Air vent holes

Air vent holes are small perforations punched into a bag so that air trapped inside can escape once the product is packed and the bag is closed. They are especially common on OPP bags for garments.

Why they matter

A folded shirt or sweater traps a lot of air. Without an escape route the bag balloons, slides around when stacked, fits poorly in cartons and can push a resealable strip open. Vent holes let packers press the air out so the bag sits flat against the product.

How they are made

Holes are pin- or punch-perforated during bag making. They may be a few millimetre-sized holes or fine micro-perforations. On printed bags, plan their position with the artwork so they do not fall across a logo or key text.

When not to use them

Vent holes open the pack to the outside. Avoid them for anything that needs a moisture, oxygen or aroma barrier, such as coffee, nuts, dried foods or moisture-sensitive cosmetics, because they will shorten shelf life.