Moving into a new home comes with a lot of excitement… and a lot of leftover packing materials. From stacks of cardboard boxes to mountains of bubble wrap, it’s easy to feel like your move has left more waste than you expected.
With a little planning, you can keep your relocation sustainable and give those materials a second life.
1. Recycle Your Cardboard Boxes
Cardboard is one of the easiest materials to recycle. Before putting boxes in your bin, break them down to save space and remove any packing tape or labels. If the boxes are still in good shape, consider keeping them or passing them along to friends or neighbors who might be preparing for a move of their own.
2. Donate or Reuse Bubble Wrap & Packing Supplies
Plastic packing materials like bubble wrap aren’t as easily recyclable, but that doesn’t mean they have to go to waste. Many grocery stores and retailers offer bins for recycling plastic bags and film and are glad to accept clean, used packing supplies to reuse for their own shipments. You can also save them for your own storage needs, especially if you have fragile or plan to ship other items.
3. Compost Biodegradable Packing Peanuts
Not all packing peanuts are the same. Traditional polystyrene peanuts can’t be recycled, but many moving companies now use biodegradable versions made from cornstarch or wheat. These dissolve in water and can be safely composted. If you’re unsure which type you have, run one under the faucet and if it melts away, it’s the eco-friendly kind.
Think Beyond Disposal
Sometimes the most sustainable option is repurposing what you already have. Leftover boxes can become storage containers or even kids’ playhouses and pet forts. Bubble wrap can protect seasonal decorations or fragile items in storage. With a bit of creativity, you can get more life out of your packing supplies before saying goodbye.
A Greener Way to Move
Every move creates some waste, but small choices add up. By recycling, donating, composting, and reusing, you’ll not only reduce your environmental footprint but you can also help others in your community.
A waste-free move isn’t just good for the planet, it’s also a win for your wallet and potentially your neighbors, too.
