The process of moving houses is a laborious and time consuming one in general. However, there might be some specific items in your possession that require extra attention and care while being transported. Therefore, they need to be packed in a way that ensures minimum damage while moving.
Mirrors are a perfect example of such fragile items. But rest your worries aside. Here is a detailed step-by-step guide to how you can pack mirrors without damaging them while moving houses.
See also: How to pack a TV for moving?
Materials required for packing mirrors
Since mirrors are fragile, it is important to use several layers of packing material to prevent their breakage during rough handling or transportation. For this, you would require some extra materials apart from the ones used for packing durable stuff. Here are some options:
Bubble wrap
Bubble wraps are designed in a way to retain air between its layers, thereby creating a thick protective layer around the object it is wrapping. This absorbs the impact of any kind of rough handling before it reaches the object. While packing mirrors, make sure to use several layers of bubble wrap to protect it from breakage and scratches.
Foam padding
Another alternative you can use to create a layer of cushioning around the mirror while packing it is foam or styrofoam. Not only do they absorb the impact of rough handling, they are also more resistant to tearing than bubble wraps, thereby doing the job with fewer layers. This also makes the packed mirror less bulky and easier to transport.
Corrugated cardboard
Between the layers of cushioning, you can place corrugated cardboard sheets for greater protection. You can also use small pieces of cardboard to prevent damage to the corner of the mirror.
Packing tape
After you have added the required layers of cushioning, make sure to secure it with strong packing tape. Use as much tape as required to hold the layers in place so that they don’t collapse during harsh handling and transportation.
Packing mirrors: A step-by-step guide
Let’s now have a look at the steps involved in packing mirrors for moving.
Place the mirror
Before starting to pack the mirror, it is important to place it on a flat and clean surface. This will prevent the mirror from receiving scratches or dirt. Place a bubble wrap on the surface and put the mirror face down on it.
Wrap the mirror
Use several layers of bubble wrap to create a thick cushioning and make sure that no area is left exposed. Next, secure the bubble wrap strongly using packing tape. Make sure that the grip of the tape is strong enough to hold the bubble wrap in place.
Protect the corners
Now that you have wrapped the surface of the mirror securely, you need to protect the corners as well. For this, there are corner protectors readily available in the market. Otherwise, you can also use corrugated cardboard sheets to protect the corners of your mirror from damage.
Add extra protection
While the bubble wrap, if secured properly, can provide enough protection to the mirror against impact, you can also go for an added layer of foam for better protection. You can secure the foam above the bubble wrap with packing tape.
Place it in the box
Pick a box that suits the size of the mirror and secure it with packing tape on the bottom for added strength. Then you can add a cushioning of foam at the bottom before placing the mirror. Place the mirror in the box and ensure that it does not move much. For better results, fill in the empty spaces on the sides with cushioning as well.
Seal the box
Once the mirror is in the box, seal it with more packing tape. Don’t forget to label the box as “fragile” to avoid manhandling. Transport with proper care, preferably by wrapping a blanket around the box.
Dos and don’ts while packing mirrors
Now that you know how to pack a mirror, here is a list of dos and don’ts you can refer to.
| Do’s- | Don’t’s- |
| Use proper packing materials and corner protectors to minimise damage caused by impact. | Pack anything else in the box containing a mirror. |
| Label the boxes clearly by writing “Fragile” to ensure proper handling. | Use newspapers or thin materials for wrapping the mirror. |
| Use multiple layers of wrapping materials for best protection. | Skip protecting the corners since they get damaged and scratched more easily. |
| Reinforce the seams of the boxes properly by using enough packing tape. | Pack the mirror in a haphazard manner. Take your time and follow all instructions carefully. |
| Before placing the mirror in the box, add a layer of cushioning at the bottom. | Skip labelling the boxes as “Fragile” to avoid manhandling. |
| For extra protection, wrap a blanket around the box after sealing it while transporting. | Lay the mirror over other items after wrapping to minimise the chances of breakage. |
| Since there are multiple people involved in the process of moving, communicate about the fragile contents of the box clearly to avoid manhandling by the movers. | Use minimal packing tape while sealing. Proper sealing is also as important as wrapping the mirror well. |
| Place the mirrors upright in the box for better utilisation of space and better protection. |
See also: How to move heavy furniture?
FAQs
Why is it important to pack mirrors properly?
Mirrors are fragile items easily prone to scratches and breakage. It is necessary to pack them properly in order to minimise any impact while transporting.
What materials are required for packing mirrors?
You would require bubble wrap, foam, corrugated cardboard, packing tape and a box to pack a mirror.
How can I protect the corners of the mirror?
You can use corner protectors or corrugated cardboard pieces to secure the corners of the mirror.
How can I ensure added protection for the mirror?
Use cushioning at the bottom and empty sides of the box and wrap it with a blanket after sealing for added protection.
How to place the mirror in the box?
Always place the mirror vertically upright in the box. Make sure you don’t put anything else in the same box.
What is the best way to transport mirrors?
It is best to transport mirrors on a dolly, hand truck or any other small vehicle.
Can I pack a mirror by myself?
Yes, you can easily pack a mirror by yourself at home. However, it is best to take the opinion of an expert during the process.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
