Can Bubble Wrap Be Exposed to Sunlight? Why Does It Deteriorate Faster in the Sun?
Bubble wrap is a packaging material commonly purchased and stored in bulk by online sellers, warehouses, factories, and businesses that pack products every day. However, how bubble wrap is stored can directly affect its condition and performance over time.
One common question is: Can bubble wrap be exposed to sunlight?
The short answer is: brief exposure during transportation or handling is generally not a concern, but bubble wrap should not be stored under direct sunlight or in high-temperature areas for long periods.
Prolonged exposure to heat and UV radiation can accelerate the deterioration of plastic.
Why Shouldn’t Bubble Wrap Be Stored in Direct Sunlight?
Bubble wrap is generally made from polyethylene materials such as LDPE, which provide flexibility, toughness, and the ability to form air-filled bubbles for cushioning.
However, prolonged exposure to sunlight, heat, and UV radiation can accelerate the degradation of the plastic.
Over time, this may cause:
- The film to become more brittle
- Reduced flexibility
- Easier tearing
- Air bubbles to lose their shape or retain air less effectively
- Changes in the appearance or color of the plastic
For this reason, bubble wrap should not be stored outdoors under direct sunlight for extended periods.
Heat and UV Radiation Are Not the Same Thing
It is easy to assume that heat is the only concern, but sunlight affects plastic in more than one way.
High temperatures can affect the physical properties of the film, while UV radiation can accelerate polymer degradation over time.
Therefore, bubble wrap does not need to visibly melt or deform for sunlight to affect its long-term condition.
Can Bubble Wrap Be Stored Near a Window?
A window that receives several hours of direct sunlight every day is not an ideal location for long-term storage.
Areas near windows can also accumulate heat, especially in enclosed spaces.
If bubble wrap must be stored near a window, keep the rolls away from direct sunlight or use appropriate shading.
Can Bubble Wrap Be Stored Inside a Vehicle?
Leaving bubble wrap inside a vehicle parked under direct sunlight for extended periods is also not recommended.
The temperature inside a parked vehicle can become significantly higher than the outside temperature.
Transporting bubble wrap in a vehicle for a normal delivery is generally fine, but a vehicle exposed to the sun should not be used as long-term storage.
How to Store Bubble Wrap Properly
Bubble wrap does not require complicated storage conditions.
For most businesses, a simple rule works well:
Store bubble wrap in a cool, dry, shaded and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
It is also recommended to avoid placing heavy objects on top of bubble wrap rolls. Continuous pressure may deform or flatten the air bubbles and reduce their cushioning performance.
Businesses that purchase bubble wrap in large quantities can also use the FIFO (First In, First Out) inventory method, using older stock before newer stock.
Does Bubble Wrap Need to Be Discarded After Sun Exposure?
Not necessarily.
Short-term exposure to sunlight during loading, unloading, or transportation does not mean the bubble wrap is immediately damaged.
Before use, check:
- Film flexibility
- Air retention in the bubbles
- Brittleness
- Ease of tearing
- Overall condition of the material
If the film has become noticeably brittle, tears easily, or many bubbles have collapsed, it may no longer provide the same level of cushioning protection.
Conclusion
Bubble wrap can tolerate brief exposure to sunlight during normal transportation and handling. However, long-term storage under direct sunlight should be avoided.
Keeping bubble wrap in a shaded, dry and well-ventilated storage area away from excessive heat and UV exposure can help maintain its flexibility, air retention, and cushioning performance for longer.
For online sellers, warehouses, factories, and businesses that keep multiple rolls in stock, proper storage is a simple way to reduce unnecessary packaging waste and maintain consistent packing quality.
FAQ
Does sunlight damage bubble wrap immediately?
No. Brief exposure normally does not cause immediate deterioration. The concern is prolonged or repeated exposure to sunlight, heat, and UV radiation.
Can bubble wrap be stored in a hot warehouse?
It can be stored in a warehouse, but a shaded and well-ventilated area is preferable. Avoid locations exposed to direct sunlight or excessive heat.
Should bubble wrap rolls be covered during storage?
Covering them can help protect against dust and direct light, but avoid creating conditions where excessive heat becomes trapped.
Can heavy items be stacked on bubble wrap rolls?
It is not recommended. Continuous pressure can deform or flatten the bubbles and reduce their cushioning performance.