Choosing the right thickness for your Mylar bags can feel tricky, but it's essential to ensure your products stay fresh and protected.

Mylar bag thickness is measured in microns (µm), representing the material's durability and barrier properties. For Mylar, thickness typically ranges from 50µm to 150µm.

Let’s explore the essentials so you can confidently pick the perfect thickness for your Mylar bags.

How are bag thickness measured?

Bag thickness is determined by the micrometer¹, a device that measures the material's thickness in microns (µm).

Microns, often shortened to µm, indicate the thickness of materials like Mylar, with higher numbers meaning thicker and stronger bags.

Thicker Mylar bags offer better puncture resistance² and protection against external factors like moisture, oxygen, and UV light. A common misconception is that all packaging needs the thickest material possible, but that's not always the case. For example:

• Light products like tea or dried herbs may only need 50µm bags.
• Heavier or sharp-edged products (e.g., coffee beans or pet food) benefit from thicker bags like 100-150µm.

To determine the best fit, balance product type, storage duration, and the environment it will be exposed to.

What does µm mean in thickness?

If you’ve seen “50µm” or “100µm” on packaging specs, µm simply refers to microns—1 micron equals 0.001 millimeters.

In flexible packaging, µm indicates how thick the material is, affecting its durability and barrier properties.

Think of it like a protective shield. A thinner material (50µm) might be lightweight but less robust, while a thicker one (100µm or more) offers heavy-duty protection. Here's a simple breakdown:

For short-term storage or lightweight goods, thinner bags save costs and reduce environmental impact. However, thicker options are ideal for premium freshness and longer storage needs.

What thickness does Mylar come in?

Mylar bags typically range from 50µm to 150µm in thickness, depending on their intended use.

50µm, 70µm, 100µm, and 150µm are the most common Mylar thicknesses, covering a wide variety of needs in food and product packaging.

Different thicknesses are tailored for specific industries:

• 50µm-70µm: Ideal for lightweight products like tea, dried herbs, and snacks.
• 100µm: Often used for coffee, grains, or products requiring moderate protection.
• 150µm: Suited for heavy-duty applications like long-term food storage, sharp-edged goods, or vacuum sealing.

For extra protection, thicker Mylar is preferred. If your products require both durability and eco-friendliness, look into sustainable Mylar options, such as recyclable or compostable materials.

What is the best thickness for Mylar bags?

The "best" thickness depends on what you’re packaging, how it’s stored, and how long it needs to stay fresh.

100µm bags strike the perfect balance between durability, cost-effectiveness, and protection, making them the go-to choice for most products.

For example:

• If you're packaging pet food or coffee beans, 100µm offers excellent strength without being too bulky.
• For long-term storage of grains or dried food, 150µm adds an extra layer of durability.

Here's a quick guide:

Remember, thinner doesn’t always mean “cheaper.” Thicker bags may reduce waste by better preserving products, especially in eco-conscious markets like Europe and North America.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Mylar bag thickness is all about balance—your product's needs, storage duration, and environmental goals. Keep it simple and practical!