Moving and Storing Household Items

Moving boxes and packing supplies can be expensive, so you may not want to part with them after your move. Fortunately, they are pretty durable and can be reused in a number of ways. If you are planning to move, keep these ideas in mind before you fill your dumpster with cardboard moving boxes.

Dress-Up Trunks

If you purchased wardrobe boxes for your clothing, they can be reused for your little one's dress-up clothes. The boxes already have a dowel rod inside for hanging dresses and costumes, and they are the ideal size for kids to play with. Paint the boxes with spray paint, and have the kids decorate them with markers, glitter, and other craft supplies. Hang their dress-up clothes on the dowel rods, and place smaller boxes or plastic containers in the bottom to hold accessories.

Driveway Protector

Cars can frequently leak fluids, which can leave stains behind on your driveway and make your vehicle less efficient. If you suspect your car has a leak, place an unfolded moving box underneath the center and front end of the car. The cardboard will soak up the leaks instead of your pavement. Check the cardboard to see what color the fluid is. Knowing the color can help you or your mechanic to diagnose the problem.

Pantry Organizers

Small moving boxes can make it easy to store your fresh fruits and veggies, including potatoes, oranges, and apples. You can also cut the front end off of the boxes and place them on the shelves in your pantry to keep boxed foods organized and easy to access. If you used any glassware boxes to move your cups, mugs, and stemware, put them to use in your pantry too. The partitions that kept your glasses from being damaged can make it easy to organize canned foods.

Imaginary Play Toys

Kids can often find more uses for cardboard moving boxes than you thought possible. If you have plenty of room in your house, either in the basement or in a playroom, consider giving your children several boxes in different sizes. They can be used to build forts, create giant building blocks, or to make pretend cars. You can use colored duct tape to seal the boxes for them and give them construction paper, glue, and markers to help create their own unique toys.

Use these ideas to get more out of your moving boxes, or come up with your own ideas to ensure the moving supplies you purchased don't go to waste. For more information, contact local professionals like Route 37 Self-Storage.