We’ve all been there — holding onto a stash of empty boxes just in case they come in handy one day. While reusing boxes is a great way to stay organised and reduce waste, keeping every box can quickly turn into clutter. The key is to be intentional about what you keep and how you use it.
Here’s how you can give spare boxes a new lease on life while keeping your space tidy and functional.
Reusing Old Mobile Phone Boxes
Mobile phone boxes are small, sturdy, and often well-designed, making them perfect for:
✅ Drawer Organisers – Use them inside drawers to keep small items like paperclips, pens, or makeup neatly separated.
✅ Jewellery or Accessories Box – Their soft interior is great for storing rings, earrings, watches, or even hair ties.
✅ Tech Storage – Keep spare cables, chargers, and memory cards in one place to avoid the dreaded “tangled wires drawer.”
✅ Mini First Aid Kit – A compact way to store plasters, tablets, and antiseptic wipes, perfect for your bag or car.
✅ Sewing or Craft Box – Use them to store buttons, needles, or small crafting supplies.
✅ Gift Box – Many phone boxes are sturdy and stylish—add some wrapping paper or ribbon, and they become the perfect reusable gift box!
Beyond Phone Boxes: How to Reuse Other Spare Boxes
If you have larger boxes from deliveries or packaging, consider these ideas:
📦 Shoe Boxes – Great for storing seasonal accessories, paperwork, or even categorising small household items.
📦 Electronics Packaging – Use foam-lined boxes to protect delicate items like cameras, headphones, or external hard drives.
📦 Tissue Boxes – Cut the top off and repurpose them as drawer dividers or storage for plastic bags.
📦 Subscription or Beauty Boxes – Many come in decorative designs, making them perfect for organising stationery, craft supplies, or small toys.
Spare boxes are also great to test out storage ideas. Try different combinations until you are happy and then purchase new containers when you are ready.
But Don’t Keep Every Box!
While upcycling boxes is useful, keeping too many can lead to unnecessary clutter. Ask yourself:
❓ Do I have a specific use for this box right now? If not, it’s just taking up space.
❓ Is this box in good condition? If it’s damaged, thin, or flimsy, it’s unlikely to be useful.
❓ Do I already have enough storage solutions? If you’re keeping boxes “just in case” but never using them, it may be time to let them go.
How to Let Go of Unneeded Boxes
- Recycle – Most cardboard boxes can go straight into the recycling bin.
- Donate – Local schools, community groups, or craft clubs might appreciate sturdy boxes for projects.
- Compost – Plain cardboard (without glossy finishes) can be composted or used as a weed barrier in the garden.
The Balance: Reuse What You Need, Let Go of the Rest
Reusing boxes is a fantastic way to stay organised and eco-friendly, but only if they serve a purpose. Keep what you know you’ll use, and responsibly recycle or donate the rest. That way, you’ll enjoy the benefits of creative storage without letting clutter creep back in!
