Bubble Wrap Tips & Best Practices for Safe Packaging | JFAM
Bubble wrap is the undisputed champion of cushioning. Its air-filled pockets provide excellent protection against shock, vibration, and impact. Learn the expert best practices to ensure your fragile items arrive in one piece.
Small Bubbles vs. Big Bubbles: Which to Use?
Bubble wrap comes in various bubble sizes, but the two most common are small and large.
Small Bubbles (10mm)
- Best for: Surface protection and small, delicate items.
- Use Cases: Wrapping individual glasses, small electronics, picture frames, and protecting surfaces from scratches. The smaller bubbles conform better to intricate shapes.
Big Eye Bubbles (40mm)
- Best for: Cushioning and void fill for larger, sturdier items.
- Use Cases: Filling empty space in boxes to prevent items from shifting, or providing a thick layer of cushioning for items like monitors, vases, or lamp bases.
The Golden Rule: Bubbles In!
For optimal protection, the bubbles should be facing inward, against the item you are wrapping. Here's why:
- Direct Cushioning: The air pockets act as direct cushions against impact.
- Bracing: The bubbles brace the item, preventing it from shifting within the wrap.
- Flat Exterior: The flat outer surface makes it easier to tape the wrap securely.
How to Wrap Different Items Safely
Wrapping Glasses and Dishware
- Place a single glass or plate on a sheet of small-bubble wrap.
- Roll the item in the wrap, ensuring at least one full layer covers it.
- Fold the excess wrap over the ends and secure with tape.
- Place items vertically in the box, never flat.
Wrapping Electronics
- Use a specialty protective material when the item requires additional handling precautions.
- Wrap the electronic device in at least two layers. Pay extra attention to corners.
- Use large-bubble wrap to fill ALL empty space around the item in the box.
Expert Advice: Don't Forget the Box!
Bubble wrap provides cushioning, but a strong outer box provides the structural integrity. Always place your bubble-wrapped items inside a high-quality corrugated box. Fill any gaps with more bubble wrap to prevent shifting.