Short answer
Use small bubble for surface protection and wrapping delicate finishes, and large bubble for cushioning heavier items against shock. Anti-static (pink) grades are required for electronics. All bubble wrap we supply is made from 30% recycled content and is recyclable, and honeycomb paper wrap is available where you want a paper only pack.
Which grade
| Grade | Bubble height | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Small bubble | About 3 mm | Scratch protection, wrapping, interleaving |
| Large bubble | About 10 mm | Shock absorption for heavier goods |
| Anti-static | Small or large | Electronic components and assemblies |
| Bubble bags and pouches | Various | Fast pick and pack of small items |
Using it properly
- Bubbles face inward against the product for maximum cushioning.
- Two layers minimum on fragile items, and always cushion the corners first.
- Wrap, then block: bubble stops shock, void fill stops movement. You usually need both.
- Do not wrap unsealed painted or varnished finishes tightly in warm conditions.
Recycled content and recycling
Every grade of bubble wrap we supply is manufactured from 30% recycled content, and the film itself is recyclable. It should go into a film or soft plastics recycling stream rather than the kerbside paper bin, and because it is a single polyethylene material it recycles cleanly once separated from the carton.
- 30% recycled content as standard across small bubble, large bubble and bubble bags.
- Recyclable as polyethylene film, so it counts as recyclable packaging for your reporting.
- Keep it dry and free of tape and labels to keep the recycling stream clean.
The paper alternative
Honeycomb paper wrap expands into a cushioning lattice that grips itself, so it wraps like bubble but recycles with cardboard. For most non-electronic products it is a direct swap if you would rather keep the whole pack in one recycling stream.
Frequently asked questions
- Is bubble wrap recyclable?
- Yes. All bubble wrap we supply is made from 30% recycled content and is recyclable as polyethylene film, so it goes into a film or soft plastics stream rather than the kerbside paper bin. Honeycomb paper wrap is the alternative if you want a paper only pack.
- Which side of bubble wrap faces the product?
- The bubbles face inward, against the product.
- Do you sell anti-static bubble?
- Yes, anti-static grades are available for electronics along with ESD bags.
Think your packaging is bigger than it needs to be?
Send us your product dimensions and we’ll come back with a right-sized option. There is no minimum on stock lines, and bespoke corrugated runs can start from as little as one, but we will advise the most cost efficient run rate depending on size and board grade.
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