The Ultimate Guide to Bubble Wrap & How to Use It
I’m sure you’ve heard of bubble wrap. You’ve probably used it before to wrap numerous items. But have you ever wondered whether there is a correct way to use it? In this guide, we take you through everything you need to know about bubble wrap. From the different types of bubble wrap to how to effectively use it, let’s delve into the world of bubble wrap!
- What is Bubble Wrap?
- Types of Bubble Wrap
- Benefits of Bubble Wrap
- Bubble Wrap Uses
- How to Effectively Use Bubble Wrap
- Shield Your Items From Unexpected Bumps with Schott Packaging
What is Bubble Wrap?
You probably already know, but bubble wrap is a plastic sheet covered in rows of air-filled pockets. It is commonly used to protect items from damage. Ideal for use during the shipping of goods or storing valuables, bubble wrap provides a protective layer to absorb any unexpected shocks whilst still being able to be moulded into any shape you need. This means bubble wrap can be used to cover a range of items, from sturdy furniture to small pieces of jewellery and fragile vases.
Types of Bubble Wrap
Although the most commonly known bubble wrap is a plastic sheet covered in small air pockets, there are different types of bubble wrap that each have their own uses. Some examples include:
- Small Bubble Wrap: This form of bubble wrap is the most common. It’s probably what you picture when you think of bubble wrap. The smaller bubbles of this bubble wrap to make it great for protecting most items as it can be easily moulded and fit around most objects.
- Large Bubble Wrap: As the name suggests, this form of bubble wrap has larger air-filled pockets than small bubble wrap. This makes it perfect for cushioning larger objects such as furniture and televisions.
- Paper Bubble Wrap: Also known as honeycomb paper, paper bubble wrap is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional bubble wrap. These sheets of paper are either accurately cut to create a cross-weave pattern or embossed with a bubble pattern. As paper bubble wrap is still relatively new, it is not as protective as traditional bubble wrap but can still effectively shield smaller items from damage.
Benefits of Bubble Wrap
There’s a reason bubble wrap has been the number one go-to for protective packaging for years. It consistently provides unbeatable protection for a multitude of items, is easy to use, and is a cost-effective solution. Here are a few more reasons why bubble wrap remains the chosen protective packaging:
- Lightweight: You don’t want your packaging to account for most of the weight of a parcel. It can be costly to post heavy items. With bubble wrap, this doesn’t have to be an issue as it is lightweight whilst still offering effective protection.
- Cushioning: Bubble wrap provides effective cushioning, protecting items from bumps and shocks during transit or storage.
- Flexible: Bubble wrap’s soft and malleable nature makes it great for filling small gaps and wrapping around even the most oddly shaped items.
- Durable: As bubble wrap is usually made from plastic, it is durable and resistant to minor tears during transit.
- Waterproof: If you opt for traditional bubble wrap, you also have the added benefit of waterproofing your item.
Bubble Wrap Uses
Bubble wrap isn’t just useful for protecting items during shipping and storage, it can also be used in a variety of ways, many of which you probably haven’t thought of. Here are just a few examples of what you can do with bubble wrap:
1. Packaging
Of course, the most obvious use of bubble wrap is packaging. Whether you are shipping goods or are placing items into storage, bubble wrap is an effective solution for providing an extra layer of protection to your items to avoid any damage during transit or storage.
2. Padding
To ensure your items don’t move around during transit, which could potentially cause more damage, it is a good idea to fill any gaps between your item and the cardboard box you are placing your item in. Simply ball up some bubble wrap and place it in any voids.
3. Insulation
Bubble wrap isn’t just used during shipping and storage, it can also be used to control the temperature of a room. A room can be insulated by placing bubble wrap on windows, creating a warmer space during colder months or a cooler area in warmer months.
4. Stress Relief
We’ve all popped bubble wrap before! It can be a great stress reliever. Just make sure you aren’t popping any good pieces of bubble wrap that could be reused.
How to Effectively Use Bubble Wrap
There’s no right way to use bubble wrap, right? Wrong! Contrary to popular belief, there is actually a specific method for using bubble wrap that will provide the most protection to your items. Follow this step-by-step to ensure your goods are effectively shielded from harm:
- Wrap each item individually: This ensures each item has complete protection and multiple items aren’t at risk of colliding with each other unprotected.
- Wrap the bubble wrap around the item with the bubbles directly facing the item: This provides cushioning around the item itself, with the smooth side of the bubble wrap absorbing any impacts.
- Secure the bubble wrap with strong tape: Sellotape or packing tape would work for this step.
- Place the wrapped item into the box: Make sure to choose a box that fits the item perfectly without leaving too many voids or open spaces.
- Gently rock the box to check for movement: If there are open spaces in the box, you may need to fill these voids with bubble wrap or air pillows to prevent the item from moving around during transit.
- Seal the box with secure packing tape: This is essential to ensure the box doesn’t pop open during shipping.
Find out more about How to Use Packing Tape Efficiently in this guide.
Shield Your Items From Unexpected Bumps with Schott Packaging
Bubble wrap is an essential part of the packaging process. By providing an extra layer of protection to any goods you are storing away or shipping, you can minimise the risk of damage. At Schott Packaging, we have a range of bubble wrap rolls for you to choose from. From Small Bubble Wrap Rolls to Large Bubble Wrap and even Anti-Static Bubble Wrap Rolls, we have all the bubble wrap you could ever need. Buy Bubble Wrap Rolls from Schott Packaging today to take advantage of FREE delivery on orders over £50.
FAQs
Why are bubble wraps used?
Bubble Wrap is an effective method of protecting items from damage during transit or storage. The air-filled pockets provide cushioning, while the smooth side absorbs shocks from impacts. This makes bubble wrap ideal for protecting almost any item, from fragile vases to larger pieces of furniture.
Do the bubbles go inside or outside bubble wrap?
The bubbles should always face the item you are wrapping. By placing the bubble next to the item, you are creating a layer of cushioning that will offer better protection. The smooth side of the bubble wrap can then disperse any shocks to avoid damage.
What size bubble wrap should I use?
Bubble wrap comes in small and large sizes. Small bubble wrap is great for almost any item. The smaller bubbles make it easy to mould around objects and provide effective protection. Large bubble wrap is generally used for protecting larger items such as furniture.
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