Surviving the first night in your new home can be difficult without the right supplies. We recommend you pack a “first night” box with items you’ll need for basic unpacking, cleaning, eating and hygiene.
The First Night Box Should be Loaded Last
Home cleaning and maintenance
Before you start settle into your new space, you may want to do some cleaning and maintenance. Pack a basic cleaning kit including rags, surface cleaners, bleach, dish soap, gloves and trash bags to give your home a quick scrub down.
You may also want to be prepared to hang pictures and perform basic household repairs by packing a toolbox with hanging hardware, a couple hammers, screwdrivers, pliers and a rechargeable drill.
Additionally, if this is your first time inspecting your new space, you’ll want to be prepared with extra bulbs, flashlights. There is no guarantee that you’ll have light in every room on night one.
Food and drink
Pack protein-rich snacks like jerky or almonds along with plenty of cold water to keep everyone hydrated.
Using paper plates, napkins, and plastic cups and silverware will eliminate the need to wash dishes after your first night’s meal.
Hygiene Basics
You’ll need more than toothpaste, soap and shampoo to be comfortable after a long day of moving. The toiletries are indispensable, but clean bed linens, towels and toilet paper should be set aside for your first night as well.
A clean shower curtain will also come in handy if your new house doesn’t have built-in shower doors.
Last but not least, you will need a first aid kit, complete with any prescription medications, pain killers and Band-Aids for moving day mishaps.
When all is said and done, make sure your “first night” box is the last one loaded on the truck before the doors are closed. You’ll want to dig in to it as soon as you arrive to your new home.