Bubble Wrap vs Kraft Paper: Which Is Better for Packing and Shipping?

When it comes to packing products for shipping, choosing the right protective material can make a big difference. Bubble wrap and kraft paper are two popular packaging materials in Australia, but they serve different purposes. While bubble wrap provides cushioning for fragile items, kraft paper is a versatile option for wrapping products, filling empty spaces and keeping items secure inside cartons.

So, which one should you choose for your business? The answer depends on what you're shipping, how fragile your products are, how much protection they need and the type of packaging you're using.

In this guide, we'll compare bubble wrap vs kraft paper, explain their advantages and limitations, and help you choose the right packaging material for your shipping, storage and ecommerce needs.

What Is Bubble Wrap?

Bubble wrap is a lightweight plastic packaging material made with small, air-filled pockets that provide cushioning around products. These air bubbles help absorb some of the impact that can occur during handling, transportation and delivery.

Because it is flexible, bubble wrap can be wrapped around products of different shapes and sizes. It is particularly useful when packing fragile items that need extra protection against bumps and knocks.

Benefits of bubble wrap

• Impact cushioning: Air-filled bubbles help absorb shocks during transit.

• Flexible wrapping: Easily wraps around curved, irregular and delicate products.

• Lightweight protection: Adds cushioning without the weight of many alternative protective materials.

• Versatile applications: Suitable for ecommerce orders, glassware, ceramics, electronics accessories and homewares.

• Reusable when intact: Clean bubble wrap can often be reused for future packing jobs.

What are the limitations of bubble wrap?

Although bubble wrap is effective for cushioning, it isn't the ideal solution for every packaging requirement.

• It takes up storage space because of its bulky structure.

• It is made from plastic, so recycling options depend on the material and local facilities.

• It may not prevent products from moving inside an oversized shipping box unless additional void fill is used.

• Delicate surfaces may need a suitable inner wrapping layer to prevent rubbing or marking.

Bubble wrap is generally the better choice when your priority is cushioning a fragile product against impact.

What Is Kraft Paper?

Kraft paper is a strong paper-based packaging material commonly used for wrapping goods, filling empty spaces inside cartons and separating products during storage or shipping.

Its versatility makes it useful for businesses that regularly pack orders. It can be cut or torn to size, wrapped around individual items or crumpled to create cushioning inside a box.

Kraft paper is especially useful when you want to protect surfaces from scratches, keep products separated or prevent items from shifting during transit.

Benefits of kraft paper

• Versatile packaging: Can be used for wrapping, lining and void filling.

• Surface protection: Helps reduce scratches and scuffs caused by products rubbing against one another.

• Customisable: Easy to tear, cut, fold or crumple to suit different products.

• Space-efficient storage: Rolls can be stored neatly at a packing station.

• Paper-based alternative: Clean, uncoated kraft paper is generally recyclable through suitable paper recycling streams.

What are the limitations of kraft paper?

Kraft paper is useful for many packaging tasks, but it doesn't provide the same impact cushioning as bubble wrap when used as a simple flat wrapping layer.

• It may not provide enough cushioning for highly fragile products on its own.

• It can tear if exposed to sharp edges or excessive force.

• It may compress or settle inside a box if it isn't packed appropriately.

• It can become weaker when wet, depending on the paper grade and conditions.

For fragile shipments, kraft paper often works best as part of a wider packaging solution rather than the only protective layer. 

Bubble Wrap vs Kraft Paper: Key Differences

Both materials can help protect products during shipping, but their strengths differ depending on the job.

 

The main difference: bubble wrap is designed to cushion products, while kraft paper is particularly useful for wrapping, separating and filling empty spaces.

Neither material is automatically the best choice for every shipment. Your product's fragility, weight, shape and packaging requirements should guide your decision.

When Should You Use Bubble Wrap?

Choose bubble wrap when your products need a cushioning layer to help protect them from bumps and impacts during handling and transit.

1. Glassware and ceramics

Glasses, mugs, decorative ceramics and similar products can chip or break if they collide with other items or the walls of a carton. Wrapping them individually with suitable cushioning helps reduce direct contact and absorb some impact.

2. Electronics and accessories

Bubble wrap can provide cushioning for many electronic accessories and non-sensitive equipment. For static-sensitive electronics, use appropriate anti-static packaging rather than relying on ordinary bubble wrap alone.

3. Fragile homewares

Decorative ornaments, small lamps, picture frames and other delicate homewares can benefit from a flexible cushioning layer that fits around their shape.

4. Ecommerce orders

Online retailers often ship products of different shapes and sizes. Bubble wrap can be cut to size and wrapped around individual products before they are placed in cartons.

5. Products travelling long distances

When parcels pass through multiple handling stages, cushioning can help protect vulnerable products. However, bubble wrap should be combined with suitable cartons and void fill where needed.

Packing tip: Wrap the product securely, pay attention to corners and protruding parts, and make sure the item cannot move freely inside the outer box.

When Should You Use Kraft Paper?

Kraft paper is a practical option for everyday packing tasks where wrapping, separation and filling empty spaces are the main priorities.

1. Filling empty spaces inside cartons

An item that shifts around inside a box is more vulnerable to damage. Crumpled kraft paper can fill gaps and help hold products in place, provided enough material is used and it is packed firmly.

2. Separating products

When shipping multiple items together, kraft paper can create separation between products and help reduce scratches caused by contact.

3. Wrapping sturdy products

Books, packaged goods, accessories and other relatively robust items may need protection against surface scuffs rather than extensive impact cushioning. Kraft paper can be suitable for these applications.

4. Everyday ecommerce packing

Businesses packing orders throughout the day can use kraft paper for wrapping, lining cartons and filling gaps. It is a versatile material that can serve several purposes at a packing station.

5. Paper-based packaging preferences

Businesses looking to reduce conventional plastic packaging may prefer kraft paper for applications where paper provides sufficient protection. The best choice still depends on the product and the conditions it will encounter during delivery.

Packing tip: Don't simply lay a few flat sheets over an item and assume it is protected. If you are using kraft paper as void fill, crumple it appropriately and check that the contents remain secure.

Can You Use Bubble Wrap and Kraft Paper Together?

Absolutely. In many situations, using bubble wrap and kraft paper together provides a more effective packing solution than relying on either material alone.

Each material serves a different purpose, so combining them lets you address more than one packaging problem.

Here's a simple way to use both materials:

1. Wrap the product: Use bubble wrap around fragile items to provide cushioning.

2. Prepare the carton: Choose a suitably sized, sturdy cardboard box.

3. Position the product: Place the wrapped item inside the carton with sufficient space around it for protective material.

4. Fill the gaps: Add crumpled kraft paper around the item to reduce movement.

5. Check the contents: Gently move the box. If the product shifts significantly, add more suitable void fill.

6. Seal the carton: Close and seal the box securely using suitable packaging tape.

This approach is especially useful for glassware, ceramics, homewares and other fragile ecommerce products.

Remember that extra wrapping alone doesn't guarantee protection. The carton, cushioning, void fill and packing method all contribute to how well a shipment is protected. 

Which Is More Cost-Effective: Bubble Wrap or Kraft Paper?

The most cost-effective material depends on the products you ship and the protection they require.

Kraft paper can be economical for everyday wrapping and void filling, particularly when a business uses large quantities. Bubble wrap may offer better value for fragile products because its cushioning can help reduce the risk of damage.

When comparing costs, consider more than the price of a roll.

• Material usage: How much packaging is needed per order?

• Packing time: How quickly can staff wrap and secure each item?

• Storage space: How much room do the rolls require?

• Product damage: Could insufficient protection lead to replacements, returns or customer complaints?

• Order volume: Would purchasing suitable quantities in bulk make sense for your business?

For example, using kraft paper to fill gaps around a sturdy product may be sufficient. For a delicate ceramic item, bubble wrap may be worth the additional material cost because cushioning is a more important requirement.

The goal isn't to use the cheapest material in every situation. It's to choose the most suitable packaging for the product while avoiding unnecessary waste.

Is Bubble Wrap or Kraft Paper Better for the Environment?

Environmental considerations are increasingly important for Australian businesses choosing packaging supplies. However, the better option depends on the material specifications, how it is used and the disposal facilities available.

Kraft paper is paper-based and is generally recyclable when clean and uncoated. It may be a suitable choice for businesses wanting to use more paper-based packaging.

Bubble wrap is plastic-based and can sometimes be reused several times if it remains in good condition. Recycling options vary by location and facility, so it should not automatically be placed in a standard household recycling bin.

To make a more informed choice:

• Use only as much packaging material as the product requires.

• Reuse clean, undamaged protective materials where practical.

• Separate packaging materials for appropriate recycling streams.

• Check local recycling guidelines before disposing of plastic film or paper.

• Consider paper-based alternatives where they provide sufficient protection.

Most importantly, don't compromise product protection simply to use less material. Preventing damage and unnecessary replacement shipments is also an important part of efficient packaging. 

How to Choose the Right Packaging Material for Your Business

Before deciding between bubble wrap and kraft paper, ask yourself these five questions.

1. How fragile is the product?

Glass, ceramics and delicate products generally require more cushioning than robust items. Bubble wrap is often a better starting point for fragile goods.

2. Does the product need cushioning or simply wrapping?

If you mainly need to separate items or protect surfaces from scratches, kraft paper may be sufficient. If you need impact cushioning, consider bubble wrap or another suitable protective material.

3. Will the product move inside the carton?

If there is empty space around the product, you may need void fill. Crumpled kraft paper is one option, but the amount and packing method matter.

4. How much packaging do you use every day?

High-volume businesses should consider storage, material consumption, packing speed and the practicality of dispensing each material.

5. Can you combine the materials?

For delicate products, combining bubble wrap for cushioning with kraft paper for void filling can help address different risks in the same parcel.

The best packaging solution is one that fits your product, your shipping process and your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is bubble wrap better than kraft paper for shipping fragile items?

Bubble wrap is generally better for direct impact cushioning. Kraft paper can provide additional wrapping and void fill, but it may not offer sufficient impact protection for very fragile products when used alone.

Can kraft paper replace bubble wrap?

Sometimes. Kraft paper may be sufficient for sturdy products, surface protection or filling gaps inside a carton. For fragile products that need impact cushioning, bubble wrap or another suitable cushioning material is often the safer choice.

Is kraft paper good for filling empty spaces in boxes?

Yes. Crumpled kraft paper can help fill voids and reduce product movement. Pack it firmly enough to support the contents, and check that the product cannot shift significantly before sealing the box.

Should I use bubble wrap and kraft paper together?

Yes, when the shipment needs both cushioning and void filling. Bubble wrap can protect the product itself, while kraft paper can help fill the remaining space inside the carton.

Which material takes up less storage space?

Kraft paper rolls are generally easier to store compactly because they can be kept in a relatively narrow roll. Bubble wrap is bulkier because of its air-filled structure.

Can bubble wrap be reused?

Yes, provided it remains clean, intact and suitable for the next item. Reusing undamaged bubble wrap can help reduce packaging waste.

Is kraft paper recyclable?

Clean, uncoated kraft paper is generally recyclable through suitable paper recycling services. Remove tape and check local recycling requirements.

Final Verdict: Bubble Wrap vs Kraft Paper

So, which is better for packing and shipping?

Choose bubble wrap when impact cushioning is your priority. Choose kraft paper when you need versatile wrapping, surface protection or void filling. For fragile shipments, using both together can help provide a more complete packaging solution.

The right choice comes down to what you're shipping and the level of protection it needs. By matching your packaging material to your products, you can help reduce transit damage, improve your packing process and create a better delivery experience for your customers.

Whether you're preparing ecommerce orders, shipping homewares or packing products for storage, having the right protective packaging on hand makes the job easier.