When it comes to moving, most people focus on the obvious: their bulky appliances and delicate dishware. It’s easy to remember to carefully box up your microwave or wrap your wine glasses in bubble wrap. Utensils? They usually get tossed in a box without much thought. After all, most are built to handle some wear and tear. But kitchen knives are in a category of their own.
A high-quality chef’s knife isn’t just another tool. It’s an essential part of your kitchen and, in many cases, a serious investment. If not packed properly, knives can get dangerously dull or damaged in transit. Dull blades aren’t just frustrating, they’re more hazardous to use, since they require more pressure and become more likely to slip, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center.
To protect your knives (and your fingers), here’s how to pack them the right way so they arrive sharp, safe and ready to slice. For more moving tips, see how to make extra cash selling unwanted items before you move and tips and tricks for first-time movers.
Gather tools for packing your kitchen knives
First things first. You’ll need to collect the supplies you need to pack your knives safely:
- Tape
- Newspaper or packing paper
- A marker or pen for labeling
Group your knives by type before packing
Take the time to pack your knives properly. Believe me, it’s worth the effort. Avoid bundling your steak knives, butcher knives and chef’s knives together in one wrap. Instead, group them by size and type before packing. This not only makes wrapping safer and more organized, but also makes unpacking easier, so you’ll know where each knife belongs when you settle into your new kitchen.
Wrap your knives to prevent damage
