With identity theft on the rise, paper shredders are more popular than ever. To find a shredder that is right for your needs, you need to look for and consider the following things:
With identity theft on the rise, paper shredders are more popular than ever. To find a shredder that's right for your needs, you need to look for and consider the following things:
Shredding capacity. One of the most important things to consider is a machine's shredding capacity. This refers to how many sheets that shredder can destroy at once. Smaller shredders for personal use will typically only be able to handle a few sheets at a time. Meanwhile, larger devices can sometimes shred 20 sheets or more. You should choose a machine that has a shredding capacity that suits your needs.
Security level. Since paper shredders are used to destroy documents that contain confidential information, it's important to consider a machine's security level. There are six security levels available, with Level 6 machines offering the most protection. Most of the machines with higher security ratings are cross- or micro-cut shredders. Some of these machines are even approved by the federal government so they're ideal for highly confidential materials. As a general rule, strip-cut shredders offer less security, but they are still suitable for everyday use.
Multimedia shredding capabilities. There are some paper shredders that have the ability to handle some non-paper items such as credit cards and CD's. Getting a machine with this feature can be helpful but keep in mind that these devices are usually more expensive. Also, a lot of shredders that can shred non-paper items often only have one waste bin, so all of your shreds will be mixed. This can make recycling a bit challenging.
Waste bin capacity. You will definitely want to consider waste bin capacity when choosing a shredder. If a lot of people are going to be using the shredder throughout the day, you will want to get a machine with a large waste bin so you won't need to empty it constantly. If you're getting a paper shredder for personal use, a smaller waste bin will work. Just be prepared to empty it on a regular basis.
Safety features. Obviously, you will need to get a machine with decent safety features. At the very least, your machine should have an interlock switch. When engaged, the interlock switch will prevent unauthorized use. Some machines will shut down automatically when non-paper items are near the feed opening and there are devices with thermally protected motors. Choose a machine that has safety features that give you peace of mind.
Maintenance features. No matter what kind of shredder you get, you will need to maintain it. This is achieved by oiling the machine on a regular basis. Some of the larger shredders have automatic oilers so maintenance is a no-brainer. These features aren't mandatory but they can be helpful, especially if you use your shredder a lot.
Those are some of the things you will need to consider in order to choose a paper shredder that will meet your needs. By far the most important things to keep in mind are a machine's security rating and safety features. The machine you choose should be safe to use and provide you with a lot of protection. That way, you will be able to safely get rid of your documents. Happy shredding!
