by Office Paper Systems, www.opsus.com

Paper shredders are becoming a common household tool as people are using them to shred any documents containing information that someone could use to potentially steal another’s identity. Such documents that should be destroyed include personal checks, expired drivers licenses, bank statements, credit card statements, and paystubs. But what are these people doing with the remains of these shredded documents? Most people just throw them away, however there are many ways that these paper shreds can be recycled and used in beneficial ways.

Ways to reuse your paper shreds:

• If you own a pet, your old shredded documents would make great bedding for animals like guinea pigs, rabbits, and hamsters. Or you could use the shreds to fill your cat’s litter box.
• Paper shreds are also a great way to stuff gift baskets.
• Paper shreds are a great source for packing material. Not only will they keep any fragile materials you are sending safe, but they are also a better alternative for the environment compared to using the typically packing toxic Styrofoam peanuts.
• In addition to keeping fragile contents of your packages protected, paper shreds are also great to be used for storage. Whether you are storing priceless and valuable family heirlooms, or just putting the Christmas decorations away, paper shreds will keep your breakables safe from any potential damage.
• If you have a fireplace, or frequent the campground paper shred make a great tool to get a warm fire blazing!

With these five great tips your extra paper shredding will never go to waste!