Bubble wrap is a popular option for packaging fragile goods. However, the classic bubble wrap is made of plastic, and cannot be recycled. In this post, we’re showing you 5 eco-friendly bubble wrap alternatives.
Read on to learn more!
Biodegradable Packing Peanuts
Before bubble wrap, packing peanuts used to be the most popular protective packaging choice. While you make traditional packing peanuts with foam, that’s not the case for these!
Made of starches like cornstarch and wheat, biodegradable packing peanuts are a greener alternative. They keep the classic packing peanut shape, but aren’t thrown out the same way. Additionally, these packing peanuts dissolve in water! The natural fibres mean that no additional plastic makes its way into water systems or landfills.
Starch Foam
Starch foam follows the same idea as biodegradable packing peanuts! Sold in sheets rather than a peanut shape, they wrap around products, or line boxes for added protection. These foam sheets can also dissolve in water similar to the biodegradable packing peanuts! This is a great option if you’re looking for something that will cover a larger surface area.
Corrugated Bubble Wrap
Made from corrugated paper sheets, corrugated bubble wrap is a recyclable alternative! Corrugated materials are sturdy, lightweight and provide great support in transit. This makes them a popular choice for e-commerce! You can use corrugated bubble wrap multiple ways to get the best level of protection for your product.
This material can stretch, crumple, and roll to fit whatever works best for you! The main drawback of using this plastic bubble wrap alternative is that a small amount of paper dust may transfer to your products.
Flexi-Hex
Similar to corrugated bubble wrap, Flexi-Hex uses a reinforced paper to provide cushioning. However, rather than using corrugated material, Flexi-Hex uses a honeycomb structure! Due to its unique structure, it’s flexible and can accommodate a wide variety of products.
Custom Paper Inserts
Want a customized alternative to bubble wrap? Our custom paper inserts are unique to your business’ needs. These are 100% recyclable, and will keep your products secure in transit. The best part about going custom? The insert can match the rest of your packaging!
Despite being an aesthetic choice, a custom insert can also help enhance your unboxing experience. Using a paper insert allows you to control the way that your products are presented to the end consumer.
Should I Use A Bubble Wrap Alternative?
After all this, you might be wondering: are eco-friendly bubble wrap alternatives the right choice for me? Each of these alternatives offers a different level of security and cushioning. While all the options above protect your packages’ contents, the alternative you choose will depend on your business.
Most recycling programs don’t accept traditional plastic bubble wrap. It then ends up in a landfill, whereas the alternatives above are recyclable or don’t leave any additional waste. We’re always looking into alternative packaging materials in an effort to protect our environment.
Still not sure which is the best for you? We have custom packaging solutions for all kinds of businesses! Contact us today to get connected with one of our knowledgeable Business Development Consultants who can let you know more.
