7 Awesome Ways to Reuse Cardboard
Cardboard can mean different things to different people. While many may consider it nothing more than trash to be discarded in the nearest dumpster, others may find that it holds a world of potential. Cardboard is a versatile material that can withstand some levels of wear, which means that it can be reused in a variety of ways.
Before you turn your cardboard into the item you desire, there are a few things you should note:
● Waterproofing – If you will be using it to hold or store moist items, it’s a good idea to waterproof it. You can avail of professional services for cardboard waterproofing and laminating in Toronto. However, if you want this project to 100% DIY, you can also waterproof cardboard yourself.
● Strengthening – If you need to increase the durability of the material, there are a couple of methods for strengthening cardboard. This is particularly essential if you plan to turn it into furniture or a fort for your kids.
Ways to Reuse Cardboard
1. Storage – Cardboard is not ideal for long-term storage as they can attract rodents and mould. However, if you’re moving, you can reuse cardboard as packing material.
2. Trash or Recycling Bin – Instead of buying bins made of plastic or other non-biodegradable materials, you can go for the more eco-friendly alternative by using excess cardboard. If you were planning on throwing it away anyway, it’s a good idea to give it some last bit of use before doing so.
3. School Projects – Whether you need to make a diorama for an exhibit or need creative visual aid to enhance your class presentation, cardboard is the way to go.
4. Kids’ Toys – Turning cardboard into toys for your kids is a great way to save on money for toys and introduce your children to environmentally friendly practices. Build a stage for a puppet show; create toy blocks your kids can use instead of lego; or construct a fort. You can also transform cardboard into a toy box your kids can use to store their toys.
5. Costumes – Creating costumes with the help of cardboard is probably one of the most creative uses you will get out of this material. Use large pieces to create wings, or weapons (like swords or medieval axes). Cut them up into multiple pieces and turn them into dragon scales or pieces of armor.
6. Furniture – Furniture nowadays can be quite expensive, much more so the unique designer pieces that would make the perfect addition to your home. However, with a little ingenuity, some creative knowhow, and a helpful list of a few practical cardboard furniture ideas, you’ll have an eco-friendly means of creating your own original pieces.
7. Sheet Mulch – Gardeners understand the importance of having good mulch for their plants. It keeps weeds at bay, insulates plants during extreme temperatures, increases moisture retention, and so much more. If you have excess cardboard, you can cut it into pieces and turn it into a biodegradable weed barrier for your sheet mulch.
Get creative and refashion potential cardboard waste into a more functional item with these tips.
