What to wear on the first night in a new home
Short answer: The first night in a new home goes better when the essentials are packed separately. Keep sleepwear, a dressing gown, towels and a set of bedding in one box, make the bed before dinner, and make the bedroom dark and cool.
The box to open first
On moving day there are boxes everywhere and it is hard to find anything. Pack one box with everything you need for the first evening and morning: sleepwear, a dressing gown, towels, toiletries, a phone charger, a set of bedding and perhaps a torch. Write "open first" on every side. Keep it in your own car so it does not end up at the back of the removal van behind the furniture.
Make the bed early
It is tempting to leave the bed until last, but when it is late and everyone is tired, digging out sheets and duvets feels like hard work. Assemble the bed and make it as soon as the bedroom is clear of boxes. Then you know there is somewhere to lie down, however the rest of the evening goes. Use bedding you know well, as familiar bedding can help a strange room feel like home. Have a look at Nordic Weaving for ideas for the new bedroom.
A shower after the move
After a day of lifting and stairs, a shower is the best thing you can do for your body. Check that the hot water works and take the towels out of the box. Bamboo towels take up little room in the box and dry quickly again, even before any hooks have been put up. A chair or a door can serve as a place to hang them on the first evening until you get properly settled.
A dressing gown for comfort
In a new home you do not yet know the sounds, the temperature or the way to the kitchen at night. A dressing gown by the bed makes it easier to get up in the dark and find your way. It is also pleasant in the morning while the coffee brews among the boxes. A bamboo dressing gown for men is light and easy to pack, and it can hang on a door until hooks are fitted in the new bathroom or bedroom.
Darkness and quiet in the bedroom
New homes often have no curtains yet, and street lights or early sunshine can keep you awake. Pack a few pieces of fabric, blankets or a sleep mask in the box. Fix them over the window with tape or clips on the first night. Air the room before bed, as new rooms can smell of paint or dust. Keep the temperature cool so you sleep better and wake up ready for the next round of unpacking.
Sounds and restlessness on the first night
Many people sleep restlessly on the first night in a new home. The brain keeps track of unfamiliar sounds from heating pipes, neighbours and traffic. This is completely normal and usually passes after a few nights. A calm evening routine with a shower, sleepwear and a little reading can help. If you have trouble sleeping for a long time after moving, talk to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
What should go in the box for the first night
Sleepwear, a dressing gown, towels, toiletries, bedding, a charger and ideally something to darken the window.
Why do people sleep badly on the first night in a new home
The brain keeps watch over unfamiliar sounds and surroundings. It usually passes after a few nights.
When should the bed be made on moving day
As early as possible, ideally before dinner, so there is somewhere to sleep however the day ends.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
