Beyond Cardboard Boxes: Sustainable Moving Practices for the Eco-Conscious

You want to be earth-friendly and eco-conscious, but now you have to pack up your stuff and move to a new home. That usually involves a lot of cardboard boxes, something you don’t want to deal with at all. Boxes do make moving more convenient, but they also are not the best eco-friendly option. There are ways to move without using a cardboard box, but you may still need a box or two for other items that are more fragile.

Moving Blankets or Pads

Cover the bottom of the moving truck with moving blankets provided by the moving company. The moving blankets are often free, or sold for a very small fee. These blankets are extremely versatile, washable, and reusable. You can use them for almost anything and not feel bad about getting them dirty either. Once the moving blankets are laid out on the truck bed floor, you have a clean surface on which to place literally anything you want, although very small items should not be strewn about.

Every Last Bed Sheet and Towel

Along with the moving company’s moving blankets and/or moving pads, utilize your own towels and sheets. Wrap and roll items up in towels. Create “bags” out of your bed sheets and tie up the sides and corners to create a pouch. A lot of things can fit into a queen or king bed sheet!

That takes care of moving just about anything you want to toss inside your makeshift moving pouches. Pillowcases are especially perfect for packing and moving things because you don’t need to tie the sides up at all. Wash everything at the new house or apartment after you unpack. 

Reuse the Boxes You Receive From Online Purchases

Whenever possible, just reuse the boxes from your online purchases. They will get a second use out of them before they are recycled.