Clothing for removal workers on the stairs
Short answer: Removal work means heavy lifting, many stairs and a fast pace all day. Clothing that gives freedom of movement, supports you when lifting and absorbs sweat makes a long moving day easier to get through.
A day of heavy lifting
A moving day can mean hundreds of steps up and down with boxes, furniture and appliances. You lift, turn, carry and bend, often in narrow stairwells and in all kinds of weather. The body works hard all day, and you sweat a lot. Clothing has to give freedom of movement in the hips and knees, stay in place and take moisture away from the skin, so you do not get cold standing by the van. Many removal firms employ both men and women, and here we look at clothing for both.
Freedom of movement in the legs
Stairs and lifting need full movement in the hips and knees. Close fitting leggings under loose work trousers, or on their own on warm days, give free movement and prevent chafing. Bamboo leggings for women are soft and stretchy and take moisture away from the skin. They can also serve as an extra layer under work trousers in winter, so the legs stay warm by the van.
Support when lifting
When you carry heavy loads in front of the body and climb stairs, a bra with good support and no underwire is the most comfortable. Underwire can press when you hold a box against your chest. A bamboo bra without underwire stays in place without pressing and has soft straps. Choose a model that feels stable when you climb stairs at a fast pace.
Underwear that lasts all day
A moving day leaves few breaks. Underwear that stays put, does not roll up and absorbs moisture makes the long day easier. Bamboo panties are soft and smooth and come in several cuts. Choose a cut that stays in place when you crouch to lift a box from the floor and stand up again many times.
Feet and shoes
Removal workers often wear safety shoes with toe caps to protect the toes from heavy objects. The feet get warm in them, and socks that absorb moisture and sit smoothly reduce the risk of blisters. Change socks at lunchtime if your feet are damp. Good gloves with grip protect the hands and make it easier to hold on to smooth furniture.
Washing and care after a moving day
Clothes from a moving day are often both sweaty and dusty. Wash leggings, underwear and bras at 30 to 40 degrees, with bras ideally in a laundry bag. Avoid fabric softener, so the fibres keep their ability to absorb moisture, and let the clothes air dry. Lift with bent knees and a straight back, and share heavy items between two people. If your back or knees ache after work, talk to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Why leggings for removal work
They give free movement on stairs and when lifting, and prevent the thighs from rubbing.
Which bra suits heavy lifting
A supportive bra without underwire that does not press when you carry a box against your body.
Which shoes are best for removals
Safety shoes with toe caps and a good sole, combined with socks that absorb moisture.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
