Introduction

Mylar bags are becoming a popular way to protect and store a variety of items. Their metallic, plastic-like material creates an air and moisture barrier that keeps contents safe from the elements. Let’s explore why more people are using Mylar bags and how to select the best ones for your needs.

What are Mylar Bags?

Mylar bags are made from BoPET (biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate), a special polyester film that is extremely strong, flexible, and durable. It also acts as a barrier that protects against oxygen, moisture, and aromas. This makes Mylar superior at extending the freshness of foods, pills, electronic parts, and more during storage or shipping.

Unlike paper or plastic bags, properly sealed Mylar bags prevent air exposure that degrades quality over time. They resist punctures much better as well. The metalized surface blocks light that can damage sensitive contents too.

Benefits of Mylar Bags

There are good reasons Mylar bags have become a go-to solution across many industries:

  • Keeps Items Fresher Longer – Blocking oxygen and moisture prevents premature spoilage.
  • Odor Impermeable – Contents stay protected against absorbing or emitting smells.
  • Puncture Resistant – Durable construction protects against tears or holes from sharp objects.
  • Light Proof – The reflective material blocks UV rays that degrade light-sensitive contents.
  • Reusable – Just empty, clean, and reuse Mylar bags if undamaged. More eco-friendly than single-use bags.

Types of Mylar Bags

Mylar bags come in a variety of styles to meet specific storage and handling needs:

Ziplock Pouches

Resealable zipper closures allow securely containing smaller items while still having easy access. These Mylar pouches work great for storing supplements, electronic parts, jewelry, and more. Their compact size makes them portable too.

 

Stand Up Pouches

These large Mylar bags with reinforced bottoms are made to stand upright on shelves or tables. The wide openings and flat bottoms provide stability for larger quantities of loose items like snacks or craft supplies.

Flat Pouches

Basic Mylar pouches without zippers lay flat for space efficiency. They often have one sealable side and work to protect papers, photos, and flat items from moisture. These low-profile silver bags can slip into binders, cases, or backpacks.

Custom Printing Options

Many Mylar bag manufacturers offer custom printing services today. This allows adding logos, branding, or product information right onto the bags. Printed Mylar bags make giveaways for shows more functional while showing off branding. Or customize pouches to help identify specific contents at a glance on storage shelves.

Quality Considerations

Mylar bag quality varies widely, so check a few indicators of durability when selecting bags:

  • Thickness – At least 3.5 mil bags are reusable while thinner 1-2 mil ones are more single-use.
  • Construction – Reinforced seams last much longer than simple heat-sealed edges.
  • Zippers – Smooth operating resealable zipper seals prevent spillage better than lower-quality ones.

Of course also matches size, shape, and closure style to the intended use. Consider custom printing for an added professional look or branding.

Proper Use and Storage

To get the most benefit from Mylar bags:

  • Ensure bags fit contents snugly without overstuffing
  • Carefully seal according to type – ziplock closure or heat seal
  • Release excess air before complete sealing
  • Avoid direct sunlight exposure or moisture
  • Store upright and avoid stacking heavy objects on pouches

With proper care, quality Mylar bags can protect valuables for years while allowing quick access when needed.

FAQs

Can I put food directly in Mylar bags?

Yes, as long as foods are dry, and properly sealed Mylar bags keep snacks and ingredients fresh for extended periods. For very moist items, first, wrap them in plastic wrap before placing them in a Mylar pouch.

How long do Mylar bags last?

Quality thick Mylar bags can get reused for several years if cared for properly. Avoid punctures, tears, or getting too hot to melt the bag. With reasonable care, expect a multi-year lifespan.

Can I reuse Mylar bags?

One of the best sustainability benefits of Mylar bags is most can get washed out and reused over and over. Just avoid puncture damage, re-seal closure carefully and avoid extreme heat or cold.

Are custom-printed Mylar bags expensive?

Not really, custom printing even in small batches of a few hundred bags costs a little more per piece. Great way to promote brands on useful freebies or enhance visual organization.

Can I vacuum seal items in Mylar bags?

Technically yes, though Mylar material is so impermeable that vacuum sealing generally offers little added benefit for dry goods storage. Save the vacuum sealer for very moist items double-wrapped in plastic inside Mylar pouches.

Conclusion

Mylar bags deliver unbeatable barrier protection for all kinds of storage needs. Their puncture and tear resistance combined with an air and moisture barrier keeps nearly anything you put in them fresher for longer periods. Choose quality Mylar pouches sized and shaped appropriately for specific use cases. Consider custom printing for an added professional touch while keeping valuable or sensitive items protected.