What is bubble wrap?

Bubble wrap is a type of protective packaging designed to cushion items during shipping, storage, and handling. It’s commonly used by packers to wrap, interleave, or fill empty spaces within boxes. The material acts as a barrier against impact, scratches, and other forms of damage that can occur when moving or transporting goods.

With modern supply chains involving multiple touchpoints, properly wrapping your items with bubble wrap ensures they arrive safely at their destination. Whether you're shipping fragile electronics, delicate glassware, or even furniture, bubble wrap provides an effective and reliable solution for protection.

What is bubble wrap made from?

Most standard bubble wrap is made from Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), a flexible and durable plastic material. This composition allows the wrap to be lightweight while still offering strong protective qualities.

For specialized applications, bubble wrap can be manufactured with additional features such as anti-static properties, laminations, or coatings. For example, our furniture protection bubble wrap is designed to safeguard high-gloss surfaces from scratches, vibrations, and static buildup. These enhanced versions are ideal for protecting valuable or sensitive items during transit.

How was it invented?

Bubble wrap was created in the 1950s by two engineers, Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes, in New Jersey. Initially, they were experimenting with creating a textured wallpaper, but the product didn’t gain commercial success. However, they soon realized its potential as a protective packaging material and repurposed it for shipping and storage. Since then, bubble wrap has become a trusted and widely used item in the world of packaging.

What are the top uses of bubble wrap?

Bubble wrap is primarily used to protect fragile and breakable items during transport, storage, and moving. Its unique design with sealed air pockets provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption. This makes it perfect for items like glassware, electronics, ceramics, and more.

Common uses include:

Moving and packing: Ideal for wrapping dishes, mirrors, picture frames, and other delicate household items. Popular among moving companies.

Insulation: Helps keep perishable items safe during transit, such as food, medicine, and medical supplies.

Voids filling: Keeps items from shifting inside a box, preventing damage during transport.

Craft and DIY projects: Often used to create textured art, painting effects, or decorative elements.

Gardening: Can be used to protect plants from frost during colder months.

Stress relief: Popping bubble wrap is a popular activity, especially on National Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day, where people compete in popping contests and create art with it.

How many layers should I use?

The number of layers needed depends on the fragility and weight of the item being packaged. As a general rule, more layers offer better protection. For most items, one layer of bubble wrap is sufficient to prevent scratches, while two or three layers provide extra cushioning for heavier or more delicate items.

If you’re dealing with very fragile or heavy objects, consider using three to four layers of bubble wrap. This ensures maximum shock absorption and minimizes the risk of damage during transit.

Which side of bubble wrap goes inside?

When wrapping an item, the side with the bubbles should face inward, directly touching the object. This provides the best possible cushioning and protects the item from impacts and scratches. The bubbles act as tiny air pockets that absorb shocks and keep the item secure.

The smooth side should be on the outside, making it easier to tape and handle the package during the packing process. This also helps maintain a neat and professional appearance.

Is bubble wrap reusable?

Yes, bubble wrap can be reused multiple times if it remains in good condition and the bubbles are intact. Many people reuse it for various purposes, such as gardening, insulation, or even moving. It’s a cost-effective and practical option for those looking to reduce waste and extend the life of their packaging materials.

Is bubble wrap recyclable/eco-friendly?

Bubble wrap is indeed recyclable, but it’s not typically accepted in standard household recycling bins due to its thin film structure. Instead, it should be taken to designated recycling points or collection bins found in supermarkets and shopping centers. Some brands, like Kite, offer bubble wrap that is 100% recyclable and contains recycled materials.

Our anti-static bubble wrap is also easy to recycle because it’s made from a single type of PE film. However, recycling options may vary depending on your location, so it’s always a good idea to check with your local council before disposing of it.

Where can I recycle bubble wrap in the UK?

In the UK, bubble wrap is not suitable for kerbside recycling because it can clog machines. Like plastic bags, it needs to be taken to specialist recycling facilities. Many supermarkets and shopping centers have dedicated collection points for this type of material. You can often find them near the entrance or in the customer service area.

What is the difference between small and large bubbles?

The size of the bubbles in bubble wrap determines the level of protection they offer. Small bubbles, usually around 10mm or 1/4 inch in diameter, provide compact cushioning and are best suited for smaller, more delicate items. They are ideal for wrapping things like electronics, glass bottles, or small decorations.

Large bubbles, which are typically 20mm or 1/2 inch in diameter, offer greater shock absorption and are better for heavier or bulkier items. These are commonly used when packing furniture, appliances, or other large objects that require more padding during transport.

What's great about bubble wrap?

Bubble wrap is a versatile and widely used packaging material that offers several advantages:

Excellent cushioning to protect against impact and damage during transit.

Lightweight, which keeps shipping costs low.

Flexible and easy to cut, allowing it to fit around any shape or size of item.

Simple to use and apply, making it a popular choice for both businesses and individuals.

What are the downsides of using bubble packaging?

While bubble wrap is highly effective, it does have some drawbacks:

It contributes to environmental pollution and relies on fossil fuels for production.

Not all areas have convenient access to recycling facilities for bubble wrap.

It can be bulky, taking up significant space in storage and shipping containers.

Despite being reusable, it is often treated as a single-use item, leading to unnecessary waste.

Where to buy bubble wrap?

We offer a wide range of high-quality bubble wrap products tailored to meet different needs. Our durable and reliable solutions ensure that your items are well-protected during transit. Choosing Kite means enjoying competitive pricing, bulk discounts, and fast delivery services.

Additionally, we are committed to sustainability, offering bubble wrap with up to 30% recycled content. This makes it an eco-friendly choice for businesses and individuals who care about reducing their environmental impact.

With eight locations across the UK, we make it easy to access the materials you need. Whether you're a small business owner or a homeowner, you can rely on us to deliver the right packaging solutions straight to your doorstep.

Looking for alternatives to traditional bubble wrap? Check out our guide on eco-friendly packaging options, including paper-based substitutes and biodegradable materials. We have a variety of sustainable choices to suit your specific requirements.

Bubble wrap guide

To learn more about the features, suitability, and recyclability of our bubble wrap rolls, explore our detailed guide. It covers everything you need to know to make informed decisions about your packaging needs.

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Moving and packing; wraps and protects fragile household items, such as dishes, mirrors and picture frames. Popular with removals companies.

Insulation and thermal protection; protects perishable items during transit, such as food and medicine.

Void filling; fills empty spaces in boxes to prevent shifting and damage in transit.

Craft and DIY; great for creative projects, as people can use it to make textured patterns or special painting effects.

Gardening; protects plants from frost in the colder months.

Stress relief; popping bubble wrap is popular and can relieve stress. In fact, it’s a popular activity during National Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day. Taking place on the last Monday of January, people celebrate by partaking in bubble wrap popping competitions. They also share popping experiences and create art/outfits with it.

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Provides excellent cushioning to absorb shock and prevent transit damage.

Adds minimal weight, keeping shipping costs low.

Wraps flexibly around protects items of any shape.

It's easy to cut and use.

" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the downsides of using plastic bubble wrap?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": " While plastic bubble wrap offers excellent cushioning and protection, it does have some downsides as it:\n\n

Contributes to environmental pollution and relies on fossil fuels for production.

Isn't kerbside recyclable.

Is bulky and needs a lot of space, increasing storage and shipping costs.

Is single-use in most cases despite its reusability.

" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Where to buy bubble wrap?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": " We offer a wide variety of high-quality options to suit your needs.\n\nOur durable products ensure your items are well-protected in transit. Choose Kite and benefit from competitive prices, bulk discounts and fast delivery. Stocking up on the packaging materials you need has never been easier.\n\nPlus, our commitment to the environment means you can feel good about your purchase. Our bubble wrap is recyclable with some varieties containing 30% recycled content. This is an excellent eco-friendly option for your packaging requirements.\n\nLooking for bubble wrap near you? We have 8 sites across the UK dedicated to delivering the materials you need straight to your doorstep." } } ] }

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