I Ditched Bubble Wrap Completely When I Discovered This $8 Packing Solution

PublishedJun 15, 2022 1:24 AM EDT

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

Domino Shopping: Worth-It Deals, Editor Picks, and Gift Guides

Join us for a weekly shopping trip right in your inbox.

By signing up, you confirm you are 16+, will receive newsletters and promotional content and agree to ourTerms of Useand acknowledge the data practices in ourPrivacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.

You guys, as a prop stylist and market editor for 15 years, I’ve spent literal hundreds of hours packing and unpacking—carefully cocooning everything from one-of-a-kind vintage glassware to Martha Stewart’s own Christmas ornaments. Years ago, I spotted this expandable paper material being used to package big ceramic pieces and started hoarding it, because honestly it was the best non-plastic packing material I’d ever found. Back then, I could only score the 1,000-foot commercial rolls of the honeycomb-like paper, so you can imagine my excitement when I discovered Scotch started making my coveted Cushion Lock Protective Wrap in a handheld, 30-foot size. I’m obsessed.

Let me tell you why I love it: First, because it’s perforated, you can tear off a piece without reaching for scissors. Then, once you’ve got your desired length, just give it a good stretch and, in accordion-like fashion, it instantly expands 1.5 times its flat size (it’s that 3D effect that creates such a cozy protective layer around your fragiles). After “activating” the cushion comes the lock: wrap your item a few times, tear the paper, then tuck it into itself. The texture acts almost like little barbs, so the paper catches on itself and stays put with a single fold—meaning no more one-handed, tape-tearing maneuvers while holding your wrap in place. Chef’s kiss.

But what honestly brings me the most joy? This packaging is 100 percent recyclable and has completely eliminated my need for Bubble Wrap. Not only that, it’s amazing to upcycle—I use it to fill empty space in my parcels, and I’ve been known to fashion it into a no-frills gift basket foundation too. It’s the easiest, earth-friendliest way to make sure my breakables arrive at their final destination—and in one piece. Run, don’t walk, you guys.

Naomi deMañana is a freelance stylist and editor who has worked in the publishing industry for the past 15 years.

Belle is the in-house photographer and associate photo editor for Domino, capturing everything from home tours to gift guides, plus the occasional how-to project. She joined the photo team as an intern in 2018 and was brought on full time in January 2021.

Learn more about Domino.comEditorial Standards