The First 5 Steps to Moving (Without Losing Your Mind)
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Make your new home feel cozy and organized with these 5 first steps for moving in. Simple tips (and a great mattress upgrade) that make move-in day so much easier.
Move-in day is basically a perfect storm of boxes, bubble wrap, and things you swore you labeled that are now missing in action. (How can you lose scissors when you just had them??)
Before you spiral into chaos, take a deep breath. These first few steps will make your new place feel cozy, organized, and actually yours—even if you’re surrounded by towers of boxes.
A Little Backstory: My Dad’s Recent Move
A few weeks ago, my dad moved back to town after spending the last couple of years working three hours away. He just signed a lease at an apartment down the street from us so he can be close again—and we are thrilled to have him nearby.
The only problem? His move-in day happened while our family was out of town. And since he didn’t know anyone in his old city, he had to move entirely by himself.
He managed most of it just fine—he didn’t have a ton of stuff, and his new apartment came with all the big appliances—but there was one thing that just wasn’t going to happen: his king-sized mattress.
When he mentioned he was planning to haul that thing solo, I asked how old it was. (Cue dramatic pause.)
He said, “Oh, at least 20 years.”
That was my cue to step in. I told him to ditch the mattress, and we’d get him a new one for his new home. (Best moving decision ever—it saved him the hassle and gave him the upgrade he didn’t know he needed.)
We ordered the Nolah Evolution Mattress—the same brand Rob and I have been sleeping on for the past few years, and truly, the most comfortable mattress we’ve ever owned.
My dad got the Luxury Firm with the cooling pillowtop, and he keeps raving about how good he’s sleeping.
He’s happy, rested, and settling in beautifully. And honestly, seeing him so comfortable in his new space makes my heart so happy.
The 5 First Steps to Make Your New Place Feel Like Home
1. Make. Your. Bed.
It’s instant order in a sea of chaos. Even if the rest of your space looks like a tornado just passed through, your bed is a calm, cozy oasis. Bonus: when you crash at midnight (because moving is exhausting), you’ll thank yourself.
If you’re due for a mattress upgrade, learn from my dad—start fresh with something comfortable! I can’t recommend Nolah enough.
We haven’t styled my dad’s bedroom at all yet – but his bed is simply made. Clean sheets, a couple pillows, a comforter, and that’s it. Styling will come later, but comfort should always come first!
2. Make Scents
A candle, diffuser, wax melt, or room spray—whatever you love most, get it going. Smell is one of the quickest ways to trigger that “I’m home” feeling.
Pro tip: unpack your favorite candle first. (Yes, before your dishes. You deserve vibes.)
3. Set Up a Drop Zone
Even if it’s just a bowl or tray near the door, establish a spot for your keys, wallet, and phone right away. You’ll save yourself the “WHERE ARE MY KEYS?!” meltdown that inevitably happens when everything’s still in boxes.
4. Add a Cozy Factor
Instant home energy = one cozy layer + one living thing.
Throw blanket + plant.
Art print + candle.
Pillow + vase of flowers.
Just something that feels like you. It keeps your space from feeling like a temporary storage unit.
5. Unpack the Essentials Box
You know that box you (hopefully) labeled “OPEN FIRST”? This is the time. Stock the toilet paper, find the coffee maker, and make sure you’ve got your toothbrush, chargers, and snacks. You’ll survive your first night without having to dig through 42 mystery boxes labeled “Misc.”
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re settling into your dream home or a cozy new apartment like my dad, these small steps make all the difference. Moving doesn’t have to feel like chaos if you prioritize comfort and calm right from the start.
And if you happen to be in the market for a new mattress? Nolah made moving day easier for my dad and gave him the best sleep he’s had in decades. Highly recommend starting fresh—you deserve it.
