The shelf life of unused body bags mainly depends on raw material, production process and storage environment. For common PEVA and PVC body bags, the normal shelf life ranges from 3 to 5 years when stored correctly. High-quality thickened PEVA body bags can reach more than 5 years, while heavy-duty biohazard and emergency reserve body bags that meet strict epidemic and disaster standards may have a shelf life up to 10 years, which are specially produced for long-term stockpiling by government and medical institutions.

Proper storage conditions are critical to retain performance. They should be kept in cool, dry and dark warehouses, with temperature controlled between 10℃ and 25℃ and relative humidity at 40%–60%. Direct sunlight, ultraviolet radiation, high temperature, humid air and sharp items must be avoided. UV rays and heat will make the plastic film brittle, damage sealed seams and zippers, and weaken leak-proof and isolation functions, greatly shortening the usable time.

It must be clarified that the shelf life only applies to unused and intact products. Once the package is opened or the bag is loaded with remains, it is disposable and cannot be stored and reused. For official bidding, hospital and morgue procurement, buyers should refer to the expiration date printed on product labels and outer cartons, as different manufacturers have different specifications. Expired body bags carry risks of rupture and fluid leakage, failing to meet biosafety requirements.