Choosing the right vacuum sealer bags and other accessories can save you time and money. Having the right tools means getting the job done quickly and efficiently. Less effort will go into vacuum sealing when you have the proper tools to work with.
When choosing vacuum sealer bags, containers and canisters, you should ultimately base your decision on what foods and other items are going to be packed and stored.
Vacuum sealing containers and canisters can easily be achieved by way of the attached accessory port on vacuum sealers and the accessory hose. Simply connect the accessory hose to the accessory port, and the accessory hose to the container or canister being sealed. It’s that easy!
Choosing the Right Storage Accessories When Vacuum Packing
There are many styles and sizes of containers being advertised for food, clothing and other items being stored. Choose the size and style based on your needs. Things you might want to store include food, clothing, linens, toys, personal care items, jewelry, important documents, and so on.
When to Use Canisters
Use canisters to seal and store dry foods such as pasta, fruits and vegetables. When choosing 
canisters for food storage and sealing, make sure the canisters have an adapter for vacuum sealing.
Canisters are available in a variety of sizes. You can also purchase them in sets. Most canisters that are used for food storage with a vacuum sealer are odor proof and come with airtight lids. This is good for keeping out insects and helping foods to stay fresher longer.
Choosing Vacuum Sealer Bags
When choosing bags, one of the main concerns is saving money by using the minimum amount of bag materials.
The cost of bags can vary based on the units being used. Bags for chamber vacuum sealers tend to cost less than bags used for external vacuum sealers. Because of this, one should research bag costs before choosing a vacuum sealer.
Bags can be purchased in a variety of sizes and also in bag rolls. Bag rolls can be sized as needed to accommodate different food portions, thus saving you money in the long run. Many vacuum sealers, especially FoodSaver brand, has an integrated bag cutter, which makes it easy to create custom size bags when using bag rolls.
Using Inexpensive Bags For Food Storage
Most vacuum sealer manufacturers have a line of recommended containers, bags, canisters and other accessories. If you’re ever unsure of where to purchase containers or which containers can be sealed with your vacuum sealer, you can always contact the manufacturer.
Foods stored in a container should be refrigerated. Vacuum packing and sealing is no substitute for proper food storage. Foods normally requiring refrigeration, will still need to be refrigerated, even when they are vacuum packed and sealed.
Always make sure that foods being stored are washed and thoroughly cleaned before packing. Additionally, make sure that fats are trimmed off of meats.
Do not freeze canisters and containers. If they are frozen, they can crack during the thawing process. Invest in quality containers for longer use and reliability. Less durable containers and canisters can often generate cracks.
Canisters and containers can be stored in the refrigerator or pantry based on the food type being stored in them.
If you’re purchasing a new unit, use the vacuum sealer bags that are included with the unit before purchasing additional bags. This will give you a general idea of what type of bags you will most likely want to use with your unit.
