Bubble wrap roll - Analysis and Buying Guide - 2023
If you ship, store or move fragile items like glassware, electronics and photos, you know how important it is to insure them against breakage. A roll of bubble wrap is often your best bet in these circumstances.
The Sealed Air Corporation invented bubble wrap and trademarked this widely used term in 1957. These air bubble-studded sheets of plastic have become the go-to packaging material for breakable items. It is safer and offers better protection than crumpled paper or loose fill. It's also lightweight, so bubble wrap won't add anything to your shipping costs. (And as a stress reliever, some swear by the satisfaction that comes from popping bubble wrap, one bubble at a time.)
Although you may think that all bubble wrap is the same, this guide will show you that there are several considerations to take into account when purchasing a roll. From size and clarity to quality and perforations, you'll find a variety of options to choose from. We also look at the price range and offer a variety of rolls that we believe represent the best quality and value currently on the market.
Key Considerations
Why Does it Roll Up?
If you ship items infrequently or only occasionally use bubble wrap to store items, you may be wondering why you need to buy a whole roll. A roll is the obvious choice if you're moving or often shipping fragile items, but even occasional users of bubble wrap can benefit from buying it in bulk. For one thing, it's cheaper to buy a large roll than individual sheets, and a large roll is often easier to use and store than other bubble wrap products.
More importantly, rolls are the way bubble wrap is mostly packaged and sold. Although you can find other bubble wrap options, such as envelopes, bags, and specialty packaging like wine bottle protectors, most of the time when you search for “bubble wrap,” you'll find rolls of various sizes.
Quality
It stands to reason that more durable bubble wrap offers more protection for your fragile items. It should be constructed of a quality plastic that resists tearing and is soft enough not to scratch whatever you're wrapping. Durable bubble wrap also lasts a long time, so you can reuse it over and over again, saving you money in the long run.
If you are concerned about plastic in the environment, look for bubble wrap made from biodegradable materials. Although you may end up spending a little more, this type of bubble wrap will break down over time and won't take up space in a landfill.
Features of Bubble Wrap Roll
Size
Wheel : One of your biggest options when shopping for a roll of bubble wrap is size, especially length. Although the width is pretty standard on most rolls, usually 1 or 2 feet, the length varies widely from 30 to 175 feet, with 60 to 72 feet being the most common.
To get the best value, calculate the square footage of the roll (length x width) and divide the price by that number. This will give you the price per square foot. In general, if you use bubble wrap in the batch, use a larger roll to save money.
Bubbles : The size of the bubbles can vary from roll to roll, and the size of the bubbles can be important. In general, smaller bubbles offer more protection against scratches, while larger bubbles offer more cushioning against breakage. The bubbles must be durable and withstand pressure or other stresses without bursting. 3/16-inch bubbles are pretty standard, and this bubble size offers decent thickness and cushioning for most applications.
Colour
While some bubble wrap rolls come in colors like blue, red, or green, most bubble wrap is clear. This provides an important and obvious role: you can more easily identify the wrapped objects. You might think that a colored wrapper would be fun or provide a useful function; otherwise, you'll find the most options when shopping for clear bubble wrap.
Perforations
Most, but not all, bubble wrap rolls are perforated at set intervals, usually every 12 inches. With the perforations, pieces of the roll can be easily torn off without the need for scissors or a box cutter. This makes the roll easier to use and results in less waste because only the amount needed is torn off.
Additional Features
Box : Some bubble wrap rolls ship in a box which can be useful for storing the wrap for easy dispensing. If your options come down to two similar rolls and one of them offers a storage box, go for the box.
Stickers : Some bubble wrap rolls also include a collection of "Fragile" stickers that you can use to highlight items that are especially susceptible to breakage.
Tips
Protect screens from bubble wrap. If you are using bubble wrap to protect a TV or monitor, place a layer of paper between the bubble wrap and the screen. Bubble wrap (or any other plastic) can leave marks on screens, especially at high temperatures.
Wrap items properly. A layer of bubble wrap won't do the job. To keep your fragile items safe, wrap them in several layers before securing them with tape. For maximum protection, place the bubble wrap with the bubbles toward the inside of the item you are trying to protect. The flat side is easier to write on and works better with packing tape. For the best protection when moving or shipping items, use bubble wrap around each item and then pack the items in crinkled packing paper.
Use bubble wrap as insulation. Bubble wrap air pockets are effective in protecting against changes in temperature. Therefore, bubble wrap can be used as an effective insulation for a greenhouse or for windows in general.
Keep bubble wrap away from small children. It represents a choking hazard.
Use scissors to unwrap the bubble wrap. Trying to open the wrapper could damage the fragile item you are trying to protect.