Cardboard boxes are light in weight, can easily be found and convenient hence they are favourable in selection of storage. However, they cannot be applicable to everything. Cardboard is highly absorbent, easily infested by pests, does not offer much protection against moisture, temperature changes and pressure. The positioning of the improper products in cardboard boxes may lead to destruction, spoiling or even its irreversible loss with no trace of visual evidence. Also being aware of what should not be placed in the cardboard will help to save the wasteful destruction and save the valuable or the delicate item in the long term.
Possible papers and legal reports
When birth certificates, contracts, passports, and other legal documents are stored in a cardboard box, it is possible that moisture and humidity can destroy them. The paper fibers also decay over time, the ink may be lost and one may as well get mold and these will be difficult or not possible to retrieve.
Photo albums and photographs
Air, light and moisture are highly detrimental to photos. Cardboard is waterproof and this may make photos stick, discolour or curve. Photos stored in the long term should be stored in an acid free material to ensure that it has retained its original quality.
Clothes made of natural components
When stored in cardboard, cotton, wool, silk, and linen will have insects attracted to them. Its box lacks moth, silverfish, or moisture resistance, odor, stain, or destruction of cloth.
Electronics and cables
Cardboard is not resistant to humidity or fret temperature. Electronics stored can become corroded and cables can snap or otherwise become worn over time.
Rationed food products or food items
The cardboard easily takes in water and the pests are attracted. Even those foods that are in a closed pack can also be penetrated by insects or rodents and this is the reason why food cannot be stored through this method.
Books and notebooks
Books stored in cardboard tend to get yellow pages, distorted covers and also mildew. The non-existence of air and the ability to take up water makes the deterioration process greater in the long-term.
Jewelry and metal objects
Wet cardboard also rusts or tarnishes metals. This jewelry may become lustre-less or discoloured or may sustain structural damage especially delicate jewelry.
Art supplies and artwork
Painting, drawings and craft materials placed in cardboard boxes will be spoilt by humidity and pressure. Colors may bleed, paper may curl and supplies dry up or fade.
Leather goods
Leather is a good absorbent, which requires it to be stored in air so as to keep it supple. When stored in cardboard, leather will become stiff, crack or develop mold.
Medical supplies and drugs
Medications and medical supplies can be reduced through alteration of temperature and exposure to moisture. Cardboard does not offer any of the insulation and climate control, and this is why it cannot suit such items.
Sentimental keepsakes
A more emotional value object, such as a letter or anything that has been transmitted should be more protected. Cardboard may be damaged in the form of the pests, humidity or some other form of accidents and this cannot be undone.
Candles and wax items
Candles cannot be kept in cardboard since it is heat sensitive. Wax is prone to melting, distorting or even picking up odours in the surrounding especially during hot or humid weather conditions.
The bedding and the necessary clothes
Beddings, tablestyles and quilts stored in cardboards can be musty and cloth decayed. Breathable fabric bags or airtight containers provide much better protection.
