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

Moving and packing can be overwhelming. How would you feel if you discovered your prized possessions have shattered into pieces upon opening? Nobody wants their heirloom china or vases shattered! These mishaps could have been avoided using a dependable packing material—bubble wrap. 

Bubble wrap is one of the best packing materials you can use when preparing to pack and move places. So if you’re looking for how to pack fragile items for moving, you’re in the right place. Read on to learn how to use bubble wrap properly.

What you’ll need

Bubble wraps are reusable, so scouting online through family, friends, or neighbors might be helpful. They might have a few lying around from deliveries or a previous move. You can use bubble wrap to pack fragile items, such as mirrors, artwork, vases, and other items that may be easily damaged. 

Below are the things you need to prepare for packing your items for your move:

• 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 economical and time-saving. However, remember that some items, such as dishes, mirrors, or computer screens, require additional support (such as newspapers or packing papers). 

Bigger breakables may need more layers of bubble wrap, too. So it may take longer to wrap larger delicate items like packing artwork for moving. Moreover, packing appliances and electronics may require anti-static bubble wrap, so consider which items to use it for. Packing your belongings may take a day 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 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 center 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. For example, the best way to pack dishes is to mix them with a newspaper or kraft paper before using 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 short on time and need to sort out more important moving tasks, you can always get in touch with trusted movers and packers to help you pack your belongings. 

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