Drop your earrings in an egg carton? Stuff your stemware in a sock? They may seem strange, but these weird-yet-wonderful packing tips will help you preserve all those tough-to-transport items come moving day!

Packing Tip #1: Dishes

Whether you’re packing up place-settings of precious heirloom china or just a few hand-me-down dinner plates, remember: while stacking your dishes might seem like the best bet, they’ll actually fare much better sitting sideways when boxed.

First, wrap them in bubble wrap or foam plate sleeves (or use several layers of those plastic grocery bags you’ve been saving all year as a cheaper alternative), then place them sideways in your box of choice. It can also help to weave household items like dish towels and hand towels around your kitchen essentials to add an extra layer of protection without spending any extra on expensive packing materials.

Packing Tip #2: Glassware

Looking to keep those stemware sets, goblets, and glasses from shattering, without investing a small fortune in bubble wrap? We hope you’ve been saving all those mismatched socks that’ve lost their mates in the laundry! Simply stuff each glass into a separate, clean sock to prevent cracks and chips, and you’ll be on your way to a well-preserved collection of glassware.

Packing Tip #3: Jewelry

Dreading the thought of hours spent unpacking and unraveling your jewelry after the big move? Try this: thread your chain necklaces through disposable plastic straws, then clasp to close. You’ll save loads of hassle when you’re not spending moving day detangling. Earrings galore, too? Place each set in a separate section of an egg carton, then top with cotton balls or crumpled tissue paper to keep them in place.