You’ve likely heard of Ziploc bags that are used to store food, but did you know that there are specific kinds of bags that are used to protect clothing, collectibles, paper, and other items for long-term storage? We look at the pros and cons of three different types of bags —mylar, plastic, and vacuum— for warehousing your belongings.
What are Mylar Storage Bags?
Mylar bags are made from polyester resin, the same product used in helium balloons and emergency space blankets. Mylar bags are typically used with oxygen absorbers (O2 absorbers) that remove oxygen inside the bag after it is sealed. These foil bags are typically used to store dehydrated meals used on wilderness camping trips.
Pros
Mylar bags block out light and reduce oxygen from affecting the product being stored. Besides dry goods, they are ideal for storing clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories.
Mylar bags are also:
- Durable
- Flexible
- Moisture resistant
- Reusable
- Sealable
- Available in a variety of sizes
- Relatively inexpensive
Cons
Mylar bags are not ideal for fresh food or produce or heavy or sharp items, as they are not:
- Rodent proof
- Indestructible
- Bacteria proof
- Clear
Can Plastic Bags be Used for Storage?
Plastic bags such as garbage bags can be used for storing light items such as clothing or as a cover for furniture and appliances. They do not provide any protection against scratches or damage, so should be accompanied by a blanket or some other type of padding when being placed in a long-term storage rental.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Some moisture protection
- Inexpensive
- Sealable
- Reusable
- Come in both clear and non-clear varieties
Cons
- Easily breakable
- Susceptible to oxygen, light, and extreme temperatures
- Hard to recycle
What Are the Uses for Vacuum-Seal Bags?
Vacuum-seal bags are designed to save space. Air is removed within the bag, which in turn reduces the volume. Popular for storing seasonal clothes and linens, including insulated jackets and sleeping bags, vacuum-seal bags are best when storing items made from cotton, wool, leather, paper, and other natural fibres.
Pros
- Protects against dust and moisture
- Good for packing bulky items such as sweaters
- Prevents bacteria, mould growth
- Clear, so you can see inside the bag
- Bags can be recycled in some cases
Cons
- More expensive
- Requires vacuum sealer to seal the bag
- Items within bags can become discoloured or can fade over time
- Bags are typically not reusable
For more storage tips, read Keep Your Sanity: How Students Can Benefit from Affordable Storage.
Space Centre Storage offers a wide variety of packing materials and moving supplies that are ideal for use in our short, and long-term storage rentals. Visit us for a selection of moving boxes, wardrobe boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, mirror boxes, stretch wrap, mattress bags, packing tape, and more