Use furniture sliders or blankets under items, lift instead of dragging, and ensure paths are clear to prevent scratches on floors.
Moving furniture can turn your beautiful floors into a scratched disaster if done incorrectly. Whether you have hardwood, tile, or laminate, proper techniques will keep your floors pristine. Follow these professional strategies to protect your flooring during any move.
1. Never Drag Furniture – Lift or Slide Properly
Dragging furniture is the #1 cause of floor damage. Even light items can leave deep scratches when dragged across surfaces. For heavy pieces:
- Use proper lifting techniques (bend knees, keep back straight)
- Enlist help for items over 50 pounds
- Consider professional moving equipment for large items
Best Tools for Heavy Items
| Tool | Best For | Floor Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Furniture dolly | Appliances, large cabinets | Excellent |
| Hand truck | Boxes, stacked items | Good |
| Appliance dolly | Refrigerators, washers | Excellent |
2. Use Proper Floor Protection Materials
Invest in quality protective materials before moving day. The Moving.com study shows proper protection reduces floor damage by 87%.
Top Protection Options:
- Furniture sliders: Felt or rubber pads that glide under legs
- Moving blankets: Thick padding that wraps around furniture bases
- Cardboard sheets: Free protection from broken down boxes
- Ram board: Temporary floor covering for high-traffic areas
3. Prepare the Path Before Moving
Clear a safe pathway before moving any furniture:
- Remove all small objects and decor
- Sweep or vacuum the entire path
- Protect walls with corner guards
- Use runners on carpeted areas
- Keep cleaning supplies handy for quick cleanups
4. Disassemble Large Pieces First
Breaking down furniture makes moving safer and prevents floor damage:
- Remove table leaves and legs
- Take apart bed frames
- Empty all drawers from dressers
- Remove cushions from sofas
- Detach shelving units
5. Choose the Right Technique for Your Floor Type
Hardwood Floors
Use felt-bottomed sliders and avoid any moisture. The Conroy Removals guide recommends special hardwood floor sliders.
Tile Floors
Rubber sliders work best to prevent cracking grout lines.
Carpet
Plastic sliders glide easiest while protecting carpet fibers.
6. Move Slowly and Check Frequently
Rushing leads to accidents. Follow these safety steps:
- Lift items completely off the floor when possible
- Move in short, controlled motions
- Stop frequently to check for floor marks
- Have a spotter guide large pieces
- Clean any debris immediately
7. Consider Professional Help for Valuable Floors
For expensive flooring or antique furniture, hiring movers may be worthwhile. Professionals have:
- Specialized equipment
- Floor protection experience
- Insurance coverage
- Proper manpower
Remember these tips and your floors will stay scratch-free through any move. Proper preparation makes all the difference between a smooth transition and costly floor repairs.