How to Choose the Best Paper Shredder for You

If you are shopping for a new paper shredder and wondering which one is best for you, this article will provide you with a comparison of different types of shredders and features.

Security -- When it comes to security, cross cut paper shredders are hands down the most secure (cross cut is also known as confetti cut, diamond cut or micro cut). There is new software available to identity thieves that can recreate information from strip cut paper shreds. Where as cross cut paper shreds are said to be impossible to recreate.

Ease of Use – In my opinion ease of use is the most important. Do you really need another piece of technology in your life to be complicated and hard to use? Get a paper shredder that has an auto reverse button, this will help you clear paper jams fast and easily. You may also consider a shredder with jam-free rollers.

Another ease-of-use feature to consider is the type of paper bin, pull out or standard. Many people prefer pull out bins versus standard bins. With a standard bin you have to remove the top of the shredder to empty it. Most people find pull out bins to be more convenient, easier to use and doesn’t make a mess.

Safety -- If you are shopping for a home paper shredder and have small children, consider getting one with a safety guard. Most safety guards will not allow the shredder to turn on unless it is safe to do so. For example, if the top is off of the shredder, the gears are exposed, the bin is open or the shredder has tipped over, it will not turn on.

What you need it for -- Consider what you will be shredding. Do you need it to shred credit cards, CD’s & DVD’s? How about staples or paper clips? Shredders that shred more than just paper will cost a little more but it’s often times worth it to not have to remove the staples from all of your papers.

Budget -- If you are in the market for a personal paper shredder for your home and are only going to be shredding a handful of papers a day or less, than you will be able to find a shredder for under $150 that fits your needs. If you are shopping for an office shredder and are shredding a stack or two of paper a day, then you will want to invest in a commercial grade shredder which start at $150-$200.

In summary, choose a paper shredder based on safety, security and ease of use, how much you will be shredding and what you will be shredding.

Heidi is a professional organizer specializing in organizing paperwork, creator of The Fast-Filing Method, and publisher of Life Made Simple e-Magazine. Heidi energizes her readers’ lives by teaching effective systems to help accomplish more in less time! Visit www.ClearSimpleLiving.com to get a complimentary subscription AND a FREE Home Organization Kit.