Cardboard vs. Plastic Spools

Cardboard spools have several advantages over plastic spools that make them an appealing choice for many in the 3D printing community, despite some ongoing debate. One key benefit is their durability in terms of impact resistance—they do not shatter or crack when dropped, unlike plastic spools which can break. This toughness makes cardboard spools more resilient during handling and transportation. Additionally, cardboard spools can typically withstand higher temperatures before deforming, which is especially useful when drying filament spools prior to printing. Plastic spools may warp under such heat, whereas cardboard maintains its form better, allowing safer and potentially more effective moisture removal.

Another important advantage of cardboard spools is their environmental friendliness. Many cardboard spools, such as those produced by Polymaker, are made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable themselves. This contributes to reducing plastic waste and the overall carbon footprint associated with 3D printer filament packaging. They are lighter as well, which lowers shipping emissions. Cardboard spools represent a more sustainable option, aligning with the growing awareness of environmental impacts in 3D printing. Polymaker’s use of recycled cardboard further enhances this benefit, providing users with an eco-conscious choice without sacrificing functional durability.