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If you are a Gordon Ramsay fan and enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, you will understand the importance of keeping the best plastic wrap roll within reach at all times. Plastic wraps are unsung culinary heroes, and it’s time to offer the recognition they deserve. They can keep the food fresh, even if you save your breakfast burrito for lunch or wrap fresh food to preserve it in the refrigerator.
Plastic wraps can also protect furniture during a house move, keep drinks from spilling while traveling, keep a bouquet fresher for longer, and create a stunning look while painting your walls. Take a look at some reliable and quality plastic wraps and go through the buying guide to pick a suitable one.
Top Picks
11 Best Plastic Wraps To Buy
1. Best Versatile:Glad Cling Wrap
Image: Glad Keep your bananas or your fruit salad healthy by wrapping them with this tried and trusted plastic food wrap that keeps the air out and seals freshness like no other. The freshness protection wrap works well on all surfaces, including glass and metal, and prevents foul odors from seeping out. Check out this video for more information about the wrap that can be used for a wide range of purposes.
Pros
- Built-in wrap cutter
- Suitable for steaming
- Can withstand microwave heating
- Free of BPA and plasticizers
Cons
- Cannot adhere if the area is not dry
- May have to press forcefully to stick
Did you know?2. Best Industrial Strength:International Plastics Co. Gauge Stretch Film Performance Roll
Image: International Plastics If you’re moving houses or running a shipping company, you can never have enough plastic wrap film, can you? This quality industrial strength plastic wrap is durable and can last you a long time as each roll comes with 1200 feet of plastic film. The more you stretch this 18-inch gauge hybrid wrap, the more the adhesive is activated, thus ensuring proper food sealing.
Pros
- Sticks to itself after sealing
- Provides 500% stretchability
- Easy to unwrap
- Clear film
Cons
- May seem thin
- May need to be wrapped twice for optimal utility
"As per my experience, this stretch wrap is durable and versatile enough for storing and moving different items. It effectively protected my goods from damage on a long trip. I'd be considering this again."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Do not miss out on this product that has earned 13,727 positive reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Ergonomic Handle:Duck Stretch Wrap With Handle
Moving into your new home? We’ve got just the thing for you! Wrapping all the furniture and boxes and boxes of personal belongings and everyday items can be quite time-consuming, but not if you have this handy stretch wrap by your side. It is 20 inches wide and 1000 feet long. This tried-and-tested 70-gauge shrink wrap is non-adhesive yet sticks to itself and not onto the objects.
Pros
- Tears off quickly
- Ergonomic handle for easy use
- Helps protect from moisture and rough handling
- Durable and tear-resistant
Cons
- May not be as stretchable
- Some may find it a bit thin
"I use this wrap for several items, from furniture to fragile objects, and I would say it is a reliable option. It adheres well to both the items and itself. However, you will need an extra pair of hands to wrap it around the items."
4. Best Premium Grade:Simply Cool Stretch Plastic Wrap
The premium-grade thick and durable shrink film roll will not disappoint you. The 80-gauge durable and industrial strength shrink film is a reliable option for holding heavy items and protecting your belongings and other shipment packages in turbulent conditions. The film clings to objects from the inside and also attaches to itself. You can also find this shrink wrap in black.
Pros
- Surface is glossy and slippery
- Prevents dust and dirt from sticking
- Protects from scratches and scuffs
- Offers one-person maneuverability
Cons
- Tube may be bulky
- Doesn’t come with a handle
"I love this plastic wrap as it is durable enough to transform my household items and protect my outdoor furniture. It mostly adheres well, but sometimes over-stretching can lead to tears. Moreover, it needs additional help while wrapping them around items. Overall, a decent option."
5. Best With Slide Cutter:Kirkland Signature Stretch Tite Plastic Food Wrap
Cover bowls of leftover food and reuse it for the next day with this food storage wrap that seals freshness and keeps fruit flies at bay. With 750 sq.ft of plastic wrap, you can protect food and vegetables for months, and it will still not run out. This kitchen wrap measures 2.9 x 12 inches.
Pros
- Odor-free
- Wrap with slide cutter for easy tearing
- Stretches well
- Suitable for large items
Cons
- Some may find it slightly thin
- Edges may fold by on its own
"I found this plastic wrap to be a reliable kitchen tool with commendable stretch and cling. The slide cutter made it easy to use, and it was easy to seal even on tricky items such as cut melons. Overall, it's a practical choice for preserving the food."
Quick tip6. Best BPA-Free:Chic Wrap Wrap Dispenser With Plastic Wrap
Image: Chicwrap Here’s a professional-grade and dishwasher-safe plastic wrap that is highly user-friendly. A predominantly green-colored dispenser featuring colorful fruits and vegetables, it comes with a slide cutter that makes it a welcome addition to any busy kitchen. The food wrap dispenser is equipped with rubber feet for stability.
Pros
- Food-grade and BPA-free wrap
- Available in various patterns
- Measures 250 feet
- Durable construction
- Wipe-clean surface
Cons
- Cutter may fall off
- Wrap may have to be placed strategically for a clean cut
"This wrap system has simplified food covering. It comes with a cutter and dispenser that facilitate smooth usage, and the elegant design makes it a good gift option."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 2,930 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.
7. Best Heavy-Duty:Sam Wrap Plastic Wrap Rolls
If you find it clumsy or uncomfortable to work with large plastic wraps, this quality product will suit you best. To make things easier for you, the lower part of the stick is exposed so that you can use it as an ergonomic self-dispensing handle. This heavy-duty kitchen plastic wrap has a 80-gauge thickness and clings to itself to make packing and shipping an uncomplicated process.
Pros
- Glossy surface
- Made with superior cling technology
- Prevents dust and dirt from sticking
- Five inches wide
- Suitable for odd shapes and sharp edges
Cons
- Some may find it flimsy
- Handle may spin out of hand at times
"This shrink wrap is a versatile and reliable option for safeguarding large household items when moving them. The handle needs regular hand adjustments, but the wrap's ability to cling and protect the goods makes it a practical choice."
8. Best Stretchable:Stretch-Tite Plastic Food Wrap
Have you lost the lid of one of your favorite jars? Don’t worry; this plastic food storage film can save the day and provide an airtight seal. If you need a food covering solution to keep food inside the refrigerator for a short period or a long time, a plastic wrap such as this one is all you need. An efficient, reliable, and safe choice for storing food items, this 500 sq. ft cling wrap is stretchable and BPA-free. Top chefs from around the world also recommend it.
Pros
- Phthalate-free
- Includes a slide cutter and a serrated edge
- Quick and easy dispensing
- Thick for durability
Cons
- May be difficult to store in a standard kitchen drawer
- May be challenging to unroll
"These wraps help seal or freeze food. I appreciate its slide cutter, which offered me a smooth experience. It has gradually become an irreplaceable product in my kitchen. Altogether, it is versatile, efficient, and worth buying."
9. Best Lightweight:Modern Innovations Stretch Film Plastic Wrap
Image: Modern-innovations Here’s a cost-effective yet simple kitchen protection solution to keep things safe and protected. This 60-gauge heavy-duty wrap secures large objects and protects them from harsh weather conditions. It is a lightweight film that doesn’t leave residues behind and keeps dust at bay. You can also use it as a food plastic wrap to preserve food items.
Pros
- Transparent
- User-friendly
- 100% recyclable
- Two-sided cling
- Includes two attachable handles for easier packaging
Cons
- May be a bit bulky
- May not be suitable for one-handed use
"I found this wrap quite helpful when moving my furniture as it shields furniture and clings well. Initiating the roll can be tricky, at times, and the handles can improve, but it's worth buying for its performance and effectiveness."
10. Best Microwave Friendly:Saran Premium Wrap
Whether you want to set aside some chicken in the freezer or reheat yesterday’s mushroom soup, this premium Saran Wrap will get the job done and become your new favorite plastic wrap instantly. It’s a safe and reliable option for use in both the freezer and microwave and acts as a strong barrier that traps moisture in while containing foul odors inside. This wrap is 100 sq.ft and the package features an easy-tear cutting edge.
Pros
- Helps block out air
- Withstands high temperature
- Easy to use
- Freezer-safe
- Clings quickly
Cons
- May be thinner than expected
- May be difficult to unroll
"I have been using this wrap to keep food fresh. It offers a tight seal and blocks odor. Finding the edges of the wrap is no less than an adventure though."
11. Best Tear-Resistant:Jack&Sunny Mini Stretch Wrap Film
The transparent, lightweight, heavy-duty, and shrinkable film stretch is one of the best plastic household films you can use for wrapping delivery boxes, furniture, or other such items to protect them from unpredictable weather conditions. This heavy-duty and durable stretch wrap is tear-resistant, waterproof, and dustproof.
Pros
- Small size for easy usage
- Does not leave marks or residue
- Clings to itself easily
- Improved elasticity
Cons
- May not be suitable for fragile items
- May be thinner than expected
"I like this sturdy stretch wrap for its ease of use and adhesive quality. It kept my belongings secure and undamaged. I recommend it!"
How To Choose The Right Plastic Wraps?
The following pointers will help you pick the right plastic wraps.
1. Cutting-ease: Most food-grade plastic wraps come in a rectangular box that has an integrated plastic wrap cutter. Wraps used for other purposes like wrapping shipment and furniture are designed to tear easily without knives or scissors. Look for food plastic wraps that are easy to cut, as they offer convenience.
2. Food-grade: You can use food-safe wraps to cover objects such as sofas or delivery boxes, but you should not use industrial-strength plastic wraps meant for commercial purposes to store your food. If you are going to use the plastic wrap in your freezer or microwave, ensure that it is 100% food-grade, BPA, polyethylene, and phthalate-free.
3. Width: Domestic wraps or food-grade plastic wraps are typically 12 inches. This size should more than suffice if you want to cover small and medium bowls, but you will require a larger wrap if you’re going to cover something like a cookie sheet or a large baking tray. Commercial plastic wraps are generally 18-inches high and are ideal for wrapping large items and boxes. However, you can also find smaller wraps with handles that make the process of wrapping quick and easy.
4. Stretchability: A good way to determine if a plastic wrap is a decent wrap is by checking its stretchability. With most plastic wraps, the more you stretch it, the more the adhesive is activated, making it easy to stick on to itself. Some plastic wraps offer as much as 500% stretchability too.
Melissa Hawkins, a home improvement expert and interior designer with over twenty years of experience, says, “Wraps are made of different kinds of plastic and have varying strengths and heating temperatures. Always check for product safety ratings and certifications to ensure your chosen wrap is safe for the purpose for which you intend to use it.”
Different Uses Of Plastic Wraps
- It keeps fruits and vegetables fresh.
- It can be used as a lid for a bowl to store food in the refrigerator.
- It can also be used as a lid to heat food in the microwave oven.
- It can be used to cover baking trays and cookie sheets.
- It keeps a bouquet fresh.
- You can use it as a lid for your liquid to prevent it from spilling.
- Keep your refrigerator shelves clean.
- You can wrap boxes and furniture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is plastic wrap toxic?
Plastic wraps that contain bio-films, phthalates, BPA, or PVC can be toxic. A food-grade or low-density polyethylene-based plastic wrap may be comparatively better (1). As a thumb rule, the wrap should never touch the food while microwaving.
2. Is plastic wrap biodegradable?
Most plastic wraps may not be biodegradable. Few could be recyclable, but the recycling process demands a lot of cost and resources (2).
3. Can I cook in plastic wrap?
Plastic can break down and release chemicals when exposed to heat. Hence, irrespective of the temperature, it may not be advisable to cook with food wrapped in plastic wraps (3). However, if you can’t avoid using it while microwaving, make sure that the wrap doesn’t touch the food directly.
4. Is plastic wrap transparent?
The transparency levels of plastic wraps may vary from one brand to another. While most happen to be on the transparent side, few could be a tad bit translucent.
5. Is it safe to cover hot food with plastic wrap?
It is best to let the food cool down to at least room temperature before covering it with food plastic wrasps.
6. Can plastic wrap go in the oven?
It is best to avoid using plastic wrap in convection ovens and on stovetops due to health concerns.
7. Is plastic wrap airtight?
If wrapped properly without any gaps or holes, most plastic wraps can protect the food from the air and keep it fresh to a large extent.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso Chirhah is an experienced writer and reviewer of household and kitchen products. His keen knowledge and in-depth research enable him to deliver well-researched articles that fulfill his readers’ requirements. Keeping your convenience and quality needs in mind, he has compiled this list of the best plastic wraps with the most reliable customer reviews and feedback to help you keep food fresh. You will find detailed specifications of each product along with a buying guide consisting of various essential factors to consider before making a choice.
The Bottom Line
Whether you want to safely seal food items in containers to keep them fresh or remove stubborn stickers and fix drafty windows, a cling wrap can be handy. Plastic wraps come in large rolls and are designed for industrial and everyday use. Thus, you can choose one best suited to your needs. For packing purposes, we recommend the heavy-duty International Plastics Co. 60-Gauge Stretch Film with 500% stretchability. If you need it for covering and storing food, ensure the material is 100% food-grade and free of BPA and phthalates, such as the FDA-approved ChicWrap Plastic Wrap. Additionally, verify it’s easy to cut, like the Stretch-Tite Plastic Food Wrap with its dispenser featuring a serrated edge and a slider cutter. Also, check that the wrap is sufficiently large to cover your intended product.
Infographic: Creative Uses Of Plastic Wraps In Kitchen
Aluminum foils are versatile and serve various kitchen purposes. However, not many people are aware of the great uses of plastic wraps in kitchens and homes. Check out this infographic and learn how you can creatively use plastic wraps in your kitchen. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Packaging – Plastic Wrap
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/packaging-plastic-wrap - The Sticky Problem Of Plastic Wrap:
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/story-of-plastic-sticky-problem-of-plastic-wrap - Plastic Wrap and Plastic Food Containers: Are They Safe?
https://www.center4research.org/plastic-wrap-plastic-food-containers-safe/
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