What Is A Good Vacuum Sealer

If you’re looking to preserve food, organize your home, or prepare for a trip, you might be asking what is a good vacuum sealer. The answer depends on your needs, budget, and how often you plan to use it. This guide will help you understand the key features and types so you can choose the best machine for your kitchen.

Vacuum sealers remove air from a specially designed bag and then seal it shut. This process, called vacuum sealing, dramatically slows down spoilage. It locks in freshness, prevents freezer burn, and can even help with marinating foods faster.

A good vacuum sealer is reliable, easy to use, and fits your specific tasks. It’s not just about the price tag. A heavy-duty model might be overkill for occasional use, while a light-duty one could disappoint a frequent user. Let’s break down what makes a sealer worth buying.

Types of Vacuum Sealers: External, Chamber, and Handheld

There are three main designs. Each has pros and cons.

External (or Suction) Sealers: This is the most common type for home use. You place the open end of a bag in the machine, and it sucks out the air before heat-sealing the bag. They are versatile and affordable but can struggle with liquids.
Chamber Vacuum Sealers: You place the entire bag inside a chamber. The machine removes air from the whole chamber, then seals the bag. These are excellent for sealing liquids, like soups or marinades, and are very powerful. They are also larger, heavier, and more expensive.
Handheld Sealers: These are small, portable devices designed for use with special bags that have a one-way valve. They are cheap and convenient for quick jobs but are not as effective or durable for serious food preservation.

Key Features to Look For

When comparing models, pay attention to these details. They make a big difference in daily use.

Seal Bar Quality and Number

The seal bar is what melts the plastic bag to create an airtight seal. Look for a wide, durable bar. Some models have double seals, which provide a backup for extra security. A good seal is the most important part of the whole process.

Vacuum Power and Adjustable Settings

Power is often measured in watts or inches of mercury (inHg). Higher power means faster, stronger air removal. An adjustable vacuum setting is crucial. You need a gentle setting for delicate items like bread or soft berries, and a max setting for dense meats.

Moisture Channel or Liquid Block

This is a lifesaver. It’s a groove or barrier that prevents liquids from being sucked into the machine’s motor. If you ever plan to seal moist foods, marinades, or frozen items, this feature is essential to avoid damaging your sealer.

Bag Storage and Cutter

A built-in bag roll holder and cutter makes the process much smoother. You can cut custom-sized bags right at the machine. It’s a small convenience that you’ll appreciate every time you use it.

Pulse and Manual Seal Functions

A pulse function lets you control the vacuum process manually, which is great for oddly shaped items. A manual seal button allows you to seal a bag without vacuuming, useful for sealing pre-vacuumed containers or bags with dry goods.

Step-by-Step: How to Use an External Vacuum Sealer

Choose the Right Bag: Use bags designed for your machine. You can by rolls or pre-cut bags.
Cut and Seal One End: Cut the bag to size, leaving extra space. Seal one end completely using the manual seal function.
Add Your Items: Place the food inside, leaving at least three inches between the food and the open end.
Position the Bag: Place the open end of the bag over the sealing bar and inside the vacuum channel. Close the lid.
Select the Setting: Choose “Dry” for most items, “Moist” for damp foods, or use the pulse button.
Start the Cycle: Press the button. The machine will vacuum out the air and then seal the bag. Wait for it to finish completely before opening the lid.

What Can You Vacuum Seal?

The uses go far beyond freezing steaks. Here are some smart applications:

Meat and Fish: Extend freezer life for months without freezer burn.
Cheese and Dairy: Keep cheese from molding. Seal blocks of butter for long-term storage.
Meal Prep: Portion out soups, sauces, or complete meals for easy reheating.
Dry Goods: Protect flour, rice, and nuts from pantry moths and staleness.
Fresh Produce: Blanch vegetables like broccoli first, then vacuum seal for the freezer.
Non-Food Items: Protect important documents, first-aid kits, or matches from moisture during camping trips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a good machine, errors can happen. Watch out for these pitfalls.

Overfilling the Bag: This prevents a proper seal. Always leave enough room.
Not Cleaning the Seal Bar: Wipe it after each use. Debris can cause weak seals.
Sealing Powdery Foods: Fine powders like flour or spices can get sucked into the machine. Place a coffee filter inside the bag above the food to act as a barrier.
Forgetting to Dry the Bag’s Edge: Before sealing, always pat the inside of the bag’s open end dry with a paper towel. Moisture is the enemy of a good seal.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Take care of your sealer, and it will last for years. Follow these simple steps.

Unplug the machine after every use.
Wipe down the seal bar and interior with a damp cloth. Never submerge it in water.
Check the rubber gasket around the lid for food particles and clean it gently.
Run an empty, dry bag through a seal cycle occasionally to help keep the bar clean.
Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct heat.

FAQ Section

Are vacuum sealers worth the money?

Yes, if you buy in bulk, garden, hunt, fish, or want to reduce food waste. The savings on food that doesn’t spoil quickly pays for the machine and bags over time.

What is the best vacuum sealer for home use?

For most households, a mid-range external sealer with a moisture block and adjustable settings is the best choice. Brands like Nesco, FoodSaver, and Geryon often offer reliable models in this category.

Can you reuse vacuum sealer bags?

It’s not recommended for food safety, especially after sealing raw meat. You can sometimes reuse them for non-food items if the seal is still perfect. Always wash them thoroughly in hot soapy water and inspect closely.

How long does vacuum sealed food last?

It varies. In the freezer, meat can last 2-3 years instead of 6-9 months. In the fridge, cooked meals may last 1-2 weeks instead of a few days. Always start with fresh, high-quality food for the best results.

What’s the difference between a cheap and expensive vacuum sealer?

Expensive models typically have stronger motors, more durable construction, better seals, and more features like automatic detection for bag type. Cheap models might have weaker suction, break more easily, or lack a moisture channel.

Can you seal jars with a vacuum sealer?

Yes, with an accessory hose and jar sealer attachments. This is great for sealing dry goods in mason jars, which is more eco-friendly than using bags.

Making Your Final Decision

Think about how you’ll use it most. If you mainly seal dry goods and occasional freezer items, a basic external sealer is fine. For frequent use, sealing liquids, or processing game, invest in a robust external model with all the features or consider a chamber sealer if space and budget allow.

Read recent customer reviews to see how models hold up over time. Look for comments on noise, seal reliability, and customer service. Remember, the ongoing cost of bags is a factor too, so check bag prices for the model you choose.

Ultimately, a good vacuum sealer is a tool that saves you money and reduces stress. It helps you waste less food, organize your kitchen, and makes cooking more convenient. By choosing the right type and features for your life, you’ll get a appliance you’ll rely on for a long time.