Judging paper-shredder quality

While digital identity theft seems to be constantly in the news, the easiest way for criminals to get your personal information is still by going through your trash and recycling bins and plucking out your junk mail or credit card statements. Although it's technically possible to reassemble shredded paper, it's not easy, especially if you use a cross-cut or micro-cut shredder that shreds paper into confetti-like bits or smaller. You can further safeguard documents by separating shredded papers into different bags of trash.

Reviewers say to look for the following when shopping for a paper shredder:

  • Get a cross-cut or micro-cut paper shredder rated Level 3 or higher. These types of paper shredders chop paper into smaller bits, and are vastly more secure than a strip-cut paper shredder. Paper shredders are rated at levels ranging from 1 to 6, with 6 being the most secure and generally only required for ultra-sensitive government or business documents.
  • Don't underestimate your needs. Paper shredders always have a capacity rating, but you should take these figures with a grain of salt. An eight-sheet shredder can most likely handle three or four sheets of office paper at a time. Paper shredders that can chop up CDs, DVDs and credit cards are a good option if you store data on digital media.
  • Look for an easy-to-empty bin. With cheap shredders, you generally have to take off the motor head to empty the basket. If you don't need to shred a lot of paper, this can save you some money. More expensive shredders have bin drawers or tip-out bins that make emptying a lot more convenient.
  • Almost all shredders have auto-stop/start and reverse modes. Auto-start means the paper shredder kicks on when you insert a piece of paper, so you don't have to turn it on and off. A reverse mode helps clear paper jams.
  • Consider safety. If you have kids in the house, choose a shredder with a safety feature that stops the blades when a hand gets too close to the opening.

Back to top