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The Spruce / Lecia Landis
Vacuum storage bags are a great way to keep your off-season items organized, make the most of your storage space, and even prepare for an upcoming move. Professional organizer Sandra Bent recommends using vacuum storage bags to keep heavyweight blankets in storage during those 90-degree summer months when you're actively using your cooling sheets. “You can store heavy comforters, extra quilts, and flannel sheets together in a large bag,” she says. In doing so, it's very easy to "keep track of bedding sizes, even in storage.”
We researched the best vacuum storage bags, evaluating durability, cost, and ease of use, so you don't need to familiarize yourself with a lot of specialized equipment to pack your belongings.
Here are the best vacuum storage bags to protect your clothes, bedding, and more, plus keep them organized and neat.
Best Overall
Spacesaver Vacuum Storage Bags, Jumbo 6-Pack
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Amazon
Multiple sizes and varieties available
Travel pump included
Made of thick and durable plastic
Must follow instructions to use warranty
May leak after many uses
The Spacesaver Premium Vacuum Storage Bags are our top recommendation because they serve a variety of situations and needs. They come in various sizes, including small, medium, large, and jumbo, as well as variety packs of four, six, 10, and 20, so you can identify your needs and shop accordingly. When it comes to using the bags, the most efficient way to take the air out of a packed bag is to connect a vacuum hose to the opening. If you're on the go, you can also use the travel pump that is included.
The plastic on these vacuum storage bags is thick and durable. Plus, the brand offers a lifetime guarantee, although you do need to follow the instructions for use down to the letter to be eligible. Even with perfect use, the bags might start leaking after many uses, which is fairly common for the product category and ultimately not a dealbreaker for us. If you want to purchase a number of bags in the same size or a variety of bags of very different sizes to organize your storage closet, suitcase, or linen collection, these bags certainly make it easier to make the most of your space. You can easily put them alongside each other in a closet or bin, and you won't need to spend a ton of money to complete your organization project either.
Price at time of publish: $44
Amount: Varies | Dimensions: 24 x 16 inches (small), 28 x 20 inches (medium), 32 x 24 inches (large), 40 x 30 inches (jumbo) | Pump Included: Yes | Clips Included: No | Warranty: Lifetime guarantee
Best Budget
Amazon Basics Vacuum Compression Storage Bags with Hand Pump
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Amazon
Travel pump included
Come in several sizes and varieties
Easy to understand instructions
Not available in smaller sizes
These vacuum storage bags by Amazon Basics are a bit cheaper than our best overall pick and come in similar size variations and variety packs. The 15-pack comes with four medium, four large, five jumbo, and two extra-jumbo bags. To use, just slide your items inside, seal the bag with the included clip, which helps to keep air out, attach a standard vacuum hose or the included hand pump, and remove the air. These bags are made of thick plastic, similar to many of the higher-priced options on the market. For 15 bags, it is hard to beat the amazing price for the quality and quantity of the product from Amazon Basics.
The instructions for use are printed right on the side of the bag, so you don’t need to worry about keeping track of separate directions. There are helpful pictures to illustrate exactly what you need to do, too, whether you are using the bags at home or for travel. You can purchase these bags in a pack of five, six, 12, or 15—with the cheapest option being the five-pack. The only downside is the bags are not available in smaller sizes (less than 28 by 20 inches), unlike our best overall pick.
Price at time of publish: $36
Amount: Varies | Dimensions: 28 x 20 inches (medium), 32 x 24 inches (large), 40 x 30 inches (jumbo), 48 x 32 inches (extra-jumbo) | Pump Included: Yes | Clips Included: Yes | Warranty: Not listed
Best Small
Space Max Premium Space Saver Vacuum Storage Bags in Small
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Amazon
Budget-friendly
Double-zip seal and triple-seal valve
Hand pump included
Replacements can take a while
If you have small storage needs or want to fit things in a tight space, a small vacuum storage bag from Space Max is a great option. These Premium Space Saver Vacuum Storage Bags are 24 by 16 inches and can fit six to eight adult sweaters during the summer months. They come in a package of six, as well as in additional sizes for any larger storage and organization needs you have. All of the Space Max Premium vacuum storage bags have a double-zip seal on the top and a triple-seal valve to remove the air and keep your belongings protected from all kinds of elements, like moisture and bugs.
One of the great things about the Space Max small bags is that they come with a hand pump. It can be hard to find vacuum storage bags that are small, and most don’t have a pump included. Rather than purchase a variety pack or a larger package to get these extras, you can buy just what you need. They are also very affordable and a fraction of the cost of larger options. The pump will work with larger bags if you do decide to purchase an additional pack in the future.
Price at time of publish: $16
Amount: 6 | Dimensions: 24 x 16 inches | Pump Included: Yes | Clips Included: No | Warranty: Not listed
Best Large
MagicBag Smart Design Flat Large Storage Bag
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Walmart
Come in a pack of six
Works with most vacuum hoses
Stores a lot in one bag
Travel pump not included
A bit expensive for quality and quantity
Most users of vacuum storage bags need ones that can fit bulkier items, such as comforters, winter coats and sweaters, or bed linens. The large storage bags from MagicBag do just that with ease. Each large bag can hold 10 to 12 winter sweaters, and they come in a pack of six. That means that with this one purchase, you can store up to 72 sweaters (or the equivalent in other items)!
These bags have a double-zip design to keep the contents airtight and protect your items from dirt, dust, and moisture. The one-way air valve works with most vacuum hoses to remove the air. However, this package does not come with a hand pump for travel. If you already have a hand pump, these vacuum storage bags are a good purchase that perform very well. They aren’t the cheapest on our list but aren’t the most expensive either. Just note: A warranty is not included, but the brand does have great customer service and attempts to fix any problems that occur.
Price at time of publish: $19
Amount: 6 | Dimensions: 21.65 x 33.5 inches | Pump Included: No | Clips Included: No | Warranty: Not listed
Best Heavy-Duty
BoxLegend Premium Vacuum Storage Bags
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Amazon
Extra-thick plastic
Lifetime free replacement
Come in different sizes and varieties
Travel pump not included
Not available in small or medium, except as part of variety pack
If you know that your storage bags are going to be subjected to the elements or handled roughly, you'll want a heavy-duty product that can stand the test of time. The BoxLegend Premium vacuum storage bags come in eight, 10, or 12-count variety packs. They are also available in a package of eight jumbo bags, though you can't shop the small and medium-sized bags separate from a variety pack.
These bags are extra thick, making them perfect for rough use and situations where they may be tossed in the moving truck, shifted around a basement, or squeezed up against other items in a carry-on suitcase. They also come with a lifetime free replacement guarantee. If your bag rips or starts to lose air, BoxLegend will send you a new one free of charge. Each bag has a double zipper to ensure it stays sealed. The package does not include a travel pump, but you can purchase one separately or use one that you already have.
Price at time of publish: $24
Amount: Varies | Dimensions: 16 x 24 inches (small), 20 x 28 inches (medium), 24 x 30 inches (large), 28 x 40 inches (jumbo) | Pump Included: No | Clips Included: No | Warranty: Lifetime free replacement
Best for Clothes
TAILI Hanging Vacuum Storage Bags
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Amazon
Short and long options
Reduces need for dry cleaning or pressing
Available in multiple colors
Expensive
No travel pump included
Storing off-season clothes in a vacuum storage bag is a great way to save space. But, you likely don’t want to pay for costly dry-cleaning or pressing once you take your items out of storage and return them to your closet. The TAILI hanging vacuum storage bags keep your hanging items perfectly pressed and can be placed in your closet or another storage space. They can be a little tricky to use since you do need to hang them first to get your items situated. Each bag has a five-hanger storage rod that swivels and a double-zip seal.
These bags come in long and short sizes and in variety packs of four or six. They also come in a few different color options and are the only vacuum storage bags on the market that do. The short bags work great for jackets and pants, while the long bags are better for coats and dresses. Keep in mind that extra-long items may need to be folded at the bottom. These aren’t the cheapest option, but they will certainly work better than having items hanging loose or potentially getting all wrinkled in other vacuum storage bags.
Price at time of publish: $37
Amount: Varies | Dimensions: 53 x 27.6 inches (long), 41.3 x 27.6 inches (short) | Pump Included: No | Clips Included: No | Warranty: Free 90-day experience
Best for Comforters and Bedding
Vacwel XXL Vacuum Storage Bags
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Amazon
XXL size
Come in a pack of five
Work for cushions, bedding, and mattress toppers
Hand pump not included
Clips not included
In many households, vacuum storage bags are used for storing comforters and bedding. By doing so, you can store two or three times as many things in the same space. This pack of XXL bags from Vacwel can truly fit any duvet, comforter, quilt, or blanket out there. It can even work for mattress toppers, cushions, and pet beds for those hoping to pack away these items due to the change in seasons or an upcoming move.
Just keep in mind the pack doesn’t come with a hand pump or adhesive clips. Although, if you are looking for something that is large, chances are it won't also be a travel-friendly packing solution that would likely require a hand pump. These do come in a pack of five, ideal for storing several sets of winter bedding when not in use or even heftier sweaters for different family members. The seal is compatible with a standard vacuum hose and can be reused year after year.
Price at time of publish: $30
Amount: 5 | Dimensions: 47 x 35 inches | Pump Included: No | Clips Included: No | Warranty: Not listed
Best for Food
FoodSaver 1-quart Vacuum Packaging Bags
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Walmart
Prevents freezer burn
Comes in a pack of 44
BPA-free
Require special appliance
Vacuum sealing food helps keep your groceries in an airtight environment where they can stay fresher for longer. It's a special process that often requires a separate appliance and bags that are made specifically for it. These FoodSaver vacuum packaging bags use similar technology as vacuum storage bags you'd use to store winter bedding, though. They remove the air from your food's surroundings with the help of a machine, creating an airtight and waterproof seal. Instead of a vacuum hose, you'll need a FoodSaver appliance, which is sold separately.
This pack of 44 bags is a good deal when you don’t include the extra cost of the FoodSaver system. If you have a food vacuum sealer already, getting new bags is easy and relatively cheap. Each bag can hold up to one quart of food and can be refrigerated, frozen, microwaved, and boiled. There are other sizes available from FoodSaver and bags for different uses, too, whether it be storing shrimp and salmon in the freezer or cereal in the pantry. If you do use the bags in the freezer, know that they can help prevent freezer burn, resulting in less food waste and more savings.
Price at time of publish: $25
Amount: 44 | Dimensions: 8 x 10 inches | Pump Included: No | Clips Included: No | Warranty: Not listed
Best for Travel
AirBaker Travel Vacuum Storage Bags with Hand Pump
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Amazon
Travel pump included
Visible zipper seal
Multiple sizes and variety packs available
Large and jumbo sizes are not great for travel
Pink gasket needs to remain undamaged
For travel needs, the AirBaker vacuum storage bags are a great option. They come in four different sizes as well as in variety packs. All include a hand pump, which is perfect for removing the air when you are traveling. Some people prefer to get multiple bags of the same size to organize items in their suitcase or luggage, the same way you would with packing cubes. Others like to have different size options handy to accommodate their clothing, toiletries, and other items they take with them on the road. Either system is an option when you purchase from AirBaker.
The large and jumbo sizes may be more than you need for travel use. While they do work with the included hand pump, it can take quite some time. Using a vacuum hose is more efficient and faster when you have it available. The zipper seal has multiple colors on it so that you know when it is fully closed. It's key to note that you should be very careful not to remove or damage the pink gasket in the valve. Unfortunately, if this is damaged during travel, you won’t be able to vacuum seal the bags.
Price at time of publish: $18
Amount: Varies | Dimensions: 24 x 16 inches (small), 28 x 20 inches (medium), 32 x 24 inches (large), 40 x 32 inches (jumbo) | Pump Included: Yes | Clips Included: No | Warranty: 1-year replacement or partial refund
Best for Long-Term Storage
Ziploc Space Bag Vacuum Sealer Storage Bags
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Amazon
Made of durable plastic
Effective and strong Ziploc seal
Jumbo is very large
Expensive
Travel pump not included
A household name in storage solutions, Ziploc makes vacuum storage bags that will work for everything from sweaters to blankets. For long-term storage, we recommend the jumbo-sized Space Bag. It can fit bulky items like bedding, linens, or even stuffed animals. You can use it for one large item, like a king-sized blanket or quilt, or multiple smaller items, like winter clothes. These are not great for travel and don’t come with a hand pump, although Ziploc does make a rollable travel storage bag.
These are expensive compared to many other vacuum storage bags and only come in a set of two in the jumbo size. The Ziploc seal is what makes these bags so great and effective, though, especially for any long-term use. Once you vacuum the air out of the bag using a standard vacuum hose, you can be sure that it will stay sealed and airtight for a long time.
Price at time of publish: $27
Amount: 2 | Dimensions: 35 x 48 inches | Pump Included: No | Clips Included: No | Warranty: 1-year
Our top pick for vacuum storage bags is the Spacesaver Premium Vacuum Storage Bags. They come in multiple sizes and variety pack options and work with a vacuum or travel pump for easy storage at home or on the go. For the most budget-friendly option, consider the Amazon Basics Vacuum Compression Storage Bags with Hand Pump. While these storage bags don't come in as small of a size as our best overall pick, they're a few dollars less and can be shopped in different sizes, as well.
What to Look for in a Vacuum Storage Bag
Size
Vacuum storage bags can fit everything from toiletries to a few sweaters and a king-size comforter. The best size of bag for you will depend on what you're trying to store or organize. Some users prefer to get multiple bags of the same size so they can be stacked and stored together. Others look out for variety pack options so they can store items in the most efficient way possible and ultimately do not waste any space.
Typically, vacuum storage bags come in small, medium, large, and jumbo sizes. A small bag can be as little as 24 by 16 inches, while a jumbo bag can be as large as 48 by 36 inches. Small vacuum storage bags, while good for traveling, don't always come with a travel pump. In addition, large vacuum bags may be too difficult to use with a travel pump. So, if you're planning on using your bags on the go, it's key to think about what tools you'll need. Ask yourself these questions. Do the necessary tools come with your purchase, or will they be accessible to you? And are the tools effective for the size bag that you're opting for?
Intended Use
It's also key to consider if you plan to use your vacuum storage bags for off-season storage of your belongings and reuse them year after year or if you want to store items once for a longer period of time. If you want to use your bags for the former, look for ones that are made of durable plastic and don't have valves or gaskets that will break easily. In addition, look for ones backed with a very good replacement warranty. If you want to use your bags for the latter—say, when you take a trip across the world—look for ones that come with a hand pump, so you don't need to track down a vacuum at your destination.
Durability
Vacuum storage bags are usually made of thick plastic. Although they aren’t puncture-proof, regular use doesn’t cause problems with the plastic itself. The bag's valves, zip top, or seals are typically the first to go. If you plan to reuse your vacuum storage bags often or want to use them long-term, look for a company that offers a lifetime guarantee or has really invested in the durability of their bags. It may be helpful to look for notes about lifespan within user reviews.
Available Warranties
Vacuum storage bags can come with a warranty or guarantee. This warranty can cover your bags for a lifetime, for one year, or whenever you experience defects and damages. Be careful when you use your bags, as any unintended use can often void your warranty.
Great customer service is another key feature that can make a set of vacuum storage bags stand out from their competition. If you do have problems, it is nice to be able to contact a representative from the brand to get a replacement sent directly to you.
Standout Features
Travel Pump
If you're using your vacuum storage bags on the go to keep your suitcase organized and neat, look for one that includes a hand pump. Using this accessory, you can remove air from your storage bag while you travel and don’t have access to your normal vacuum. This can make packing even easier when you are on your way home and can even free up space for extra souvenirs.
Adhesive Clip
An adhesive clip is a great way to make sure you get a good seal on your bag. Any place that opens, including the main opening to the bag where you put your items, is a place where air can potentially get into the vacuum-sealed storage bag. An adhesive clip keeps this area secure and airtight, even when the regular seal is a bit worn.
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How do vacuum storage bags work?
Vacuum storage bags remove the air from a bag by using a vacuum hose or travel hand pump. Once the air is removed, a one-way valve keeps air from going into the bag. It is important to follow the directions when using vacuum storage bags. You may need to secure zip tops, turn seals, or complete other steps required to make the bag airtight.
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How long can you store things in vacuum storage bags?
You can store things in vacuum storage bags indefinitely, although they will start to leak and allow air back inside over time. Most quality vacuum storage bags will remain airtight for at least a few months. This makes them an ideal way to store clothes, bedding, and linens as the seasons change. You can also use them to pack for travel and maximize the space in your luggage.
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What should you not vacuum pack?
You should not vacuum pack food items unless you are using a vacuum sealed bag specifically made for food. These vacuum storage bags require a system or appliance other than your traditional vacuum. In addition, clothing and bedding items should not be vacuum-packed for too long, especially when it comes to a puffy duvet. If you're hoping to pack them, it might be best to take them out of the vacuum storage bag every once in a while to let them move. Also, it's key to make sure all items are completely dry before packing them away.
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Can you put quilts in a vacuum storage bag?
Quilts are a great item to store in vacuum storage bags, especially if you want to protect handmade quilts for a long period of time. Just be sure to take them out of storage every once in a while and pack them a bit differently to prevent any hard creases from forming.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Katie Begley, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. She has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. As a military veteran and former military spouse, Begley has had to rely on efficient storage solutions to keep track of items in the off seasons and as her family travels. For this article, she considered each option's durability, cost, and ease of use. She also spoke to professional organizer Sandra Bent to get her best tips for keeping things organized in storage.