Moving blankets are thick, padded coverings used to protect furniture, appliances, and other items during a move. They prevent scratches, dents, and surface damage by acting as a cushion between items and the moving environment. To use them, simply wrap the item in a moving blanket and secure it with packing tape or stretch wrap.
These versatile packing supplies are a must-have for DIY movers, small businesses, and anyone transporting valuable or delicate belongings. Whether you're moving across town or across the country, furniture moving blankets help reduce moving damage and ensure your items arrive safely. Their durability and ability to absorb impact make them far superior to regular blankets for moving, towels, or sheets.
What Is A Moving Blanket?
A moving blanket, also known as a furniture pad or moving pad, is a protective covering made from padded fabric designed to protect items during transport. Most moving blankets feature layers of polyester or cotton padding sandwiched between heavy-duty fabric. These blankets are specifically manufactured to handle the rigors of moving, which involves frequent shifting, loading, and unloading.
- Materials: Non-woven fabric, recycled cotton, polyester, or denim—materials that offer flexibility and shock absorption.
- Construction: Stitched or quilted with reinforced seams to withstand multiple uses.
- Dimensions: Common sizes include 72" x 80", 54" x 72", and 40" x 72", providing sufficient coverage for a variety of furniture.
- Weight: Typically ranges from 3 lbs to 7 lbs per blanket, depending on the thickness and padding level.
Unlike household blankets, blankets for moving are purpose-built for padding, coverage, and durability. They play a critical role in minimizing the risks associated with transporting fragile and heavy items.
Why Moving Blankets Matter
Moving blankets help prevent scratches, dents, and broken edges during transport. They cushion fragile items, reduce impact, and keep dust and moisture off surfaces.
Moving can be stressful and chaotic. Without the right protective packing, furniture and appliances are vulnerable to costly damage. That's where moving blankets come in:
Key Benefits of Using Furniture Moving Blankets:
- Protects surfaces from dings, chips, and abrasions by creating a cushioned barrier.
- Reduces vibration and movement inside the truck, which is especially important on bumpy roads.
- Prevents dirt, grease, or water from reaching your furniture, making them essential for rainy or dusty conditions.
- Essential for wrapping furniture, electronics, appliances, mirrors, and artwork, ensuring they remain intact during loading, unloading, and transit.
For homeowners, renters, and small businesses, investing in furniture moving blankets is a smart and cost-effective step to avoid damage and replacement costs.
Types of Moving Blankets
There are several types of moving blankets for furniture available based on material, construction, and intended use.
Deluxe Blankets
Made with superior-quality polyester and durable zig-zag stitching, Deluxe Blankets offer professional-grade protection. These heavy-duty blankets are ideal for long-distance moves, frequent use, or transporting high-value furniture and equipment.
They offer superior cushioning against impact, scratches, and dents, making them suitable for professional movers or anyone transporting high-value items. Because they're machine-washable and long-lasting, they offer excellent value over time.
Textile Blankets
These Textile Moving Blankets, also known as skins, are made from recycled bonded fibers and are a great budget-friendly solution for short-term or light-duty moves. Designed for one-time or occasional use, these non-woven pads are lightweight, flexible, and soft enough to prevent surface scratches and scuffs.
They are a cost-effective choice for DIY movers, small moving jobs, or temporary furniture storage. They are also ideal for covering multiple items or layering in a moving truck.
Economy Blankets
The Economy Moving Blankets provide basic protection for furniture, appliances, and other household items. Manufactured from a non-woven polyester blend and cotton batting, these pads are thinner and lighter than premium options, but still offer reliable surface protection against dust, dirt, and light contact.
They’re a smart choice for short trips, local moves, or for filling gaps between stacked items in a moving truck. While not intended for heavy-duty use, they offer solid value and performance for everyday moving needs.
U-Haul Varieties
Some popular branded pads include:
- Furniture Pad: Lightweight cover that offers light-duty surface protection.
- Quilted Pad: Thicker, reusable option designed for appliances, furniture, and glass.
- Paper Pad: Made from layered kraft paper, ideal for temporary surface protection and wrapping.
Each variety serves a specific purpose, so choose the one that best fits your moving needs and budget.
Creative and Secondary Uses
Moving blankets aren't just for moving. Their durability and padding make them useful in several DIY and home settings beyond relocation.
Common Secondary Uses:
- Soundproofing walls or studios – Their density helps dampen sound, making them ideal for recording spaces.
- Insulation – Great for drafty windows, garages, or as temporary insulation for outdoor structures.
- Pet bedding or crate liners – Soft, padded, and washable.
- Floor protection – Use during painting, renovations, or setting up events.
- Outdoor uses – Doubles as picnic blankets, temporary shade covers, or workout mats.
If you buy moving blankets, their long-term utility goes far beyond just one move.
How to Use Moving Blankets – Step by Step
Clean the Item
Before wrapping, clean and dust your item. This prevents debris from scratching the surface during the move.
Use a microfiber cloth or dry rag to remove dirt and ensure the surface is dry. This is especially important for polished wood, glass, or electronics.
Drape and Cover
Lay the moving blankets for furniture over the top and sides of the items. For large furniture, overlap multiple blankets to ensure full coverage.
Make sure the blanket reaches all corners and edges. For mirrors or artwork, wrap completely and tape the edges of the blanket together.
Fold, Tuck & Wrap Legs
Wrap furniture legs and corners separately for better protection. Tuck excess fabric underneath or inside folds.
Legs and corners are highly susceptible to impact damage. Extra padding in these areas is a smart precaution.
Secure with Tape or Wrap
Use stretch wrap or packing tape to hold the blanket in place. Avoid placing tape directly on furniture.
Plastic wrap for moving is ideal for holding blankets in place without adhesive residue. Packing tape should only be applied to the blanket, not the furniture.
Position in Truck
Stack items high and tight to prevent shifting. Use moving blankets as padding between stacked boxes or furniture.
Follow the "high and tight" method: place heavier items at the bottom and fill gaps with blankets to minimize movement. Use furniture moving pads to prevent metal-on-metal or wood-on-wood contact.
How Many Moving Blankets Do I Need?
The number of moving blankets needed depends on the size and quantity of items. Plan to use more blankets for fragile or high-value items.
|
Item Type |
Suggested Quantity |
|
Small Side Table |
1 Blanket |
|
Armchair or Office Chair |
2 Blankets |
|
Large Sofa or Sectional |
3–4 Blankets |
|
Dining Table |
2–3 Blankets |
|
Refrigerator or Washer |
2–3 Blankets |
|
Full Apartment Move |
12–24 Blankets |
|
Full House Move |
24–48 Blankets |
If you're unsure how many moving blankets you need, it's safer to overestimate. You can always use extras to fill gaps or protect unexpected items.
Renting vs Buying Moving Blankets
Renting moving blankets is cheaper for short-term moves, but buying makes sense for long-term use.
Rent Moving Blankets:
- Low upfront cost
- Ideal for one-time moves
- Must return in good condition
- May show wear from previous use
Buy Moving Blankets:
- Reusable for future moves or home projects
- Better value if used multiple times
- Can be used for storage and other purposes
- Available in different grades and styles
How much are moving blankets? Prices range from $5 to $20 each, depending on quality, thickness, and quantity. Buying in bulk from a supplier like StarBoxes can lower your cost per unit.
Alternatives to Moving Blankets
If you don't have access to furniture pads, several alternatives can offer temporary protection. These options vary in effectiveness, so evaluate based on what you're protecting and how far you're moving.
|
Alternative |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Regular Blankets |
Readily available |
Not padded or durable |
|
Towels |
Soft and flexible |
Limited surface coverage |
|
Bubble Wrap |
Lightweight protection |
Not reusable, expensive |
|
Drop Cloths |
Good for dust protection |
No cushioning or padding |
While these alternatives may work in a pinch, they generally do not offer the same level of protection, especially for heavy or breakable items.
FAQs
How to properly use moving blankets?
Clean the item, drape the blanket fully over it, wrap tightly, and secure with stretch wrap or packing tape. Cover corners and legs, and stack items tightly in the truck to avoid shifting.
Can I use regular blankets instead of moving blankets?
Yes, but regular blankets offer less protection. They're not padded or durable like moving blankets and may not prevent impact damage.
What furniture needs moving blankets?
Wrap wooden furniture, sofas, appliances, glass items, and electronics—anything with delicate surfaces or breakable parts.
What is the purpose of a moving blanket?
To protect items from scratches, dents, dust, and impact during moving or storage by providing a cushioned barrier.
How do you use a moving blanket?
Cover the item completely, tuck excess fabric, and secure it with tape or plastic wrap. Use multiple blankets for large or fragile items.
What is the difference between economy and heavy-duty moving blankets?
Economy blankets are thinner and best for light protection. Heavy-duty blankets are thicker, more durable, and ideal for repeated use or long-distance moves.
Protect your belongings with the best moving blankets from StarBoxes. Whether you're looking for premium furniture moving blankets, cheap moving blankets for a quick DIY job, or custom bulk orders, StarBoxes.com has a wide selection to meet your needs. Take advantage of competitive pricing, nationwide shipping, and custom eQuotes for large moves or business use.
Check out our durable, affordable, and reliable moving supplies.