How to protect furniture when moving house

Sofas and armchairs

• Remove cushions and pack them in large bags or boxes.
• Unscrew legs if they come off, and tape the screws to the underside in a sealed bag.
• Use a fitted sofa cover to keep fabric or leather clean and dry.
• Measure doorways and stairs. Corner sofas usually come apart; check how before the move.

Mattresses and beds

• Put each mattress in a sealed mattress bag.
• Take bed frames apart the day before and keep all bolts together.
• Carry mattresses on their side so they do not fold.

Wardrobes, chests and cabinets

• Empty drawers. Full drawers make furniture heavy and can break runners.
• Tape or stretch-wrap doors and drawers shut, using a blanket underneath on polished wood.
• Large wardrobes often need dismantling. Many movers do this for you; tell them when you ask for quotes.

Tables, glass and mirrors

• Remove table legs where possible and wrap them separately.
• Use corner protectors and blankets for tabletops.
• Mirrors and glass tops travel upright in mirror boxes or padded crates, never flat under other items.

Appliances

• Fridge freezers: defrost and dry at least 24 hours before the move, and let them stand upright for a few hours after before switching on.
• Washing machines: drain them and fit the transit bolts that came with the machine, or ask your mover.
• Gas cookers: must be disconnected and reconnected by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Protect your homes too

Ask your removal company about floor runners, door frame protectors and banister covers, especially in new-build or rented homes.

Frequently asked questions

Useful pages

• Packing materials guide
• Moving heavy items
• Furniture removals