How to Recycle Bubble Envelopes

The bubble wrap inside envelopes can offer uses for homes, vehicles and crafts.

Recycling or reusing bubble envelopes helps keep this shipping product out of the landfill. If the outer paper envelope can separate from the inside plastic bubble wrap, the outer material can be recycled as a paper product, while the bubble wrap can be put to a variety of uses.

Things You'll Need

• Bubble envelopes
• Scissors or mat knife
• Fabric
• Thread

Instructions

Protection

1. Cut bubble wrap into pieces to wrap around utensils or tools. This added buffer may protect small children from hurting themselves when they explore cupboards and storage areas.

2. Line the refrigerator's crisper drawers with bubble wrap to reduce bruising or squashing of produce. Fill spaces in the freezer compartment for an insulating effect. Warm air will less likely circulate.

3. Attach bubble wrap to the back of picture frames. The wrap's thickness adds space between the wall and the back of the frame to reduce scratches on the wall surface.

4. Cover a vehicle's windshield at night with the bubble wrap for a barrier to frost. Removing the wrap should reduce the time needed for scraping in the morning.

5. Cut the bubble wrap to fit the interior compartments of a camera bag. The light bulkiness will keep lenses and accessories snug. Bunch the wrap to fill the voids.

Gardening

1. Wrap the bubble layers around outdoor plants like a shade cloth. The trapped air can provide some insulation.

2. Set the bubble layer into the ground to reduce or kill weeds. The bubble wrap can act like an inorganic mulch to prevent weeds from reaching the surface. Perforate the bubble wrap to allow some water to penetrate.

3. Cut the bubble wrap into a square or rectangle cushion to act as a lightweight kneeling pad. Cover the cushion with a durable and inexpensive fabric.

Stuffing

1. Stuff the bubble wrap into garments to keep their shape while hanging on a hanger.

2. Layer a small sheet of wrap between stacked china plates to prevent marring.

3. Add bubble layers as filler for gift bags instead of tissue paper. The recipient of your gift can then follow your example for the next round of gift giving.

Tips & Warnings

• With a little imagination, bubble wrap can become a three-dimensional art supply.

• This plastic product can pose a choking or suffocation hazard.

• Keep bubble wrap away from small children and animals.

References

• Planet Green: 9 Reuses for Bubble Wrap