Bubble Wrap is one of America’s most popular packing materials. It was first introduced as a type of wallpaper but in the late 1960s, IBM engineers saw its value as a packaging product. It was soon used to ship computer equipment and quickly became a trusted way to protect personal items too. Affordable, flexible and easy to find, it has become an essential packing supply for fragile items that can break, chip or scratch. However, even though most people use Bubble Wrap, they don’t always use it the right way. Below are a few simple tips to help you wrap your belongings properly.

Consider What You’re Wrapping

Bubble Wrap is not available in just one size—it comes in different options. Larger bubbles offer more protection than smaller ones but they aren’t suitable for every item in your home. Before you begin packing, take a moment to list the items that need protection. Based on what you’re packing, you may need Bubble Wrap in multiple sizes, such as:

  • 1/16-Inch Bubble Wrap: This wrap provides very light cushioning, so it works best for small and lightweight items such as jewelry, smartphones, dolls, action figures, collectibles and small picture frames.
  • 1/8-Inch Bubble Wrap: This option is suitable for fairly fragile items like glassware, ceramics and small appliances such as toasters and blenders. It is also good for laptops, tablets and other medium-sized electronics.
  • 3/16-Inch Bubble Wrap: This size gives strong protection for items like plates, bowls, vases, wine glasses, fine china, computer monitors, paintings, decorative sculptures and audio equipment.
  • 5/16-Inch Bubble Wrap: Designed to handle heavy impact, this wrap is ideal for televisions, gaming consoles, furniture, glass tabletops, musical instruments, wall mirrors, porcelain figurines and valuable souvenirs or memorabilia.
  • 1/2-Inch Bubble Wrap: Made for large, heavy and very expensive items, this wrap is best for antique furniture, marble statues, laboratory equipment, museum artifacts and oversized electronics.

Start with a Wide, Flat Surface

For Bubble Wrap to work properly, it needs to cover items evenly. Wrapping your belongings on a wide, flat surface helps the bubbles spread pressure across the entire item. A flat workspace also keeps the wrap from bunching, wrinkling or folding while you pack. Uneven surfaces can create weak areas that may cause damage.

Choose Your Wrapping Method

When using Bubble Wrap, there are two main ways to protect your items and each has its own benefits. The first is the “Burrito Method.” Place the item near the edge of the wrap and roll it until the item is fully covered, similar to rolling a burrito. This method protects the item on all sides, giving complete 360° coverage. It works especially well for cylindrical items like vases, glasses and candlesticks, but it is also effective for both round and flat items.

The second option is the “Folding Method.” Place the item in the center of the Bubble Wrap sheet, then fold the sides and corners inward until the item is fully covered, similar to wrapping something in a blanket. This method is more adaptable which makes it suitable for many different types of items. For objects with parts that stick out, folding lets you adjust the protection based on the item’s shape and needs.

Wrap Bubble Side In

Always place the bubble side directly against the item you’re wrapping. This gives better protection and helps the wrap grip the object so it doesn’t shift during transport. The smooth outer layer also protects the bubbles from popping when they come into contact with sharp edges or rough surfaces.

Don’t Skimp

Use enough Bubble Wrap to completely cover the item. Extra layers mean better protection, so don’t hesitate to use a little more if needed. Many movers even suggest wrapping very fragile or valuable items twice for added safety. Be sure to focus on corners and edges, as these areas take the most impact and are more likely to get damaged.

Cut & Reshape

Sometimes, folding alone isn’t enough to fully cover an item. In these cases, cutting Bubble Wrap to fit the shape works best, especially for oddly shaped objects or areas that need extra protection like corners and edges. Make sure the cut pieces fit tightly around exposed spots to protect them from bumps or drops.

Use Tape

Bubble Wrap needs to stay tight around the item to protect it properly. Since it can easily loosen or unwrap, always secure the wrapped item with tape as soon as you finish wrapping it.

Combine with Other Packing Material

While Bubble Wrap is excellent at absorbing shocks and impacts, it can’t protect items by itself. For the best protection, use it along with other packing materials like boxes and Styrofoam peanuts. Modern moving boxes are made with two layers of corrugated cardboard which help cushion your belongings. Foam peanuts prevent items from moving around during transport and protect them from sudden bumps. If you don’t have packing peanuts, filling empty spaces in boxes with extra Bubble Wrap works just as well.

Remove with Scissors

Bubble Wrap is made to resist tearing, so pulling it off by hand can be slow and risky. Applying too much force may damage delicate items and there’s also a chance the item could slip and break while you’re trying to remove the wrap. Using scissors allows you to cut the plastic easily and safely, making them the best tool for removing Bubble Wrap.

STI Moving Supplies

STI’s moving services go beyond simply transporting your belongings. We assist with every part of your move, including planning, packing, delivery and setup. Our teams don’t just bring trucks—they also provide boxes, blankets, Bubble Wrap and all the supplies needed to keep your items safe on the way to your new home. Planning a move? Contact us today to get a free quote!