When it comes to packaging, not all plastic bags are created equal. One of the most important—yet often overlooked—factors is plastic bag thickness. Whether you’re packaging food, retail items, industrial components, or promotional goods, selecting the correct micron (µm) thickness is essential to ensure the bag performs as expected.
Understanding how to choose the right thickness isn’t just about aesthetics or feel—it directly affects the bag’s strength, durability, cost-efficiency, and compliance with regulations. In this guide, we’ll explore why plastic bag thickness matters, what micron levels mean, and how to choose the right one for your product needs.
Plastic bag thickness is commonly measured in microns (µm) or millimeters (mm). One micron is one-thousandth of a millimeter (1 µm = 0.001 mm). In some countries, including the U.S., thickness may be expressed in mils (1 mil = 25.4 µm), but in Malaysia and many other parts of the world, microns are the standard.
The thicker the bag, the more resistant it is to:
However, thicker doesn’t always mean better—the right thickness depends on your specific application.
At Teong Chuan Plastic, plastic bags are available in a wide range of thicknesses suited for different industries. Here’s a simplified guide to help you match micron range with potential usage:
Micron Range | Typical Usage | Notes |
10 – 20 µm | Produce bags, light-duty food packaging | Thin and economical, not suitable for sharp or heavy items |
25 – 35 µm | Bread bags, garment bags, general light packaging | Flexible and affordable for everyday retail use |
40 – 50 µm | Supermarket bags, light industrial parts | Good balance of strength and cost |
60 – 70 µm | Frozen food bags, medium-weight retail packaging | Withstands cold storage and moderate weight |
80 – 100 µm | Hardware packaging, multi-use household bags | High durability, suitable for items with sharp edges |
100+ µm | Heavy-duty industrial packaging, sand bags | Maximum strength and puncture resistance |
The right plastic bag thickness ensures the bag performs well during handling, storage, and transportation. Here’s how:
Thicker bags can hold heavier items without tearing. For example, a 20 µm bag may be perfect for bread, but it would tear under the weight of canned goods. For products with sharp edges—like screws or tools—you’ll want to go for 80 µm or more to prevent punctures.
Thicker bags offer better protection against moisture, oxygen, and contamination. This is especially important for perishable items, frozen food, or chemical products that need reliable sealing and storage.
Sometimes, a slightly thicker bag gives your product a more premium feel—especially for luxury apparel or promotional items. It helps retain shape and gives customers confidence in the packaging quality.
Thinner bags take up less space and cost less to ship in bulk, but they can require more double-bagging or careful handling. Thicker bags may cost slightly more upfront, but they often reduce product damage and returns in the long run.
To simplify the selection process, here’s a reference table based on product categories:
Product Type | Recommended Thickness | Reason |
Fresh Produce | 15 – 20 µm | Lightweight, high turnover, minimal risk of damage |
Bakery Items | 25 – 30 µm | Moderate handling, low barrier needs |
Clothing / Textiles | 30 – 40 µm | Protection from dust, keeps product neatly folded |
Frozen Food | 50 – 70 µm | Requires cold resistance, stronger seal strength |
Electronics Accessories | 60 – 80 µm | Puncture protection and anti-static options available |
Hardware & Tools | 80 – 120 µm | High durability to resist tears and sharp edges |
Industrial Bulk Packaging | 100 – 150+ µm | Heavy items, often require reinforced or gusseted design |
In Malaysia, certain states have implemented bans or charges on single-use plastic bags to reduce environmental impact. While the laws may vary by state or city, being aware of thickness thresholds can help your business comply with regulations.
For instance, some regions require that plastic bags be biodegradable or meet a minimum thickness (e.g., 40 µm) to be considered reusable or exempt from plastic bag bans.
If sustainability is part of your brand’s commitment, you might consider:
Teong Chuan offers multiple eco-friendly bag solutions while maintaining the required structural integrity through carefully selected microns.
Choosing the right plastic bag thickness is a decision that directly affects your product’s performance, customer experience, and compliance. From food packaging and fashion retail to industrial hardware, each product has its own requirements—and matching the right micron ensures your packaging is fit for purpose and cost-effective.
At Teong Chuan plastic company in Malysia, we offer a wide range of plastic bag thickness options, customized to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for light-duty bags for daily use or heavy-duty solutions for industrial goods, our team is here to help you choose the right micron for optimal performance.
Need help choosing the right plastic bag thickness for your products?
Get in touch with us today for expert advice and custom manufacturing support tailored to your business.
