Transparent cosmetic bags have become an essential item for those in the field of cosmetic and beauty accessories. Not only can it easily see the contents, but it can also meet the security inspection requirements of various places such as airports. When choosing a clear cosmetic bag, the choice of material is crucial. TPU and PVC are two common clear materials used to make cosmetic bags. So which one is better? Let’s discuss the two clear materials from the following points, it can help you to choose the right material for your brand.
What are TPU and PVC?
TPU (Thermoplastic polyurethanes) is a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer rubber. It is mainly divided into polyester type and polyether type. It has a wide hardness range (60HA-85HD), wear resistance, oil resistance, transparency, and good elasticity. It is widely used in daily necessities, sporting goods, toys, decorative materials, medical devices, and other fields.
Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is a polymer formed by vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) polymerization in the presence of initiators such as peroxides and AZO compounds or by free radical polymerization under the action of light or heat. In simple terms, PVC is a kind of plastic and one of the largest plastic products in the world.
The comparison between TPU and PVC
In terms of durability, TPU has obvious advantages. TPU is thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer rubber with excellent wear and tear resistance. Imagine that when we use cosmetic bags daily, we often put them into various bags or move them back and forth on the desktop. TPU cosmetic bags can easily cope with these frictions and pulls, are not easy to be damaged and scratched, and have a relatively long service life. PVC, that is, polyvinyl chloride, although also has a certain durability, but in the long-term use process, especially when frequently folded or squeezed by sharp objects, it may gradually crack and other problems. For example, the corners of some PVC cosmetic bags are prone to wear and cracking after a period of use.
In terms of environmental performance, TPU is even better than PVC. TPU is a relatively environmentally friendly material. It has less pollution to the environment during the production process, and the discarded TPU products can be recycled to a certain extent. In contrast, the production process of PVC may release some harmful substances, which puts greater pressure on the environment. After being discarded, PVC is also difficult to degrade. If it is not handled properly, it may cause long-term pollution to soil and water sources.
From the perspective of flexibility, TPU also performs well. It can easily adapt to the placement of cosmetics of various shapes, whether it is a long strip of lipstick or a round powder, it can fit well in the bag without wasting extra space. Moreover, in the process of carrying a cosmetic bag, the softness of TPU material also makes it easier to carry and store. PVC is relatively hard in texture. Although it can maintain a certain shape stability, it is slightly insufficient in flexibility.
Waterproof performance is also one of the important factors to consider. Both TPU and PVC have certain waterproof properties, but TPU has a better waterproof effect. TPU material cosmetic bags can effectively block the penetration of water. Even if water is accidentally spilled on it, you only need to wipe it gently, and the water will not penetrate the bag, thus protecting our cosmetics well. Although PVC also performs well in waterproof performance, in some special cases, such as long-term contact with water or high water pressure, water seepage may occur.
However, PVC has its advantages. First, PVC is cheaper than TPU. Besides, PVC can present a rich variety of colors and patterns, with high decoration, which can meet the pursuit of the individuality of different consumers. PVC cosmetic bags are usually more economical and affordable, which is a good choice for some consumers with limited budgets.
In short, TPU has significant advantages in durability, environmental protection, waterproofed, and flexibility. Although the price may be relatively high, it is undoubtedly a better choice for cosmetic bags in terms of long-term use and comprehensive performance. PVC, with its price advantage and rich appearance design, also has a certain foothold in the market. But if we pay more attention to quality and environmental protection, then TPU is undoubtedly our first choice.