Bubble wrap is a packaging staple renowned for its cushioning abilities Those little air pockets absorb impacts, preventing jostling from damaging your packaged items. But should the bubble side go facing in or out when wrapping boxes?
The bubbles actually work best when placed on the inside, pressed directly against the contents. Here’s why inward-facing bubbles are the proper bubble wrap orientation for optimal protection
Bubbles Belong on the Inside
The correct side for bubble wrap is bubbles facing in, towards the contents. The bubbles should be in direct contact with the item you are packaging.
This allows the air pockets to mold tightly around the shape of the object. The bubbles conform to all the curves, edges, and surfaces for a snug fit.
The tight fit ensures the bubbles can compress and absorb any shocks or impacts The item is literally cushioned by a custom-shaped bubble barrier on all sides.
Bubbles Cushion Impacts Better When Inward
Inward bubble placement capitalizes on the bubble wrap’s shock absorbing abilities. The bubbles are designed to compress upon impact, minimizing any jarring forces.
With bubbles against the item, they can instantly compress and absorb blows from any direction. This cushions the contents most effectively.
If placed outward, the bubbles lose direct contact with the item. Impacts must travel through the outer box layers before reaching the bubble barrier. Protection is diminished.
Bubbles Prevent Surface Damage
Those little air pockets also prevent scratches, scuffs, and other surface damage. The soft, smooth bubbles won’t mark up item surfaces like cardboard or other materials can.
Fragile items with delicate exteriors benefit the most from direct bubble contact. Examples include electronics, glassware, and collectibles prone to scuffing.
The risk of surface damage during shipping is greatly reduced compared to packing with only paper or packing peanuts.
Bubble Wrap Adds Minimal Bulk on the Inside
Bubble wrap is known for being a bulky packing material. But when used inward, very little added volume is created.
The bubbles sink into crannies and contours of the object, adding no excess space. Outward bubbles would create gaps between the box and contents.
This allows you to reap bubble wrap’s protection without ballooning up package dimensions. Your shipping costs won’t increase.
Smoother Side Out Creates a Tidy Exterior
With the bubbles facing in, the smooth plastic side faces outwards. This creates a neat, uniform exterior underneath the outer box.
The flat backside of bubble wrap won’t catch on the box interior like the protruding bubbles can. Your package stays tightly packed.
The smooth surface also provides an excellent backing for applying shipping labels and marks. Bubble exteriors can obscure labels.
Less Chance of Bubble Damage During Shipping
When used inward, the bubbles avoid potential hazards during shipping. They won’t pop and deflate when scraping against box walls and other packages.
Bubbles are only exposed to the soft contents rather than hard outer surfaces. Fragile air pockets stay protected so they can continue protecting.
Minimizing exterior bubble damage helps ensure your item arrives with bubble wrap still fully cushioned inside.
Experts Recommend Bubbles Inward
Industry experts overwhelmingly recommend bubble side in placement. It’s the standard professional technique for maximizing bubble wrap’s protection capabilities.
Testing shows inward bubbles keep items most secure by surrounding them in a snug air cushion. Follow best practices and bubbles go inside every time.
For the optimal bubble wrap experience, always place the bubble side flush against items being packaged. The bubbles work harder and smarter on the inside!
Considerations for Special Items
While inward bubbles are usually best, a few special items may warrant bubbles out:
-
Irregularly shaped objects where bubbles easily fold in and cling together. Smooth side out prevents air pocket adhering.
-
Items with hazardous exteriors like exposed screws that could pop bubbles. Bubbles placed outward avoid this.
-
Objects needing an air gap like electronics that shouldn’t directly contact plastic.
-
Items where outer print/logos shouldn’t be obscured by bubble imprints.
For all other packages, apply bubble wrap traditionally with the bubbles hugging contents snugly inside. This time-tested method keeps items super secure in transit!
How to use bubblewrap
Protecting an item in bubble wrap is very simple, you can protect your delicate items in seconds!
Step 1: Find a flat surface with plenty of space, so you can properly wrap your item.
Step 2: Lay out a lot of bubble wrap over your item. The bubbles should be against the item, and we’ll explain why later.
Step 3: Tie it off with your favorite tape. Any tape will do, but we have a lot of different kinds here.
Step 4: Put your item in a box that is the right size and makes sure it can’t move around too much.
Which way round do the bubbles go?
The way you use bubblewrap has an impact on the protection you’re offering your package.
It is important to note that the bubbles always go against the item you’re wrapping. Our top tip to help you remember, is to place the bubblewrap flat side on the surface.
Then put the item on top to wrap it. This will make sure the bubbles face inwards and protect it better!
Cheap bubble wrap is effective way to insulate your windows and save heat without spending all day
FAQ
Do you bubble wrap in or outside?
Should the bubbles be on the inside or outside?
Does bubble wrap go on the inside or outside of a greenhouse?
How do you wrap an item in a bubble wrap box?
To wrap an item in a bubble wrap box, wrap your item on a flat clean surface with bubbles touching it. Lay your bubble wrapped item inside the box on a layer of bubble wrap, with the bubble side facing up. Surround the item generously with extra bubble wrap. Gently close and seal the box for shipping.
Should you use bubble wrap on the right side?
In summary, bubble wrap is a material that can protect your items from shocks, scratches, and damages. However, you must use the right side of the bubble wrap to achieve this goal. With the wrong side facing outwards, there’s a chance for your package to shift around inside the box and be more prone to damage and scratches.
How to make a bubble wrap?
Place the item you want to pack on a flat surface. Measure and prepare your bubble wrap according to the item. Make sure that its size is large enough to cover the item more than once. Layout your bubble wrap having the flat side on the surface and the bubble side upwards. Take your item and place it on the bubble wrap.
Should bubble wraps be facing the outside?
There’s a right and wrong side when using bubble wraps. It’s because in most cases, packaging material should provide air pockets on the top, bottom, and sides of the object or item. This way, nothing can touch or hit them in the course of delivery. Thus, if you’re thinking that bubbles should be facing the outside of the package, you’re wrong.
How do you cover items with bubble wrap?
Place the item in the center of the sheet of bubble wrap. Then, fold the bubble wrap from both sides to cover the item. Use enough bubble wrap. More is better than less when it comes to protection. Make sure your items are completely covered and consider adding another layer or two of wrap around them.
Should you use bubble wrap for packaging?
Using bubble wrap is important for protecting items during shipping. Customers (or family members!) get upset when they wait for packages to arrive, only to realize the items inside are broken. Generously Surround Item with Bubble Wrap (Note: Don’t skimp on using bubble wrap for your products).