A simple TikTok hack is gaining traction as an innovative way to keep your vehicle spotless, utilizing what many consider trash—an old tissue box. Popular TikTok account JeffandLaurenShow (@jeffandlaurenshow) recently shared this ingenious life hack that has users saying, “I wish I knew this sooner!”

An Easy Solution: The Tissue Box Trash Can

The crux of the hack is straightforward: repurpose an old tissue box as a mini, reusable trash can in your car. While any box can serve this purpose, small tissue boxes are particularly effective due to their compact size, making them easy to fit in different areas of your vehicle.

This tactic not only aids in maintaining a tidy car interior but also supports recycling efforts by giving a second life to items that might otherwise be discarded.

The Environmental Impact

In a stunning statistic, Green Groundswell reports that Americans use approximately 255,360,000,000 disposable facial tissues each year—an astounding figure exceeding 255 billion tissues, all housed in millions of cardboard boxes. Fortunately, these boxes are generally recyclable in many areas, provided local guidelines permit.

According to Kleenex, their tissue cartons can be recycled with the poly insert still attached, and they are widely accepted at recycling facilities nationwide. However, consumers should exercise caution with non-Kleenex brands, as the plastic lining on some boxes may not be recyclable.

Cardboard is one of the most recyclable materials available, capable of being repurposed multiple times. Despite this, a significant portion of cardboard waste ends up in landfills. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory notes that in 2019, an estimated 110 million metric tons of paper and cardboard waste were discarded in the U.S., with around 56% ending up in landfills and only 38% being recycled.

While cardboard in landfills will eventually decompose, the process can take months or even years. This breakdown releases methane and other greenhouse gases, exacerbating climate change.

To recycle cardboard properly, ensure it is clean, dry, and flattened. Generally, it’s permissible to leave tape, staples, and labels on when submitting for recycling.

Beyond Recycling: Creative Repurposing Ideas

In addition to recycling, cardboard holds versatile repurposing potential. There are countless ways to get creative with this material:

• Cat Scratch Toys: Use old cardboard to craft amusing toys for your feline friend.
• Garden Projects: Lay cardboard down in your garden as a protective layer against weeds.
• Plant Pots: Transform toilet paper rolls into tiny plant pots for seedlings.

For more guidance on sustainable practices, check out our comprehensive resource on reducing, reusing, and recycling.

Community Feedback on the TikTok Trick

While the tissue box car trash can hack is a new revelation for many, others have been utilizing this method for years. TikTok users have chimed in to share their experiences.

“I’ve been doing this forever,” one user quipped, adding that they were excited about the new influx of fellow enthusiasts becoming part of the “Kleenex box club.”

Another user shared their adaptation of the idea, noting that they use their tissue box to hold reusable plastic shopping bags.

This dynamic discussion underscores the versatility and practicality of the hack, demonstrating that small shifts in habit can have a tangible impact on cleanliness and sustainability.

Making a Difference One Box at a Time

As the popularity of this TikTok trick continues to rise, it serves as a reminder of the small, impactful changes we can make in our daily lives. The transformation of an old tissue box into a functional tool highlights the potential of everyday items to contribute to a cleaner, greener environment.

By embracing these simple strategies, individuals can both maintain a tidy vehicle and play a part in minimizing waste.

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