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“Plastic bag” means different things to different people. Some think about the container that keeps their sandwich fresh. Others imagine carrying their groceries out of the store. But supermarkets and sack lunches are only two of many uses that include most businesses and households around the world.
In the US, plastic bags measurements are taken in inches, and most commonly refer to inside dimensions. Using the length and width of the inside ensures that there is sufficient space for its contents. Width is provided first, typically followed by length, and concluded by gauge, which refers to plastic thickness. As is explained in the product descriptions below, other measurements are sometimes necessary, such as gussets or lips. More information about unique product features is provided in each description.
Open End or Lay Flat plastic bags come in two varieties: side seal and bottom seal. Side seal bags are designed for lighter materials because only two sides are sealed. The top is left open for access and the bottom is folded. Bottom seal bags are the same design without the fold. That bottom seal provides more strength, lending it to heavier applications.
Gusseted plastic bags expand to form a rectangle when filled. Relate them to paper grocery bags that have folds in the sides that allow it to cave and flatten for storage. Gussets are popular because they are scalable, allowing a bag to increase to a desired capacity. Different variations include side gusset, bottom gusset and fully gusseted. All are measured by W x gusset x L x gauge.
Bags on a roll are seamless plastic tubing with individual seals and perforations between bags. This product is common in the produce section at most supermarkets. The two main varieties are bottom seal and side seal. Both are measured by W x L x gauge. There is also a bottom seal side gusset bag on a roll that has expandable sides for greater volume. It is measured by W x L x gusset x gauge. The last variety is called star sealed bags on a roll, in which all sides of the bag meet in the middle for a central seal. These are often used for garbage disposals and drum liners.
Wicketted bags hang from the top by metal brackets. Perforated lines make it easy to remove one bag at a time by pulling downward. Bags are measured by W x L x hanging lip x gauge. Bottom gusset wicketted plastic bags are another style that feature an expandable gusset. These bags are measured by W x L x gusset x hanging lip x gauge.
Staple pack bags are similar to wicketted bags because they also hang from a lip. An individual bag is removed by pulling down, away from the staples, which tears along the perforation line. Staple packs are measured by W x L x hanging lip x gauge.
Header bags have a lip at the top with a centered hanging hole. The bottom is open for adding contents. This style of plastic bag is popular for retail display because it is easy to handle and durable on the shelf. The bags are measured by W x L x header x gauge.
Resealable or Zip bags are most well known for their role in the kitchen. They feature three sealed sides and an opening at the top with a zipper or lip, neither of which is included in its measurement. The inside dimensions use W x L x gauge.
T-shirt bags are constructed from light-weight plastic. Gussets are built into the sides and handles are created by sealing the top then cutting out a section from the center. T-shirt bags are popular in the retail and restaurant industries due to their affordability. They are measured by W x L x gusset.
Medical bags, also known as bio hazard bags, are durably produced from HDPE or PP and are resistant to tear or puncture because their contents can be hazardous to health. Many are required to meet strength standards. Common applications include medical waste, radioactive debris or dangerous chemicals. Bio hazard bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Doorknob bags and newspaper bags have a similar narrow design with an opening at one end. Doorknob bags include a hole for hanging mailers, promotions and, yes, even newspapers. Newspaper bags are typically designed to only resist the elements, and do not have a hole for hanging. Both are measured by L x W x gauge.
Merchandise bags are low-cost side sealed bags that are used primarily for retail. A wide hole at the top, near the opening, creates a handle. Merchandise bags are measured by L x W x gauge.
All are constructed from an array of plastics. To learn more about the different types, reference the chart of plastic recycling codes.