Wrap and protect: Here's how you can use bubble wrap for packing

Moving is exciting but can be complicated. And it can get bad if you don’t pack your items with care. Nobody wants to find their heirloom china or dinnerware broken into pieces as soon as they unload them. These accidents could be prevented by using bubble wrap for extra protection or cushion. 

Of course, you must know how to use bubble wrap for packing correctly to avoid broken or damaged items during transportation. So, if you’re looking for how to pack fragile items for moving, you’re in the right place. 

What you’ll need

You can reuse bubble wrap from your purchases for packing or ask family and friends if they have some lying around the house before purchasing more. You can use bubble wraps to pack delicate items, such as mirrors, lamps, vases, artworks or paintings, items with sharp corners and fragile surfaces, and other items that may be easily damaged. 

When you’re ready to pack your items, ensure you have these things ready: 

• Bubble wrap

• Tape

• Scissors

• Markers

• Boxes

• Packing paper (for additional support)

• A flat surface with enough space 

Bubble wrap for packing tips and completion time

Packing with bubble wrap is both cost-effective and time-efficient. But know that some items require additional support (like newspapers or packing papers) for breakable items like dishes, mirrors, or computer screens. 

Bigger breakables may need more layers of bubble wrap. So it may take longer to wrap larger delicate items like packing artwork for moving. On average, it may take a day to pack your belongings if you're living in a one-bedroom flat. 

A step-by-step guide to using bubble wrap for packing

Step 1: Work on a flat surface

Find a flat surface with enough space to cut out bubble wrap sheets. Remove anything that could spill, such as your drink, and anything that could leave scratches or marks, like keys and other sharp objects. 

Step 2: Cut a generous size for each of your item

Time for cutting the bubble wrap! Lay the item to ensure that you’re cutting large enough bubble wraps to cover the item multiple times. Make sure to use scissors to cut through the wrap neatly. 

Step 3: Wrap the items

There are two ways to wrap your belongings: one is to fold, and the other is to roll up the item into a cylinder shape (burrito method).

If the folding method is the best for your item, place it in the centre and wrap it generously. If you opt for the burrito method, put your item on one end and roll it up, allowing multiple layers of bubble wrap to surround it. 

For guaranteed safety, use other packing materials for support. So be sure to remember to pack plates in a newspaper or kraft paper before bubble wrap!

Step 4: Use tape, scissors, and other materials to secure the item 

On top of wrapping your item generously with layers of bubble wrap, make sure to use tape, scissors, and other packing materials (like packing paper, newspaper, and foam) for added protection and to keep the item from sliding inside the packaging or box. 

Using tape will hold the bubble wrap and/or your item in its position, avoiding breakage by slipping even during the wrapping stage. Avoid tearing bubble wrap by hand! Instead, use a pair of scissors so you can prevent injuries and damage to your belongings. 

When it’s time to place them in your moving boxes, you can put in an extra bubble wrap for padding and to secure the items in place.

To (bubble) wrap it up 

Wrapping with bubble wrap ensures that your fragile items, your prized possessions, are kept in a safe and secure condition when moving. But to ensure maximum safety, learn how to use bubble wrap correctly. If you're a bit pressed for time, consider contacting a professional packer to wrap and pack your valuables for you. 

With preparations like this, you can make moving less stressful! You can also hire professional removalists to help you. Experienced removalists have tried-and-tested systems that make moving easier and faster.