Since its invention in 1960, bubble wrap has been an integral part of shipping. These flexible plastic films contain small air pockets or bubble bags and are used to cushion items during shipping and storage. The sealed air bubbles form a flexible but durable cushion and create a stable barrier against impact.
The advantage of bubble wrap over other packaging and cushioning materials is its low weight and protection against shock, vibration and damage. Additionally, it helps prevent static electricity that could damage electronics. It also helps keep valuable items safe.
If you are looking for bubble wrap for packing or storing goods, the following list will show you the best bubble wrap you can get right now.
Benefits of using bubble wrap for packaging
The benefits of bubble wrap are numerous. The trapped air is designed to support your fragile items and give you the security you need when shipping or moving delicate items. With the bubble wrap in place, you know they are protected and the risk of breakage is significantly reduced. Other advantages include:
- Can be reused: When you're done with your bubble wrap, there's no need to throw it away. Bubble wrap can be continuously reused unless it has been significantly damaged. As long as the bubbles are intact, you can use them over and over again to protect your items.
- It's easy: Bubble wrap is one of the lightest packaging materials on the market. The layers of lightweight plastic absorb air, making it an ultra-light packaging material that can help save on shipping costs.
- Multiple use: Bubble wrap is great for packing and shipping items, securing items in moving boxes, and storage. It can also be used as insulation to retain heat. Its insulating properties are used in greenhouses and can also help maintain the shape of shoes and handbags.
Best bubble wrap for shipping in 2022
There are many bubble wrap manufacturers, and not all of them are the same. It's a good idea to check reviews and customer comments to get a good idea of what to expect from the packaging you order. Check out our top picks for the best bubble wrap below:
Duck brand bubble wrap
Top pick: Duck Brand Clear Single Roll Bubble Wrap is available in 30 feet x 12 inches. The roll is perforated every 12 inches for easier handling and weighs just 7.25 ounces.
The bubble wrap features air-filled bubbles with a thickness of 3/16 inch that can withstand shock and impact and protect fragile items from damage during transportation or storage.
Duck Brand Bubble Wrap, Original Protective Packaging, 12″ Wide x 30' Long, Single Roll
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Scotch Big Bubble Cushion Cover, 12 inches x 25 feet
Second: The trusted and well-known brand Scotch has a bubble wrap that comes in second place with us. This bubble wrap features large (1/2 inch) air bubbles for larger, heavier items.
Scotch bubble wrap is perforated every 12 inches for easy tear-off. In addition to the larger bladders, it features a nylon barrier for added strength.
Scotch Big Bubble Cushion Cover, 12 inches x 25 feet
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Mailerview bubble wrap roll made in the USA
Best value for money: Mailerview bubble wrap roll features small bubbles (3/16 inch) to safely protect packages from damage. It is said to be good for fragile items and electronics.
This small bubble wrap also comes with 30 “Fragile” stickers and is made in the USA.
Mailerview bubble wrap roll made in the USA for heavy packaging
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Perforated bubble wrap from AmazonBasics
AmazonBasics can be used to wrap furniture edges to prevent scratches during moving and shipping and to protect goods in transit, including electronics and small appliances.
The clear polyethylene bubble wrap is 175 feet x 12 inches. It weighs 1.2 pounds, is perforated every 12 inches, and comes with a one-year limited warranty.
Amazon Basics Perforated Bubble Wrap – Small 3/16″, 12″ x 175 foot long roll
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USPACKSHOP Perforated Bubble Wrap
USPACKSHOP's cushioning bubble wrap is available in 700 feet length and 12 inches width per pack. The roll is perforated every 12 inches so you can adjust the size to fit your items and shape them.
Users have the option to order this clear bubble wrap in a round, oval or square shape and they will receive a 3/16? airtight bubble wrap. The device weighs just one pound and is available in dimensions of 17 x 9 x 11 inches.
upkg brand 3/16? 700 feet x 12? Small bubble wrap, perforated every 12
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Offitecture 2 pack blue bubble wrap rolls
Offitecture contributes cushioning by enclosing your products and absorbing shocks, vibrations, scratches and dents.
This blue bubble wrap is available in 72 feet x 12 inches. This bubble wrap roll is perforated every 12 inches, providing the ability to use one continuous piece for bulky items. It features a nylon barrier seal technology that ensures the 3/16 inch bubble air lasts longer.
Blue Bubble Wrap Rolls, 3/16″ Bubble, Perforated Every 12″, 20 Fragile Stickers Included
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enKo cushioning bubble wrap
enKo offers a two-pack of bubble wrap that measures a combined 72 feet x 12 inches to absorb shock and protect fragile items. The device is perforated every 12 inches and comes with free 20 fragile sticker labels that can be useful when shipping delicate items.
Each rolled sheet weighs 11.2 ounces and comes with a 3/16? airtight bladder that can be used for plates, bowls, porcelain and cups.
enKo Perforated Bubble Wrap 20 Fragile Sticker Labels for Transporting Shipping Packaging, Boxes and Accessories
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Sealed bubble wrap from American Bubble Boy
American Bubble Boy is an American company that produces premium bubble wrap. This film has a medium size bubble (5/16″) that is made from a nylon blend to prevent flat bubbles.
This film is cross-perforated every 12 inches to make tearing easier. You will receive four rolls of 100 feet each.
Official Sealed Bubble Wrap – American Bubble Boy
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Yens 3/16″ perforated bubble wrap
This small bubble wrap from Yens comes in 2 rolls of 100m each, giving you 210m of foil. The rolls are perforated every 12 inches.
Yens Bubble Wrap is made in the USA. Customers say it's good value for money.
Yens 3/16″ bubble wrap, perforated every 12″ for packaging
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Aspamms Honeycomb Cushioning Wrap Roll
As an eco-friendly alternative to plastic bubble wrap, you can consider this honeycomb bubble wrap. It is recyclable and biodegradable, yet durable enough to protect delicate items. Some may also find this case more aesthetically pleasing.
The Aspamms honeycomb film is 15″ wide and 131′ long and can be stretched. This film is not perforated, but can be torn or cut where desired to easily adjust the size.
Honeycomb-shaped, recyclable cushioning film roll
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What to look for when buying bubble wrap
Although at first glance there may seem to be slight differences between the bubble wraps on the market, there are variations. For example, anti-static bubble wrap is used for electronic devices and items that can be damaged by static electricity.
Cohesive bubble wrap, on the other hand, sticks to itself, eliminating the need for tape. While adhesive bubbles will stick to your product, the sturdy packaging is helpful in extreme shipping conditions. In addition to the type of bubble wrap, there are a few things to consider when purchasing. This includes:
Perforated vs. Non-perforated
You have the choice between perforated and non-perforated bubble wrap. Perforated rolls have pre-cut lines across the entire width of the roll, usually every 12 inches. This allows users to easily separate the required amount of bubble wrap without the need for scissors or a craft knife. Non-perforated gives you the opportunity to customize the size.
Price
Bubble wrap is available in different price ranges. As a rule of thumb, you should choose packaging that won't break your budget but will meet your packaging needs. Some bubble wrap products include padded envelopes with bubble wrap or anti-static storage bags for electronic devices. Many manufacturers offer two rolls in one pack.
Roll length
The roll length depends on how much bubble wrap you need for your packaging project. Some bubble rolls can be short, while others can be extremely long for large items.
Roll width
However, the standard roll width for packing goods is 12 inches. For those looking to pack large items, there are also 24 and 48 inch options.
Bubble sizes
The air bubbles in bubble wrap come in different sizes. Smaller bubbles help protect items from scratches and scrapes, while larger bubbles are more effective at preventing damage from impacts.
Which type of bubble wrap provides the most protection?
This depends on what you are shipping. The size, shape and fragility of your items will determine the best bubble wrap for your needs. When shipping electronic devices, there is packaging specifically designed for this purpose as it reduces friction that can cause damage.
Can you only ship an item wrapped in bubble wrap?
Yes! Bubble wrap is specifically designed to keep fragile items safe during shipping or moving. Make sure you get the correct size bubble wrap packaging for your items.
What size bubble wrap is best?
The best bubble wrap also depends on your individual needs. When shipping large items, try to find the best packaging for your money while also paying attention to quality.
Is bubble wrap better than foam?
While both packing materials offer protection for fragile items, some people claim that bubble wrap offers better protection. This may be because you can use as much as you need to secure items while taking up less space in a box than foam typically does.
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