Milk Crate

Milk Crates

Milk crates are a type of storage container that are often used for items such as vinyl records, shoes, books, clothes, and other things that may not fit into your drawers or onto your shelves. They are made from a variety of materials and have a simple design. The dimensions of milk crates may be the same on all sides, or they may be more rectangular in shape.

What are the features of milk crates?
  • Integrated handles: Integrated handles make it easy for you to grasp both sides of the milk crates so that you can use the crates as a portable container. They consist of an opening on two or four sides of the milk crate. The integrated grasping areas of the crates do not add to the dimensions of the container, which allows them to maintain a sleek profile.
  • Stackable: Milk crates are designed to be stackable. The milk crates that are made of plastic are often stacked in a tower of two to four crates. By stacking the crates you can conserve floor space and make use of the vertical space for storing items.
  • Vintage designs: Crates that were once used to deliver milk often had vintage designs on the sides. These antique milk crates may also have the name of the milk brand, the city of the dairy farm, or the name of the milk company stamped on them.
What materials are milk crates made from?
  • Plastic: Plastic is often used for lightweight crates that are intended for storage of clothes, crafts, and other items that are not heavy. The plastic is usually solid in colors such as black, white, or blue.
  • Metal: Crates may be made out of metal. In some cases, the milk crates made from metal have a plastic coating for aesthetic purposes. The metal milk crates are often powder-coated with black. Some of the metal milk crates may have hinged handles that allow you to carry them like a basket.
  • Wood: Vintage crates were often made of wood so they were sturdy enough to transport milk. The wood may be oak, pine, maple, or hickory.
How do you clean a plastic milk crate?

Plastic milk crates may collect a sticky residue or a layer of dust from everyday use. If you transport liquids in the plastic milk crates, spills may also cause them to become dirty. Cleaning the plastic milk crates can be accomplished with just a few basic supplies. Dish detergent, a sponge, and a garden hose or deep sink are all you need to clean the plastic milk crates. Begin by rinsing off the crates. If you see something sticky or gummy on the crates, it may be beneficial to soak it in soapy water for a few minutes. Wash the crate with a soapy sponge, taking care to clean all of the surfaces. Rinse the crate off with plain water and allow it to air dry.