Moving Blankets – What They Are and Why You Need Them

July 9, 2024Moving Tips
Madison Rogers

Born and raised in Houston Madison is a content writer who loves traveling. She has lived in different states and is always eager to share her knowledge with others.

Moving blankets are essential for anyone relocating. These thick, padded covers protect belongings from damage and dirt during the move. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a relocation and car shipping company, using them can make a significant difference. They’re not only practical but also incredibly versatile, ideal for wrapping everything from delicate antiques to bulky furniture. Don’t start the relocation process without them!

What Are Moving Blankets?

Moving blankets are robust coverings. They are necessary for anyone looking to package items efficiently as well as prevent things from breaking during a move.

Their thick, absorbent fabric is designed to shield and cushion possessions, offering enhanced protection.

Annually, around 27 million Americans relocate

Typically measuring 72 inches by 80 inches, they are ideally sized to safeguard most furniture pieces, with additional sizes available for diverse needs. This makes them a crucial asset for securing belongings, whether you’re relocating across town or across the country.

A BETTER WAY FOR MOVING!

Get A Quote

What Are Moving Blankets Made From?

Moving blankets are made from a resilient blend of polyester mesh and cotton materials, designed to protect sensitive and wooden surfaces. This fabric ensures that each blanket can withstand the rigors of transit. Organize packing to relocate and have these materials in mind when creating a packaging supply list.

They are indispensable for preventing damage and reducing the risk of scuffs and scratches, thereby making relocating easier. Blankets are typically equipped with an “S” pattern style stitching, enhancing their durability and strength, ideal for repetitive use. Moreover, the protection level is gauged by their weight per dozen, a standard metric within the industry that underscores their capacity to protect effectively.

Stacked and strapped moving blankets
A single furniture pad costing $12 could prevent damages worth hundreds of dollars

Different Types of Moving Blankets You Can Use

Choosing the right type of relocation blanket depends largely on the items that need protection during transit, particularly when relocating large belongings and planning a successful long-distance move. There are three primary categories – lightweight, mediumweight, and heavyweight relocation blankets.

Each type offers different levels of protection and durability, tailored to the sensitivity and weight of the items they are meant to keep safe. Lightweight ones are ideal for smaller fragile items, while mediumweight and heavyweight ones provide increased padding and protection for heavier, more delicate items.

Lightweight Relocation Blankets Are an Affordable Option

These offer a cost-effective solution, particularly well-suited for those needing protection during a one-time transition. This type is made with less fabric, making them lighter and generally more suitable for lighter loads where extensive cushioning isn’t required.

While they enable items to move safely, their thinner construction means they may not withstand repeated use and do not provide the robust protection found in heavier-duty options. Therefore, choosing these may increase the risk of relocation mistakes if used for more delicate or heavy items.

Mediumweight Blankets Can Be Used for More Than One Move

This type of blanket is built to last, making it an ideal choice for those who find themselves frequently relocating to a new city or who require durable solutions for a stress-free relocation.

More robust than their lightweight counterparts, they can withstand multiple uses and are favored by professional movers because of their resilience, endurance, and protective qualities.

Heavyweight Relocation Blankets Are Best for Protecting Expensive Items

This is the top choice for protecting high-value or delicate items during transit. Their multiple layers of protection make them indispensable for professional movers tasked with relocating furniture and other valuable possessions.

These furniture pads are particularly suited for transporting expensive or sensitive items, making sure they remain undamaged throughout the journey. Though they come with a higher price tag, the superior protection they offer justifies the investment, making them a preferred option for those seeking the highest level of security for their belongings.

Why Do You Need Moving Blankets?

Blankets are essential for the safety and protection of belongings during a cross-country move. They help keep furniture and other items clean, protect walls and floors from damage, and make it easier to wrap items of various shapes and sizes securely.

Additionally, you may use them as cushioning for larger boxes, preventing items from shifting and breaking. Investing in quality ones can save you an amount on repair or replacement costs, making them a smart addition. So, make sure they find their way into the relocation budget.

They Keep Furniture From Getting Dirty

One key benefit of using them is keeping furniture clean during transit. Wrapping a blanket around each piece of furniture provides a protective barrier against dirt, dust, and grime that can accumulate during transportation.

This simple step in relocation day preparation ensures that items arrive in the same condition they left, preventing the need for extensive cleaning or potential damage from debris. Properly covered furniture is less likely to suffer from unexpected dirt and stains, contributing to a smoother and more efficient transition.

The interior of a living room with different pieces of furniture
Keep the antique coffee table and the bookshelf clean from scratches and smudges

They Protect Walls and Floors

Protecting walls and floors is crucial during any relocation, as furniture pieces often have sharp corners that can cause damage, especially in tight hallways or stairwells. Utilizing blankets provides a vital layer of protection between the items and the home’s surfaces.

They help to prevent scratches, dents, and other damage, ensuring that walls and floors remain unscathed. Incorporating a blanket or twenty into the preparation process is an effective way to protect floors and maintain the home’s integrity.

Wrap Them Easily Around Items of Different Shapes and Sizes

Relocation blankets are incredibly versatile, which makes them ideal for wrapping items of various shapes and sizes. Whether transporting a piano or a big mirror, they conform to the contours of any object. They are used because they offer a snug fit, reducing the risk of scratches, dents, and other damages.

Their cushioned fabric absorbs shocks and vibrations, ensuring delicate items remain secure. This adaptability makes each blanket indispensable for protecting a wide range of belongings, contributing to a smoother and more efficient relocation process.

Two people tossing a cardboard box
Heavy items such as dressers and couches are easier to transport with this material

How Many Relocation Blankets Would Be Enough for the Relocation?

A general rule of thumb is to estimate around one dozen blankets for every five feet of space in the relocation truck. For instance, a 15-foot truck would require approximately 36 blankets. However, it’s essential to assess the specific needs of the situation, considering the volume and type of furniture involved.

Each piece of furniture should ideally be covered with its own blanket, and larger items like headboards, bookcases, and dining tables may need two. Properly estimating the number can be done with the help of a moving company’s customer service agents. Once you reach out to them for a free quote with a relocation inventory, ask for advice.

Open Carrier Auto Transport

Read More

Enclosed Auto Transport

Read More

Tips for Effectively Using Blankets and Keeping Items Safe

Now come the instructions and tips on how to properly use this material. To make the most of these shipping blankets, apply these practical tips:

  • Doublewrap for extra safety – For especially fragile items, use two blankets to provide an extra layer of protection.
  • Secure with stretch wrap – Keep the material in place by wrapping it tightly with stretch wrap to avoid any shifting.
  • Label-wrapped items – Attach labels indicating what’s inside, making unpacking a breeze.
  • Use blankets as padding – Fill gaps between boxes and furniture with them to prevent shifting and damage.
  • Protect corners and edges – Wrap corners of the blanket around sharp edges of furniture to prevent walls and floors from getting damaged.
  • Use furniture pads to move items – Place a heavy item on the blanket to push them to move them if you have a hardwood floor.
  • Reuse and recycle – After the relocation, repurpose the material for storage or future relocations.
A covered sofa and boxes prepared for relocation
Make sure to have all sides of the item covered with a durable blanket

Where to Get Moving Blankets?

Depending on the needs and budget, they can be rented or purchased from various places. Supply stores often have a wide selection, while online platforms provide convenience and variety. What is more, friends and family might have some available for short-term use, offering an economical solution.

If You Want to Buy New Ones, Try Supply Stores

For those looking to invest in new ones, supply stores are an excellent option. These stores typically offer a range of high-quality blankets in various sizes. Supply stores often have knowledgeable staff who can provide advice on the best types for specific items. Also, purchasing new ones means they can be reused for future relocations or other protective needs, making them a worthwhile investment.

Get Used Blankets From Friends and Family

Often, friends and family members who have recently relocated may still have this material in good condition. Borrowing them saves money and adds a personal touch to the process. It’s a great way to recycle and make use of resources within the community. Plus, coordinating with loved ones can lead to valuable tips and support, making the entire experience more efficient and less stressful. Reusing them helps in promoting sustainability.

Try Online Platforms Like eBay or Craigslist

Exploring online platforms like eBay or the Craigslist can be a great way to find affordable and quality blankets. These sites often feature listings from individuals who no longer need them, providing a budget-friendly alternative to buying new ones.

Shoppers can compare prices, read reviews, and even negotiate deals to get the best value. Many sellers offer bulk options, which can be particularly useful for larger relocations. The convenience of online shopping allows for quick and easy access to necessary supplies.

A woman using a phone and a laptop
Remember that on Craigslist, you can even get free supplies

Avoid the Hassle of Packing up Your Home by Hiring Movers

Movers are trained to handle all aspects of the relocation process, from carefully packing delicate items to efficiently loading and unloading the truck. By entrusting this task to professionals, like ones from the USA Auto Transport company, there’s no need to worry about the physical labor involved.

This allows more time to focus on other important aspects of the transition, such as settling into the new home. Additionally, movers often offer insurance options, providing peace of mind that belongings are protected against potential damage.

USA Auto Transport Is the First Choice if You Want to Experience a Smooth Relocation

We offer efficient moving services, but that is not all. We have a strong reputation when it comes to shipping cars in the USA. With an open trailer, just as with enclosed auto transport, we guarantee that vehicles are smoothly moved. Our door-to-door auto transport provides the ultimate convenience of picking up and delivering vehicles directly to the specified locations. Also, our terminal-to-terminal car shipping offers flexibility and affordability.

By choosing us, clients can avoid the hassle of packing and moving, knowing their belongings and vehicles are in expert hands. For a stress-free transition, contact us, USA Auto Transport, and let our professional services make the relocation a breeze.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Blankets

What Are Moving Blankets Made From?

They are typically crafted from a durable blend of cotton, polyester, and sometimes recycled materials. This combination provides a robust, heavy-duty fabric that absorbs shocks and cushions belongings, ensuring optimal protection during transit.

Can Furniture Pads Protect Floors and Walls?

Yes, they are excellent for protecting floors and walls during a move. Most furniture pieces have sharp corners that can cause damage, especially in narrow hallways or stairwells. By wrapping furniture, a protective barrier is created between the item and the home’s surfaces.

Can Furniture Blankets Be Reused?

Yes, they can be reused, especially mediumweight and heavyweight varieties, which are designed for durability and multiple uses. Lightweight ones, while cost-effective, are typically intended for one-time use due to their thinner material. Reusing them is an excellent way to save money and reduce waste.

How Do I Use Moving Blankets Effectively?

Wrap each item completely in the blanket and secure it with stretch wrap or heavy-duty tape to keep it in place. This ensures the item is fully protected from scratches and dents. Use the material to fill empty spaces in boxes and between items in the truck.

Why Are Furniture Moving Blankets Important for a Relocation?

They prevent scratches, dents, and dirt from affecting the belongings, ensuring they arrive in the same condition they left. Also, they provide a protective barrier for walls and floors, preventing damage in tight hallways or stairwells. By cushioning and stabilizing items, these furniture pads help ensure a smoother and more secure relocation process.

Get a Quote

    check mark
    Download as PDF

    Moving Checklist

    Get a Free Estimate 855.675.3451