Moving Hacks: Creative Packing and Cleaning Tips That Actually Work
Hi, I’m Chas from Chas’ Crazy Creations, and I recently flew out to help my daughter move out of her tiny studio apartment. With only a few days, a small Kia Soul, a lot of stuff, and her adorable guinea pig in tow, we had to get creative with packing hacks, decluttering strategies, and efficient cleaning tips to make the move smooth and stress-free.
This post may contain affiliate links, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Click here for my disclosure policy
Whether you’re preparing for your own move or helping someone else, these real-life moving hacks will help you save time, space, and sanity.
Moving Hacks Video
🚗 Step 1: Plan Ahead and Stage Your Car Space
Our journey began with her Kia Soul. Before we packed a single box, we folded down the back seats and measured the cargo space. Then we recreated that space in the apartment living room using pool noodles (you could also use painter’s tape) to stage the items indoors.
Why This Hack Works:
- Helps avoid overpacking
- Saves time and energy in the heat
- Lets you see what will actually fit
🧹 Step 2: Declutter with the “Four System” Method
Moving is emotional, especially when you’re downsizing. I always use the Four System Method from my course:
- Keep
- Throw
- Donate
- Pay It Forward – leave usable items behind for the next tenant
This method made tough decisions easier and helped us focus on what really mattered.
We even rescued a perfectly good rolling cart from being thrown away and donated it to the thrift store as well.
📦 Step 3: Packing Hacks That Save Space (and Money)
My daughter had been saving boxes and bubble wrap, but we still got resourceful using things she already owned:
- Plates: Wrapped with leftover bubble wrap and layered with oven mitts
- Glasses: Wrapped in towels and tucked into oven mitts
- Pots & Pans: Wrapped in old sheets (previously used as protective furniture covers)
- Laundry Basket: Used for pans, vacuum-sealed bags, and hangers to prevent tangling
- Shoes: Packed in plastic bags to wedge into tight car corners
- Compression Zip Suitcases: Fit more clothes using less space
- Vacuum-Seal Bags: From the dollar store! Perfect for blankets, stuffed animals, and towels
✅ Pro Tip: Keep one suitcase accessible for hotels with shared clothes, toiletries, and pet essentials.
🧼 Step 4: Cleaning Hacks for Move-Out Day
Once the packing was done, it was time to clean! Here’s how we tackled each area efficiently with DIY and budget-friendly cleaning tips:
Kitchen Cleaning Tips
- Sink Water Solution: Warm water + a squirt of Dawn dish soap (antibacterial!) to clean counters, sinks, and appliances
- Fridge & Freezer: Emptied out and scrubbed with soapy water
- Microwave Steam Hack: Lime juice + vinegar + water microwaved for 5 minutes loosens up grime for easy wipe-down
- Oven/Stovetop: Baking soda + water paste for tough messes
- Dishwasher: Run with a bowl of vinegar to clean and deodorize
- Stainless Steel Shine: A drop of avocado oil on a paper towel – wipe with the grain for a streak-free finish
Bathroom Cleaning Tips
- All-Purpose Soapy Water: Mirrors, counters, tub
- DIY Disinfecting Wipes: Paper towels + rubbing alcohol
- Toilet Scrub: Dawn dish soap + brush
Pro Cleaning Bonus:
We emptied and cleaned reusable containers, packed the good stuff, and left a few usable items behind for the next tenant—just like she benefited from when she first moved in. We even rescued some clean, usable items from the dumpster area and donated them. Win-win!
🛣️ Bonus: Moving Day and Road Trip Hacks
Once we loaded everything into the car (yes, it all fit perfectly—thanks to our staging trick!), we hit the road. A few road trip travel tips that made it easier:
- Travel Fi Hotspot: Stay connected while on the road (Get yours on Amazon)
- Scenic Stops: We broke up our trip by stopping at free or low-cost places to stretch and recharge. Some favorites:
And of course, here’s Cara (named after Supergirl), my daughter’s guinea pig, who was along for the journey.
📋 Want My Free Printable Moving Checklist?
Don’t forget to grab your ✈️ Get your FREE Packing List. It’s the exact list we used to stay organized and not forget anything.
Moving Hacks Video
Final Thoughts
Moving can feel overwhelming—but with a little creativity, smart packing hacks, and a few DIY cleaning tricks, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re heading across town or across the country, I hope these tips help make your move smoother and more fun.
👉 Subscribe to my blog at Chas’ Crazy Creations and my YouTube channel for more helpful DIYs, organizing hacks, and home inspiration.
Thanks for coming along on our moving journey—and stay tuned for more travel tips from this trip!
🔖 Related Posts You’ll Love:
