Bubble Wrap Unwrapped: The Right Way to Use It
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Which Way Does Bubble Wrap Go? All about Bubble Wrap

date read icon February 21, 2025
Cushioning wrap

The bubble wrap market will grow to USD 4.78 billion by 2033. This is a market that has adapted and thrived. The bubble wrap that is found in many homes and warehouses shows the surprising results of scientific research. The story of its origin is a tale of serendipity. The mid-20th-century engineers Alfred Fielding & Marc Chavannes wanted to make textured wallpapers that could add interest to the decor of a home.

Their initial efforts fell short, but the unique material they created was a result of their failure. It is characterized by an air pocket network trapped in between two plastic sheets. This initial effort did not accomplish its original purpose, but it accidentally laid the groundwork for a new material that has many applications.

What Happens If  You Use The Wrong Side Of The Bubble Wrap?

If you are confused, which way does bubble wrap go? It's essential to note that it depends on the particular situation. When you use the wrong side of bubble wrap, it means that you risk the bubbles themselves especially, in terms of the sharp objects inside or at the outer side of a package. When the wrong side of the bubble is wrapped, it makes them lose their role as cushions and makes your products prone to damage.

With the wrong side out, it can be difficult for you to secure the packaging with tape. Also, it potentially affects how well the adhesive sticks to it. Moreover, uneven surfaces will make the adhesion process quite tough. If bubble wraps are not on the right side, this will make the items inside the package shift here and there, increasing the chances of being damaged and scratched.

How to Use Bubble Wrap?



It is integral to note that placing the bubble wrap flat side on the surface and then placing an item on top to wrap is the best. If you are concerned about the query 'Is bubble wrap supposed to face in or out?' You should ensure that bubbles are faced inwards and a protective layer to your products is ensured. It is best to know what side does the bubble wrap go? As it acts as a protector of your product wrapped inside.The package is likely to topple if not wrapped properly; with the wrong side facing towards your packaging, it will be hard to hold.

Layer for Packaging

Utilizing bubble wrap is the pertinent choice for protecting items from getting damaged. It safeguards against minor dents and scratches. These also protect your products from severe damage caused by vibrations and shocks. With items sensitive to damage or change in temperature you can use foil bubble wraps as these can be a great option.

Bubbles are a soft, cushioning material. Mostly you can get packaging of the objects in a way perfectly effective way to protect fragile items during transport, storage, or relocation. You should know how to use bubble wrap for packing. So that proper layering can be done. The material is very versatile and can be used for everything, from large, fragile items to small, lightweight ones. Bubble wrap comes in a variety of sizes. It is also ideal to protect objects. Bubble wrap can be used as insulation for a variety of reasons. Bubble wrap is reusable multiple times depending on its quality and strength.

Growing Industry For Bubble Mailers

Moreover, in the forecast timeframe, bubble wrap packaging is growing smoothly in the market due to an increase in the number of e-commerce transactions and the increased focus on customer satisfaction. This will be accompanied by the need to protect products. 

Additionally, it is a key point to note that the bubble wrap market continues to grow as the technological advancements mature. From stabilizing awareness and sustainability, 74% of Americans stay willing to pay for sustainable packaging. 

Secure Products with Effective Materials

Bubble wrap's ability to distribute and absorb impact energy is what makes it such a good protective material. The air in each bubble is compressed when it's subjected to external forces, like a drop or an impact. The air within each bubble compresses, acting as a cushion to absorb shocks and reduce the energy transfer from the protected object. Bubble wrap is an excellent tool to protect fragile objects during transport and handling. Cognizing how to mail a bubble mailer? Primarily involves wrapping your products smoothly. 

Right-Sized Bubble Mailers



Size and distribution play an important role in the protection level. The smaller bubbles with a greater air volume and fewer but larger bubbles provide better cushioning to delicate objects such as glassware, electronics and fine arts.

Larger bubbles with more air are best suited to heavier items that need a greater impact absorption. Bubble wrap are tailor-made and designed as a protective layer, from cushioning heavy machinery to protecting fragile electronics. A pliable sheet of plastic with air pockets that range in size from 6 to 25 mm is known as Bubble Wrap. The packaging of this type is lightweight, and it has water resistance.

Common Uses of Bubble Wraps

Bubble envelopes can also be made with bubble wrap as these provide excellent protection for fragile goods. The bubble mailers and envelopes can be used to ship DVDs, jewelry, or antiques. Bubble Wrap is anti-static and can protect electronics from damaging static charges.

Bubble Size

Protection Level

Recommended Usage

1/16"

Minimal

Smaller/lightweight items (gadgets, glassware)

1/8"

Minimal

Small/lightweight items

3/16"

Moderate

Lightweight to medium-weight products

5/16"

Good

Medium-weight products, filling voids

1/2"

Excellent

Medium-weight products fill larger voids


Versatility of Bubble Wraps 

Bubble wrap is versatile and has many uses beyond its original purpose as packaging. The bubbles' insulating qualities, which are derived from trapped air, can be used in many different contexts. Bubble wrap is a great way to reduce heat loss through windows and doors in the home and improve energy efficiency. It can also be used in agricultural settings to prevent frost damage on seedlings and discourage small animals from damaging the young trees.

Repurposing Bubble Wraps



Reusing bubble wrap in creative ways can reduce waste. It can, for example, be used to cushion DIY projects or for insulation in gardening.  

Have you gone through instances of bubble wrap distinguished uses? Well, you can also use them as an air-draft excluder to be used on windows and doors. Moreover, there are very lesser examples of recycling bubble wraps. Reusing the wraps promotes and facilitates an environmentally friendly approach.

Bubbles face in unless the piece isn't wrapped in plastic/paper/glassine and act like little delicate fingers suspending the item in the packaging. Removing the bubbles with the tape would mean you couldn't reuse them, as the tape would rupture each bubble.

Bubble Size (mm)

Bubble Size (Inches)

Common Usage

10mm

3/8 inch

Most Common - Offers a good balance of protection and cost-effectiveness for a wide range of products.

5mm

3/16 inch

Often used for smaller, more delicate items where less cushioning is needed.

15mm

1/2 inch

Provides extra protection for heavier or more fragile items.

20mm

3/4 inch

Typically used for very heavy or extremely fragile items that require significant cushioning.


The Key Tips For Bubble Wraps

Select the correct size bubble wrap

  • Choose Bubble Wrap

Pick it is appropriate for your item’s weight and fragility.

  • Use multiple layers

 Use multiple layers of bubble wrapping to protect fragile objects, such as jewelry.

  • Sealing Bubble Wrap

 Make sure the bubble wrap around the product is tightly fastened to avoid shifting while in the transportation.

  • Transit 

Take into consideration the shape of your item, so transit is hassle-free

  • Wrap Properly

Wrap items with irregular shapes carefully for maximum protection.

  • Recycling and Reuse

Use bubble wrap in other ways or responsibly recycle it.

Combine Multiple Bubble Wrap Sizes

Use multiple layers in various sizes of bubble wrap to protect items you are very concerned about. You can, for example, use smaller bubbles to cover your item and protect it from scratching. Then you could use bigger bubbles on the top layer of the bubble wrap as protection from damage caused by impact.

Sustainability Behind Bubble Mailer

Bubble wrap's future lies in adopting sustainable practices and exploring new solutions. To explore biodegradable alternative materials derived from renewable sources, research and development is required.

Bubble Wrap First Protective Packaging



Bubble wraps have been highly popular for the safety they provide to packed items. An unplanned scientific discovery created it. Although the production of bubble wrap and its disposal is associated with environmental issues, an effort to be sustainable, combined with innovation, can help ensure this material serves a useful purpose while minimizing its impact on the planet.

Efforts are also being made to enhance the recycling of traditional bubble wrap. Innovation in recycling aims to improve the efficiency and ease with which bubble wrap can be recycled, thus reducing waste.

Future of Bubble Mailers

 The possibilities for bubble wrap are limitless. From sustainable products to innovative products that include it, these are long-lasting materials.

Bubble wrap will remain there for a sufficient time as these are composed of the best materials whether it's used to protect fragile goods during shipping or for other creative and environmentally friendly applications.

You might be familiar that bubble wrap is commonly found in the U.S.. It's present in businesses and homes alike. It is a versatile material pre-filled with tiny air pockets, the primary purpose is to protect products and goods. You can opt for this as the safest option for shipping and handling. 

Inside or Outside?

Bubble wrap is best suited to be used inside boxes for the cushioning of fragile items like glassware, artwork and electronics. It brings a softer protective layer that absorbs any vibration and shocks. From ensuring your treasures and important goods reach safely, it is a vital option. You no longer have to be perplexed about which side of the bubble wrap to use as here we demisty which practice serves the best.

Sometimes, bubble wrap can also be used as an outer layer of protection, especially for smaller packages or envelopes. This adds an extra layer of cushioning and helps safeguard against minor bumps or rough handling during transit.

Standard Bubble Wrap



These are the most commonly utilized types of bubble wrap. These are tightly packed and air-filled bubble cushion items. These perfectly work immaculately for air-filled bubble-cushioned items. With the shock resistance and grip during the transit, standard wraps are highly prevalent. These are affordable and widely available. Thus, in the packaging industry, these have gone high in demand and become a staple for packaging and moving. 

When to Use It
Use standard bubble wrap for wrapping various moderately fragile items, such as:  

  • Glassware  
  • Ceramics  
  • Framed pictures  
  • Home appliances  
It also fills empty spaces in boxes to stop items from moving during transit. Whether you’re moving or shipping, make sure to cover your item completely for full protection.

Anti-Static Bubble Wrap

Anti-static bubble wrap is made for packing electronics. Unlike standard bubble wrap, it doesn’t create static electricity. Its bubbles protect against physical damage while preventing electrostatic discharge that can harm sensitive components.

When to Use It
Use anti-static bubble wrap for packing:  
  • Circuit boards  
  • Computer parts  
  • Other electronic devices  

Bubble Size

Roll Width

Best For

Small (3/16 inch)

12 inches, 18 inches, 24 inches

Small electronic components, circuit boards, and delicate gadgets.

Medium (3/8 inch)

12 inches, 24 inches, 36 inches

Medium-sized electronics, computer parts, and sensitive devices.

Large (1/2 inch)

12 inches, 24 inches, 48 inches

Larger electronics, monitors, and heavy devices require extra cushioning.


It usually arrives with a unique identity and possesses a pink color. This wrap keeps your electronics safe during shipping or storage.

Bubble Wrap Bags 
Bubble wrap bags, or bubble pouches, are pre-made bags made from bubble wrap. They have protective bubbles inside and are convenient because you don’t need to cut or tape anything.

When to Use Them
Bubble wrap bags are great for smaller items like:  

  • Jewelry  
  • Small Electronics  
  • Books  
  • Trinkets  
They have a self-seal feature for easy closure. While not suitable for large or oddly shaped items, they provide quick and effective protection.

Recycled Bubble Wrap  



Recycled bubble wrap is made from reused materials but offers the same protection as standard bubble wrap. It’s an eco-friendly choice for those wanting to reduce waste without losing quality.

When to Use It

Choose recycled bubble wrap if you prioritize sustainability for:  

  • Eco-friendly businesses  
  • Individuals wanting to cut down on waste  
  • Any situation where you would use standard bubble wrap  
The use of recycled bubble wrap helps protect your items and supports a healthier planet. You can contribute to lesser carbon footprints and bring safety to the environment.

Choosing the Right Bubble Wrap for Your Needs

Selecting the right bubble wrap can be confusing. Here’s a simple guide:  

  • Standard Bubble Wrap:

Best for general packaging and moderately fragile items.  

  • Anti-Static Bubble Wrap: 

Essential for electronics and sensitive devices.  

  • Bubble Wrap Bags:

 Ideal for small items needing quick protection.  

  • Recycled Bubble Wrap

Perfect for eco-conscious individuals and businesses.

Adhesive bubble



It depends on the nature of the product you are about to ship; you may be interested in an adhesive bubble that pristinely sticks directly to the item. The purpose of bubble adhesive is to protect it is the finest one to be used when you are shipping a lot of little items in the same container. It works perfectly fine if you are packing an oddly-shaped item; an alternative adhesive bubble can be bubble pouches, which come forth with lip and tape for a sealable closure experience. 

Bubble Assembly lines

It is integral to keep in mind that before shipping any product, a company checks whether the product is packaged in the correct order. It involves R&D to ensure that the product reaches safely to its destination. From the rolls of bubble products that come in several sizes to small bubble pouches all have various applications. For instance, a person who runs a small jewelry business wants small bubble pouches to protect products during the shipping process. On a large scale, a company requires bigger bubble rolls having easy-to-tear sheets for assembly lines. 

Conclusion

You can pick standard rolls to anti-static varieties as per your convenience, picking bubble wrap bags as well. It is essential to know better about efficient packaging.
 At Print247, we are proud to be a leading packaging company serving Rosenberg, TX, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and all of America. With a commitment to bringing the best printing and packaging to life, we offer a wide range of bubble wrap products to suit every requirement. Whether you need durable protection for heavy items, static-free solutions for electronics, or sustainable options for eco-conscious packaging, we have you covered.

Author: Bill ‘Hogg’ Ryan
AUTHOR

Bill ‘Hogg’ Ryan

Bill is a Houston-based packaging writer with 6 years in the industry. His hands-on career began with printing machines; he has built profound expertise in custom packaging solutions across multiple sectors, including cosmetics, food, and retail. A recognized industry contributor in the State. Bill now shares insights through writing, focusing on packaging trends and innovations. In his leisure time, he can be seen riding his favorite Stallion, ‘Tex,’ or jamming to country music.