How should you move your small kitchen appliances? The microwave, toaster, and coffee maker require special treatment as you pack. Before you box up anything, take a look at what you need to know about moving these kitchen items.
How to Move Your Microwave
Most microwaves are easy to move and require very little preparation. But if your microwave is also a stove venting device, you’ll need to do more than just unplug it. Contact a qualified contractor to remove the appliance and the vent safely. To move other (non-vent) microwaves:
- Unplug the appliance. Cut the power to the microwave before you clean, pack, or move it.
- Clean the microwave. Remove turntables, racks, or other interior accessories. Wash and pack these items separately. Clean and completely dry the inside and outside of the appliance. Use a mild soap and water or steam the interior with a one-to-one mix of white vinegar and water.
- Remove or secure the power cord. If you can remove the cord, place it in a plastic bag, and attach it the microwave, or pack it with the unit’s accessories.
- Use the original packaging. If you still have the original packaging the appliance came in, use it to repack the microwave.
- Cushion the appliance. What should you do if you don’t have the original packaging? Cushion the unit in bubble wrap or dish towels and tightly pack it into a sturdy cardboard box or plastic bin.
Now that your microwave is packed, it’s time to move on to the next appliance — the toaster.
How to Move Your Toaster
Like your microwave, your toaster is another small kitchen appliance you’ll need to move. The specific steps you follow to clean, pack, and transport the toaster depend on whether it’s a toaster oven or a simple slice-by-slice model. Toaster ovens may require more cleaning and a larger box.
To move your toaster:
- Unplug the appliance. Unplug the cord and remove it or wind it together and secure the center with a twist-tie.
- Empty the crumbs. Shake out the crumbs, or (if your model has one) remove the crumb tray. You can also use a pastry brush to clean the crumbs out of the unplugged and cooled toaster.
- Clean the interior. If you have a toaster oven, use a mild hand dishwashing liquid and water mix to wipe down the inside of the appliance. Remove the rack or grill prior to cleaning.
- Clean the exterior. Again, use a mild hand dishwashing liquid to wipe down the exterior.
- Dry the toaster. Make sure the interior and exterior are completely dry before you pack the appliance.
- Use the original box. Again, if you have the original box and packaging, use it. If not, cushion the toaster with bubble wrap or dish towels and pack it tightly into a thick box.
With your microwave and toaster neatly packed, you can turn your attention to your favorite morning appliance — the coffee maker.
How to Move Your Coffee Maker
The steps to pack and move a coffee maker vary widely, depending on what type of appliance you have. Popular styles include drip, single-serve pod, and cold brew coffee makers. To safely move your appliance:
- Unplug the coffee maker. Whether you have a drip, pod, or other type of coffee maker, you’ll need to unplug the appliance before you move on to the next step.
- Consult the instruction manual. How should you disassemble and clean the coffee maker? The answer depends on the manufacturer’s directions. Read and follow the manual’s instructions.
- Use the original packaging. Like other small kitchen appliances, it’s best to reuse the original packaging.
If you don’t have the original packaging, wrap the individual pieces of your coffee maker in dish towels or a similar cushion. Pack these tightly into a cardboard box. Avoid gaps or air pockets. These allow the coffee maker to slip and slide mid-move.
Do you need help with your next move? Contact Dixie Moving & Storage, Inc., for more information.