Is It Okay to Leave Clothes in the Dresser When Moving?

Moving comes with a million tiny decisions, and one that often pops up is: Should you empty your dresser drawers or just leave your clothes inside? It sounds like a small detail, but the answer can actually affect how smoothly your move goes.

At first glance, leaving your clothes where they are might seem like a time-saving hack. But there are pros and cons to this shortcut, and not all movers will handle it the same way. Whether you're handling the move yourself or hiring professionals, knowing when it's okay—and when it's not—can save you from headaches later.

Let’s break it down.

Is It Okay to Leave Clothes in the Dresser When Moving?

In some cases, yes, it’s perfectly fine to leave your clothes inside. But it depends on a few key things: the type of dresser you have, what kind of clothing is inside, how far you're moving, and how your movers feel about it.

When It’s Usually Fine

• You’re moving just across town

• Your dresser is made of solid, sturdy material

• You only leave lightweight clothes inside (like t-shirts or undergarments)

• You secure the drawers properly before the move

When It’s Not a Good Idea

• The dresser is fragile, old, or made of particle board

• You’re moving long-distance

• The drawers are full of heavy clothing like jeans or sweaters

• Your movers specifically ask for it to be emptied

If you’re ever unsure, ask your moving company what they recommend. Some prefer dressers to be emptied for safety and liability reasons.

Local Help Makes a Big Difference

If you're planning a move within Lancaster, working with a local team can make the entire process easier—especially when it comes to those details like moving a dresser full of clothes.

Movers and Packers In Lancaster have experience with a wide variety of homes and furniture types. If your dresser is in good shape and the contents are light, our team at Chamomile Go can help move it efficiently and safely. We know how to secure furniture, handle tight corners, and transport everything with care so you don’t have to stress about what’s inside your drawers.

Pros and Cons of Leaving Clothes in the Dresser

Let’s look at both sides to help you decide what’s best for your situation.

Pros

• Less packing – You don’t need to take everything out, fold it, box it, and then unpack it all over again.

• Fewer boxes – That’s fewer supplies to buy and less to carry.

• Saves time – You’re trimming down the number of steps, which can be a huge relief on moving day.

Cons

• Adds weight – A dresser filled with clothes can be surprisingly heavy, especially if the clothes are bulky.

• Risk of damage – The extra weight can stress the structure of the dresser or cause drawers to slide out while it’s being carried.

• Some movers won’t accept it – Professional movers often have policies for safety and liability, and they might ask you to empty drawers beforehand.

How to Move a Dresser Safely (With or Without Clothes Inside)

Whether you decide to empty your drawers or not, these tips will help make the process smoother:

Secure the Drawers

Use moving straps or plastic wrap to hold drawers in place. This prevents them from sliding out or causing balance issues during the move.

Lighten the Load

If your drawers are full of heavy clothes, consider removing some items. Keep only lightweight, non-bulky clothing inside, and pack the rest in boxes or bags.

Empty Fragile Furniture

If your dresser is older, made of particle board, or showing signs of wear, it's best to empty it completely. Better safe than sorry.

Alternatives to Leaving Clothes in the Dresser

If your situation calls for emptying the dresser, here are a few other ways to pack your clothes efficiently:

• Suitcases – You probably already have a few. They’re perfect for clothes and come with wheels for easy transport.

• Wardrobe boxes – Great for hanging clothes like dresses and coats, keeping them wrinkle-free.

• Vacuum bags – These are excellent for compressing bulky items like winter gear, saving a lot of space in your moving truck.

Chamomile Go Can Help You Move Smarter

Packing might be one of the biggest time sinks during a move, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Whether you leave your clothes in the dresser or take them out, having the right help can make all the difference.

At Chamomile Go, we specialize in smooth, stress-free moves throughout Lancaster. Our experienced team knows how to handle furniture of all types, and we’ll work with you to find the most efficient and safe way to get everything from Point A to Point B—drawers included.

Final Thoughts

So, back to the big question: Is it okay to leave clothes in the dresser when moving? It can be, but only in the right situations. Make sure your dresser is strong, the clothes are light, and your movers are on board. If all of that checks out, it’s a great way to save time and simplify your move. If not, there are still easy ways to pack everything up and get it moved without extra stress.

And remember—every move is different. Local experts like Chamomile Go can help you make the smartest choices for your specific needs. Happy moving!