How to Use Shrink Wrap

Shrink wrap is a special plastic that when heat treated will shrink and mold to shape and hold things together securely. Once used almost exclusively for industrial applications, it has now found its way into the home where it can be used for many applications.

Things You'll Need

• Shrink wrap
• Blow dryer

Instructions

1. Purchase shrink wrap at your local hardware store. Shrink wrap comes in various sized sheets, rolls and tubes.

2. Use the tubes to protect wire connections. Slip the tube over one end of the wire and once twisted together, slide the tube over the connection. Use a hot air blow drier to shrink the wrap to a tight fit. Larger tubes can also be used as a temporary fix for broken handles made of wood or PVC plastic.

3. Use the roll type shrink wrap to bundle boxes or other containers together. Wrap the shrink wrap several times around the boxes and several times over the top and bottom. Use the hair dryer to shrink the wrap. This has the added benefit of keeping the boxes dry and is a perfect way to store out of season clothing or holiday decorations.

4. Cut the sheets if necessary to fit the items you wish to store together. Items that can benefit are things like silverware, jewelry and other items subject to tarnish. Shrink the wrap with the blow drier until they are airtight.

5. Use the roll or sheet shrink wrap to pack breakable items for shipping. By securing them in place, the box can be filled with packing peanuts, bubble wrap or paper to make sure your item arrives at its destination safely.

Tips & Warnings

• Carefully use the tip of a sharp knife to remove shrink wrap from items. Once you have a slit that you grip, the rest of the shrink wrap can usually be torn away.

• As with all plastic bagging, keep shrink wrap away from small children as it can pose a suffocation hazard.