The last thing in the world anyone wants to deal with is an emergency such as a fire, but unfortunately, they happen. That’s why it’s prudent to be prepared as much as possible and do everything you can to keep your most valuable documents safe.
Some documents can be replaced easily, but others are much more important and difficult to replace if they’re damaged in a fire. A fireproof document bag, such as theMoKo’s Fireproof Money and Document Bag, can withstand high temperatures and offers several layers of protection.
What to know before you buy a fireproof document bag
Items to store
Fireproof document bags are excellent for storing difficult or nearly impossible-to-replace documents. This includes passports, birth and marriage certificates, deeds, money or photos. Legal records are often kept in fireproof bags and some electronic devices.
Sizes
Envelope-style bags are for storing small valuables and identification documents. Since they’re around the size of a bank deposit bag, you won’t be able to keep papers unless they’re folded several times.
Folder-style bags are best for storing paperwork; depending on their size, they can hold between 100 and 500 sheets of paper. If you intend to keep legal papers inside, ensure the bag is large enough to fit oversized documents.
Expandable organizers offer maximum storage capacity, holding up to 500 sheets of paper. You can store laptops, tablets and many other valuables inside, so it’s a wise investment for a home or business owner.
Materials and construction
Fireproof bags are made of several layers of synthetic materials, namely fire-retardant silicone-coated fiberglass. Most bags also feature an aluminum foil interior or lining, which helps maintain the internal temperature, and protects your documents from sustaining heat damage.
Fireproof document bag features
Closure style
Most fireproof document bags havezipper or Velcro closures to seal the contents thoroughly. Premium bags usually have multiple closure styles since the redundancy offers maximum protection.
Compartments
Fireproof document bags usually have a single pocket, though certain styles can feature additional slots, pockets or compartments. Often referred to as organizer bags, these are perfect if you want to optimize space and keep valuables accessible.
Warranties
When you begin comparing fireproof document bags, you may notice many of them boast guarantees or warranties. While it’s great for a manufacturer to stand behind their product, you only find out if the bag is any good if the worst-case scenario happens.
If the bag fails to protect your valuables in a fire, the manufacturer can only replace the bag; they don’t cover hardship or damages. The guarantee or warranty usually covers replacement if you notice a manufacturer defect in the bag.
Fireproof document bag cost
Small envelope-style fireproof document bags cost between $10 and $20. If you’d like to store standard papers, electronics or other valuables, expect to spend closer to $40 on a large-capacity design. For maximum storage and protection, you can spend up to $60.
Fireproof document bag FAQ
I see different temperatures listed on fireproof document bags. What do they mean?
A. There are usually two temperatures listed: one is the external temperature the bag can withstand, and the other is the temperature maintained on the inside. On average, bags have 1,000-2,000 degreesof exterior heat resistance, which keeps the interior temperature between 125-350 degrees.
Why are fireproof document bags also waterproof?
A. Assuming there is a fire, there’s a good chance that the property or residence will be hosed down to put it out. Some bags are marked waterproof, whereas others are listed as water-resistant, so read the specs carefully to understand the bag’s total protection thoroughly.
Which fireproof document bag should I get?
Best of the best
MoKo Fireproof Money and Document Bag: available at Amazon
Our take: This well-designed bag offers superior fire and water resistance and is spacious enough to hold severaldocuments.
What we like:This bag has a silicone-coated retardant-fiberglass exterior and an aluminum foil interior for maximum protection and can withstand temperatures as high as 1,000 degrees. It has zipper, hook and loop closures, and it folds easily for convenient storage.
What we dislike: It doesn’t offer as much depth or width as other fireproof document bags.
Best bang for your buck
Bruce Fireproof Document Safe Bag: available at Amazon
Our take:This bag isn’t as big as some other models, but it gets the job done and protects your most valuable documents in case of a fire.
What we like: It has a non-itchy fiberglass interior and a liquid silicone-coatedretardant-fiberglass exterior, which can withstand temperatures as high as 700 degrees. It has a flexible, waterproof design and can fit jewelry and other small valuables.
What we dislike:It doesn’t offer airtight containment like other bags.
Honorable mention fireproof document bag
Roloway Fireproof Document and Money Bag: available at Amazon
Our take: This is a highly flame-resistance bag with an extra-large capacity for storing several documents.
What we like:It can withstand temperatures up to 2,000 degrees, and the interior is coated withhigh-tech non-itchy silicone fiberglass. It has a foldable design that makes it easy to store in a filing cabinet, and a secure zipper, hook and loop closure for optimal protection.
What we dislike: Its large capacity might be a turnoff for those who want something compact to store small valuables and documents such as passports and birth certificates.
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Kevin Luna is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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