Quick Answer
No, not all bags are compatible with all vacuum sealers. Vacuum sealer bags are specially designed with a textured side that allows air to be vacuumed out. Regular plastic bags don’t have this texture and won’t properly vacuum seal. You need to use bags that are specifically made for your vacuum sealer model.
Vacuum Sealer Bags
Vacuum sealer bags have a specially textured side that allows air to be vacuumed out while preventing liquids from being sucked out. This textured surface essentially anchors the bag in place while air is being removed.
Types of Vacuum Sealer Bags
There are a few main types of vacuum sealer bags:
- Standard vacuum bags – These are basic bags that can be cut to size. They work for most foods.
- Embossed bags – These have extra texture to help draw out air.
- Mesh bags – Mesh bags work well for soups, stews, and juicy foods. The mesh allows liquid to stay in the bag while air is vacuumed out.
- Mylar bags – Mylar is a very thick, durable plastic. These bags are great for long term freezing.
Within these types, bags come in different sizes and shapes like rolls, pre-cut bags, bags with zipper seals, and more.
Vacuum Sealer Bag Materials
Most vacuum bags are made from BPA-free multilayer plastic. This plastic is thick enough to prevent punctures while still being pliable. Common materials include:
- Polyethylene (PE) – A durable and freezer-safe plastic.
- Nylon – Adds strength to prevent punctures.
- PET – Helps bags keep their shape during freezing.
- Foil – Can be added as a layer for extra puncture resistance.
Higher quality bags will have stronger materials layered together. Cheaper bags may only use a single layer of thin plastic.
Using Regular Plastic Bags
Regular plastic food storage bags, like Ziploc bags, do not work with vacuum sealers. Here’s why:
- Not thick enough – Regular bags are too thin and can easily puncture.
- No texture – The smooth surface doesn’t anchor the bag when vacuuming.
- Air leaks – Regular bags are not airtight enough to hold a strong vacuum.
If you try sucking the air out of a regular plastic bag, it will likely get sucked into the vacuum chamber and damage the machine. The bag will also collapse and not hold its shape.
Some people try workarounds like double bagging, but this is unreliable and can still damage vacuum sealers. It’s best to only use approved vacuum sealer bags.
Using Brand Name Bags
Vacuum sealer bags are designed specifically for each machine brand. Bags made for a FoodSaver vacuum generally won’t work in a Weston vacuum.
Trying to use the wrong brand bags can lead to:
- Poor seals – The bags may not seal properly.
- Malfunction – Using incorrect bags can jam or damage the vacuum.
- No vacuum – The machine may not be able to suck the air out.
This is because each brand engineers their own uniquely textured bag material that works with their vacuums. For the best results, you should use the bag brand recommended for your specific vacuum sealer model.
Compatibility of Major Brand Bags
| Vacuum Brand | Compatible Bag Brands |
|---|---|
| FoodSaver | FoodSaver, Ziploc Vacs, Rove Rak |
| Weston | Weston, VacMaster, Polyscience |
| Cabela’s | Cabela’s, FoodSaver |
| Nesco | Nesco, VacMaster, Armor Forge |
As you can see, some brands like FoodSaver have more universal bags. But for others like Weston, you really need to use their own brand of bags. Check your owner’s manual for recommended bags.
Tips for Using Vacuum Bags
To get the most out of your vacuum sealer bags:
- Allow 2-3 inches of space at the top for the seal.
- Use a bag size just big enough to fit the contents. Excess bag material makes it hard to vacuum.
- For moist foods, use mesh or embossed bags.
- Double seal for important items or long term freezing.
- Store bags properly between uses. Keep them sealed and away from sharp objects.
Proper storage and handling will help prevent bag punctures or leaks. With good care, vacuum bags can be reused many times.
Reusing Vacuum Bags
As long as there are no holes, tears, or permanent stains, vacuum bags can be washed and reused. Here are some tips for reusing bags:
- Wash with soap and hot water. Let air dry thoroughly.
- Turn bags inside out before resealing so the textured side remains clean.
- Smooth out wrinkles and creases to ensure an airtight seal.
- Inspect carefully for any punctures or weaknesses.
- Avoid reusing bags with food stains, burns, or grease residue.
With Mylar bags, take extra care when washing. The slippery interior can be difficult to get completely clean. It’s generally recommended to use fresh Mylar bags each time.
Reusable silicone bags are also growing in popularity. Being more durable and eco-friendly than plastic bags, silicone vacuum bags can be washed and reused indefinitely.
Getting a Good Seal
To properly seal bags, make sure:
- There are no food debris or moisture along sealing strip.
- Bag has enough vacuum headspace (2-3 inches).
- Sealing strip is completely flat with no wrinkles.
- Double seal if worried about punctures or leaks.
Bags should seal evenly with no gaps. Refrigerate sealed bags for a few hours to allow seal to fully set. Then visually inspect seal and press along the edge. It should remain tightly sealed.
If seals are not sticking:
- Clean machine seals and replace any worn sealing gaskets.
- Adjust bag placement and try sealing again.
- Use light pressure when guiding bag through seals.
- Try a higher temperature setting and slower sealing speed.
Troubleshooting Vacuum Sealer Bags
Here are some common problems and fixes when using vacuum sealer bags:
Problem: Bag melts during sealing
- Allow sealing strip to fully cool between uses.
- Use lower temp setting on your machine.
- Don’t seal same spot twice. Move bag further into machine.
Problem: Seals not sticking
- Dry sealing strip – clean or replace gaskets
- Bag has folds or wrinkles along seal
- Low machine temperature setting
Problem: Bag not vacuuming fully
- Portion bag size appropriately to contents
- Allow headspace at top of bag before sealing
- Seal bag along very top of open end
Problem: Liquid getting sucked out of bag
- Use mesh bag style better suited for wet foods
- Double bag if needed to prevent leaks
- Turn down vacuum pressure if possible on machine
Problem: Air leaks after vacuum sealing
- Inspect seal edges closely for gaps or holes
- Ensure enough headspace left in bag for seal
- Let seal fully cool before handling bag
Following best practices when sealing, reusing, storing, and handling bags will prevent most issues. Make sure to use bags designed specifically for your vacuum sealer model.
Conclusion
Vacuum sealers require specially designed bags with a textured side that allows air to be sucked out of the bag evenly. Regular plastic bags lack this texture and can’t effectively hold a vacuum seal. Make sure to use vacuum bags made for your specific machine brand and model. Follow proper procedures when sealing, reusing, and storing bags. With compatible vacuum bags, you can seal food efficiently with your vacuum sealer for maximum freshness.