Vacuum storage bags are a great way to save space and protect your items from dust, moisture and insects. They are also easy to use and can be reused multiple times. Let us learn how to use vacuum storage bags for pumps, clothes and blankets.
See also: Plastic drawers for storage: All you need to know
What are vacuum storage bags?
Vacuum storage bags are plastic bags with a valve allowing you to remove the air inside them with a vacuum cleaner or hand pump. This creates a vacuum seal that compresses the items inside the bag and reduces their volume by up to 80%. Vacuum storage bags are ideal for storing bulky items such as pillows, duvets, coats, sweaters, towels and blankets. They can also be used for smaller items such as clothes, shoes and accessories.
How to use vacuum storage bags for pumps?
Pumps are devices that inflate objects, such as air mattresses, balloons, tires and balls. They can take up a lot of space when not in use, especially if they have attachments or hoses. To store them in vacuum storage bags, follow these steps:
- Choose a vacuum storage bag that is large enough to fit your pump and its accessories. You can find different sizes of vacuum storage bags online or in stores.
- Clean your pump and its attachments before storing them. Make sure they are dry and free of dirt or debris.
- Place your pump and its accessories inside the vacuum storage bag. Arrange them in a way that minimises empty spaces and wrinkles.
- Seal the bag by closing the zipper. You can use the stay-on clip or the double zipper to ensure a tight seal.
- Attach the valve of the bag to your vacuum cleaner or hand pump. Turn on the vacuum cleaner or pump the hand pump until all the air is removed from the pack. You will see the bag shrink and become flat.
- Detach the valve from the vacuum cleaner or hand pump. Ensure the valve is closed and no air can enter the bag.
- Store the bag in a cool, dry, and dark place. Avoid exposing it to heat, sunlight, or sharp objects.
How to use vacuum storage bags for clothes?
Clothes are one of the most common items people store in vacuum storage bags. They can help you organise your wardrobe, pack for travel or store seasonal clothes. To use vacuum storage bags for clothes, follow these steps:
- Choose a vacuum storage bag that is suitable for your clothes. You can find different types of vacuum storage bags for clothes, such as travel, hanging, high-volume and miscellaneous storage bags.
- Wash and dry your clothes before storing them. Make sure they are clean and free of stains or odours.
- Fold or roll your clothes neatly and place them inside the vacuum storage bag. Do not overfill the bag or force the clothes inside. Leave some space around the valve for air extraction.
- Seal the bag by closing the zipper. You can use the stay-on clip or the double zipper to ensure a tight seal.
- Attach the valve of the bag to your vacuum cleaner or hand pump. Turn on the vacuum cleaner or pump the hand pump until all the air is removed from the bag. You will see the bag shrink and become flat.
- Detach the valve from the vacuum cleaner or hand pump. Ensure the valve is closed, and no air can enter the bag.
- Store the bag in a suitable place. You can store it in your closet, drawer, suitcase, backpack or bed.
How to use vacuum storage bags for blankets?
Blankets are another bulky item that can benefit from vacuum storage bags. They can help you free up space in your closet, protect your blankets from dust mites and allergens and preserve their freshness and quality. To use vacuum storage bags for blankets, follow these steps:
- Choose a vacuum storage bag that is large enough to fit your blanket. You can find different sizes of vacuum storage bags online or in stores.
- Wash and dry your blanket before storing it. Make sure it is clean and free of lint or hair.
- Fold your blanket neatly and place it inside the vacuum storage bag. Do not overfill the bag or force the blanket inside. Leave some space around the valve for air extraction.
- Seal the bag by closing the zipper. You can use the stay-on clip or the double zipper to ensure a tight seal.
- Attach the valve of the bag to your vacuum cleaner or hand pump. Turn on the vacuum cleaner or pump the hand pump until all the air is removed from the bag. You will see the bag shrink and become flat.
- Detach the valve from the vacuum cleaner or hand pump. Ensure the valve is closed and no air can enter the bag.
- Store the bag in a cool, dry, and dark place. Avoid exposing it to heat, sunlight, or sharp objects.
FAQs
Are vacuum storage bags safe for clothes and blankets?
Yes, vacuum storage bags are safe for clothes and blankets if they are made of high-quality materials and have a reliable seal. They can protect your clothes and blankets from dust, moisture, insects, mould and mildew. However, some fabrics may lose their shape or elasticity after being compressed for a long time. To prevent this, you can fluff up your clothes and blankets after removing them from the vacuum storage bags.
How long can I store my items in vacuum storage bags?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on various factors such as the quality of the bag, the type of item, the storage condition, and the frequency of use. Generally speaking, you can store your items in vacuum storage bags for up to a year without problems. However, you should check your items regularly for any signs of damage or deterioration. If you notice any leaks, holes, tears, or odours in the bag or the item, you should replace or repair them immediately.
How do I reuse vacuum storage bags?
You can reuse vacuum storage bags multiple times if they are not damaged or worn out. To reuse them, you just need to open the zipper, remove your items, and refill them with new items. You can also wash and dry your vacuum storage bags before reusing them if they are dirty or smelly. However, you should avoid using harsh detergents, bleach, or iron on them, as they may damage the plastic material or the seal.
How do I choose the right size of vacuum storage bag?
The right size of vacuum storage bag depends on the size and quantity of your items. You should choose a bag that is large enough to fit your items comfortably but not too large that it wastes space or creates wrinkles. You should also leave some space around the valve for air extraction. You can find different sizes of vacuum storage bags online or in stores, such as small (40 x 60 cm), medium (50 x 70 cm), large (60 x 80 cm), jumbo (70 x 100 cm) and extra-jumbo (80 x 110 cm).
How do I seal a vacuum storage bag?
To seal a vacuum storage bag, close the zipper and attach the valve to a vacuum cleaner or a hand pump. You can use the stay-on clip or the double zipper to ensure a tight seal. Then, you must turn on the vacuum cleaner or pump the hand pump until all the air is removed from the bag. You will see the bag shrink and become flat. Finally, you must detach the valve from the vacuum cleaner or hand pump and ensure it is closed and no air can enter the bag.
How do I open a vacuum storage bag?
To open a vacuum storage bag, you must break the seal by opening the zipper. You can use scissors or a knife to cut along the edge of the zipper if it is stuck or hard to open. Then, you must take your items from the bag and fluff them up if needed. You can also wash and dry your items before using them if they are dirty or smelly.
How do I store a vacuum storage bag?
To store a vacuum storage bag, you must find a suitable place that is cool, dry and dark. You should avoid exposing it to heat, sunlight or sharp objects that may damage it. You can store it in your closet, drawer, suitcase, backpack or bed. You should also label your bag with its contents and date for easy identification.
How do I repair a leaky vacuum storage bag?
To repair a leaky vacuum storage bag, you need to find the source of the leak and patch it up with tape or glue. You can use duct tape, packing tape or clear tape for small holes or tears. You can also use super or hot glue for larger holes or tears. However, you should be careful not to damage the plastic material or the seal with these methods.
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