Creative Uses for Cardboard Boxes

Published: April 08, 2020

So you’ve successfully moved into your new home, and all of your boxes are unpacked, with your stuff neatly stored away in cupboards and closets. Now you’re left with a jungle of empty boxes that no longer serve any purpose…or so you think! Here are 12 things to do with old moving boxes:

If You Have Kids

1. Make a Cardboard Box Train
   All you need are some markers, clear tape, and a pair of scissors. View the tutorial here
2. Make a Kitchen Playset
   Quickly and easily turn an old square box into an oven for kids to play with!
3. Make a Kid’s Rocket Ship
   Rocket ships are one of the easiest things to make out of cardboard boxes because you’re only limited to your imagination! Grab some paint and get colorful with it.
4. Play Angry Birds in Real Life
   Construct a cardboard “tower” in the backyard. Use rubber balls, some balloons, and a slingshot to take aim and knock it down, just like in Angry Birds! Watch the video to see how it works here.

If You’re An Adult

1. Make Cute Belt Strap Storage Boxes
   Using spray adhesive, cover a box in a fabric of your choice. Cut up an old belt and attach it as handles using binding post screws and a screwdriver. Cute and easy!
2. DIY A Cat Scratching Post
   Cut up boxes in even sized strips and stack them on top of each other. Secure using glue between each layer.
3. Make a Pen Storage Caddy

All you need for this one is a small box (like a shoebox) and some empty toilet paper tubes. Stack the tubes vertically and fill with pens. Easy peasy!

4. Make Handmade Gift Tags

Simply cut old cardboard into your preferred shape and size, and use a hole punch to make a hole on one end. Decorate with paint, glitter, or your choice of accouterments, and secure using twine when the time comes!

If You Want to Get Rid of Them

Use them in compost or if nothing else, many recycling centers now allow cardboard box returns. Check to find the nearest recycling center near you.