Storing herb comes with one overriding challenge: containing the smell. To combat this problem, and to help ensure you can carry your herb with you in a discreet fashion, some savvy manufacturers have developed what they claim are "smell proof" bags and containers. While we applaud the effort, we have one important question about these storage devices: do they really work? In this post, the team at the Puffr wholesale head shop take a close look at smell-proof containers in an attempt to find out for you.

First Things First: What are Smell Proof Containers?

A smell proof container is any bag or other storage device specifically engineered to prevent strong odors from escaping. In the case of cannabis, a smell proof bag should prevent the distinctive and often potent smell of cannabis from being detected by other people and potentially even cannabis sniffing K9 units.

Some folks consider zip-top bags or plastic containers with lids that seal to be smell proof and will use them to store either their herb or their favorite customized glass pipes when traveling. But in reality, while they do contain much of the odor associated with cannabis, that containment is not complete. A true smell proof bag or container will use advanced methods to trap odor molecules and seal them inside, completely preventing detection from the outside.

How Do Smell Proof Bags and Containers Work?

There are three main principles behind the engineering of smell proof bags and containers. They are:

• The use of barrier materials: These materials, including mylar, polyethylene and activated carbon fabrics, prevent odor molecules from seeping through the exterior of the container or bag.
• The use of activated carbon filters: These filters actually absorb the odor molecules, minimizing the odds that any of them would even be able to reach the barrier materials.
• Airtight seals: Even with activated carbon filters and barrier materials in place, some odor molecules may still circulate inside the smell proof bag or container. The airtight seal is the last line of defense, preventing these molecules from leaking out and making themselves known to other people or drug-sniffing dogs.

The Different Kinds of Smell Proof Bags and Containers

There are several types of smell proof bags and containers that are currently in favor with patrons of our wholesale smoke shop. They are:

Bags

Smell proof bags may take the form of:

• Disposable mylar bags that are lightweight, affordable, and lined with some form of odor-blocking material. These are intended only for short-term storage. These are often considered the least effective type of smell proof bag.
• Reusable pouches: These bags employ multiple layers of odor-absorbing materials along with carbon linings and velcro closures.
• Travel backpacks: Some manufacturers produce full-sized backpacks and duffel bags designed for people who want to carry their cannabis discreetly while traveling or hiking.

Containers

Smell proof containers, as the name implies, are typically some type of inflexible storage device. Popular choices with stoners include:

• Glass jars: Nothing cutting-edge about this classic type of smell-proof container. Glass is non-porous and will not absorb odors. When combined with airtight seals as found on some types of Mason jars, they can be quite effective at containing cannabis odors.
• Carbon-lined storage cases: These are a step up from glass jars when it comes to keeping cannabis odors inside. These containers typically feature activated charcoal liners whose porous structure physically traps odor molecules. Often considered among the most reliable smell-proof containers.
• Vacuum sealed storage containers: The vacuum sealed storage container comes in a wide variety of sizes and styles from pocket-size containers to those large enough to contain your herb and your custom bong. These containers enable the user to completely remove air from inside, thereby leaving no space for odor molecules to congregate, meaning there are no odor molecules to escape and set off suspicious looks from others.

So, Do Smell-Proof Bags and Containers Really Work?

The short answer is yes. The long answer is a little more complicated. The fact is that, like just about everything else in life, the effectiveness of smell proof bags and containers depends, at least in part, on how much you are willing to spend. Inexpensive choices are more likely to allow small amounts of cannabis odor to escape. And while the amount may not be enough to alert other people, it is usually more than enough to catch the attention of a trained K9 unit.

The Main Benefits of Smell Proof Storage Bags and Containers

• Discretion: Quality smell proof bags and containers enable you to store or transport your herb without attracting attention.
• An effective storage method: Airtight storage bags and containers will keep out air, light and moisture, making them very effective long-term storage devices for your herb.
• The ability to organize your product: Many of the higher-end containers come with compartments that can be labeled, indicating what you have stored inside.
• Peace of mind: Despite the widespread and ongoing efforts to legalize herb possession, it is still considered a federal crime. Quality smell proof bags and containers can provide a wee bit of extra peace of mind when storing or especially transporting your herb.

Things to Consider Before Buying Smell Proof Bags and Containers

When shopping for smell proof bags and containers, keep the following in mind:

Trust the Puffr Wholesale Head Shop to fulfill Wholesale Smoking Needs

Smell proof bags and containers allow for the discreet storage of your cannabis products. But not all are created equal. The manufacturer of high-quality bags and containers requires the use of high-quality odor-capturing and sequestering materials, and these materials cost money. If you are serious about the discreet storage and transport of your herb, you'll shell out a few extra bucks and get a smell proof container that will do the job without fail.

At the Puffr wholesale smoke shop, we offer a wide variety of smell proof storage devices to suit your needs. And if you have any questions, write to us at contact@puffr.com.