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Reusing Packaging Materials

Envelopes, bubble wrap, Styrofoam peanuts, air packets, and cardboard boxes are easily reused at home. Save them for birthdays and holidays! If you have too much of these materials on hand, take them to one of the locations below.

Shipping businesses want your packaging materials. No really, they do! Every item you give them is one they don't have to buy themselves. Some examples include:

  • Cardboard Boxes
  • Styrofoam Peanuts (Note that food-contaminated styrofoam is trash)
  • Occasionally Styrofoam Framing
  • Air Packets (call and check)
  • Bubble Wrap

Make sure all materials are clean, free of tape, and suitable for reuse. Loose peanuts should be bagged. When in doubt, call the location ahead of time to confirm whether they'll accept the material.

Your neighbors might want your old packaging material too. Check out www.BoxGiver.com to post old packing material that you no longer need. Folks in your area will be able to see your post and contact you if they are interested.

Styrofoam Recycling Options

If you're not able to reuse or donate your Styrofoam packaging supplies for reuse, check out recycling options on our Polystyrene Recycling page.

How can I reduce packaging waste?

Everything we buy seems to come in a cardboard box filled with styrofoam, dipped in plastic, and wrapped in a bag. Read our Reduce Tips page for helpful hints.

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