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7 tips for moving homes

Moving homes can be super stressful – even when it’s only a couple of miles away. But we’re here to help. Check out our top tips for a stress-free move.

Three young people with lots of moving boxes, bags and furniture, obviously moving into a new room. Big windows in the back.

1. Declutter and donate

There’s no point in moving things that you were going to get rid of in any case. Keep only those things that add value to your life, and donate the rest. Donating doesn’t have to be complicated, try asking friends if they need something.

A blue FRAKTA carrier bag, large

2. Start packing now

Whether you follow a strict sort-by-category method or you prefer packing room by room, start packing sooner rather than later. You won’t need your Christmas lights or your spare bedding in your new house immediately, so fill up your boxes with these things first.

Four transparent SAMLA boxes in the bedroom

3. Pack to unpack, load to unload

The thirty minutes you spend on logistics before the move can save you hours if not days once you arrive on the other side. Make sure you organise, pack and load according to how you want to unpack.

A transparent grey-blue RYKTA storage box with lid
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Lina Aldén, Interior Designer at IKEA

4. Everything has its place

To make settling in easier, figure out where to place your big furniture first. You might need to move them around a few times before you find the perfect spot. Try to think about your routines and patterns to figure out your ‘flow’.

Two KOMPLEMENT pull-out trays with inserts holding accessories like jewellery and belts. A lint roller is on a shelf above.

5. New house, new you

Maybe you’ve been wanting to lead a more sustainable life. Or perhaps you strive to be more organised. Whatever you want to improve, there’s no better time than when you are moving homes.

A white SKUBB box in the home office

6. Make it feel like home

Little things like temporary lighting, bathroom essentials, or a mobile wardrobe can help you settle in quicker. Cook a favourite meal or take out your cosiest blankets and pillows to instantly feel at home.

A square glass/plastic IKEA 365+ food container with lid

7. Reuse, recycle and get creative

You don’t have to throw away all your moving supplies. If you can’t recycle something, get creative and repurpose it. You’ll be surprised how many lives a plastic container can have.

A transparent SAMLA box outside