Bubble Wrap is one of the most popular packing materials in the United States. It was first introduced as a type of wallpaper but in the late 1960s, IBM engineers realized it was great for protecting items during shipping. After being used to pack computer equipment, it quickly became a go-to option for keeping personal belongings safe. It’s affordable, easy to use and widely available — making it essential for fragile items that can crack, chip or scratch.
Even though many people have used Bubble Wrap before, not everyone knows how to use it the right way. Here are a few simple tips to help you wrap your items properly.
Consider What You’re Wrapping
Bubble Wrap comes in different sizes, not just one. Bigger bubbles offer more cushioning but they aren’t suitable for every item in your home. Before you begin, take a quick look at everything you need to pack. Depending on what you have, you might need Bubble Wrap in different sizes, such as:
- 1/16-Inch Bubble Wrap: This size offers very light cushioning, so it works best for small, lightweight items like jewelry, smartphones, dolls, action figures, collectibles and small picture frames.
- 1/8-Inch Bubble Wrap: This type is meant for items that are somewhat fragile, such as glassware, ceramics and small appliances like toasters or blenders. It’s also suitable for laptops, tablets and other medium-sized electronics.
- 3/16-Inch Bubble Wrap: This size provides strong protection and is great for items like plates, bowls, vases, wine glasses, fine china, computer monitors, paintings, decorative sculptures and audio equipment.
- 5/16-Inch Bubble Wrap: This type handles heavy impact very well, making it a good choice for televisions, gaming consoles, furniture, glass tabletops, musical instruments, wall mirrors, porcelain figurines and valuable souvenirs or collectibles.
- 1/2-Inch Bubble Wrap: This size is made for large, heavy and very valuable items, including antique furniture, marble statues, laboratory equipment, museum pieces, and oversized electronics.
Start with a Wide, Flat Surface
Bubble Wrap works best when it covers an item evenly. Using a flat surface helps the bubbles spread pressure across the whole object. A smooth workspace also keeps the wrap from wrinkling or folding while you’re handling it. If the surface is uneven, it can create weak spots that may cause damage.
Choose Your Wrapping Method
There are two main ways to wrap items with Bubble Wrap and each one has its own benefits. The first is the “Burrito Method.” Place the item near the edge of the Bubble Wrap and roll it up until it’s fully covered—similar to rolling a burrito. This method surrounds the item on all sides, giving it complete 360° protection. It’s especially useful for cylindrical items like vases, glasses and candlesticks, but it also works well for round or flat objects.
The second method is the “Folding Method.” Set the item in the center of the Bubble Wrap and fold each corner toward the middle until it’s fully covered, similar to wrapping something in a blanket. This method is more adaptable and works for a wider variety of items than the burrito method. For objects with parts that stick out, folding lets you adjust the protection in the areas that need it most.
Wrap Bubble Side In
Always place the bubbles so they touch the item directly. This gives better cushioning and helps the wrap grip the object so it doesn’t slip during the move. The smooth outer layer also keeps the bubbles from popping when they come into contact with rough or uneven surfaces.
Don’t Skimp
Use enough Bubble Wrap to fully cover the item. Adding more layers gives you more protection, so it’s okay to use extra when needed. Many movers even suggest double-wrapping items that are very fragile or valuable. Make sure to cover corners and edges well — these areas are under more pressure and are more likely to get damaged.
Cut and Reshape
Sometimes, even a good folding method won’t cover an item fully. In those cases, cutting the Bubble Wrap to match the item’s shape is the best way to protect odd-shaped objects or give extra padding to weak spots like corners and edges. Just be sure the added piece fits tightly around the exposed areas to protect them from bumps or drops.
Use Tape
Bubble Wrap needs to stay firmly in place to protect your items. Since it can loosen or come undone, make sure to secure each wrapped object with tape right after you finish wrapping it.
Combine with Other Packing Material
Bubble Wrap is great for absorbing shocks but it can’t protect everything on its own. The safest way to pack your items is to use it along with other materials like boxes and Styrofoam peanuts. Modern moving boxes are made with two layers of corrugated cardboard which help cushion your belongings. Foam peanuts keep items from shifting during the move and protect them from sudden bumps. If you don’t have packing peanuts, you can fill empty spaces in the box with extra Bubble Wrap instead.
Remove with Scissors
Bubble Wrap is made to be tough and hard to tear, so pulling it off by hand can be slow, risky and can even damage delicate items. There’s also a chance the item could slip and fall while you’re trying to rip the wrap off. Using scissors allows you to cut through the plastic easily and safely, making them the best tool for removing Bubble Wrap.
STI Moving Supplies
STI moving services do more than just transport your belongings. We assist with every part of your move — from planning and packing to delivery and setup. Our team provides not only trucks but also boxes, blankets, Bubble Wrap and everything else you need to keep your items safe during the move to your new home. Have a move coming up? Contact us today for a free quote!
