Moving can be stressful enough without opening a box of clothes only to find everything is wrinkled. While some creases are inevitable, there are a few simple tricks to help minimize them and keep your wardrobe looking fresh. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, here are some great ways to avoid wrinkles when storing your clothes during a move.

Purge Before Packing

Before packing any shirts, pants, or other pieces of your wardrobe, take the time to sort through your collection. Moving is the perfect opportunity to let go of items you no longer need. The fewer clothes you have, the easier it is to pack them neatly.

Overpacked boxes are just one of the many ways your clothes can become wrinkled or musty. Separate your clothes into categories. “Keep”, “Donate”, and “Sell” are simple groupings. Not only does purging help cut down on moving, but it also allows you to be intentional with your packing, which goes a long way in wrinkle prevention.

Try Different Packing Styles

Not all clothing is created equal. Different items may require different methods for the best packing and storing efficiency. Check out a few of our favorites:

1. Garment Bags: Garment bags are easy to use and a simple solution for hanging items like suits, dresses, or any clothing you’d prefer to keep wrinkle-free and ready to wear. These allow your clothes to stay on hangers and avoid bunching up.
2. The KonMari Method: This viral method was popularized after being featured on Netflix. Marie Kondo describes the perfect way to care for your home and clothing efficiently. Check out how to fold following the KonMari Method here!
3. Packed with Structured Support: If you have spare luggage, use it for structured items like blazers or button-downs. The padding and shape of the suitcase can help clothing hold its form.
4. Rolling Method: Rolling clothes tightly instead of folding can minimize wrinkles and save space. This method is perfect for casual wear, like T-shirts, jeans, workout clothes, and other cotton-blend materials.

Don’t forget to fill any empty spaces in boxes or suitcases with clothing that may not be as quick to wrinkle, such as socks, scarves, or other small accessories.

Avoid Unpacking Procrastination

Even if you pack everything perfectly, letting your clothes sit in boxes for days or weeks after your move will likely lead to wrinkling and creasing. The longer they stay compressed, the deeper the creases become. Make unpacking your clothes one of your priorities.

It can be hard to get inspired to unpack. However, it’s essential to unpack shortly after moving. Set up your closet early, and hang or gently steam clothes right after unpacking to keep them fresh and wrinkle-free. With intentional packing, organization should be simple and easy to knock out once you arrive at your new place.

Keeping your clothes wrinkle-free during a move doesn’t require magic—just a bit of planning and smart packing. By decluttering first, choosing the right packing methods, and unpacking shortly after your move, you can save yourself hours of ironing and frustration. Your future self will thank you!