Learning how to seal mylar bags is a simple process that keeps your food safe for years. You can seal them with heat or a vacuum sealer. Heat sealers, irons, or even hair straighteners work great for most bags. Vacuum sealers remove air and seal the bag tightly.
If you’re storing dry foods like rice, beans, or grains, use heat sealing with oxygen absorbers. For fresh or frozen foods, vacuum sealing is a better option. Keep reading to learn about the simple, practical steps and tools you’ll need for each method.
Understanding Mylar Bags
Mylar bags are made from a material called BoPET. This is a strong, shiny plastic that blocks air, light, and moisture. This type of packaging keeps food fresh for a long time.
These bags are perfect for storing dry foods like rice, beans, and grains. They also work well for powdered foods like flour and sugar. Mylar bags are used with oxygen absorbers to help remove any leftover air inside.
One reason people like Mylar bags is that they protect food for years. They are lightweight and easy to store. However, they can tear if not handled carefully and aren’t good for wet or fresh foods.
Equipment Needed for Sealing Mylar Bags
To seal Mylar bags, you need a few tools and supplies. These items help keep your food safe and fresh for a long time.
Heat Sealing Tools: You can use an impulse sealer, a clothes iron, or a hair straightener. An impulse sealer is the easiest and most reliable choice. If you don’t have one, a clothes iron or hair straightener can do the job with some care.
Vacuum Sealers: A vacuum sealer removes air from the bag before sealing. Some models may need special settings to work with Mylar bags. A chamber vacuum sealer is best for thicker bags, but standard ones can work too.
Additional Supplies: Oxygen absorbers are a must for storing dry foods. They help remove any air left in the bag. Desiccants are useful if you’re storing food in a humid place. Don’t forget labels and markers to write down the contents and date of sealing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Heat Sealing Mylar Bags
Sealing Mylar bags with heat is simple if you follow the steps below. It works well for dry foods like rice, beans, and grains.
Preparation: Choose the right size bag for the food you’re storing. Make sure the inside of the bag is clean and dry. Lay out your tools, like a heat sealer, clothes iron, or hair straightener.
Filling the Bag: Fill the bag with dry food, leaving about 2 inches of space at the top. Add oxygen absorbers to help remove air inside. Check that the food is evenly spread for a better seal.
Sealing the Bag:
- Heat your sealing tool. If using an iron or hair straightener, set it to medium heat.
- Press the tool along the open edge of the bag, sealing one small section at a time.
- Make sure the seal is even and no air can escape.
Final Steps: After sealing, press lightly on the bag to check for leaks. Label the bag with the contents and date of sealing. Store the bag in a cool, dry place.
Step-by-Step Guide to Vacuum Sealing Mylar Bags
Vacuum sealing Mylar bags removes air and creates a tight seal. This method works well for both dry and moist foods, though adjustments are needed for Mylar bags.
Preparation: Start by selecting a bag that fits your food. Mylar bags are thicker than standard vacuum bags, so check if your vacuum sealer can handle them. Lay out your vacuum sealer, oxygen absorbers (if using for dry goods), and any additional tools.
Filling the Bag: Place your food into the bag, leaving about 2-3 inches of space at the top. For dry foods like rice or beans, add oxygen absorbers. Ensure the food is evenly distributed for a better seal.
Sealing the Bag:
- Position the open edge of the bag inside the vacuum sealer.
- Use the “seal only” setting, if available, to lightly close the edge before removing air.
- Start the vacuum process. The sealer will remove the air and seal the bag shut.
- Double-check the seal for gaps or leaks. You can seal again if needed.
Final Steps: Label the bag with the contents and the sealing date. For moist foods like meats, store them in the freezer after sealing. For dry foods, store them in a cool, dry place away from light.
Tips for Successful Mylar Bag Sealing
Here are some simple tips to make sure your Mylar bags are sealed correctly and your food stays fresh.
Use the Right Tools: For heat sealing, an impulse sealer gives the best results. If you’re using a clothes iron or hair straightener, work slowly to ensure a tight seal. For vacuum sealing, check that your sealer works with thicker Mylar bags.
Don’t Overfill: Leave at least 2 inches of space at the top of the bag. This gives enough room to seal the bag without spilling food.
Check for Leaks: After sealing, press gently on the bag to see if any air escapes. If you find a leak, reseal the bag using the same tool.
Label Everything: Write the contents and the sealing date on each bag. This helps you keep track of your food and rotate your storage.
Store Properly: Keep sealed bags in a cool, dry, and dark place. Avoid areas with high humidity or extreme temperatures to protect the food inside.
Conclusion
Sealing Mylar bags is an easy way to keep food fresh for a long time. Heat sealing works best for dry foods like rice, beans, and grains. You can use tools like an impulse sealer, clothes iron, or hair straightener. Vacuum sealing is great for fresh or frozen foods and requires a vacuum sealer that works with thicker bags.
To get the best results, use oxygen absorbers for dry goods and check the seal for any leaks. Always label your bags and store them in a cool, dry place. Whether you use heat or vacuum sealing, Mylar bags are a reliable option for protecting your food and saving it for the future.