Store in a dry, shady spot. Do not store in the sun.
Miracle Sandbags contain a super absorbent polymer that react and swell on contact with water. Once activated (typically 5 minutes), the water is contained as a gel within the fabric, thus acting as a barrier.
One can pre-activate them via dunking in a container of water or water source like a stream, before laying them in position. Or one can simply lay them in position and wait for the rain or spray with a hose.
Depending on your situation, you may pre-activate them or let the weather activate them. Miracle Sandbags can be placed in position and wait for water to arrive. If a current of water is expected, partially activating them is recommended so that they don’t float away. If building a retaining wall is desired, pre-soaking & stacking them is recommended.
No, Miracle Sandbags do not work with salt water, calcium, lime or chlorine. There is a chemical reaction that causes the absorbed water to be released back out, making them not effective as a barrier & must then be thrown away.
Ideally, place Miracle Sandbags in the path of problem water & divert it before it becomes a problem. They can also be used to absorb & contain a leak or spill.
Yes, this is quite normal. During our manufacturing process the needles can pull the powder through the stitched seam, which may cause crystals to appear the first time you activate the product. The gelled water will wash away with water, degrade over time & is non-toxic & nonhazardous.
1. Un-activated: indefinite, so long as they are stored in their sealed package and kept dry and out of the sun until needed.
2. Activated : if left in position many factors influence longevity such as frequency of use, sun, wind, rain, humidity, etc.
Yes, you can certainly re-use them. Once activated, Miracle Sandbags will remain active until the water inside begins to evaporate. The time taken for evaporation is dependent on environmental conditions. If left in position, they will shrink while evaporating and grow again when re-exposed to water. Over time the Miracle Sandbag’s performance reduces.
Yes, after use, the water inside the Miracle Sandbag will begin to evaporate so they will get smaller. It is best to store in a dry & shady environment. Once re-exposed to water, they will absorb & swell again.