What Are the Best Materials to Use for Packing Fragile Items?

The best materials and packing supplies for fragile items are bubble cushion, cardboard, furniture pads or padded inserts, packing paper, and packaging peanuts. What you use to pack fragile items for moving and storage may depend on the type of breakables.

Bubble Wrap

Bubble wrap, also known as bubble cushion, is a common protective layer, making it a perfect packing material for glassware and other fragile items. Use bubble cushion to wrap wine glasses, trinkets, and other fragile objects before packing and storing breakables.

Cardboard

Small cardboard moving boxes are ideal for packing glassware and ceramics, such as plates, vases, and china cups. If you need to pack fragile electronics like TVs, consider using the original packaging if they're still available. For delicate, oddly shaped items, wrapping cardboard around your items is an alternative if you don't have boxes.

Furniture Pads or Padded Inserts

Both furniture pads and padded inserts are ideal for oversized, fragile items—including furniture and larger glassware. They can provide extra protection to the objects and surroundings as you move fragile items.

Packing Paper

Packing paper is an affordable material for packing fragile items. It can be used to fill up empty spaces in boxes and add a layer of protection between dinnerware and belongings.

Packaging Peanuts

If you're worried about damage or shifting as you transport your fragile items in moving boxes, consider using packaging peanuts. They can fill empty spaces so your items don't move around, providing an extra layer of security.