To pack a kid's room for a move, sort and declutter first, pack toys and books in labeled totes by category, keep a small "comfort tote" with favorites, and set up the room first at the new place. Kids' rooms hold more stuff than any other room, so start earlier than you think.
Where do you start packing a child's room?
Start with a purge. Sort toys into three piles: keep, donate and toss. Involve your child if they are old enough: give them a small number of choices ("pick your ten favorite stuffed animals") rather than an open question. Broken toys and outgrown clothes can go right away.
Then pack the least-used items first: out-of-season clothes, books they have outgrown, collections and art supplies.
How should you organize toys in totes?
Pack by category, not by room, so unpacking is quick:
- Building sets and puzzles: put small parts in zip bags inside a tote, and label the bag.
- Stuffed animals and dress-up: these are light and fill totes without adding weight.
- Books: pack them flat, half a tote at a time, and stop at a weight you can lift.
- Art and school supplies: keep markers, glue and paint capped and bagged.
- Games: bundle boxes with rubber bands and keep lids on.
What about comfort items and bedtime?
Keep a "comfort tote" with a favorite blanket, stuffed animal, pajamas, a night-light and a few books. Carry it in your own car. Do not pack the item your child needs to sleep in a tote that goes on the truck, because delays happen. Label it clearly and open it first.
How do you make the new room feel like home fast?
Set up the child's room first at the new place: bed, bedding and a familiar lamp. Unpack their comfort tote and a few favorite toys, and add the rest gradually. For toddlers, unpack in the same layout as the old room if you can.
What should you keep out of totes?
Keep medications, sharp objects, batteries and anything with liquids out of totes unless sealed and bagged. Keep loose small parts away from younger children while you are packing, and eat down snacks before the move rather than packing them in totes.
See tote packages by home size and book your delivery date.
View Residential PricingFrequently Asked Questions
How many totes do I need for a kid's room?
Plan on 8 to 12 totes for a typical child's room, more if they have lots of toys or books.
When should I pack my child's room?
Start two to three weeks ahead and pack the room last, saving comfort items and daily-use toys for the final days.
How do I get kids involved in packing?
Give them a job: decorating their tote labels, choosing a few favorite toys for the comfort tote, or helping sort donations.
Questions about sizing, coverage, or what's included? Check our FAQ page or email info@nicetotesrental.com.