Our tote bags are put through a lot. Whether you take yours from work or school, to getting groceries or running errands to a night out with friends. It is important that we are washing tote bags after regular use to avoid unwanted germs. Even if your totes are not used every day, washing them helps to remove bacteria that may have bred while stored away.

How Often Should I Wash My Tote Bags?

How often you wash your tote bags depends entirely on how often you use them. For those of us that use our tote bags for everyday use, it is recommended that they be washed every few weeks. That is because they often end up being placed on the floor, which we all know is a hotbed for bacteria. If your tote bags serve as reusable grocery bags, then it is recommended that you wash them after each shopping trip. This helps to avoid allowing bacteria to grow between trips to the store.

How Do I Clean My Tote Bags?

Cleaning your tote bag is easy to do. And what type of tote bag company would we be if we did not test it out for ourselves? How you clean your totes depends on what type of material the bag is made from and what your desired outcome is.

The Bottle Bag™ Material

If your tote bag is made from our Bottle Bag™ material, then you can wash it any way that you please! Any temperature, any detergent, dryer or line dry. The material and the silk screen will last for years. Trust us; this is our favorite fabric for grocery bags!

Organic or Recycled Cotton

Let’s talk a bit about washing if you have a tote made from any of these materials: 7oz, 10oz, Organic, or Recycled Cotton. First, they will wash well as far as most stains washing out in a regular wash. Remember that these are made from either 100% cotton or a blend of cotton. There will be some shrinkage if you wash them in the washing machine and machine dry them.

However, take a look at the size you have. If you lost 5% of the size due to washing, will it make that much difference in your use? Some people like the relaxed look of a nice washed bag. If you prefer to keep the size and look of the material consistent to what it is now, then by all means do a spot wash. You can spray certain areas that you would like cleaned then hang to dry. The recycled cotton material is 65% recycled cotton and 35% Bottle Bag, and the 7oz is a poly/cotton blend so they perform a bit better in the washing and drying machines.

Colored Materials

If you are washing a colored tote bag you can wash them with the above in mind, however you must make sure to wash like colors together! Usually canvas that is used for making tote bags is NOT prewashed fabric and the material dye may run.

To clean 15oz totes and Boat Bag totes we recommend spot cleaning. You can also have them dry cleaned.

What Are the Best Ways to Store My Tote Bags?

We do not all have ample closet storage for tucking away our tote bags when they are not in use. However, it is important that you store them in a way that they remain clean. Especially if they are going to be tucked away for extended periods of time. Here are some great spaces where you can store your tote bags in between uses:

Multi-Purpose Storage Bin

These are great for storing multiple tote bags in one spot. Place or fold the tote bags within the storage bin. Place this bin on a shelf in your closet or in the trunk of your vehicle for easy access.

Wall-Hanging Storage Bag or Racks

Much like the multi-purpose storage bins that you would store on a shelf, the wall-hanging storage bags are great if you do not have shelf space in your house or apartment. These storage bags hang directly on the wall and are great for folding and storing your tote bags. Keep them in a place near your door so you can grab them on the go.

Hooks or Hangers

Hooks or hangers are ideal for having your tote bag available as you are on your way out the door. Perhaps it is hanging near the coats by the door or by the stairs heading out to the garage. No matter where you place your hooks, if they are off the ground and in a cool, dry space, you are good to go!

In Your Vehicle

Since many of us are consistently on-the-go, keeping your tote bags stored in your vehicle is another great option. Place them on your back seat or store your totes in the trunk for easy access no matter where you may be!

Properly caring for your tote bags is what helps give them a longer life. By following the steps above, you are sure to keep your tote bag clear of harmful bacteria and looking clean.

Reach out to our Sales Representatives to learn more about the Made in USA materials we use, and see how we can assist you with putting together your tote bag design!