Frequently Asked Questions

Are (re)zips food safe?

Yes! (re)zip storage bags are made from an FDA-grade PEVA material which is food safe. Our products are thoroughly tested for safety by a third party and meet the highest global standards for food safety. (re)zips have always been BPA-free, phthalate-free, lead-free, and freezer safe. They’re designed for storing food. And they also happen to be perfect for toting pet treats, baby supplies, travel essentials, art supplies, and pampering products.

Do (re)zips keep food fresh longer?

Yes, because (re)zips are leakproof and airtight. Keeping air out of food helps it stay fresh for longer, reducing waste and saving money. Here’s the nitty-gritty: The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends using air-tight, well-sealing containers to store leftover food to keep bacteria out. The less oxygen that can get into the container, the less dry goods will get stale, and fewer bacteria will grow on prepared foods. Results depend on the type of food, temperature, and amount of exposure to light.

Can I use (re)zips for things other than food?

Yes, but you already knew that! We just added this question because we are obsessed with all of the different things we put into our bags. We literally text about it and send each other photos. (Fact: you can still swipe a smartphone when it's in the bag.) They are the answer to a tangle of tech cords and random dongles. We love them in airport security lines. They keep our backpacks neat, and the toddlers in our strollers busy and happy with finger food. We have been spotted at our desks eating our salad or granola parfaits directly out of our bags. Avoid storing pointy objects that might make holes. And, when your (re)zip does finally reach the end, recycle it with our partners at TerraCycle.

Can I bring (re)zips shopping?

Yes! (re)zips are the perfect way to bring home bulk foods like coffee, grains, cereals, nuts, bakery, and loose produce items. Some stores and departments have time to help you with your bags, while others prefer that you do it yourself. Ask to subtract the weight of (re)zip itself from your purchase.

What’s the best way to clean (re)zips?

Handwash: Add a drop of dish soap with water to your bag. Seal it up and shake it around. It’s sort of fun. Rinse thoroughly.
Dishwasher: Prop open bags on the top rack. Wash on a standard setting. Note: do not use high heat and sani-wash settings, which can damage (re)zips.

How should I dry (re)zips?

Prop them open on a rack (or even a glass or wooden spoon will do in a pinch) and allow them to dry thoroughly or wipe them with a clean towel before storing.

My (re)zip seal seems stiff and not as easy to close. What should I do?

Certain dish soaps may dry out the seal over time and cause it to stiffen slightly. On the rare occasion that occurs, simply wipe a thin coat of olive oil along the grooves of the seal to refresh them.

My (re)zip is plastic, right?

(re)zip may look like a bag but it’s really a mission. When we set out to reduce single-use plastic bags, we knew we had to be truly better than what’s out there. We had to rethink plastic bags. So, (re)zips are a plastic that’s substantial yet transparent, made to last yet easy to recycle, lightweight but not floppy, ultra-functional yet so well designed that we reach for them first. People have a choice. Every time we choose a (re)zip, it keeps another bag, pouch or piece of plastic wrap out of the environment. And that is a good thing.

Can I cook in (re)zips?

No, our material is made for leakproof, airtight, freezer-safe, BPA-free storage, but not for high heat. Please do not microwave or sous vide and cool hot foods before packing.

Can I use (re)zip storage bags in the microwave?

No, (re)zip bags are not designed for high heat. Do not microwave or sous vide. Cool food before storing in a (re)zip.

The smell of that onion stayed in my (re)zip. What should I do?

Some foods (you know who you are) leave an aroma in your (re)zip. Baking soda works wonders here. Simply mix warm water into the baking soda to make a thick paste. Spread it all over the inside of the bag. Let it sit for 24 hours. Wash, rinse, and dry.

Do (re)zips stain?

Stains may affect how a bag looks, but they’re just as safe and leakproof as ever. Certain colorful foods, like carrots, tomato sauce, and turmeric can stain a (re)zip. To subdue discolorations, make a paste of warm water and baking soda. Rub it onto the stain and let it sit for 24 hours. Rinse thoroughly. Wash and dry as usual.

Are (re)zips recyclable?

Yes. When your bag finally reaches the end of its use, send it to our partners at TerraCycle, who give materials new life and keep them out of food and water systems. 

When should I recycle my bag?

(re)zips work just fine when stained or misshaped. A lived-in (re)zip is proof of all the resources you’ve conserved. Even if they’re not airtight, bags worn by age are still excellent for organization, holding desk supplies, toting pet treats, toiletries, makeup, or to-go kits for baby and gym gear. That is to say, your (re)zip bag can be recycled whenever you think it’s ready. 

Are they hard to wash?

We get it, we also hate doing the dishes but washing and drying (re)zip bags takes very little effort, and every time we do it, it feels good to be part of solving the global plastic problem. Simply throwing out plastic is something we all want to stop. 

Where are (re)zips made?

(re)zips are designed in the US and manufactured in China. We have a longstanding relationship with our manufacturing partners. We share the same high standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability.

I have a product idea, where can I send it?

Inventors, thank you for continuing to share your incredible product ideas. If you have an idea that you think would be a good fit for our product line, we're all ears! Please send your idea to info@rezip.com. By submitting your idea, you agree to and acknowledge that it is Rezip Co’s policy not to sign nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) as there may be a potential conflict with our existing product development process. We strongly urge any inventor to seek protection under US patent laws if that is a concern.