How to Pack Appliances for Storage or Moving

Please take the right steps to protect your investments. Appliances may be some of the most expensive items you own. In preparing your appliances for packing and storage, it is important that they be clean and dry to avoid the build up of mildew and mold. If possible, use your original boxes. Otherwise, wrap each item separately and securely. Here’s your guide to pack smart and simply.

Dishwasher: Clean and dry it thoroughly at least 24 hours before packing. Disconnect and drain the hoses. Leave the door open for a while prior to the move. Wrap dry hoses in towels and packing paper and place inside the dishwasher. Consider using empty space in your appliances to move lightweight or crushable items with proper padding. Boxes can be stacked on top.

TIP: Remember to turn off and unplug any appliances before you start preparing and cleaning them for packing.

Stove Top/Range/Oven: Clean each thoroughly. Grease left on a stovetop will catch dust and dirt, and unfortunately, leave spots on anything that it touches. Remove broiler pan and racks from your oven. Tape burners or coil elements to the top of your stove and tape down all knobs. Detach all removable parts and pack safely in a box, clearly marked with the contents. If you are moving a gas range, it must be disconnected prior to packing by a qualified person. The gas line must be properly secured also. Tape electrical cords to the appliance and tape all doors and lids closed.

Washing Machine: Clean and dry it thoroughly at least 24 hours prior to packing. Disconnect and drain the hoses. Wrap metal connector ends of hoses in a towel and place inside the washer. Secure the tub following the manufacturer’s guidelines to prevent swaying with a brace or by placing towels between the tub and sidewall. Note: If you don’t have the manufacturer’s guidelines, you can purchase a washer kit with a manual that provides instructions on how to secure the tub by tightening down the tub using screws. If you prefer not to do it yourself, there are many third party service providers. Tape electrical cords to the appliance and tape all doors and lids closed. Consider using empty space in your appliances to move lightweight or crushable items with proper padding. Boxes can be stacked on top.

Clothes Dryer: Before cleaning, unplug or turn off the dryer from electrical power. Clean the lint screen. Prior to plugging in your electric dryer at your new residence, have your power supply checked for the correct electrical requirements. If you are moving a gas dryer, the appliance should be disconnected and the gas line capped off by a qualified person. Tape electrical cords to the appliance and tape all doors and lids closed. Consider using empty space in your appliances to move lightweight or crushable items with proper padding. Boxes can be stacked on top.

Refrigerator/Freezer: Unplug the fridge at least 48 hours before packing. Dry out refrigerators and freezers, especially those that contains an icemaker. Dispose of all perishables. Unplug the power cord and wash and dry all removable parts thoroughly. Allow the parts, including the interior of the refrigerator and freezer, to dry thoroughly to allow all moisture to evaporate. Pack all loose parts including bins and shelves in a secured, approved container. Vacuum the condenser or compressor. Empty and clean the evaporator pan; allow time for it to dry. Turn off the water and disconnect the water line, if you have a cold water dispenser or automatic icemaker. Empty the water reservoir. If your refrigerator or freezer is an older model, you may have to have the compressor or motor bolted down. Place a spacer between the door and tape shut. The spacer will allow air to circulate so that it does not smell when you get it back. The power cord should be stuffed in the bottom of the fridge so the cord is not dragging behind. Make sure your fridge does not have any fluid dripping from it. Consider using empty space in your appliances to move lightweight or crushable items with proper padding.

TIP: There are desiccants available that may help keep your refrigerator dry and mildew free while in storage and transit. Check your local hardware store for more information.

TIP: Once you receive your refrigerator back form storage or after moving, allow 24 hours prior to operating the unit. This will allow the time for the oil to settle, preventing the possible damage to the compressor. After the unit is placed back in operation and your icemaker is in service, dispose of the first few batches of ice to clear out any impurities from opening the water line.

Microwave Oven: Remove any glass trays, wrap and securely pack them in a carton. The microwave can either be placed in its original box, if available and still in good shape, or a well-cushioned carton. Do not place cardboard in the door opening because it can spring the door during transit. We recommend that you tape down the glass turntable, tape it shut, tape the power cord on the back of the unit.