The Unexpected Origins of Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap, that ubiquitous packing material beloved for its stress-relieving popping capabilities, has a surprising origin story. It wasn’t initially designed to protect fragile items during shipping. Instead, it was envisioned as textured wallpaper.
From Wallpaper to Packaging Marvel
In 1957, engineers Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes were experimenting in a garage in Hawthorne, New Jersey, trying to create a new type of wall covering. They aimed to produce a three-dimensional textured wallpaper that would appeal to the aesthetic tastes of the time. Their invention involved sealing two shower curtains together in a way that captured air bubbles. While the result was visually interesting, it failed to gain traction in the interior design market. The textured wallpaper idea simply didn’t resonate with consumers.
A Fortuitous Shift
Despite the initial failure, Fielding and Chavannes didn’t abandon their invention. They recognized the material’s unique properties, particularly its ability to cushion and protect. Around the same time, IBM announced its new 1401 computer, which needed to be shipped safely. Seeing an opportunity, Fielding and Chavannes pivoted, rebranding their bubble-filled material as protective packaging. In 1960, they founded Sealed Air Corporation, and bubble wrap’s new life began.
How Bubble Wrap Works
The secret to bubble wrap’s effectiveness lies in the air trapped within the bubbles. When an object wrapped in bubble wrap is subjected to impact, the air bubbles compress, absorbing the shock and preventing it from reaching the object itself. This cushioning effect is far superior to that of simple paper or cardboard, especially for delicate or irregularly shaped items.
Fun Facts and Myths
- Bubble wrap was initially trademarked as