In most homes, the dining room is one of the most important rooms of the house. It often includes expensive china and crystal. In some cases, the breakables may be important antiques or family heirlooms. These are fragile pieces that are highly valued, and not just financially. The value could be sentimental, but it is rarely trivial.
How to Pack Glass and China
- Chinaware, glass, and crystal stemware are often some of the most valued items in a home, but especially in a dining room.
- Place layers of newspaper on the bottom and top of the box
- Wrap all glass and china individually in paper
- Wrap the outside of your glasses and tuck the edges of the paper over the lips into the cups
- Cushion all glassware and china by placing paper or bubble wrap between the individual pieces in the box
- Double up on the paper for highly valued pieces
- Label boxes with the contents and the words “FRAGILE – THIS SIDE UP” in bold colorful letters
Packing Tips for Flat Glassware
Flatware is easier to pack than stemware, but it’s still important to protect it from breakage.
- Place layers of newspaper on the bottom and top of the box
- Wrap each piece in paper individually
- Bundle your flatware in sets of three by wrapping the bundle in another layer of paper
- Place each bundle on edge and in rows within the box
- Lay a double layer of newspaper across the top of the bundles in the box
- Label the box with contents and write “FRAGILE – THIS SIDE UP” in bold letters
Tips for Packing Silver and Other Delicates
The biggest issue for silver is tarnishing. To prevent this from happening, try
- Wrapping it in newspaper or plastic
- Wrap hollow ware like cups and bowls individually
- Place loose flatware in a box or wrap it in a bundle
- To prevent shifting in chests, wrap pieces of silver individually and place back inside the chest then fill the chest with paper
- Mirrors, plaques, pictures, and curios should be wrapped individually in tissue with an outer layer of newsprint
Do not wrap lamp shades in newspaper. The print will seep into the shade and discolor it. Use tissue paper instead. You can nest smaller lamp shades inside larger ones. Keep lamp shades separate from other items and pack them in their own boxes clearly labeled.
If you have large items made of glass, such as dining tables or table leaves, china cabinets, etc., consult with your moving company on such items.
