How to Turn a Cardboard Box Into a Recycling Bin

If your home recycling center is beginning to look a bit unorganized, it may be time to add additional storage containers to hold all of your paper, glass and other recyclables. Instead of purchasing new containers, stick to the mantra of recycling and reuse something you already have in your home. A simple cardboard box can make a useful and attractive recycling bin with a few minor improvements.

Instructions

• 1

  Find a small cardboard box that is approximately the same size as your regular recycling bin. A cardboard box used to package office copy paper is a good choice because of its size, durability and handles.

• 2

  Reinforce the bottom of the box so that it won't sag beneath the weight of your recyclables. Fit a piece of durable cardboard into the bottom of the box and use packing tape along the outer bottom and sides of the cardboard box for additional support.

• 3

  Spray paint the inside and outside of the cardboard box green or blue, depending on the color of the recycling bins used in your community. If you're feeling creative, you may choose to add the universal recycling symbol to the outer sides of the box by creating a stencil of three triangular arrows and using white spray paint to transfer the image onto the cardboard.

• 4

  Line the inside of the cardboard box with heavy plastic to prevent the cardboard from moisture damage and to make it easy to wipe clean. A clear plastic tarp cut to the dimensions of the box and secured in place with heavy-duty packing tape or a staple gun will be effective.