AboutJan Hayner Expertise I can answer any questions on Home organizing, file and paper management, organizing for parents, kids, senior citizens and on housekeeping and cleaning solutions.
Experience I have been a Professional Organizer for 9 years, I am considered an expert in my field on the internet and have written several informational books on organizing.
Organizations I am an active member of Faithful Organizers (An International Association of Christian based Professional Organizers, a past member of NAPO (the National Association of Professional Organizers)a member of an association called Women in Management, a member of Money Smart Wisconsin-Sheboygan and was a business owner for over 25 years.
Education/Credentials A high school graduated a the rest of my learning capablilities came from making a lot of mistakes in my lifetime and learning from all of them.
Question How long do I need to keep the original boxes from appliances, TVs, phones, etc? They are taking up so much space but will I need them if I need to have the products repaired or replaced? If I have the receipt and warranty is that enough?
thanks!
Answer Hi Paula and Thank You for asking a question that a lot of people have but are afraid to ask.
I hate to be the bearer of bad news but the answer is 'YES'.
Most manufacturers even want you to keep the original packing inside of the box.
BUT, I came across a solution to hiding the evidence (a little bit).
First of all, this will take you some time, but it is worth the effort:
I wrote all of the manufacturers and asked them what they considered 'original packaging' and I received several different answers.
Some just want the box, some want all of the packaging, but it lets you know for sure what you will need to keep.
Then, I took the boxes apart and flattened them out, wrapped them in plastic garbage bags and put them in my attic storage space. Now I use them to put other boxes on top of when I store things. It works as great insulation too!
Another idea:
Use the space that is above your garage door. You know that 6-8 inch section that is between the garage door (when it is open) and the ceiling. Hang brackets and lay a piece of plywood up there and store all of the extra boxes in that area.
Most manufacturers just require the box and the receipt so the inside packaging can be eliminated in most circumstances.
Happy organizing.....I hope this helped.
