As professional movers at Next Stop Movers, we’ve helped thousands of individuals and families transition smoothly into their new homes. We consistently observe how much space poorly packed clothing can waste. Knowing how to fold clothes for packing is more than just a convenience—it’s a critical technique that can save time, space, and even money during your relocation. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through efficient folding techniques, including how to roll, fold, and organize your clothes with minimal wrinkles, all while maximizing space. Whether it’s your everyday attire, baby clothing, or items going into a suitcase, we’ve got practical, professional advice to streamline your move.
Why Proper Clothes Folding Matters When Moving
Packing clothes for relocation might seem like an afterthought, but improper folding often leads to overstuffed boxes, wrinkled garments, and unnecessary stress. We’ve seen firsthand what a difference efficient folding techniques to save space when moving can make—our clients are always surprised at how much more they can fit when garments are folded or rolled correctly. From saving money on moving supplies to protecting delicate fabrics, folding smartly pays off.
Types of Clothes and How to Fold Them Correctly
1. Everyday Clothing (T-shirts, Jeans, Shorts)
For these items, use the rolling method. Rolling clothes not only saves space but also minimizes wrinkles. This technique is especially effective for packing in suitcases and moving boxes.
2. Formal Wear and Dress Clothes
These require more care to avoid creasing. We recommend folding them with tissue paper in between layers or using garment bags. To fold clothes for packing without wrinkles, lay each item flat, button all buttons, and fold minimally.
3. Baby Clothes
Wondering how to fold baby clothes? Use a modified KonMari method—fold into thirds lengthwise, then fold in half. This method keeps small garments compact and easy to stack inside bins or boxes.
4. Bulky Items (Sweaters, Hoodies)
These should be folded flat and stored at the bottom of boxes. Rolling them often takes up too much room. Stack them with lighter clothing on top.
How to Fold and Roll Clothes for Packing
Rolling and folding are powerful packing hacks when executed efficiently. At Next Stop Movers, we often advise combining the two for optimal results, especially when folding clothes for travel or relocation.
Steps to Fold and Roll Clothing Items
- Lay the clothing flat: Remove any wrinkles and lay the garment face down on a clean, firm surface.
- Fold the sleeves inward: For t-shirts and dresses, fold sleeves toward the center of the back.
- Fold the garment vertically: Fold in half lengthwise, then again if necessary, depending on space constraints.
- Start rolling tightly from the bottom: Avoid loose gathers—tight rolls minimize wrinkles and maximize space.
Efficient Folding Techniques to Save Space When Moving
Let’s look at several efficient folding techniques that our moving crews trust for every job, whether you’re packing clothes for relocation across town or across the country.
The Bundle Wrapping Method
This is perfect for minimizing wrinkling. Clothes are layered, largest to smallest, and wrapped around a central core (like a pouch of undergarments).
Military Rolling Method (Army Roll)
Ideal for t-shirts and gym clothes. Lay the shirt flat, fold the bottom upward about 3 inches, fold in the sides, roll tightly, then tuck the end flap over the roll to secure.
Folding Clothes for Travel Hack
Use ziplock bags or packing cubes in combination with rolling. This not only organizes your box but also protects against moisture and dust.
RELATED READING: HOW TO PACK LIKE A PRO
Tips for Rolling Clothes That Actually Work
- Avoid over-packing boxes to prevent the rolls from getting crushed.
- Roll with uniformity for easy stacking and space utilization.
- Use packing cubes to keep rolls from unraveling during the move.
- Group clothes based on use—bedroom, kitchen, nursery—for easier unpacking.
What Not to Do When Folding Clothes for Packing
We’ve seen movers make avoidable clothing mistakes. Here’s what to steer clear of:
- Don’t just stuff clothes into bags—it leads to wrinkles and wasted space.
- Avoid folding bulky clothes like jeans alongside delicates—they cause pressure problems in boxes.
- Never forget to label your boxes clearly—knowing where your clothes are is just as important as how you fold them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s answer some of the frequently asked questions!
What is the best way to fold clothes to save space?
Rolling clothes tightly using the military method is the most space-efficient way to pack. Add packing cubes for further organization.
How do I fold clothes for packing without wrinkles?
Use the bundle wrapping method or fold garments minimally and layer tissue paper between delicate items. Roll only wrinkle-resistant clothing.
Can I mix rolling and folding techniques?
Yes. We actually recommend combining them. Fold sensitive, formal items; roll casual wear and baby clothes.
Is folding clothes for travel the same as packing for a move?
Very similar. The difference lies in quantity and protection—use sturdier boxes and consider moisture protection when moving.
Conclusion
Learning how to fold clothes for packing is one of the smartest and most effective ways to reduce your workload during a move. By using efficient folding techniques—like rolling, bundle wrapping, or strategically folding clothing—you can maximize space, minimize wrinkles, and ease the unpacking process. At Next Stop Movers, we’ve seen how such simple steps can create enormous benefits for our clients. Whether you’re folding baby clothes, business attire, or everyday garments, implementing these strategies can turn a chaotic move into a well-organized adventure. If you’re planning a move and want help from professionals who know the ins and outs, let us assist you every step of the way.
