The Common Items You Shouldn't Store In Cardboard Boxes (And Better Alternatives To Try)

Widely available, accessible, and among the most affordable containment options for short-term use, cardboard boxes are perhaps some of the most common storage materials. Plus, they can be broken down to save space when not in use, and their biodegradable nature makes them environmentally friendly. Still, despite these advantages, cardboard has some significant drawbacks for home storage purposes, especially for long-term use, and you should not store very heavy objects, clothing, important paperwork, food, or flammable items in cardboard boxes.

The problem with storing heavy items in everyday cardboard boxes is that it can make them so heavy they'll collapse under all the weight. Additionally, a cardboard box deformed from overpacking can be nearly impossible to stack. While some specialty cardboard boxes are made of thicker materials that can handle heavier objects, these are usually more expensive and awkward or impossible to stack or recycle. If you have heavy items you need to store, such as books, old electronics, or picture frames, consider storing these in sturdy plastic containers instead.

If you need to store away clothing, it may be tempting to fold it up and place it in a cardboard box until these items are needed again. However, this is a potentially costly mistake. Cardboard boxes are not water-resistant, and any moisture that does get inside the box can get trapped in the clothing. This can lead to mold or mildew and, ultimately, ruined clothing. Instead, consider storing clothing in plastic bins or clothing bags only. It's also important to make sure that all clothing items are properly cleaned before being placed in storage to prevent damage.

Cardboard boxes are also not the best for storing important paperwork or mementos. If you have papers you need to hold onto, consider storing them in binders, a filing cabinet, a portable filing case, or a fire-resistant safe. After decluttering and organizing old photos you're not ready to part with, they may be stored in plastic containers or specialty boxes for future reminiscing. All of these options can also protect against rodents that might chew through cardboard boxes as well as your paperwork and keepsakes. While all of these storage options are certainly more expensive than cardboard boxes, you will have peace of mind knowing that your treasured items are kept safe.

Cardboard boxes are reusable, so it might be tempting to place certain food items in smaller boxes as a way to store them in a pantry. This is a common food storage mistake that can result in a major problem. While seemingly harmless, placing food items in cardboard boxes can actually ruin them—including dry goods. These pose similar problems to clothing and papers, as the boxes can attract bugs and rodents, as well as moisture. Your safest bet is to store dried goods in airtight glass containers or plastic freezer bags. Both options will keep pests and moisture out of your foods.

Finally, you should never store flammable items in cardboard boxes. Common examples include commercial cleaning products, paints, aerosol-based personal care items, and more. These can become fire hazards over time if they are placed in any box. Instead, these should be placed in cool, ventilated, dark areas such as a cabinet. If you simply do not have space inside your home, consider storing these types of items in a designated cabinet in a garage or basement. If you cannot find a solution for storing flammable items, contact your county officials for help with safely getting rid of hazardous waste in your household.