Moving doesn’t have to mean piles of cardboard boxes, rolls of plastic wrap, and bags of bubble wrap headed straight for the landfill. At The Chicago Green Box, we believe in making moves easier, more efficient, and more sustainable. One of the best ways to do that? Start with what you already own.
By rethinking everyday household items, you can cut down on waste, save money, and keep your belongings safe during the move. Here are some of our favorite eco-friendly packing hacks that use items you already have at home.
1. Suitcases and Duffel Bags = Instant Moving Boxes
Why pack your suitcases empty when they’re designed to carry heavy loads? Rolling suitcases are perfect for books, shoes, or heavier items since the wheels do the heavy lifting. Duffel bags, backpacks, and gym bags can hold clothing, linens, or even pantry items.
Bonus tip: Pack fragile items in the middle of soft clothing inside a suitcase for extra protection.
2. Towels, Blankets, and Sheets as Padding
Instead of buying bubble wrap or foam sheets, use your linens to cushion fragile items.
Towels: Wrap around glassware, dishes, or electronics.
Blankets: Perfect for protecting mirrors, TVs, and framed art.
Sheets: Use as dust covers for furniture or to wrap larger items.
This hack not only saves money but also reduces the number of boxes you’ll need since your linens are being packed and used at the same time.
3. Clothing as Wrapping Material
Your closet is full of eco-friendly packing material—you just need to use it creatively.
T-shirts and sweaters: Wrap around plates or stack between dishes.
Socks: Slip over glassware, mugs, or stemware for built-in cushioning.
Scarves: Use to wrap vases, small appliances, or decorative items.
Clothing is soft, flexible, and already part of your move, so it’s a win-win.
4. Kitchen Items as Organizers
Think outside the box—literally. Many kitchen items double as storage containers during a move.
Pots and pans: Nest smaller items inside and cover with a lid for protection.
Mixing bowls: Great for holding utensils or spices.
Tupperware and food storage containers: Perfect for small items like jewelry, hardware, or office supplies.
This trick keeps your kitchenware full and cuts down on the number of boxes you’ll need.
5. Reusable Grocery Bags for Odds and Ends
Those reusable grocery totes you’ve collected are perfect for moving. They’re sturdy, easy to carry, and ideal for items you’ll want to access quickly—like toiletries, cleaning supplies, or snacks for moving day.
Pro tip: Designate one bag as your “first-night kit” with essentials like pajamas, toothbrushes, chargers, and a change of clothes.
6. Newspaper, Magazines, and Junk Mail
Instead of buying packing paper, put your recycling pile to work. Newspaper and junk mail can be crumpled to fill empty spaces in boxes or wrapped around delicate items. Just be cautious with newspaper ink on light-colored items—use it for kitchenware or items that can be washed easily.
7. Reuse Green Moving Boxes
Of course, the most eco-friendly packing hack is to skip cardboard altogether. At The Chicago Green Box, we deliver durable, reusable moving boxes to your home or business. They’re sturdier than cardboard, stack neatly, and come with free delivery and pickup within 10 miles. By combining our green boxes with the household hacks above, you’ll have a move that’s efficient, affordable, and zero-waste.
Packing doesn’t have to mean waste. By using items you already own—like suitcases, towels, clothing, and reusable bags—you’ll save money, simplify your move, and reduce your environmental footprint. Pair these hacks with our eco-friendly green box rentals, and you’ll have everything you need for a smooth, sustainable move in the Chicago area.