When it comes to moving, the list of purchases to make it all possible just begins to grow and grow. And grow. And then you think you have enough of everything when it turns out that you don’t. So even though you did a really great job at rustling up boxes anywhere and everywhere you can find them, you still find yourself running to Lowe’s three and four times for just a couple more…and then just a couple more.
And/or you go to WalMart for some big plastic totes, because those are useful anyway, right? But then you need a couple more. Buying bubble wrap, poly bags and packing paper can wind up breaking the bank, especially if you move every couple of years. I am here to tell you that there are probably several items you already own that you can use as packaging supplies for your next move. Not feeling convinced? Let’s take a look…
…In your linen closet. This is the most obvious and first on your list of “homegrown packaging supplies”. Keep your towels, sheets, etc. on hand when you are packing up your breakables. Picture frames. Kitchen goods. Wrap your extra blankets around smaller pieces of furniture, which will also save you big time if you are using a moving company because they WILL charge you for the use of their moving blankets (they call it renting), which they WILL automatically use to protect anything and everything they are moving for you (they call it liability).
…In your closet. Wardrobe boxes are super expensive. Super nice, but super expensive. Use your clothes to protect other breakables and random odds and ends. Clothes are especially helpful packaging supplies when moving oddly shaped items that need a box but then leave too much open space. Also, move your clothes in your drawers to save on boxes. Use the body bag method for the clothes in your closets. Use your luggage to pack stuff in too!
…In your pantry. Use Ziploc bags to make your own air pouches. Said what? It’s true! Blow them up, seal them, and then seal them again with a line of tape. These are perfect to use for fragile glassware. And you can technically even use them as Ziploc bags again after you let the air out, if you feel so inclined to spend your time doing so. I’ve even heard of people popping popcorn and using it as packaging. Not necessarily my style, but good in a pinch I’m sure. You could even double bag other items like bags of rice and beans and use them to fill nooks and crannies from other boxes.