The versatility of bulk bags is well known. They provide a strong, reliable and weatherproof way to store and move various goods and materials. Bulk bags are a safe and affordable packaging solution that are often used to keep moisture out, especially when used to store sand, cement powder, fertilisers, grain and similar materials.
Although they are water-resistant, standard bulk bags are not made for effective drainage. This is where drainable bulk bags come in handy. These are specially made bulk bags that enable the controlled release of liquids from goods that need to be kept dry or that need to dry en route to their destination.
Custom Bulk Bags is a leading manufacturer and supplier of bulk bags in South Africa. We produce up to 3.5 million units per year and our products can safely hold between 500kg and two tonnes of material per bag. Our offerings include water-resistant and drainable bulk bags.

How do drainable bulk bags work?
A drainable bulk bag works by using a certain fabric weave that promotes water egress while preserving the bag’s structural integrity. Unlike the standard weave, drainable bulk bags have alternating sections of standard and unidirectional polypropylene tapes. The standard sections provide strength and support whereas the unidirectional sections allow water and other liquids to pass through and drain quickly.
For companies that handle materials with an inherent moisture content, where effective dewatering is essential for product quality and safety, drainable bulk bags are the necessary solution. Here are a few instances from the real world:
- Construction – After processing, sand, gravel, and crushed stone often retain moisture. Contractors may effectively dewater these materials on the construction site with drainable bulk bags, guaranteeing peak performance and avoiding problems like weaker concrete or foundation concerns brought on by too much water.
- Agriculture – The moisture content of harvested crops, such as peanuts, maize, and soybeans, might fluctuate. Farmers can store and transport their produce while promoting the natural drying process by using drainable bulk bags. This preserves the products’ quality and marketability by slowing down the formation of mould and mildew.
- Chemicals – Before undergoing additional processing or storage, some chemical substances may need to be dewatered. Drainable bulk bags offer a secure and effective method of handling these compounds, reducing the possibility of contamination and guaranteeing the chemicals’ integrity for use in subsequent processes.
- Recycling – Some recycled materials, such as paper pulp and plastic pellets, can contain water. Recycling facilities can effectively dewater these items before further processing thanks to drainable bulk bags, which makes the recycling process cleaner and more effective.

Dewatering bags vs uncoated standard bags
Uncoated standard bags and specialised drainable bags are both effective at drying out materials, but how do they differ? Uncoated standard bags have a loose weave of the cloth, so they allow for some natural water permeation even though they are not made with drainage in mind.
For low-moisture materials where gradual, passive dewatering is sufficient, these may be a good choice. Standard uncoated bags are less expensive, but they might not be the best option for uses that call for controlled or quick drainage.
The fabric weave used in the construction of drainable bulk bags maximises liquid egress while preserving bag strength. To promote effective drainage, drainable bags may have extra design components like discharge spouts or sock-like bottoms. These products are more expensive than uncoated standard bags, but they provide substantial benefits in terms of moisture removal and preserving product quality.

Custom Bulk Bags can make the right packaging product for you
We provide a range of bulk bag options, with customisable designs and components that guarantee their suitability to your needs. Our team of professionals can help you choose the ideal fabric type, weave pattern, and discharge features. We also provide solutions for custom printing to promote your brand while your products are being stored or transported.
We are dedicated to providing continuous assistance and first-rate customer service. Custom Bulk Bags is your reliable partner in bulk packaging, regardless of whether you need basic bags or customised drainable solutions. For more information about our bulk bags or to get advice on the ideal designs, please contact us today.
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Custom Bulk Bags is a leading South African manufacturer of woven polypropylene bags for various industries, such as mining, chemicals and food. We are able to produce over 3.5-million bulk bags per year, keeping our customers in stock at all times. Our bags adhere to the highest levels of quality as a result of our stringent in-house testing and quality control programmes.
Custom Bulk Bags holds ISO 9001 certification and we currently have a number of UN-certified designs. We are a Level 2 B-BBEE manufacturer and supplier and fall under the ownership structure of Deneb Investments Limited. For more information on our products, contact sales@custombulkbags.co.za. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram for our latest news and industry insights.