How to Vacuum Seal Bags Without Air Leaks [Pro Tips]

Select Premium Vacuum Seal Storage Bags First

The preservation stage of sealing vacuum bags begins with selecting the appropriate vacuum sealing pouches; failing to do so, risks being counterproductive. Not all vacuum sealing bags are created equal; vacuum bags require sufficient weight, appropriate seal edges, robust vacuum bag material, and puncture-resistance. Above all, make sure the sealed bags are food-grade and ideal for food storage.

Certain vacuum sealer storage bags are equipped with multi-layer technology, designed to minimize puncture zones and microscopic air leaks. Additionally, make sure the vacuum pouches are designed for your vacuum sealer. Use of incompatible vacuum sealing storage bags may lead to improper sealing and increased leakage. Quality sealing vacuum storage bags may cost you upfront, however, they save you the hassles of lost food and damaged goods.

Make Sure To Clean The Sealing Area Properly

One factor that can lead to unsightly leakage in vacuum sealing bags is dust and dirt that accumulates in the sealing portion. Dairy or any food residue or other particles that can be present in a bag can prevent proper vacuum bag sealing. So as to seal a bag with a vacuum , all the residue on the edges should be wiped away with a clean and dry cloth. 

Perfect the Closing Method

The purpose of using the perfect sealing technique is to minimize the chances of any air leaks occuring. As a first step, verify that the bag is positioned correctly in the vacuum sealer. Most sealers will include a guide line that designates the proper placement of the vacuum bag. Do not overfill the bag, as well; it is important to keep 2 to 3 inches of empty space between the top of the contents and the opening of the bag. Overfilled bags will likely stretch and cause the seal to break.

Let the sealer complete the entire vacuuming and sealing process. Members of the public often come to the conclusion that stopping the sealer prematurely will save time, and are fundamentally mistaken. Trapped air, or an incomplete seal, is the worst case scenario as an outcome of this line of thinking. Seal the bag, then gently tug the edge to determine whether or not it is indeed sealed. A hissing sound, or a loss of tension, indicates that the gap needs to be sealed again.

Store Sealed Bags to Ensure They Don't Get Damaged  

Sealed vacuum bags can allow air to seep in if they are not stored properly. Bags that are vacuum sealed should not be placed under heavy objects, since this can break the seals and create holes in the bags. Sealed bags should also be kept away from any sharp objects or rough surfaces, like knives, scissors, card board boxes, or storage containers.  

Store sealed bags within cool and dry environments. Direct Sunlight exposure and keeping bags next to a heated appliance can weaken the bags and seals, since extreme temperatures are present. Consider keeping vacuum sealed bags in a box or a storage bin to ensure extra layers of protection. Checking sealed bags every other week for signs of air, like the bags puffing up, can help fix leaks before ruining other contents.