SPLF vs. Silicone: Which Reusable Bag Is Right for Your Kitchen?
Switching to reusable bags is easy, but choosing between PEVA and silicone depends entirely on how you plan to use them.
A good reusable bag must be genuinely leakproof and easy to clean, but material choice dictates everything else. PEVA bags, like SPLF’s, offer incredible value and a familiar zip-top feel, while platinum silicone bags provide unmatched durability for cooking and freezing.
- PEVA for Value PEVA bags are significantly more affordable, making them a great entry point for replacing disposable zip-top bags for cold storage.
- Silicone for Heat Only platinum silicone bags can handle the high temperatures of sous vide cooking, microwaving, and boiling, offering far more versatility.
- Cleaning Differences Silicone bags are generally dishwasher-safe and easy to sanitize. Most PEVA bags require careful hand-washing and air drying to prevent damage.
- Seal Integrity SPLF’s double-zipper is effective but requires careful alignment. Lekue’s clamp system is foolproof for liquids but adds bulk.
Best Overall: SPLF 6 Pack Reusable Gallon Freezer Bags
Store and freeze food with confidence using these extra-thick, food-grade PEVA bags. Their upgraded double-closure design provides a truly airtight an
- Incredible value with six bags for a low price
- Familiar zip-top design is intuitive and easy to use
- Extra-thick material feels more durable than other PEVA bags
- Lays flat for easy storage in drawers
- Hand-wash only and can be tricky to dry completely
- Not safe for microwave, sous vide, or high heat
- Double zipper requires careful pressure to be truly leakproof
Runner Up: Lekue Reusable Silicone Bag
Made from 100% platinum silicone, this versatile bag is completely leakproof for storing liquids. It’s also durable enough for sous vide cooking, offe
- Extremely durable material handles boiling, sous vide, and microwave
- Totally leakproof design is trustworthy with soups and liquids
- Stands upright on its own for simple, mess-free filling
- Easy to clean thoroughly in the dishwasher
- Significantly more expensive for a single bag
- Bulky plastic locking clip can be misplaced
- Can retain odors from strong foods like onion or garlic
Side-by-side comparison
What to look for in Reusable Storage Bags
Are SPLF PEVA bags truly leakproof?
Yes, when sealed correctly. The double-zip closure requires you to press firmly along the entire length of the seal. For liquids like marinades, it’s best to double-check the seal by running your fingers over it twice and storing the bag upright when possible.
Can you put the Lekue silicone bag in the oven?
No. While it’s safe for boiling water, sous vide, and the microwave, Lekue specifies that its bags are not designed for conventional or convection oven use. The direct, dry heat of an oven can damage the silicone over time.
How do you properly clean and dry the SPLF PEVA bags?
Always hand-wash them with cool or lukewarm soapy water, as hot water can warp the PEVA material and damage the zipper. To dry, prop them open over a bottle, a glass, or a dedicated bag drying rack to ensure complete air circulation and prevent mildew growth.
Is PEVA a safe material for food storage?
Yes, PEVA (polyethylene vinyl acetate) is considered a safe and non-toxic alternative to PVC. It is free from BPA, phthalates, and chlorine, making it a food-grade material suitable for storing and freezing a wide variety of foods.
The bottom line
- SPLF 6 Pack Reusable Gallon Freezer Bags: Get these if you want an affordable, multi-pack solution for everyday cold storage and want to reduce single-use plastic waste.
- Lekue Reusable Silicone Bag: Choose this if you need a single, ultra-durable bag for both storing liquids and high-heat cooking applications like sous vide.
For most people looking to replace disposable zip-top bags for sandwiches and freezer storage, the SPLF bags offer unbeatable value. However, for those who need a bag that can also handle cooking tasks like sous vide or reheating liquids, the durable Lekue silicone bag is the superior investment.
