Moving into a new home can be both exciting and exhausting. The excitement of a fresh start in a new place usually comes with the stress of packing, moving, and the seemingly never-ending task of unpacking.
At Holloway Removals, we know how overwhelming that first day in a new home can feel. So we’re sharing our top unpacking tips to help you make the first night in your new home an enjoyable one.
1. Essentials box: Your first priority
Before you start packing, prep an “essentials box” with everything you’ll need for your first night and morning in your new home. This will save you from digging through endless boxes after a long moving day. We recommend including the following:
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and other personal hygiene items.
- Clothing: A change of clothes for the next day, pyjamas, and undergarments.
- Bedding: Sheets, pillows, and a blanket or duvet.
- Kitchen Essentials: A few utensils, plates, cups, and basic cooking utensils if you plan to prepare a meal.
- Medications: Any necessary prescription medications or first-aid supplies.
- Electronics: Chargers for your phone, tablet, and other devices.
2. Unpack room by room for a stress-free first night
When unpacking after a move, instead of tackling all your boxes at once (leaving a tornado of opened boxes everywhere), start one room at a time. Start with the most used rooms like the bedroom, bathroom and kitchen. This method will help you feel organised and productive instead of overwhelmed.
3. Assemble furniture first
It’s tempting to start unpacking all the smaller bits and pieces, but getting your main furniture set up first is the smartest move. Set up your bed, dining table, and seating. Once those are in place, you’ll have a comfy space to relax, eat and wind down on your first night. And if you’ve hired professionals like Holloway Removals, we can take care of furniture assembly for you.
4. Ask professionals for help
If you find the unpacking process too overwhelming or time-consuming, try hiring professional organisers to help you. They can help streamline the process and set up your new home so it's organised from the start. Holloway Removals also offers unpacking services to help you settle in without the stress.
5. Arrange the kitchen
You know what they say: The kitchen is the heart of the home, so it’s a great place to start unpacking. After all, you’ll want to celebrate your new home with a nice meal and drink. If you’re not sure what to unpack first, start by placing essentials like pots, pans, and utensils in their designated spots.
6. Create a relaxing bedroom
After a long day of moving, your bedroom should be a sanctuary for a good night’s sleep. Set up your bed with fresh sheets and pillows. Unpack your nightwear and any personal items you want to keep close by. This way, you can rest comfortably and wake up refreshed in your new home.
7. Get the bathroom basics
Having a well-organised bathroom will make your first night and morning routines much easier. Unpack your toiletries, towels, and other bathroom essentials. Make sure you have toilet paper, soap, and a shower curtain if needed. A well-stocked bathroom will help you settle in quickly and feel comfortable from day one.
8. Take breaks
Moving and unpacking can be physically and mentally draining. Don’t push yourself too hard. Take regular breaks to rest and recharge, and have a snack and a refreshing drink to keep your energy levels up. You’ll be more efficient if you pace yourself.
9. Recycle and dispose of packing materials
As you unpack, you’ll collect a lot of cardboard boxes, packing paper, and other packing materials. Set aside a designated area for recycling or rubbish as you go along. This will stop clutter from building up and will make it easier to move your furniture and things around.
10. Involve your family
If you’re moving with your family, get everyone involved in the unpacking. Assign tasks to each family member based on their abilities and interests. It can be a fun bonding experience as you work together to transform your new house into a home (yes, really!).
11. Celebrate your first night
Moving into a new home is a major milestone, and so take a moment in your first night to celebrate! Order your favourite takeaway or cook a special meal. Relax, unwind, and look back on the journey that brought you to this new beginning.
And there are your unpacking tips!
Moving into a new home is all about fresh starts and new beginnings. Use these handy unpacking tips so your first night in your new home is a great one – stress-free and enjoyable!
From all of us at Holloway, we wish you all the best as you settle into your new space and create wonderful memories in your new home! If you want to skip the unpacking process, your Holloway removalist team offer professional packing and unpacking services for you.
FAQ: Unpacking tips for your first night in a new home
What should I unpack first after moving?
Start with your essentials box, followed by key rooms like the bedroom, bathroom and kitchen. Just focus on the basics so you have everything you need for a comfortable first night in your new home.
How do I stay organised when unpacking after a move?
Unpack room by room, set up main pieces of furniture first, and recycle packing materials as you go (not after!). These unpacking tips help you stay efficient and avoid clutter.
What should be in an essentials box for moving?
It should include toiletries, a change of clothes, bedding, medications, chargers and basic kitchen items. Having an essentials box makes unpacking after a move far less stressful.
How long does unpacking usually take?
Most people take several days to fully unpack. Using the room-by-room method and focusing on core spaces first can really speed up the unpacking process.
