How To Pack Your Microwave For Your Move

As you look around your kitchen as you’re getting ready for your move, it’s easy to remember the little things. You know your dishes and silverware need packing. You have boxes for your pots and pans, but what about your microwave? A microwave takes a bit more prep than most things you’re moving.

Clean it

We get it. Microwave ovens can get a bit nasty. Fortunately, your microwave comes with its own cleaning tool, which is simply heat. Fill a glass or ceramic bowl about half full, and add about a tablespoon of white vinegar. Put the bowl in the microwave and run the microwave on high for five minutes. All the grime should be soft enough to wipe away with a paper towel. If you don’t feel like wiping down the turntable, you can put it in the dishwasher.

Get the right box

Obviously, it’s best to move your microwave in its original box, but if that’s not possible, you have a couple of options. Try an appliance store. They may have a box that fits your microwave. If not, measure it. Give your mover the dimensions and they can provide you with all the packing materials you need.

Packing

  • Make sure your microwave is completely dry
  • Unplug it
  • Secure the cord with a rubber band or zip tie and tape to back of microwave
  • Remove the turntable
  • Tape the door shut
  • Line the box with a layer of crumpled newsprint
  • Wrap the microwave in a blanket
  • Put inside box right side up
  • Cushion the microwave with paper so when you pick it up, there’s no movement
  • Wrap the turntable and pack it in a dish box
  • Label the box “kitchen,” “microwave” and “this side up”

If all of that seems a bit much, you can always ask the movers to pack it.