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Key takeaways
- The post says cardboard boxes are generally the easiest moving material to recycle, and packing paper and some biodegradable peanuts may also be accepted, but check your local recycling program.
- Plastic wrap, bubble wrap and Styrofoam peanuts typically are not recyclable curbside, so save them for reuse, pass them to someone who is moving or look up alternative drop-offs.
- Before recycling boxes, break them down, remove tape and labels and make sure they are free of food or water damage.
- Reuse ideas include storage for seasonal items, drawer organizers, loose fill for stored items, window insulation and protecting furniture during painting.
- Sell or donate high-quality boxes and supplies through online platforms, local moving companies or storage facilities.
After you’ve moved, unpacked, and settled into your new home, you might be left staring at a mountain of leftover moving materials. Materials like boxes, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and more can easily create a lot of waste if they’re not disposed of properly.
Whether it's recycling, donating, or reusing, there are plenty of ways to make your move eco-friendly. In this blog, we’ll give you some tips on how to manage your moving supplies so you can cut down on waste and reduce the ecological impact of your move as much as possible.
How to Recycle Moving Materials
Moving is a stressful process. When you’re done with the move it can be tempting to toss out your old boxes and other moving materials to quickly get them out of your space. But moving typically produces a lot of waste, so it’s best to take the time and properly recycle, reuse, or donate your moving materials whenever possible. If you’re not sure how to get started, here are a few tips:
1. Determine What Materials You Can and Can’t Recycle
Not all moving materials are created equal. Cardboard boxes are generally the easiest to recycle but check with your local recycling program for specific guidelines. Packing paper and certain biodegradable packing peanuts might also be accepted. On the other hand, plastic wrap, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts made of Styrofoam typically aren't recyclable and need alternative disposal methods.
With packing peanuts and Styrofoam, you can save these products to be used for later or donate them to a family member or friend who is moving. If you need these items taken away, contact your local recycling center to learn about your options. Another option is posting on sites like Nextdoor or Facebook Marketplace to see if anyone else in your area needs moving materials.
2. Prepare Your Materials for Recycling
You will likely need to break down your moving boxes before they can be recycled properly. You’ll also need to check that any of your items don’t have food or water damage, because that could impact their recyclability.
After you break down all your moving boxes, remove any packing tape or labels. Some programs might require you to cut the boxes into manageable pieces, so check their guidelines beforehand. This preparation makes it easier to transport and sort the cardboard for recycling.
Click here to learn more about recycling guidelines in Utah and click here for more information on recycling common moving materials in Colorado.
3. Get Creative with Reuse
Before hitting the recycle bin, consider if some materials can be reused. Here are some fun and fast ways you can reuse your moving materials around your home. Most of these ideas keep your items intact so you still have them on hand if you need to move again.
Cardboard Boxes:
- Storage for seasonal items, clothes, or extra blankets
- Create decorative storage bins with paint, fabric, or wallpaper
- Make organizers for drawers, shelves, or cabinets
- Build a fort or playhouse for kids (or pets!)
- Cut up for packing material for future gifts or small items
Packing Peanuts:
- Loose fill for fragile items in storage (think holiday ornaments)
- Shipping material for small items you sell online
Bubble Wrap:
- Protect delicate items in storage from scratches
- Insulate windows in the winter to save on energy bills (works best with single pane windows)
Plastic Wrap:
- Cover furniture for short-term storage or protection during painting projects
- Create a makeshift greenhouse for starting seedlings
4. Sell or Donate
If you have high-quality moving boxes or packing supplies in good condition, consider selling them online or donating them to local moving companies or storage facilities. This allows others to reuse your materials and reduces the demand for new ones.
Learn More Eco-Friendly Moving Tips
Moving with a green conscience is easier than you think, and every little step you take counts. By following these tips, you can ensure your relocation doesn't come at the expense of the environment.
Eco-friendly moving starts before you even hire movers. If you’re looking for more ways to move consciously, this article on how to properly remove excess junk before you move is a great place to get started. Recycling old junk before you move is a critical step to reducing waste while moving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which moving materials can be recycled?
Cardboard boxes are generally recyclable and packing paper often is. Plastic wrap, bubble wrap and Styrofoam usually are not accepted curbside, so check your local program.
How should I prepare moving boxes for recycling?
Break them down, remove packing tape and labels, make sure they are free of food or water damage and follow any local cutting guidelines.
Can I reuse packing materials?
Yes. Boxes can become storage or organizers, bubble wrap can protect stored items, and plastic wrap can cover furniture while painting.
Where can I donate or sell used moving supplies?
Online platforms such as Nextdoor or Facebook Marketplace, or local moving companies and storage facilities. Ask first whether they accept used boxes.
How do I find recycling options for non-recyclable materials?
Contact your local recycling center or use a directory such as Earth911, and check your city or state recycling guidelines.
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