Packing Away, The Preparation Phase (Part One)

Well we are closing in on that time of year, you know, the end of the school year, the beginning of summer, and moving (again). How many times have I done that now? 68? Probably an exaggeration, but I certainly feel well-seasoned in the process. So let's talk about favorite packing tips. This is the beginning of a three-part series, so be on the lookout for the coming posts!

• Keep it fresh:

1. Wash things before you put them in boxes, especially if they will be staying in the boxes for a while. In my case, apartment stuff has a special corner of the basement in which it will hang out for a few months before I start my big girl accounting job in the fall! When I open those boxes in my new apartment I want to be delighted by the scents that smell like "home." So in preparation for this, I like to wash the items that are continually used: favorite jackets that are constantly being rotated up to bat (what? it's baseball season), accessories (scarves, gloves, hats, etc.), and dishes. For example, the fruit bowl would prefer not smelling like 4 month old banana residue. A quick wash and you'll be good to go.
2. For things that don't need to be washed, consider making them aroma-tastic too! (Here at Arranging Magnolia, making up words is a necessity when currently existing words just don't suffice).  When you are packing away linens (sheets, blankets, pillows, towels), slip a  dryer sheet in the box, too. On unpacking day, your cozies will all be smelling delightful, making your new place feel even more welcoming! This little trick also works for clothing that is being stashed away.

• Eliminate before you move:

1. The weeks before moving are the perfect time to pare down the items you just don't need anymore, rather than move them to yet another place. Take a quick look in your closets, cabinets, shelves, drawers, and under the bed. If you haven't used it in a year, you may never use it. Think about it. I have begun consolidating bottles of hand soap, and making sure to finish off the partial bottle of shampoo!
2. Keep a box in an inconspicuous place in your home/apartment, and place items in there as you clean out and pack up. You will enjoy having everything consolidated, and ready to donate, or disperse to your friends

• Make a list of move-out tasks:

1. Clean out the fridge, preferably by eating the current contents
2. Clean the apartment
3. Turn-in keys
4. Sign necessary forms

This is the beginning of the moving process. Stay tuned for parts 2 and 3!