For those that take the time to recycle, empty cereal boxes typically end up in the recycling bin. Others simply throw them away. In any case they are worth saving and reusing – at least some of them. Try these creative ways to use empty cereal boxes, and save them for many different uses that go far beyond lining the recycling bin.
Make Beautiful Gift Boxes
Gift boxes can be purchases in stores, but why spend money on unnecessary cardboard packaging that could be spent on gifts? Use empty cereal boxes. Wrap them as usual with wallpaper, wrapping paper or even Contact brand paper. They are perfect for holding lightweight clothing, books and other gift items. The thought as well as the item inside is what really counts – not the container. Recipients will appreciate the gifts, and they will not care if the boxes were made to hold cereal instead of presents.
Magazine Storage and Organization
When trying save favorite magazines, they can become damaged. When saving monthly, bi-monthly or even weekly print publications, use cereal boxes. They are just the right size to hold most magazines. This is a great way to use cereal boxes and magazines that would otherwise end up in the trash. Wrap them in plain brown paper taken from repurposed grocery bags, and label the cereal boxes accordingly. Organize them on a shelf to safely store special magazines for future reference.
Make a Handy Open File Holder
Envision stacked cereal boxes of exactly the same size with the flaps on the tops removed and the exteriors covered in pretty paper. They form a very handy open file holder. This homemade file holder can be placed on a desk and used to store and organize papers. For added strength, place heavy cardboard between each cereal box before securing them with heavy-duty craft glue. This homemade file holder is just as good as or better than store-bought options, it is far cheaper and it can be personalized to coordinate with any office color or décor.
Create Flat Shipping Containers
Shipping envelopes are available at the post office, but they are not free. Forget about using costly non-bendable shipping envelopes. Use cereal boxes instead. Cover the outer portion with plain brown or white wrap, and fold over the flaps. Securely hold the ends in place with clear box tape. Save dozens of cereal boxes, and make flat shipping containers before they are needed. This will save time and money while making use of items that would otherwise end up in the trash.
