1. Introduction
1.1 What is a vacuum storage bag?
To put it simply, a vacuum storage bag is a sealed storage tool that can greatly compress the volume of the items inside the bag by extracting the internal air. Its core principle is simple: it uses sealing technology to isolate the air, and then exhausts the air through the extraction device, reducing the gaps between items and thus reducing the volume. Just like we usually knead our down jackets into a ball and stuff them into small bags, but vacuum storage bags can be done more thoroughly and lasting longer.
1.2 Uses and advantages of vacuum storage bags
Its uses are so wide! Down jackets, quilts, sweaters, and even thick curtains and idle pillows in the changing seasons can be stored by it. As a person who has been purchasing for 5 years, I have seen many families use it and save half of the wardrobe space. The advantages are also outstanding: first of all, it saves space, the data shows that high-quality vacuum storage bags can compress the volume of clothes to the original 1/3-1/5; secondly, it is moisture-proof and insect-proof, and the sealed environment can isolate moisture and insects. It is also dustproof, especially suitable for storing items that have not been used for a long time.
1.3 Purpose of this article: How to maximize space use
Many people use vacuum storage bags, but they feel that they don’t save much space, which is actually the wrong method. This article will teach you step by step how to use vacuum storage bags to maximize space saving, whether it is a small wardrobe or a storage room, it can help you “squeeze” out more space.
2. Choose the right vacuum storage bag
2.1 Material and quality considerations
Bag selection first looks at the material, which directly affects the sealing effect and durability. High-quality vacuum storage bags are usually made of PA+PE composite film, PA (nylon) is responsible for enhancing toughness, and PE (polyethylene) is responsible for sealing. When I purchased, I found that bags with a thickness of 0.12mm or more are more durable and less likely to be pierced by sharp objects. Here is a reminder to avoid pure PE bags, although cheap, but easy to break, and the sealing effect is poor, and it leaks quickly after pumping. In addition, be sure to check the sealing strip at the seal, it is best to choose a double-layer sealing strip, you can hear a “click” sound when pressing, and the seal is tighter.
2.2 Selection of size and capacity
If you don’t choose the right size, no matter how easy the bag is, it will waste space. We have compiled a size selection guide for different items:
Bag size: | Items suitable for storage | Recommended capacity |
|---|---|---|
Small (40*60cm) | sweaters, light coats, scarves | Holds 2-3 thick sweaters |
Medium (60*80cm) | Quilts, down jackets, shirts | It can hold 1 duvet or 2 down jackets |
Large (80*100cm) | Thick quilts, blankets, curtains | It can fit 1 double comforter |
Extra Large (100*130cm) | Double winter quilt, large blanket | It can fit 1 thickened double winter quilt |
Here is an experience: try to “prefer small rather than big” when storing, such as a single thin quilt, just use a medium size, don’t use a large size, otherwise the empty part of the bag will waste space.
2.3 Comparison of different types of vacuum storage bags
At present, there are three main types of vacuum storage bags on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages, you can choose according to your needs:
- Hand pump model: comes with a manual suction pump, no need to plug in, suitable for renting parties or business trips. The disadvantage is that pumping is laborious, suitable for small bags, and it takes a long time to pump for large bags. I have recommended this to tenants before, and it is very convenient to use for short-distance travel.
- Electric pump model: It needs to be equipped with an electric suction pump, which is fast and labor-saving, and is suitable for a large amount of storage. The downside is that it requires a power supply and the pump takes up a little space. It is suitable for friends with a large storage capacity at home, I use this kind of at home, and it only takes 2 minutes to smoke a thick quilt.
- Self-sealing model: no pump, by squeezing to exhaust the air, suitable for storing a small amount of thin and light items. The disadvantage is that the sealing effect is average, easy to leak air, and the compression rate is also low. It is not recommended for storing heavy clothing or comforters.
3. Steps to use vacuum storage bags
3.1 Preparing Items
Prepare these things in advance: a well-sized vacuum storage bag, an extraction pump (hand or electric pump), items to be stored, and a clean cloth. In addition, be sure to check the items to be stored before storage to ensure that they are dry and clean, and there are no sharp objects (such as pins on clothes and zipper pulls), otherwise it is easy to break the bag and breed bacteria.
3.2 Tips for loading items
Loading is not just stuffed in, this step directly affects the compression effect. Remember these tips: First, large items (such as quilts, down jackets) should be laid flat in the bag, try to flatten them, and do not fold too many layers, otherwise there will be gaps in the middle; second, small pieces of clothing (such as sweaters, shirts) can be rolled into a cylinder shape and put into a bag, which saves space more than folding, and is not easy to wrinkle when taken out; Third, don’t fill it too much, leave 2-3cm of space on the edge of the bag to facilitate subsequent sealing, otherwise the sealing will not be tight. When I was helping my friend store it before, he stuffed the bag to the brim, but the seal didn’t close at all, and he was busy in vain.
3.3 The correct way to pump air using a vacuum machine
After loading, it’s time for the extraction link, the steps are very simple, but the details should be noted:
- Compact the sealing strip first, slowly pressing from one end to the other to make sure there are no gaps, preferably twice.
- If it is an electric pump, align the pump interface with the suction port on the bag, tighten it, and then turn on the power to start pumping. When pumping, you can gently press the bag with your hand to help expel the air, and when you see that the bag is completely close to the item and there is no obvious bulge, you can turn off the pump.
- If it is a hand pump, align the pump with the air outlet, press the pump handle back and forth, and if you feel strenuous during the pumping process, you can pause it and check whether there is any air leakage at the interface.
- After pumping, tighten the cover of the air outlet immediately to prevent air backflow.
Here’s a tip: try to place the bag on a flat place when pumping, so that the compression is more evenly and the space is used more fully.
4. Maintenance and storage of vacuum storage bags
4.1 How to clean and maintain vacuum storage bags
After use, the vacuum storage bag is cleaned and maintained, and can be used repeatedly for several years. When cleaning, wipe the inside and outside of the bag with a clean damp cloth, do not use dish soap and other detergents, so as not to damage the sealing layer, put it in a ventilated place to dry after wiping, be sure to dry it completely before storing, otherwise it will breed mold. When storing the bag, fold it flat and put it in a dry and cool place, do not expose it to the sun, and do not put it in a high temperature place (such as next to the heater), otherwise it will accelerate the aging of the material.
4.2 Precautions for Storage Environment
The storage environment is also important for the compressed vacuum storage bag. Place in a dry, ventilated, and cool place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. It can be placed on the top floor of the wardrobe, in the storage box under the bed, or on a shelf in the storage room. Do not press heavy objects on the bag, although high-quality bags have good toughness, long-term heavy pressure can damage the sealing layer, leading to air leakage. I had a client who put the compressed bag at the bottom of the wardrobe and piled up a lot of heavy objects on it, but after a month, the bag leaked and the clothes returned to their original volume.
4.3 Common problems and solutions
It is inevitable that you will encounter problems when using it, and we have compiled common problems and solutions for you:
FAQs | Solution |
|---|---|
Air leaks quickly after pumping | Check whether the sealing strip is compacted and whether there are any debris; Check whether the exhaust port cap is tight; If the bag is damaged, use special tape to repair it, and replace the bag if it is seriously damaged |
Pump not working when pumping (electric pump) | Check whether the power supply is turned on; Check whether the pump interface is tight; If the pump is faulty, contact the merchant for repair or replacement |
The compressed item smells bad when taken out | Explain that the items are not completely dry before storage, and take out the items to dry before storing; If the bag smells, clean and dry before use |
5. Yigu (purchasing agent) point of view
As a senior purchasing agent, I suggest that when choosing vacuum storage bags, give priority to PA+PE composite film and double-layer sealing strip products, although the unit price is slightly higher, but the durability and sealing effect are far more cost-effective than cheap models, which is more cost-effective in the long run. When purchasing, pay attention to the manufacturer’s test report to ensure that the material is non-toxic and harmless. In addition, when purchasing in bulk, you can negotiate customization with the manufacturer and customize the size according to your own needs, which is more suitable for actual usage scenarios. Also, try to choose a brand with after-sales guarantee, in case of air leakage and other problems, you can return and exchange the goods in time, worry-free and labor-saving.
6. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Can vacuum storage bags be used repeatedly?
Yes, as long as the bag is not damaged and the seal is intact, it can be used repeatedly, and high-quality bags can generally be used for 3-5 years.
Q2: Will the vacuum storage bag store clothes damage the clothes?
No, as long as the clothes are dry and clean, compression storage will not damage the clothes. But for delicate fabrics such as wool and silk, it is recommended not to compress them for a long time, and the bag can be opened every 3-6 months to ventilate.
Q3: How long can vacuum storage bags be stored after pumping?
A good quality bag can last for 6-12 months if it is well sealed. It is recommended to check every once in a while, and if there is air leakage, just pump it again.
Q4: Can I pump air with other tools without a pumping pump?
Yes, for example, using the suction port of the vacuum cleaner to align the air outlet with the air extraction port can also pump air quickly, the effect is similar to that of an electric pump, suitable for friends who have a vacuum cleaner at home.