Moving a loved one into an assisted living facility requires careful planning, especially when it comes to organizing their personal belongings. One of the most important steps in this process is labeling their clothes to ensure that items do not get lost or mixed up in the facility’s laundry system. Proper labeling makes it easier for staff to return items to the right person and helps your loved one maintain their sense of identity and comfort. Here are some of the best ways to label clothes for a nursing home move.
1. Use Permanent Clothing Labels
Pre-made sew-in or iron-on clothing labels are one of the most durable and reliable options. These labels can be customized with your loved one’s name and room number, making them easy to identify. Iron-on labels are particularly convenient since they attach quickly and stay secure through multiple washes.
2. Consider Fabric Markers
If you need a fast and inexpensive labeling option, a permanent fabric marker can do the trick. Simply write the resident’s full name on the inside of the clothing, preferably on the tag orin a less visible area. Choose a marker designed for fabric to prevent fading after washing.
3. Stick-On Name Labels
Stick-on labels are another quick solution. While they are typically more temporary than iron-on labels, some brands offer waterproof and laundry-safe options that can withstand repeated washing. These are useful for items that might not be ironed, such as socks, underwear, and delicate fabrics.
4. Label Shoes and Accessories
Clothing isn’t the only thing that needs labeling. Shoes, slippers, coats, hats, and other accessories should also be marked to prevent loss. For shoes, consider using a permanent marker on the inside or applying a durable sticker label. Attachable name tags or iron-on labels can also be used for coats and scarves.
5. Use Labeling Tape for Temporary Identification
If you’re in a hurry or waiting for custom labels to arrive, laundry-safe labeling tape can be a good temporary fix. You can write on the tape and attach it to clothing tags, ensuring that items remain identifiable even before a permanent label is added.
6. Create an Inventory List
In addition to labeling, keep a detailed inventory list of all clothing and personal items your loved one is bringing to the nursing home. Update this list periodically to ensure nothing goes missing and replace any lost labels when necessary.
Properly labeling clothes for a nursing home is essential for keeping your loved one’s belongings organized and preventing mix-ups in the laundry. Whether you choose iron-on labels, fabric markers, or stick-on tags, the key is to ensure labels are clear, durable, and laundry-safe. Taking the time to label clothing properly will give you peace of mind and help your loved one feel more comfortable in their new home. At The Gables we want all of our residents to feel comfortable and be set up for success the moment they move in!
