Creative Options For Reusing Packing Materials

1. Cardboard Boxes
2. Packing Peanuts
3. Bubble Wrap

When moving, you are probably going to be using a huge amount of packing materials. This means things like boxes, packing peanuts, and more. After you have finished unpacking at your new home, the next major job is organizing and disposing of all this packing material. Instead of just simply throwing it away (which isn't very environmentally friendly), why not consider some ways to reuse these items? Here are some creative ideas to help.

Cardboard Boxes

You never want to throw away a cardboard box unless it is just simply not able to support any more weight. This also means there are some pretty creative options in terms of reusing them:

• Store Items: The best use of a box may be to actually keep stuff in. Consider putting your older books, magazines, papers, files, etc... Of course, you will want to properly label the boxes in order to be able to find any of these items should they be needed in the future.
• Garbage: The older and ratty boxes can also be given new life (at least for a while) as waste baskets. You can even line them with other material like paper or additional cardboard in order to increase their durability and absorption.
• Post Office: Instead of buying new boxes at the post office, consider using these. They can be re-sealed and any unneeded markings can be covered up before the box is addressed.
• For the Kids: Many times, children would love to play with old cardboard. They can be used for craft projects or even to build things. Who knows, they might end up finding the most creative uses for these items without your input!

Packing Peanuts

These will be everywhere after your move! But rather than simply throwing them away, consider the following creative uses for packing peanuts:

• Pet Cushion: Take the peanuts and then put them in a sheet or pillow case or some type of soft material. This can then be used as a pillow or cushion for your dog or cat.
• Plant Drainage: Use the peanuts inside a flower or other planting pot in its base. This functions like a type of drainage system helping to rid the pot of excess water.
• Design Projects: You could even use peanuts for arts and crafts or other types of design projects. Cover them with glue and glitter, make Christmas tree garlands, even attach them to walls (using paint) to create some unique designs.

Bubble Wrap

While you could just take this and pop all the bubbles, remembering those carefree childhood years, that wouldn't really be reusing this material. Fortunately, bubble wrap is waterproof, so you have a lot of options.

• Re-Shipping: Why not send your presents or gifts wrapped in the bubble wrap It's perfect for food and many other items.
• Carpets, Doormats: And anything else that could use a relatively durable lining material will benefit from bubble wrap.