When packing for a move, it’s surprising how many things you forget you need when moving out, from spare lightbulbs to basic kitchen utensils. Relocating can be an exciting but stressful event.
Amidst the whirlwind of moving, it’s easy to overlook the essentials. From toiletries to cleaning supplies and basic tools, ensure you pack everything with our often-forgotten household items checklist. Streamline your move and keep everyday life running smoothly!
Things People Forget When Moving
While big-ticket items like furniture and electronics are easy to remember, smaller, everyday essentials often slip through the cracks. By planning ahead and creating a checklist of these often-forgotten items, you can ensure a smoother transition into your new home and avoid unnecessary stress.
What do people need to remember when moving out? Well, the honest answer is many things! Items like phone charges, power tools, coffee pots, and coasters are easily forgettable when you rush and are preoccupied with other important moving tasks.
As you settle into your new home, craving a comforting cup of coffee or tea, you realize that your favorite mug is nowhere to be found. But it’s not just about the mug—amidst the whirlwind of moving, several other essential items easily slip your mind.
Basic Kitchen Supplies
When moving, it’s easy to forget basic kitchen supplies like plates, utensils, glasses, cups, and pots and pans. Make sure you’ve packed enough for all members of your household and for everyday use. Pack them in smaller moving boxes with packing paper or a divider to keep them safe and protected during transportation.
Toiletries
Toiletries are often the last thing on our minds during a move. This includes soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, toilet paper, and towels. Don’t forget these essential items that you use every day. Other toiletries you should add to your list are:
- Razors and shaving cream
- Hairbrush or comb
- Facial cleanser
- Moisturizer
- Deodorant
- Body wash
- Lotions
- Sunscreen
- Nail clippers
Cleaning and Maintenance Supplies
During a move, it’s easy to overlook cleaning and maintenance supplies. However, keeping your new space clean will be challenging without essential items like a broom, cleaning cloths, cleaning products, and trash bags. Here’s a list of cleaning and maintenance supplies that people often forget when moving:
- All-purpose cleaner
- Glass cleaner
- Dish soap
- Laundry detergent
- Sponges or scrub brushes
- Trash bags
- Broom and dustpan
- Vacuum cleaner
- Mop and bucket
- Cleaning rags or microfiber cloths
- Toilet brush and toilet bowl cleaner
- Paper towels
- Batteries
- Extension cords
- Duct tape
Lights and Lightbulbs
In the hustle and bustle of moving, it’s easy to forget the importance of proper lighting. Be sure to pack flashlights, desk lamps, floor lamps, and extra lightbulbs. You want to find yourself in a new space with adequate lighting, especially during those first few nights.
Basic Tools
Having a basic toolkit on hand can be a lifesaver when you’re settling into a new home. Remember essentials like a hammer, screwdriver set, pliers, and measuring tape. These tools will come in handy for assembling furniture, hanging pictures, or making minor repairs.
First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere, so it’s crucial to have a well-stocked first aid kit readily available. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and adhesive tape. You never know when you might need it; being prepared can make all the difference.
Important Documents
Amidst the chaos of moving, it’s easy to misplace or forget essential documents. Make sure to gather items like:
- Identification documents
- Birth certificates
- Passports
- Insurance policies
Also, remember to bring any other relevant paperwork related to your new home. Keep these documents secure and easily accessible during the move.
Pet Supplies
If you have furry friends, pay attention to their needs during the move. Pack enough food, water, bowls, toys, and pet medications. Moving can be stressful for animals, so having familiar items on hand can help keep them comfortable and calm during the transition. Don’t forget to bring:
- Pet food (with extra for transition)
- Water and food bowls
- Litter box and litter (for cats)
- Leash and collar or harness (for dogs)
- Pet carrier or crate
The Importance of Remembering Essential Household Items
Keeping things accessible and organized until the end will simplify your move and set the stage for a comfortable new home. Remember: paying attention to these small details can turn a chaotic move into a seamless transition. That is why it’s crucial to have a to-do list when moving.
We hope the things highlighted in this blog will make it onto your to-do list and that you’ll successfully check them off when you finally arrive at your new home. And if you’re thinking about decorating your new space, we have something great for that, too—read our article on Feng Shui decoration and discover all the necessary tricks and tips to make your new home shine.