You have read countless articles and blogs about what to do before the move, which tips work for first-time homebuyers, and how to make your kid comfortable after a move. However, does anyone really talk about the first week in your new home?
Your head does not stop spinning just because the movers pulled into your new driveway. One of the first thoughts is, “What should I unpack first?”
It’s typically followed by, “I hope I didn’t forget anything…”
To keep that stressful situation from unfolding, here is Brunswick Crossing’s list of essential items that everyone tends to forget when moving:
Bathroom supplies. Nothing's worse than going to the bathroom and realizing you don’t have what you need. Stock up on toilet paper and hand soap, and make sure you have a few towels readily available – one for your hands and one for your body post-shower. Speaking of showers, it’s not a bad idea to grab travel-size shampoo, conditioner, and soap and a shower curtain at the store to hold your family over. A basic first-aid kit and a first night suitcase (including daily medications, a change of clothes, cosmetics and hair supplies, etc.) should be on the list, too.
Bedroom basics. Light bulbs, phone and laptop chargers, spare batteries, and an extra set of bedding should be on the “to buy” or “unpack first” list.
Garage go-tos. Moving requires more than just physical strength. New homeowners should have a pair of sturdy scissors, a basic tool kit, flashlight, and duct tape on-hand.
Kitchen fundamentals. One thing that's great about moving to a new home is that friendly new neighbors might welcome you to the community with homemade dishes for dinner. This is especially helpful when you have yet to unpack the pots and pans or go grocery shopping. Purchase enough plastic plates, utensils, and cups to hold your family over for a few nights.
Also, tackle leftovers with sandwich and freezer Ziploc bags, plastic wrap, wax paper, and aluminum foil. Not to mention paper towels, garbage bags, and cleaning sponges make a quick clean up. If you're extra prepared, dishwashing liquid or soap packets are also extremely helpful.
Laundry essentials. It is finally time to do your first load of laundry in your new home, but wait. There is no laundry detergent, fabric softener, or dryer sheets. Maybe you even need bleach for a fresh white load. Do not forget to purchase these few items before you get your clothes dirty.
Living room necessities. You remembered the paint and brushes for the walls. You unpacked the picture frames and organized the furniture. Your hard work has paid off because your living room looks like a picture-perfect scene from a model home tour – until the first week passes. Now you need carpet or hardwood floor cleaner, window cleaner, Clorox wipes, all-purpose cleaner, furniture polish, and more cleaning supplies. Maybe you brought a mop or broom, but these necessities should be one of the first items you unpack.
These packing tips for moving may be a bit overwhelming, so tackle it by figuring out what you have and what you need. Like we said if you brought a few cleaning supplies, a first week suitcase, and other essentials from your old home, you’re halfway there. Now you need a quick grocery list of necessities like laundry supplies, plastic kitchenware, and bathroom basics.
