Polyethylene Bags & Film: Types, Applications & Custom Options
Polyethylene (PE) is the most commonly used plastic in the world — and for good reason. It’s durable, lightweight, and moisture-resistant, making it ideal for packaging a wide range of items, including dry foods, liquids, medical products, and more.
At Rutan Poly, we manufacture custom polyethylene bags and film at our New Jersey facility, utilizing both LDPE and HDPE, depending on your specific needs. Whether you’re in food processing, retail, medical, or manufacturing, understanding the different types of polyethylene can help you choose the right packaging solution.
What Is Polyethylene?
PE (polyethylene) is a flexible thermoplastic polymer that offers:
- Strong moisture and vapor barrier properties
- Excellent durability at a low cost
- Resistance to extreme temperatures
- Flexibility and stretch in specific formats
These qualities make polyethylene a go-to choice for industrial, commercial, and food-grade packaging.
Types of Polyethylene and Their Applications
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
HDPE is non-porous and non-stretching, with a natural frosted look and a crinkle texture. It’s often used when a cost-effective bag is needed and high tear resistance isn’t a priority.
Common HDPE applications:
- Liner bags
- Grocery and shopping bags
- Industrial garbage bags
- Medical-grade packaging
- Shampoo, milk, and bleach bottles
- Piping and specialty bags
HDPE Features:
- Lightweight and strong
- Impact and weather resistant
- Resistant to mold, mildew, insects
- Long-lasting and easy to shape
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
LDPE is the most commonly used material in plastic bags. It’s soft, stretchable, and clear, offering great printability and higher tear resistance than HDPE.
Ideal for:
- Boutique and retail carry bags
- Compost and mulch bags
- Press seal bags
- Mailers and shipping envelopes
- Heavy-duty garbage bags
- Film and paneling
LDPE Features:
- Low-temp flexibility
- Good transparency
- Tough and corrosion-resistant
- Not ideal for high heat or rigid strength needs
Customizing Polyethylene Bags & Film
At Rutan Poly, we manufacture every bag or film roll to your specifications. Whether you’re using HDPE or LDPE, we can help you create a product that performs well, fits your process, and reflects your brand.
Available custom options:
- Custom sizes and gauges
- Clear or tinted colors
- Printing (up to 9 colors)
- Perforations, hang holes, gussets, or venting
- Additives for UV, anti-static, or slip resistance
- Seal types: bottom seal, side seal, wicketed, etc.
Made in the USA – Manufactured in New Jersey
We produce all polyethylene bags and film at our in-house facility in New Jersey, giving you direct access to the manufacturer, faster lead times, and tighter quality control.
Whether you need a short run or high-volume production, you’re getting a reliable U.S.-based team who understands your industry.
Request a Quote
Need help deciding between HDPE or LDPE? Want to explore your custom options?
Contact us here or call us at 800‑872‑1474. We’ll help you choose the right material and design a polyethylene packaging solution tailored to your exact needs.
