Bubble Vs Foam Rolls: Which Should You Use For Shipping?
We all want to protect our products during shipment, but are not quite sure on which product to use, often many of us find ourselves selecting either bubble or foam. Both are similar in purpose as they serve as a packaging protective solution, but they differ in application or in use. By understanding the difference between the two, you can better optimize your packaging efficiency and protection.
What Is a Bubble Roll?
Bubble Roll is a plastic sheet consisting of air bubbles that are designed to protect objects by restricting movement and absorbing damage. Bubble roll is available in a variety of sizes, thicknesses, applications, and additives. To apply a bubble roll, lay it out with the bubble side up and cover the product with wrap.
When To Use Bubble Roll
- Fragile items: glass, dishes, lights, mirrors, TVs, artwork, figurines, and other items susceptible to damage.
- Sensitive electronic products: bubble roll can be made with anti=static agents used to protect electronic devices from electrostatic discharge in addition to cosmetic damage.
- Furniture: bulking, odd shaped, or fragile furniture such as table tops, glass doors, coffee tables and other furniture often require plenty of protection against vibration and shocks.
- Sentimental Items: products that are of high value emotionally to consumers are often wrapped in bubble material to ensure the utmost care when shipping products or while placing them in storage. For example, jewelry made with your loved ones’ fingerprints engraved into it.
What You Should Know Before You Buy Bubble Roll
A Bubble roll is not the ideal solution for every packaging application. If you are not careful, then you can limit your packaging potential and accrue more overhead than you anticipated. You should be also mindful of the thickness of the bubble rolls as they can vary in size and strength.
Typically, when a product is wrapped in bubble material it becomes harder to stack that object. In addition, the air bubbles of the wrap take up a lot of free space that can be used to package more items. It can be quite costly to limit the amount of product you can send due to the drawbacks of bubble rolls.
However, there are many applications where bubble rolls are needed. It is very adaptable, versatile and can be used more than once. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle for the manufacturer and end user.
If you are interested in bubble rolls, then contact Brown Packaging today to get supplied.
What Is a Foam Roll?
Foam rolls are made from expanded polyethylene with insulating and cushioning properties, which gives the wrap a dense, lightweight, thin and flexible design. It is manufactured into a roll that contains sheets of foam that can be cut into any size or shape. Like a bubble roll, foam can be designed with anti-static properties and other additives.
When To Use Foam Roll?
- Kitchenware: knives, forks, glass cups, dishes and small, sensitive and fragile kitchen appliances.
- Consumer goods: decorative items made with glass, small mirrors, picture frames, and other items.
- Cosmetics and personal care products: lotions, creams, oils, makeup, and other small and fragile items.
- Other fragile and sensitive items: medical devices, electronics, furniture legs, glass, ceramic, and other items.
What You Should Know Before You Buy Foam Roll
Before you buy foam rolls you should select the right thickness for your product. This may require you to ask the packaging provider what thickness is recommended for your size product, as thickness can vary from one supplier to another.
The benefit of foam rolls is that they are easier to stack and take up minimal space. However, it may be more expensive than using a bubble roll.
Summary: Bubble Vs Foam Rolls
Selecting between bubble and foam can be a difficult choice. They both have their uses and drawbacks. Ultimately, you want to package bulker, heavier, and extremely fragile products with bubble rolls. Foam can also be used for sensitive and fragile products, but can cost you more.
You can offset these costs and be more efficient if you plan on stacking items on top or fitting a larger quantity within a shipment. However, be mindful of how you package and ship your products as they may become damaged.
It may be best to seek the help of a packaging professional. If interested in bubble, foam, or cushioning packaging, then contact Brown Packaging today.
Evolving Demands, Smarter Decisions As 2026 approaches, packaging decision-makers across sectors—from retail and ecommerce to industrial and medical—face a landscape shaped less by buzzwords and
Why Board Grade Selection Matters In today’s volatile supply chain environment, packaging failures aren’t just a nuisance—they’re a liability. Damage in transit, product returns, and
Why Holiday Fulfillment Demands Precision The holiday season introduces a unique set of pressures across the packaging and supply chain landscape—especially for businesses managing kitting,
Why Custom Corrugated Boxes Remain a 2026 Essential Custom corrugated boxes continue to be the most relied-on packaging solution for industries ranging from industrial manufacturing
Why Co-Packaging Becomes Critical During the Holidays As the holiday season approaches, packaging teams are under pressure to deliver high volumes of promotional sets, combo
Holiday demand starts long before December. So should your packaging. For B2B and D2C brands alike, Q4 is the most critical—and most chaotic—shipping window of
By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy.
Packaging design is a crucial aspect of any product’s marketing strategy. It serves as a visual ambassador for your brand and plays a pivotal role
The world of packaging design is rich with innovative solutions that cater to various product needs. Among these, Roll End Tuck Tops (RETT), Cherry Locks,
Corrugated boxes are an essential part of the shipping and storage process for businesses worldwide. They are made of corrugated paperboard, which comprises three layers:
