Grip Seal Bags vs Zip Lock Bags: What Is the Difference?
If you are looking for resealable plastic bags, you will see lots of names: grip seal bags, press seal bags, resealable bags, poly bags, zip bags and zip lock bags. Here is what the names mean and what really matters when you choose.
Same type of bag, different names
In the UK, grip seal bags are clear polythene bags with a strip along the top that presses closed and can be opened and closed again. The same type of bag is also sold as press seal, resealable, self seal or zip bags. Which name is used often depends on the supplier and the region.
| Name you may see | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Grip seal bag | Clear polythene bag with a press-to-close strip (the UK term) |
| Press seal bag | The same type of bag |
| Resealable or self seal bag | The same type of bag |
| Zip bag | Often the same bag, but sometimes a slider-type closure |
| Zip lock bag | Often used generally, but Ziploc is a brand name |
| Poly bag | A general term, which can include bags with no seal at all |
"Ziploc" is a brand name, and some bags with a sliding zip fastener work differently from a press-to-close strip. Always check the product description for how the bag closes.
Types of closure
- Press-to-close strip: two interlocking edges you press together by hand. This is what grip seal bags use.
- Slider zip: a small slider that you pull along the top. Common on larger storage bags.
- Adhesive strip: a peel-and-stick strip that is usually single use.
- No seal: plain polythene bags that you fold or tie.
What really matters when you choose
- Size: given as internal dimensions, opening width x height. See our size chart in millimetres and inches.
- Thickness: thicker plastic is stronger and more durable.
- Clarity: clear bags let you see what is inside.
- Seal quality: a good strip closes fully along its length and can be reused.
- Pack size: how many bags you need, and whether a trade carton would be better value.
When grip seal bags are the right choice
Grip seal bags are ideal for small parts, jewellery, fixings, samples, documents, cables and anything else you want to keep clean, visible and easy to reuse. For very large items or heavy loads, a different type of packaging may be better.
Reusable?
Yes, you can reseal grip seal bags many times. Read more in our guide: are grip seal bags reusable?
Frequently asked questions
Is a grip seal bag the same as a Ziploc?
They do the same job. Ziploc is a brand, and its bags are one type of resealable bag.
Are grip seal bags airtight?
They close securely and keep out dust and moisture, but they are not a vacuum seal or guaranteed airtight.
Are they waterproof?
They are resistant to water, dirt and dust. For anything that must stay dry, make sure the seal is fully closed and the contents are dry when you pack them.
Browse our range
Our grip seal bags are clear, strong, reusable and resealable, in 16 sizes from 2cm x 2cm to 20cm x 10cm. For large volumes, see our wholesale grip seal bags.