Attack of the Product Packaging

The BB and I are getting ready to host the First Annual Book Rack Employee BBQ this weekend, so I'm running around a bit trying to tidy up. Recently, we bought a new multifunction printer for the office, which came in the world's largest box:



If it were up to me, the box would have gone out to recycling this week. But The BB (probably wisely) wants to hold on to it for a bit longer. So what's the right answer?

In general, a good rule of thumb is to hold on to packaging and boxes until you're certain you won't need to return the product to the store for any reason. But I see a lot of software boxes and other packaging as I help clients clean out their spaces, so I know that the temptation is strong to keep things longer. Reducing the amount of packaging that you are holding on to can save valuable space in your closets and basements. Pull out manuals, warrantee information, and important paperwork and recycle the box. This is especially effective for software programs. All that cardboard just to hold a simple CD! Make sure you cut off any bar codes required for rebates.

Larger boxes for appliances, computers, electronics can go out to recycling once you pass the 30 or 90-day return period. It may seem like holding on to a quality large box that "might come in handy someday" is wise, but be honest with yourself. Unless you're planning to make a homemade Halloween costume (a great idea, BTW) or have unlimited storage space, these are just too big to be practical. They get pretty heavy when you use them for packing

For now, I have stashed our box in the office (where else!) where I can shut the door for the party on Sunday.