How to Move Your Child's Dolls

Does your child have dozens of dolls or more to move? If you're not sure how to pack these precious picks, take a look at what you need to know about moving your child's cherished doll collection.

Declutter the Dolls

Before you prep or pack your child's doll collection, decide what you really need to move. Ask your child to pick out toys they don't use or may have little interest in right now. If your child hasn't played with a doll (or a few) for months or more:

• Assess the toy's condition . If the doll is missing parts, has visible damage, or is covered in crayon, you may need to put it in the trash or recycling bin.
• Donate dolls . Toys in good or pristine condition shouldn't go into the garbage can. Explore donation options through charities in your area.
• Sell the dolls . Make extra money for your move and sell some of the dolls. Have a garage sale or use an online option to turn your child's gently used dolls into cash for your family.

Don't force your child to part with a doll. Even though you may not have seen your child playing with the toy in weeks or months, it's possible they still have an attachment to the item. Moves are stressful transitions - especially for young children. A beloved doll may provide your child with the sense of comfort they need right now.

Sort the Dolls

Now that you know which dolls you'll move, it's time to move on to the next step and prepare everything to pack. This may require you to sort the dolls into categories based on material such as:

• Plush . Soft stuffed dolls are easy to pack. These fabric-covered dolls aren't likely to break during the move. You won't need bubble wrap or another protective cover for these items. Instead, place plush dolls into bags, bins, or cardboard boxes as-is.
• Breakable . Your child's collectible porcelain dolls are breakable items that require special handling. Protect these toys with bubble wrap or soft towels or reuse the original packaging. Gently place the dolls in plastic bins or boxes with dividers and fill the gaps with more bubble wrap or towels.
• Plastic . These dolls are in between plush and breakable. While they're not likely to break midmove, they still could. Like breakable dolls, use bubble wrap or towels to protect these toys.

After you sort the dolls into categories decide whether you want to add other (non-doll) toys to the mix. To save space, you can combine plush dolls with plush stuffed animals or collectible porcelain picks with other breakables.

Pack the Dolls

With all your child's dolls sorted, you can start the packing process. Gather together materials you may need first. The top packing materials necessary to move your child's dolls from your old home to your new one include:

• Bags . Garbage bags and canvas totes are ideal for moving plush or soft dolls. Not only will a leaf- and lawn-sized garbage bag or large tote provide plenty of space for your child's plush doll collection, these are also inexpensive.
• Bins . Plastic bins with sealable lids will keep your child's cherished toys safe during the move. Fill this container with plush toys or wrapped plastic/breakable dolls.
• Cardboard boxes . If you choose this inexpensive (or possibly free) container for your child's breakable dolls, use corrugated board dividers to decrease damage risks. Choose this option for lighter dolls. Heavier toys may break through the bottom of the box.

Along with containers, you'll also need protective wrap (bubble wrap, towels, or packing paper) and labels.

If you need help or packing supplies for your upcoming move, reach out to the team at Azalea City Moving Co.for more information.