When preparing for a move, some of the most delicate items you will need to handle are your pieces of upholstered furniture. Many people spend time safely packing glass, kitchenware, and other fragile items, forgetting that upholstered furniture is also fragile in its own unique way. Not only is the fabric on upholstered items delicate but the furniture can also break or become covered with spills and stains.
The good news is that you can prepare a plan to safely move your precious upholstery. Here's how you can safely handle such items during a move.
1. Don't have them cleaned right before moving day
It may make sense to have your upholstery cleaned and prepped before moving day. However, remember that these items will be subjected to dust and occasional spills on moving day. The better approach is to prepare for a thorough cleaning after you arrive at your new destination.
2. Remove removable parts
If your upholstery is bulky, there's a greater risk that the gentle fabric may tear or become chipped and scratched. You can prevent this problem by removing cushions from couches, pillows, and chairs as well as any other removable parts, such as legs. You can then package these parts in separate boxes or containers.
By handling removable items separately, they'll be less susceptible to damage during the move.
3. Use bubble wrap to protect the fabric
A useful packing material to use on moving day is bubble wrap. If you have a precious antique chair or a classy dinner seat, use bubble wrap to cover the edges of the furniture from rips and tears. In particular, wrap the armrests, legs, and other corners to protect them from breakage during transportation.
4. Avoid dragging at all times
When moving heavy items, you should always avoid dragging them across the floor. Dragging can damage the legs of your furniture and the floor of your home. Items on the floor may also hook onto your upholstery and rip its precious fabric. A better approach is to have someone hold each edge and gently lift such items from the floor.
Before lifting, make sure you've prepared a clear path for moving the furniture in/out of the home. This means removing boxes that may be blocking the way and ensuring that your upholstered furniture doesn't rip against any sharp edges. You may also consider using a furniture dolly to safely mount and transport heavy items. Dollies keep your fragile items from the ground and make them easier to move around.
Contact removalists near you to learn more about how you can protect your upholstered furniture during a move.