Simplified Food Storage: Quick & Easy with 5-Gallon Mylar and Buckets

Storing food in 5-gallon buckets is a hassle-free method—almost as simple as "set it and forget it." Let’s dive into how you can make food storage easy with these bags and buckets.

5-Gallon come in a variety of thickness from 4.3 mil, 5.5 mil, and 7 mil you also have a choice on a zip style closure called a Seal-Top / Top Seal. So, pick what is best for your storage needs. These are 

Key Considerations:

• 5-Gallon Buckets Hold a Lot: These buckets can carry quite a bit of weight, so be mindful when handling them.
• Use Mylar for Freshness: Mylar bags are essential for keeping your food sealed, fresh, and preserved. I once helped my sister move, and several of her 5-gallon buckets had cracked, spilling food. Using Mylar ensures your food stays as fresh as the day you packed it.
• Limit Stack Height: Avoid stacking more than three buckets on top of each other to prevent pressure damage.
• Elevate from Concrete: Keep your buckets off direct contact with concrete. Place them on wooden boards (like 2x4s) to maintain optimal conditions.
• Storage: Keep your food storage in cool and dark place for the longest shelf life.

Best Foods to Store in 5-Gallon Buckets:

• Wheat 
• Beans
• Rice
• Flour
• Sugar
• Animal feeds (like dog, cat, or chicken food)—while these may have a shorter shelf life, storing them in Mylar can extend their freshness.

What you need to store your food

• Mylar bags -5-gallon Mylar 
• Bucket - 5-gallon bucket & lid
• Dry and shelf stable food.
• Sealer (Mini-sealer, hair-straightener, or clothing iron (and 2x4 or metal level)
• Marker and tape to write down what you have stored.

As you can see it is easy to use the 5-gallon bags for your food storage. Follow the trick and tips and you will quickly have lots of food stored securely in 5-gallon bags and buckets.

Other Uses for 5-Gallon Bags:

5-gallon bags are also handy for storing non-food items such as sleeping bags, pillows, and other gear, keeping them dust and bug-free. Museums use Mylar and oxygen absorbers to protect paintings and artifacts from bugs and oxygen. I always keep a few 5-gallon mylar in my car, especially for transporting refrigerated items like chicken from Costco or Sam’s Club during hot weather. They don't take up much room and they are handy to have. 

In conclusion, storing food in 5-gallon buckets offers a simple, efficient way to preserve large quantities of food for long-term use. By following key guidelines like using Mylar bags for airtight sealing, limiting stack height, and keeping buckets elevated from concrete, you can ensure your food stays fresh and protected. This method is ideal for storing staples like wheat, rice, beans, and flour, as well as animal feed. And beyond food, 5-gallon buckets are incredibly versatile for organizing non-food items too. With a little care, you can make the most of this easy, low-maintenance storage solution.

Happy prepping,

Ola D Griffin

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