Cardboard vs Plastic Bins: What's Better for Storage?

Should you use cardboard boxes or plastic bins for storage? The answer depends on what you're storing, how long you're storing it, and your budget. Both have pros and cons.

Here's an honest breakdown to help you decide.

Cardboard Boxes: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Cheap or free — You can often get boxes for free from grocery stores, liquor stores, or moving companies
• Easy to label — Write directly on the box with a marker
• Recyclable — Environmentally friendly when you're done
• Lightweight — Easier to carry when empty
• Stackable — Uniform sizes stack well

Cons:

• Not waterproof — Can get damaged by moisture, leaks, or humidity
• Can collapse — Weak boxes can break under weight
• Attract pests — Cardboard can attract bugs and rodents
• Not reusable long-term — Break down over time
• Dust and dirt — Can get dirty and dusty

Plastic Bins: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Waterproof — Protect items from moisture and leaks
• Durable — Last for years, reusable
• Pest-resistant — Bugs and rodents can't get in
• Stackable — Designed to stack securely
• Clear options — See what's inside without opening
• Easy to clean — Wipe down and reuse

Cons:

• More expensive — Cost $5-20+ per bin vs. free boxes
• Heavier — Harder to carry when full
• Can trap moisture — If not sealed properly, condensation can build up
• Less eco-friendly — Plastic isn't biodegradable
• Can crack — In extreme cold, plastic can become brittle

When to Use Cardboard Boxes

Cardboard boxes are great for:

• Short-term storage (1-6 months)
• Dry, non-valuable items — Books, clothes, general household items
• Climate-controlled units — Less risk of moisture damage
• Budget-conscious storage — When you need to save money
• One-time moves — When you won't reuse the boxes

When to Use Plastic Bins

Plastic bins are better for:

• Long-term storage (6+ months)
• Valuable or sensitive items — Electronics, documents, photos
• Standard storage units — Better protection from moisture
• Items you'll access regularly — Easier to open and close
• Items that need to stay clean — Clothes, linens, kitchen items

The Hybrid Approach

Many people use both:

• Plastic bins for valuable items, electronics, documents, and long-term storage
• Cardboard boxes for general items, short-term storage, and budget savings

This gives you the best of both worlds — protection where you need it, savings where you don't.

Special Considerations for Winnipeg

Cost Comparison

Cardboard boxes: Free-$2 each (often free from stores)

Plastic bins: $5-20 each (depending on size and quality)

For a typical move requiring 20 containers:

• Cardboard: $0-40 total
• Plastic bins: $100-400 total

However, plastic bins can be reused for years, while cardboard boxes are usually one-time use.

Our Recommendation

For most people, we recommend:

• Use plastic bins for valuable items, electronics, documents, photos, and anything you're storing long-term
• Use cardboard boxes for general household items, short-term storage, and when budget is a concern
• Always use climate control if you're storing electronics, wooden furniture, or valuable items — regardless of container type

At East Side Self Storage, we offer both climate-controlled and standard units. We can help you decide which is right for your items and container choice.