Essential Vacuum Sealer Accessories for Your Kitchen

A high-quality vacuum sealer is only as good as the accessories you use with it. The right vacuum sealer accessories can maximize your device’s usefulness and make food storage even more efficient. From extra-thick bags to specialized canisters, these tools let you store almost any type of food. Let’s explore the most useful accessories for home kitchens. Whether you want to save freezer space, organize your pantry, or prepare special dishes like sous-vide meals, these add-ons will help.

Vacuum Sealer Bags and Rolls

Vacuum bags and rolls are the foundation of any vacuum sealing system:

• Vacuum Sealer Rolls: Rolls allow you to cut custom-length bags for any food item. This saves material since you only use what you need. Rolls come in different widths (commonly 8, 11, or 12 inches) and thicknesses (usually 3 to 5 mil). For example, use thinner (3 mil) rolls for short-term storage or delicate foods, and thicker (5 mil) rolls for freezer items or anything with sharp edges (like bones). Cutting and sealing a fresh piece of a roll ensures a perfect fit. Many rolls come with a serrated cutter built into the box for straight, easy cuts. If not, use scissors or a bag cutter for a clean edge. Always leave 3–5 inches of headspace at the top of the bag after filling to ensure a good seal.

• Pre-Cut Vacuum Bags: These are ready-to-use bags in standard sizes (e.g. 8×10”, 11×16”, or 1 gallon). They’re convenient when you have many similarly sized items, like chicken breasts or snack packs. Buy the sizes you use most frequently. Choose BPA-free, multi-layer barrier bags designed for vacuum sealing to get the strongest, airtight hold.

• Zipper Vacuum Bags: Some vacuum sealer brands (especially external/semi-external models) work with reusable zip-top bags that have a built-in vacuum valve. These let you quickly vacuum-pack a sandwich, fruit slices, or nuts and then reopen them later. The one-way valve lets you attach a hand pump or the sealer hose to remove air. After use, simply wash out the bag, dry it, and use again. These are great for daily snacks and reduce plastic waste over time.

• Mesh and Textured Bags: External sealers require embossed or textured vacuum bags so air can be drawn out evenly. If you have an external vacuum sealer at home, get the appropriate embossed rolls and bags. For chamber sealers, all bags are smooth by design. In general, always use the type of bag your sealer requires (you can use either type in a chamber sealer, but only textured bags in an external unit).

Using bag rolls is especially cost-effective. Instead of buying multiple packs of fixed-size bags, one roll can yield dozens of custom-sized bags. This is handy for odd-shaped foods or varying portion sizes. Also consider storage: keep your rolls or bag packs in a cool, dry cabinet so they stay fresh. Proper vacuum bags or rolls are the most essential accessories for a vacuum sealer.

Jar Sealers and Container Attachments

Vacuum sealer accessories include handy tools for more than just bags:

• Jar Sealers (Mason Jar Lids): Many vacuum sealer brands offer a jar sealer attachment that fits onto standard Mason jars. This allows you to vacuum-seal pantry items like grains, coffee beans, spices, or homemade jams in a jar. To use, put food in the jar, replace the metal canning lid with the vacuum sealer lid, and use the sealer’s vacuum function on it. Sealed jars have no air, which helps keep contents fresh much longer. For instance, vacuum-packed coffee beans lose aroma more slowly, and stored cookies remain crisp. Just remember that you should not use glass jars in actual vacuum (low-pressure) processes; this is just the air-removal in the jar lid while leaving the jar at normal pressure. Also, never vacuum-seal hot foods in glass as it can cause pressure issues—cool cooked foods slightly before sealing.

• Vacuum Canisters and Containers: Rigid plastic canisters with locking lids can be vacuum-packed too. These are excellent for foods that would be crushed in a bag. For example, store homemade granola, chips, fresh berries, or salad greens in a canister. To use, attach the canister’s lid (which has a vacuum valve) and connect it to your sealer’s hose or canister port. Run the vacuum cycle to remove air. A canister can keep chips from going stale or preserve fresh fruits without crushing them. Many kitchen brands sell canister sets in small, medium, and large sizes. They stack neatly in the pantry or fridge, and you can see the contents. For best results, wipe the lid seals clean after each use and make sure the rubber gasket is seated properly so the canister stays airtight.

• Food Storage Containers: Some vacuum systems come with various sized containers (ranging from a few ounces up to several cups). These often have snap-on lids that you vacuum with the sealer. Use smaller ones for dressings or sliced fruit, medium ones for leftovers, and large ones for soups or marinated meats. These containers are usually freezer-safe. For example, you can freeze a vacuum-sealed soup or stew in a container. Because the vacuum is applied, ice crystals form more slowly, preserving flavor.

• Labeling Accessories: A small detail but very useful: include a marker or labels. Many people use a permanent marker or adhesive labels to write the contents and date on each bag or container. This isn’t sold as a vacuum accessory, but it is crucial for organization. Knowing what’s in a sealed bag or jar at a glance saves you from accidental freezer mysteries later.

Vacuum Sealer Maintenance Accessories

Keeping your vacuum sealer in top shape requires a few special accessories, especially if you have a chamber model:

• Vacuum Pump Oil: Chamber sealers use an oil-lubricated pump. Pump oil (a special light mineral or synthetic oil) is essential. Changing the oil with fresh vacuum-grade oil keeps the pump running smoothly and maintains suction power. After the first 20 hours of use (as recommended by most makers), you should change the oil to remove any manufacturing residue. Thereafter, change it about every 6 months or after heavy use. Many vacuum sealer accessory kits include a bottle of pump oil. Make sure to use only the type of oil specified by your machine’s brand.

• Replacement Gaskets and Silicone Strips: Over time, the rubber lid gasket on a chamber sealer and the silicone strip on the sealing bar can degrade. The lid gasket ensures an airtight chamber seal, and the silicone strip (often on the bottom of the lid) presses the bag’s opening during sealing. If you ever see leaks or weak vacuum, check these parts. Thankfully, replacements are sold separately. Keep an extra gasket and sealing strip on hand so you can replace them immediately when needed. Some accessory packs also include heat-sealing tape (Teflon tape) which covers the heating element to protect it and help bags release smoothly.

• Heat Sealing Tape and Tools: If you ever get debris on the seal bar or see a scratch, Teflon heat-sealing tape can cover the bar to ensure a smooth seal. Also, bag trays or holders (small plastic inserts) are sold to keep bags upright when filling and to catch drips.

• Vacuum Seal Film and Presser Rails: Less common for home use, but some commercial kits offer a vacuum packing film roll (for liquid containment) and presser rails to flatten bags. These are specialized and usually found in professional settings.

Other Useful Accessories

Beyond the basics, a few other accessories can enhance your vacuum sealing experience:

• Zipper Seal Bags: As mentioned, these are reusable and great for day-to-day snacks. Keeping a box of these on hand means quick prep and minimal waste.

• Marinade Injectors and Tumblers: Not sold by every vacuum supplier, but very handy. A marinade injector (a large syringe) can inject seasoning or juices deep into a cut of meat before or after vacuum packing, adding flavor and moisture. Some kits include small vacuum tumblers that rotate food under vacuum to intensify marination. Though not strictly required, they’re excellent for serious home chefs.

• Wine or Bottle Stoppers: Small vacuum stoppers fit wine bottles or olive oil bottles. You use the vacuum hose on the stopper to pull air out of the bottle. This keeps opened wine or oil from going stale. It’s a simple accessory if you enjoy wine or make your own olive oil blends.

• Vacuum Pouch Cutter or Stand: Some bag rolls come with a holder or cutter. If not, you can buy a cheap stand with a built-in cutter to make bag prep easier. This isn’t a sealer-specific accessory, but it’s handy.

• Accessories Kits: Many retailers sell accessory bundles or starter kits. These might include assorted bag rolls, canister attachments, jar sealers, etc. A kit can be a good way to get multiple items at a lower cost. For example, a “FoodSaver Starter Kit” might have several rolls, some bottles, and attachments all in one package.

Where to Find Vacuum Sealer Accessories

All of the accessories mentioned here can be found in our vacuum sealer accessories category. From high-quality bag rolls and storage canisters to jar sealers and pump oil, browse accessories that fit your vacuum sealer model. Using the right accessories will help you get the most out of your vacuum machine for meal prep, sous-vide cooking, and everyday storage.

Ready to stock up? Visit our vacuum sealer accessories page for deals on must-have items to keep your kitchen organized and your food fresh.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I reuse vacuum sealer bags or rolls? A: Most vacuum sealer bags are designed for single use. Standard smooth vacuum bags (chamber or external) are sealed shut with heat and are not meant to be reopened and re-sealed. However, zipper-top vacuum bags (with a valve) can usually be washed and reused several times. Rolls of bag material can be cut and sealed in new ways, so you can reuse leftover pieces by cutting a fresh seal area if you have an extra sealing bar.

Q: How do vacuum canisters and jar lids work? A: Vacuum canisters have a special locking lid with a one-way valve. To use, place food inside the canister, snap on the lid, and attach the lid’s port to your sealer or a hand pump. The air is then drawn out of the canister, creating a vacuum inside (you usually hear the clamping seal of the lid). Jar lids work similarly: they replace the regular canning lid on a jar and remove air via the valve. These accessories turn containers into vacuum-packed storage.

Q: Are vacuum sealer accessories interchangeable between brands? A: Many accessories like generic bag rolls, jars, and containers are broadly compatible, but some are brand-specific. For example, an electric jar sealer lid might only fit that brand’s jars, and vacuum hoses for containers need to fit your sealer model. Always check fit. Bags and rolls are the most universal (just match the width to your sealer). When in doubt, our accessories listings note which sealer models they fit.

Q: What is “mil” thickness in vacuum bags? A: “Mil” is 1/1000 of an inch. A 3-mil bag is 0.003 inches thick. Typical vacuum bags range from 3 to 5 mil. Thicker bags (5 mil) are stronger and better for sharp or long-term frozen foods. Thinner (3 mil) are fine for short-term refrigeration or soft items. Higher mil numbers indicate more robust bags.

Q: How do I clean and store vacuum sealer accessories? A: Canisters, containers, and jar lids can be washed in warm, soapy water. Rinse and let them dry completely before reusing or storing. You generally shouldn’t put them in the dishwasher unless the manufacturer says it’s safe (some plastics can warp). Vacuum bags (if reusable) should be washed and dried if you plan to reuse them. Store unused bags/rolls in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Keep pump oil tightly closed. If storing canisters long-term, you can leave lids slightly ajar to avoid trapping odors or moisture.

Q: Are vacuum zipper bags as effective as regular vacuum-sealing bags? A: Zipper vacuum bags with a vacuum port are convenient and can remove most air, but they may not hold a vacuum as long as the heat-sealed bags. For short-term use (fridge or a day or two), they work well. For long-term freezer storage, heat-sealed bags are recommended.

Q: Which vacuum sealer accessories should I buy first? A: Start with the basics: vacuum bag rolls or pre-cut bags that fit your machine. These are essential for any sealing. Next, get a jar sealer if you plan to store dry goods or sauces in jars. If you have a chamber sealer, get the correct pump oil immediately. Zipper bags or a canister kit can come next based on your needs. Over time, you can add wine stoppers, more bag rolls, or bulk packs as needed.