A bathroom remodel is an exciting renovation, whether it’s a condo renovation in Toronto, a family home renovation in Calgary, or a cottage bathroom update in Muskoka. However, before the first tile is removed from the wall, proper preparation and packing are essential. Planning ahead protects your belongings, save your things, save time and ensure your renovation stays on schedule.
This step-by-step guide explains how to pack and prepare your bathroom for a smooth remodel tip tailored to homes and lifestyles.
Understand the Scope of Your Bathroom Remodel
It is important to check what exactly is included in your remodel before you begin to pack it up. Are you doing a full gut renovation, or simply replacing fixtures? Understanding the scope that will assist you in determining what has to be eliminated and what can be retained.
In case you are living in a condo or townhouse, look at the renovation regulations of your building. Most condo boards require advance notice, approved work hours, and booking of the elevator to move debris. Clarifying these details early helps prevent delays and issues later on.
Declutter and Sort Bathroom Items
Bathrooms often contain far more items than we realize. Begin by emptying all the drawers, cabinets and shelves.
Categorize Your Belongings
Sort items into clear groups:
- Necessities (toothbrush, skin care, medications)
- Additional products (extra towels, spare toiletries)
- Expired or unused products
Old medications should be disposed of at a pharmacy, and empty containers should be recycled according to your local municipality’s guidelines. This step makes faster and more manageable.
Set Up a Temporary Bathroom Space
Most bathroom remodels take several weeks and you will have to have a different environment. In case of having another bathroom, carry your necessities there. If your home has only one bathroom, consider setting up a temporary vanity in a bedroom or laundry room. Household things that can be carried back and forth on a daily basis should be placed in a plastic bin or small caddy. Homeowners who are doing the renovations in winter are advised to make sure that the temporary areas are kept warm and dry to prevent the damage of toiletries.
Pack Bathroom Items Safely and Efficiently
Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to pack.
Use the Right Packing Materials
- Small moving boxes or plastic storage bins
- Zip-top bags to prevent leaks
- Bubble wrap or towels for breakable items such as mirrors, and glass shelves.
Label each box clearly (e.g. Bathroom – Towels, Bathroom – Cleaning Supplies). This comes in particularly handy when you are storing goods in a garage or a basement.
Protect Plumbing Fixtures and Built-Ins
In case of reusing of certain fixtures like the vanity, the mirror, or the lighting, ensure that they are secured. Place objects in moving blankets or thick towels and keep them in a dry place.
Turn off the water supply when suggested by your contractor. Especially in colder areas, it is important to ensure that the pipes are drained and covered so that when the renovation is being done, they do not freeze or get broken.
Remove Wall Décor and Accessories
Remove towel bars, shelves, artwork, shower curtains, and hooks. Things that you intend to install again should also be removed so that they are not dusted or damaged.
Insert small hardware and screws in labeled bags and tape them on the respective item. This simple step saves time and frustration in the reinstallation.
Prepare for Dust, Noise, and Disruption
Bathroom remodeling is a messy process. Close the surrounding rooms with plastic covers as much as possible, particularly in an open-concept house. Move nearby furniture and belongings to keep them dust-free. When you work at home, schedule around days of loud demolition. Most contractors follow local noise bylaws and work during standard daytime hours.
Plan for Waste and Recycling
The renovations produce a tremendous amount of waste, whether it is old tiles or drywall. Query your contractor about the issue of debris management. In other cities, a bin permit or drop-off point might be required.
Keep Important Items Accessible
Move valuable things such as medications, first-aid kits, and important paperwork out of the area of the renovation. Store them in a well distinguished box or a drawer to access them with ease when required.
Checklist Before Renovation Begins
Before the remodel starts:
- Take photos of the existing bathroom for reference.
- Confirm schedules and availability with your contractor.
- Remove all personal items out of the area.
- Keep pets and children out of the work place.