How to Pack Cleaning Products

If you're moving to a new place use these tips and learn how to pack cleaning supplies for before you move. It will save you time and money as you don't have to run to the store to buy more cleaning products after shifting to your new home.

Sort your cleaning supplies

Before you start packing cleaning supplies, go through the cleaning supplies under your sink and in your closet. You may have found the old cleaning products that are expired and near-empty, or you may have doubles.

Check all the labels on your cleaning products for the following information:

• Expiration dates
• Proper disposal methods

You should also read the label to find out if it's okay to combine two near-empty bottles into one container. Once you've properly disposed of any cleaning supplies that are past their prime, you could further group them by what they clean; by room, by material, etc. The way you group them is up to you, and that step is entirely optional.

Because cleaning products may contain harsh chemicals and irritants, it's important to dispose of them properly. There may be directions for proper disposal on the label that you must follow.

As a general rule of thumb when disposing of cleaning products NEVER:

• Pour them down the drain
• Pour them onto the ground
• Pour them into storm sewers
• Put them out with the trash

Contact your local waste management department to find out how to properly dispose cleaning products. Many communities offer collection days for leftover wastes like paints, batteries and even cleaning products.

Packing cleaning supplies

To pack cleaning supplies, you'll need the following materials:

• A sturdy box
• A plastic bag or garbage bag
• Packing tape

Here are the steps that you need to follow when packing cleaning supplies:

• Line the box with plastic bag: Lay the box on a flat surface and line the inside of it with the garbage bag or plastic bag. The box will provide a flat surface and the bag will help prevent a mess if there are any spills.
• Secure the openings and holes of the bottles: When packing cleaning supplies, make sure to secure the openings and holes of the bottles to prevent any leaks during transit. For powdered cleansers and the bottles containing liquid, put a piece of tape over any openings and holes to prevent powder and the liquid from spilling.

  TIP: If you're going to be traveling a long distance remove the cap from each item and place a small piece of plastic wrap over the opening. Then screw the cap back on the bottle. This will help prevent any leaks during transit.

• Place the cleaning supplies in boxes: Now begin placing the cleaning products in the box and check the weight as you go. You don't want to pack the box too heavy.
• Close the plastic bag: Once the cleaning supplies are all in a box (or two), close up the plastic bag around the products to stop any spills from getting out of the box. Note: The plastic will act as a barrier and keep the box dry in turn keeping your other items dry during transit if any spills happen.
• Tape and label the box: Close the flaps of the box and seal with tape and you're done! Label the box appropriately so the movers and/or your friends know what's inside and to be careful when loading the truck.

Moving companies will usually not pack cleaning supplies due to the risk of such liquids spilling over inside the moving truck and causing damage to the rest of household items. So, when packing cleaning supplies for moving, just make sure they are properly wrapped and in good shape during the move.

Unpacking the cleaning products

When you get to your new home, be careful when you open the box with your cleaning products as they will likely have shifted during the move. If you took the extra step and wrapped the top with plastic wrap, you should be in good shape.