How to Use Paper Moving Pads
Getting the right materials to pack your items is one of the most important steps in a do-it-yourself move. Moving boxes and standard packing supplies are enough for most items in your home. But for furniture, appliances, wall art, and other things that can’t be packed in a box, you need something more versatile to accommodate the different shapes and sizes.
Paper moving pads – sometimes called paper moving blankets or furniture wrapping paper – are an excellent choice for DIY movers looking for an affordable but effective way to protect furniture from dust, scratches, and scuffs during moving and storage.
What Are Paper Moving Pads?
Paper moving pads are large sheets of recycled paper used to wrap and protect a wide variety of items from dust, dirt, scratches, and more while moving. Don’t let the word “recycled” scare you – paper moving pads are 3-ply, meaning they offer three layers of protection for your belongings. Like traditional moving blankets, paper pads are recyclable and reusable for years to come, and at 48” x 72”, they're large enough to cover or wrap many household items, including:
- Mirrors
- Artwork
- Small or medium-sized appliances
- Coffee tables
- Chairs
- Nightstands/end tables
- Headboards
- Dressers
- Sofas, loveseats, and recliners
Difference Between Paper Pads and Moving Blankets
DIY movers often wonder how paper moving pads compare to traditional moving blankets. There are many similarities, like how both are recyclable and reusable and offer reliable protection against damage. But there are some key differences as well.
Paper pads are more affordable than traditional moving blankets, for starters, especially when you consider value. Paper pads come in sets of three when you buy from U-Haul. That means you can get 15 paper pads for roughly the price of two traditional moving blankets. U-Haul Paper Pads are also slightly smaller (48” x 72”) than U-Haul Furniture Pads (68” x 85”). As a result, it makes paper pads easier to manage when wrapping smaller pieces of furniture. However, keep the size difference in mind if you’re wrapping oversized pieces of furniture.
3 Ways to Use Paper Moving Pads
1. Protecting Furniture During Moving and Storage
Paper pads are easy to use and more affordable than other furniture protection solutions, making them a smart choice for DIY and professional movers alike. Follow these simple steps to use your paper moving pads to protect your household goods from nicks, scratches, and dents.
- Remove Extra Pieces – If your item has removable parts, start by removing and packing them separately. This makes things easier to wrap and less likely to be damaged.
- Wrap Your Item – Be sure your item is covered on all sides by folding the edges and corners like you’re wrapping a gift. You can combine pads if necessary for more oversized items.
- Add a Second Layer (optional) – For fragile or valuable items like mirrors and wall art, consider adding a second layer of paper padding to give the thing an extra cushion.
- Secure the Pad – Use Box / Packaging Tape to secure the paper pad in place. Add multiple strips of tape to sharp edges to keep the pad from splitting; be sure not to get tape on finishes.
2. Protecting Surfaces During Moving, Painting, Cleaning, Etc.
After your move is completed – or anytime, really – paper moving pads can also be used to protect the surfaces in your home during ongoing projects. This might include interior painting, drywall repairs, whole-house remodeling, deep cleaning, or other messy jobs. Lay your paper pads on the floors, counters, and over your furniture to keep things safe from dust, paint splash, and damage, then toss them out after you’re finished.
3. Using as a Paper Table Cover During Arts and Crafts
If you or someone in your family is the arts and crafts type, consider keeping your paper pads on hand after moving and using them as a table cover. The pad’s size is ideal for covering a standard-sized dining or kitchen table. After you’re done, your pads can be discarded as needed. Also, because paper pads are made from recycled paper, they’re a better choice for the environment than similar plastic covers.
Ready to get packing? Order paper moving pads – as well as other packing supplies and moving boxes – from U-Haul today and choose from Same-Day Delivery or FREE pickup from a U-Haul store near you.