Having a baby and tackling a move at the same time is the very definition of stress! But even with an infant or newborn, you can pack, move and unpack with ease if you have a plan beforehand.
De-Clutter First
The first step is to purge unnecessary belongings. Anything you no longer need or want, whether because you have outgrown it, it’s broken or you just don’t need it anymore, should be tossed or donated. Moving is always a great opportunity to purge, and with a baby around, the less you have to pack and transport, the better. And the few things you pack now, means you will have fewer items to unpack in the new place, placing less stress on you – and by extension, your baby – later on.
Hire Professionals
You absolutely should hire professional movers, especially with a newborn in the house. They will bring the muscle and logistics to make sure all your stuff makes it from the old home to the new one safely and efficiently. This frees you up to spend more time with your baby so you can address more pressing issues.
Start Packing Early
Start this process as soon as you have a moving date. We all know how demanding babies can be. Even if they sleep most of the day, they still take up a lot of your time and energy (in a good way of course). Pack early and pack smart. Here are some tips:
- Separate and pack all clothes that you don’t need right now, such as seasonal clothing. Then, go by clothing type, such as formal wear and outgrown baby clothes (better yet, donate these), then lastly pack the clothing you will need for the next few months.
- Keep items in boxes within the room they came from, until the last minute. Label all boxes by content, and be sure to mark what’s baby safe and what’s not. This way, when you go to unpack them, you can open the boxes that are baby safe when your child is awake, and leave the unsafe items for when they are sleeping.
- Pack smaller items such as bathroom toiletries and makeup in plastic zipper baggies.
- Hire a professional packer if you don’t have the time or patience to do this yourself.
Clean the New Home
Before bringing your baby into the new home, make sure you give it a good cleaning before or right after you arrive. This way, you can take your time and clean in the safest manner possible. If you can’t do this, hire a cleaning service.
Baby-Proof the Home
Prior to unpacking, make sure you baby proof the house before you bring the baby into the residence, especially if you have a curious toddler that just started walking or crawling. Close off one room or area with gates to place potentially hazardous items, as well as an area that’s safe to place the baby while you work. Here are some tips:
- Unpack each box as you go, placing all items in their designated spot and discarding packing materials and the boxes before moving onto the next one.
- Secure large furniture such as dressers and entertainment systems to the wall.
- Block unsafe spots with safety gates.
- Place child locks on drawers and cabinets.
- Cover electrical outlets.
- Fence in the pool.
- Invest in baby monitors and a good security system.
Unpack at Bedtime
Your baby needs your undivided attention when he or she is awake. You should wait until naptime or bedtime to tackle the unpacking process. Or, if you can, hire a sitter to take care of the child while you work. Unpacking with a baby in your arms or in a sling is dangerous.
Separate Baby Essentials
It’s wise to pack baby items like playpens, cribs, swings and soft toys separately so you can easily access them right away. Take them with you in your own vehicle if you can. This will allow you to set up a safe space for the baby as soon as you arrive.
Keep Up a Routine
Try to stick to your usual routine as much as possible, such as feeding and napping schedules. By keeping a consistent routine, your baby won’t feel as stressed and out of sorts, and neither will you, says Moving.com. Nothing is worse than a cranky baby who won’t settle down, and a stressed out parent who knows how much still needs to be done in terms of packing and unpacking!
Contact Olde World Movers
Don’t get stressed with your upcoming move. Hire our professionals instead. We would be happy to provide you with a free quote on moving services in Euless, Frisco or Fort Worth today.
