the machine bounces in the moving vehicle.
• Tape and Wrap: Tape the appliance doors shut and wrap the electrical cords so they don't drag on the floor or become a tripping hazard. Wrap the machines in thick moving blankets to prevent scratching.

Pack Liquids

Step 4: Safely Pack Detergents and Liquids

Liquid spills are the single biggest risk when packing a laundry room. A spilled bottle of fabric softener can easily ruin the contents of even other boxes under or next to the spilled box. Be incredibly thorough when securing liquids and powders.

• Remove the cap of each liquid bottle, place a piece of plastic wrap tightly over the opening, and screw the cap back on over the plastic.
• Place all liquid bottles upright into sealed plastic bags before boxing them.
• Tape the tops of powdered detergent boxes shut to prevent the powder from dusting out during transit.
• Keep the boxes containing liquids clearly labeled with "THIS END UP," "FRAGILE," and "LAUNDRY ROOM."

Pack Accessories

Step 5: Pack Ironing Boards, Hampers, and Accessories

The remaining items in your laundry room are usually oddly shaped but fairly easy to pack if you treat them efficiently.

• Ironing boards: Fold them completely flat, tape the legs securely to the board so they don't unexpectedly spring open, and wrap the entire board in a moving blanket.
• Irons: Empty all water from the steam chamber of your iron. Let it dry completely, wrap it in bubble wrap, and pack it in a small, well-cushioned box.
• Hampers and Baskets: Don't move empty space! Rigid hampers can be used as moving boxes themselves. Fill them with lightweight items like pillows, winter coats, or towels, and securely tape the lid shut.

Final Thoughts

Wrapping Up Your Laundry Room Prep

Packing a laundry room doesn't have to be overwhelming if you respect the hazards and break the process down into manageable steps. Prioritize draining your appliances early and securing your liquids properly to avoid messy surprises on the road.

If you’re finalizing the details of your move and want to review your options to ensure a smooth transition, you can easily request a moving estimate to help plan your timeline and budget ahead of moving day.