StormBag uses a super-absorbent polymer core that activates with water. When placed near flood water or sprayed with a hose, each bag expands from 1 lb to 33 lbs in just 3 minutes — creating a solid flood barrier with no sand, shovels, or extra labor required.

StormBags work with fresh water — any non-saltwater source such as tap water, a garden hose, rain, pool water, or standing floodwater. The water does not need to be filtered or drinkable.

A StormBag weighs 1 lb dry and 30–35 lbs fully hydrated. Each bag absorbs approximately 4 gallons of water, expanding in 3–5 minutes when submerged.

StormBags remain fully expanded as long as they stay wet. In hot, dry conditions they will gradually lose moisture over 1–2 weeks. If left exposed to floodwater they stay at full size indefinitely.

The number depends on your home's layout and flood risk. For a standard doorway, we recommend 4–6 bags. For full perimeter protection of a home, 20–50+ bags may be needed. Use our Storm Protection Planner for a personalized recommendation.

Yes. StormBag has received approval from both FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and the Department of Homeland Security for emergency flood mitigation use. The bags have also been field-tested by National Guard units across the country.

StormBag cannot be hydrated in salt water, but will work to repel salt water once they are hydrated with fresh water. For coastal protection: activate your StormBags with a garden hose or other freshwater source before deploying them against rising salt water. Once hydrated with fresh water, StormBags effectively block salt water flooding, including coastal storm surge and hurricane flooding.

StormBag sandless sandbags are designed for standard flood events — heavy rain, storm surge, overflowing rivers, and similar scenarios. They create an effective water barrier when properly stacked and deployed. For extreme flood events, consult your local emergency management office for additional guidance.

Yes — the contents of StormBag are non-toxic. Once hydrated and dried out, some customers place used bags around trees or garden beds to help retain soil moisture during dry conditions.

Store your dry StormBags in a cool, dry place in their original packaging or a sealed bag. Keep them away from moisture before use. Properly stored, dry StormBags have a 5-year shelf life.

Dry StormBags have a 5-year shelf life when stored in a cool, dry place. Storage guidelines: unopened cases can be stored flat, stacked no more than 5 high, in a dry environment away from direct sunlight.