The most common methods which have been used to modify the PVA coatings can be mainly divided into two phases— hydrophobically modified poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) solutions and nano modified-PVA coatings. Hydrophobically modified methods are comprised of acetal, amino resins, urea, boric acid, silane coupling agents and cationic. On the other hand, nano- SiO2, CaCO3, TiO2 particles and layered silicates are widely used to modify the PVA coatings. They offer an opportunity to explore new behaviors and functionalities beyond that of conventional materials such as water resistance, adhesive properties and barrier properties. Meanwhile, in the producing and consuming processes, modified PVA coatings will not release any toxic substances which show good marketing prospects.