To pack a basement and laundry room, sort everything into keep, donate and toss, remove hazardous chemicals from your move plan, pack tools and seasonal items in labeled totes, and keep laundry supplies for last. Basements hold years of accumulated stuff, so give them extra time.
How do you sort a basement before packing?
Start with a hard purge. Anything you have not used in two years, anything broken, and anything you would not buy again is a candidate to donate or toss. Sort into keep, donate, sell and trash, and set aside a day for a donation drop-off before moving day.
For what you keep, pack by category: holiday decor, camping gear, tools, sports equipment, keepsakes.
What should you not pack in totes or move at all?
Movers and truck rental companies generally will not transport flammable or hazardous items: propane, gasoline, paint thinner, pool chemicals, aerosols, and some cleaning products. Check with your mover, and dispose of them through your local household hazardous waste program.
Leaky bottles of detergent or bleach should be tightly capped, bagged and moved separately, or used up before moving day.
How do you pack tools and hardware?
Tools are heavy. Fill a tote about one-third to one-half full, and keep heavier tools at the bottom. Put small parts like screws and nails in labeled zip bags, and wrap sharp edges with cardboard or towels. Keep power cords bundled and batteries in a separate bag.
How do you pack seasonal and storage items?
- Label totes by category: "Camping," "Holiday Decor," "Sports."
- Pack clothing and bedding for storage in totes with lids latched.
- Keep damp or musty items out of totes until they are fully dry.
- Photograph valuable items, and keep a simple list of what is in each tote.
How do you pack a laundry room?
Use up detergent and cleaning products in the weeks before you move. Pack the iron, drying rack, baskets and folded linens in a tote. Disconnect the washer and dryer according to the manual, drain hoses, and leave appliance moving to professionals or a knowledgeable helper. Keep a few essentials — detergent, dryer sheets, a small basket — in your first-night tote.
See tote packages by home size and book your delivery date.
View Residential PricingFrequently Asked Questions
Can I move paint and cleaning chemicals in totes?
It is best not to. Many movers will not transport them; use them up or dispose of them safely.
How many totes does a basement need?
It varies widely, but a typical finished basement uses 8 to 16 totes; a large unfinished one may need more.
Should I pack the washer and dryer in totes?
No. Appliances move separately, and hoses and cords can be bagged and taped to the machine.
Questions about sizing, coverage, or what's included? Check our FAQ page or email info@nicetotesrental.com.