How to Get Results From a Paper Shredder

Paper shredders are great pieces of equipment for both the home and the office. These devices can reduce sensitive documents into small strips of paper that are unreadable. Here are some tips to ensure that you use your paper shredder effectively.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Buy the type of shredder that best suits your needs. For a home or small office, you would only need a desk-top shredder. These models are light and portable. Heavy-duty shredders are needed for bigger offices.

2. Look for a shredder that meets your security requirements. Paper shredders have five different levels of security. The lower levels are used for less sensitive materials while the highest level is meant to destroy top secret documents.

3. Follow the instructions included with your shredder in order to get the best results.

4. Shred only the recommended maximum number of sheets of paper at a time. Exceeding the maximum sheets will jam the shredder and cause it to malfunction or break.

5. Take the type of paper into consideration. If you are shredding thicker paper, you may only be able to shred one sheet at a time.

6. Perform maintenance on the shredder on a regular basis. Paper will often get stuck in the shredder and you will need to remove it in order to get the best results.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the shredded paper as packing material when shipping items to friends and family.
• Unless your shredder manual indicates otherwise, do not shred any documents that still have paper clips or staples attached. This can damage the paper shredder.
• Do not let the container become overfilled. This will cause the paper to jam.
• Do not always put the maximum amount of paper in the shredder. This will cause it to break down quickly.