Bubble Wrap: Protect Your Furniture When Moving

Got a big move coming up? The one thing that can ruin a brand‑new sofa or a cherished table is careless packing. Bubble wrap is cheap, easy to use and does a solid job of cushioning delicate pieces. Below you’ll find the basics of why bubble wrap works, how to wrap different furniture items and a few tricks to keep waste down.

Why Use Bubble Wrap?

Bubble wrap is made of tiny air‑filled pockets that absorb shocks. Those pockets spread out any impact, so a bump on a packed chair won’t turn into a crack. It also acts as a barrier against scratches, dust and moisture. For furniture made of wood, glass or fabric, that extra layer can be the difference between a flawless arrival and an expensive repair.

Step‑by‑Step Packing Guide

1. Gather the right size. Choose a roll that matches the dimensions of the piece you’re wrapping. Too thin and it won’t cushion; too thick and it becomes bulky and hard to handle.

2. Prep the furniture. Remove cushions, loose drawers and any detachable parts. Wrap them separately – it keeps everything organized and prevents items from shifting inside the box.

3. Cover the surface. Lay a sheet of bubble wrap on a flat surface, place the furniture on top and pull the wrap tightly over it. Overlap edges by at least two inches to avoid gaps.

4. Secure with tape. Use a few strips of packing tape to hold the wrap in place. Don’t tape directly to the furniture; tape the layers of bubble wrap together so you can remove it cleanly later.

5. Add extra protection. For glass table tops, sandwich the surface between two layers of bubble wrap and then wrap the legs. For sofas, focus extra layers on the arms and corners where stress points are highest.

6. Pack into boxes or crates. Once wrapped, slide the piece into a sturdy moving box or a wooden crate. Fill any empty space with crumpled paper or packing peanuts to stop movement.

These steps work for most household items, but there are a few special cases worth noting.

Special Cases: Mirrors and picture frames need a double layer of bubble wrap plus cardboard backing for rigidity. Antique wooden chairs benefit from a thin layer of tissue paper under the bubble wrap to prevent static cling.

Eco‑friendly alternatives. If you’re worried about plastic waste, consider reusable moving blankets, recycled paper or corrugated inserts. Many rental moving companies now offer biodegradable bubble wrap made from plant‑based materials – they perform almost the same as traditional wrap but break down faster in landfill.

Finally, don’t forget to label each wrapped item with its room and a short description. That saves time when you’re unloading and helps movers place boxes in the right spot.

By following these simple tips, you’ll keep your furniture safe, look professional during the move and maybe even cut down on waste. Bubble wrap isn’t just for shipping boxes; it’s a versatile tool for any home relocation.