The Great LEGO® Box Debate: To Keep or Not To Keep?
You’ve just finished building the magnificent LEGO® Colosseum, meticulously placing the last brick. A wave of satisfaction washes over you. But now, you’re faced with a familiar dilemma: what to do with the box? Do you flatten it and toss it into the recycling bin? Or do you carefully store it away, adding another cardboard monument to your growing collection? It’s the age-old question that plagues every LEGO® enthusiast, from casual builders to hardcore collectors. Let’s delve into the great LEGO® box debate and explore the pros and cons of keeping those colorful cardboard containers.
The Case for Keeping the Box
For many, the LEGO® box is more than just packaging; it’s an integral part of the experience. Think back to your childhood – the thrill of ripping open a fresh LEGO® set, the vibrant artwork showcasing the finished model, the promise of adventure contained within. The box itself holds a sentimental value, a tangible link to those cherished memories. It’s a time capsule, transporting you back to simpler times with a single glance.
Beyond nostalgia, keeping the box can significantly impact the resale value of your LEGO® sets, especially for retired or sought-after sets. Collectors often prioritize complete sets, including the original box and instructions. A pristine box can add substantial value, sometimes even doubling or tripling the price. Learn more about how much your Lego boxes are worth. So, if you’re thinking about selling your LEGO® sets in the future, holding onto the box is a smart move.
Furthermore, the box provides protection for your precious LEGO® creation. It shields the bricks from dust, sunlight, and curious pets, ensuring they remain in pristine condition. This is especially important for larger, more complex sets that are difficult to disassemble and rebuild. The box also offers a convenient storage solution, keeping all the pieces together and preventing them from getting lost or mixed up with other sets. Find out more about storing LEGO boxes efficiently.
The Case for Discarding the Box
Now, let’s flip the brick and examine the other side of the argument. The most obvious reason for discarding LEGO® boxes is space. These cardboard behemoths can quickly take over your home, transforming closets and basements into cardboard catacombs. If you live in a small space or simply prefer a minimalist lifestyle, keeping every LEGO® box might not be feasible.
Some argue that the box is just that – a box. Once the set is built, the box serves no purpose. They prefer to focus on the joy of building and displaying their creations, rather than accumulating piles of cardboard. For these builders, the box is simply clutter, a disposable byproduct of the LEGO® experience.
Another factor to consider is the environmental impact. While cardboard is recyclable, the production and transportation of these boxes still contribute to carbon emissions. Choosing to discard the box can be seen as a small step towards a more sustainable lifestyle.
Finding the Right Balance
So, what’s the verdict? Ultimately, the decision of whether to keep or discard your LEGO® boxes is a personal one. There’s no right or wrong answer. Consider your own priorities, space constraints, and collecting goals. Perhaps a compromise is the ideal solution. You could keep the boxes for your most valuable or sentimental sets while discarding the rest. You can even flatten the boxes to save storage space.
Creative Alternatives to Keeping the Box
If you’re torn between keeping the box and saving space, there are creative alternatives to consider. You could photograph the box before discarding it, preserving the artwork and information digitally. Another option is to cut out the key artwork and store it in a scrapbook or portfolio. This allows you to retain the visual appeal of the box without the bulk.
Making the Decision That Works for You
The LEGO® box dilemma is a familiar struggle for many enthusiasts. By weighing the pros and cons and considering your own circumstances, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your collecting philosophy and lifestyle. Whether you choose to keep every box, discard them all, or find a creative middle ground, the most important thing is to enjoy the magic of LEGO® bricks.
