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Video:How to Pack Dishes

with Jacob Taxis

Learn how to pack dishes properly so that they don't break when you move. Watch this About.com how-to video for instructions on how to pack dishes.See Transcript

Transcript:How to Pack Dishes

Hi, I'm Jacob Taxis for About.com. In this video, you will learn how to pack dishes.

Supplies Needed to Pack Dishes

To begin, you'll need:

  • Moving box, medium in size
  • Packing paper or newspaper
  • Bubble wrap or towels and linens
  • Packing tape
  • Marker
  • Dishes

Prepare a Workspace to Pack Dishes

To make the process easier, prepare a work station before you start. On a large table or countertop, set out your dishes, packing tape, packing paper or newspaper, and the moving box. After preparing a workspace, line the inside of the box with a large sheet of bubble wrap or a couple of thick towels. The bubble wrap or towel should cover the entire inside of the box and hang over the sides. For extra cushion, line the bottom of the box with crumpled packing paper. When finished, set the box to the side.

Place Items Strategically to Pack Dishes

To pack plates, begin by placing one plate near the center of the paper. Fold a couple of sheets of paper over the plate beginning with one corner. Place another plate on top of the first plate and fold the right and left corners of the paper over the second plate. Make sure the plates are only touching paper. Place another plate on top of the second plate and fold the whole pile of plates over. Then, wrap up this bundle with 3 or 4 more sheets of paper. Secure the bundle with a piece of tape. Finally, place the bundle sideways in the box against one of the box's walls. Never pack plates by laying them flat in the box or stacking them on top of one another.

Place Lighter Items on Top When Packing Dishes

When packing, place all of the larger and heavier items like plates and bowls on the bottom of the box. Bowls should be wrapped individually. To do so, place the bowl near one edge of the paper. Then, fold a corner of the paper over the bowl, tucking the paper into the bowl. Do the same with the other corner. Roll the bowl end over end, tucking in paper as you go. Like plates, bowls should be placed on their sides in the box.

Tape and Mark the Box to Finish Packing Dishes

When your box is packed, glasses should go on top if there's room. Simply ball up newspaper and cover the top of the plates, making a layer between the bottom and top of the box. Fill any empty space in the box with linens, towels, bubble wrap, or paper so that the dishes do not jostle around inside the box during the move. Write "Fragile" on the box and make sure to note the room you'd like the box to go to.

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