Tote bags are products that are modern and chic at the same time. They are permanent companions in our daily tasks.
No matter if you take your tote for grocery shopping, for your work accessories, or simply because you like its look, it is obvious that it will get dirty and worn after some time. However, it does not mean it is hard to maintain its appearance and hygiene, so the tote bag will last longer if properly washed and cleaned.
Here, you will find all the information if you are looking for how to wash a tote bag by hand without shrinking, including the types of material used for the tote, washing instructions, drying your tote, and how and where you should store it after washing it.
Understanding the Material of Tote Bag
To get started on the washing process, it is important to determine the material of your tote bag. Primarily, the type of cloth used in making your tote bag will determine the approach that should be used in washing the bag.
There are many types of tote bags, each type being made of a particular material that has certain methods of cleaning and washing. The most common materials used for tote bags include:
Canvas
Other fabrics include canvas, which is a thick, unique fabric typically used in the production of tote bags. It is usually produced from cotton or linen, but today’s type of canvas may be made of polyester or a combination of both.
The canvas tote bags are durable and portable, as they can contain heavy items. But they are quite thick, and this makes dirt and stains accumulate and can only be removed by washing.
Cotton
Cotton is also extensively used for tote bags and is a much sought-after material. It is very thin and comfortable while experiencing breathability, which will allow it to be used on an everyday basis. Cotton tote bags may be easier to wash than canvas bags, but they can easily shrink if not well handled when washing.
Polyester and Nylon
Plastic tote bags are usually made from polyester and nylon materials. They are often used due to their water-resistant nature. These are mostly easy to wash and dry and therefore can practically be used for a bag that is often found outside.
Leather and Faux Leather
Leather and faux leather totes are not as popular as the minimalist ones but are preferred by customers due to their fashionable look. These materials are very sensitive and should not be washed through a normal washing process.
Contrary to this, it is good to only spot clean and also condition them.
Pre-Washing Preparation
Before washing the tote bag, follow these precautionary steps:
Check the Care Label
The first thing to do while washing their tote bag is look at the care label. Almost all tote bags carry a label at the back or bottom that gives detailed information on how to wash the bags.
This label will inform you if the Bag can be washed with a washing machine or has to be washed by hand or taken to a dry cleaner.
If the label is not there, then it is safer to hand wash your bag because prolonged washing in a washing machine might damage it.
Empty and Shake Out Your Bag
It is also important to point out that you should not have any items in your tote bag before washing it. Look inside all the pockets. You can see if there are some items left, crumbs, or any debris. Later on, try to shake your Bag a little so that all the remaining dirt or dust particles attached to it will be removed.
Pre-Treat Stains
Note that if your tote bag has any marks in it, it’s wise to treat them before washing your tote bag. You may use a mild soap, a stain remover, or water mixed with baking soda.
Then apply the solution to the stained area by rubbing the area gently with a soft brush or cloth. After adding the detergent, let it stand for about 10–15 minutes before proceeding to the washing process.
Washing Your Tote Bag
Let’s explore the step-by-step washing process for a tote bag:
Machine Washing
Not every tote bag can be washed in the washing machine; nevertheless, if the tote bag is made of strong fabrics such as cotton or polyester, then it can be washed in the washing machine, most especially in the gentle cycle.
Here’s how to machine wash your tote bag:
Place the Bag in a Laundry Bag: To avoid the tote bag being damaged by the rough washing of the washing machine, place it inside another bag, which should preferably be a mesh bag or a pillowcase. This will protect the bag and prevent the straps as well as the embellishments from getting damaged.
Use a Gentle Cycle: As for the washing mode, use the gentle or delicate wash cycle and wash with cold water. Some fabrics may even shrink away, or some of the colors on them may run away when washed in hot water, so it is recommended not to use them.
Mild Detergent: It goes without saying that one should use a gentle soap solution that should not contain bleach or other aggressive chemicals. These can lead to a loss of elasticity and color of the fabric fibers.
Avoid Fabric Softener: Even though you buy fabric softener to make your clothes feel softer, it may leave a residue in your tote bag, which attracts dirt. If possible, it is best not to use it. If it is possible, I believe it is best not to attend it.
Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure that all sorts of detergents used in washing the fabric have been removed adequately by washing the washing machine.
Hand Washing
If your tote bag is made of weak material like fabric or leather or if your Bag has some decoration that can be easily removed by a washing machine, then you should follow hand washing procedures.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wash a tote bag by hand without shrinking:
Fill a Basin with Cold Water: Prepare cold water in a basin or sink where several modifications to the utensils will be done. Imagine when your fabric is in contact with hot water; the worst will happen as it will shrink.
Add Mild Detergent: Now, mix in a small quantity of mild washing detergent with the water in the container. Mix the water with the soap to get a soapy water solution.
Submerge the Tote Bag: Put your tote bag with the water reaching its sides; that is, the Bag should be immersed in water. Swish the water with your hands around the clothes so that the water starts to spread, as this helps in the removal of dirt and grease.
Spot Clean Stains: In case there is any stain that seems particularly difficult to remove, then one can use a soft brush or cloth to remove the stains. Do not be too forceful, as this might tear the fabric.
Rinse Thoroughly: Once you are happy that the tote bag is clean, throw away the soapy water and fill the basin with fresh, cold water. There is a need to wash the bag with water until all traces of the detergent are washed off.
Drying Your Tote Bag
It is very important to dry them properly so as to maintain the shape and durability of your tote bag. Here’s how to dry different types of tote bags:
Air Drying
Air drying is the most advisable method of drying tote bags, no matter the type of material used to make them. Follow these steps:
Reshape the Bag
It is, therefore, advisable to reshape the tote bag while still wet after washing the tote bag. This is useful in avoiding the formation of creases or lines on the surface of the bag, besides helping to retain the original shape of the bag.
Lay Flat on a Towel
Now place the tote bag on a clean, dry towel. It is best to lay the tote bag flat. Place the bag inside the towel, then roll the towel all over to dry out the excess water. Also, ensure that you do not twist or wind the bag since this will stretch its fabric.
Dry in a Well-Ventilated Area
Spread the towel to uncover the bag and place it on a cooling rack or another dry towel. Store it in a dry and cool environment and preferably not exposed to direct sunlight.
They can fade, especially those that are exposed to direct sunlight, and some of them can also have their durability reduced in the process.
Avoid Using a Dryer
It is also quite a monumental sin not to wash your tote bag but instead toss it in the dryer. The heat may lead to shrinkage, discoloration, and deterioration of the fabric and other parts of the dress.
Storage and Maintenance Tips
Suppose you want your tote bag to look and function as it should, but you have to care for it properly and store it well. Here are some tips to keep your tote bag in top condition:
Storage
Store the bag in a dry place at a cool temperature. It should not be stored in places with high humidity since it becomes a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
Stuff with Tissue Paper
This prevents your tote bag from getting the wrong shape when it is packed away for a long period of time. This is particularly relevant with bags that are made from canvas or leather, such as those that have supporting rods inside the base.
Use Dust Covers
If your tote bag comes with a dust cover, then it means it will help in protecting the bag from dust and other forms of exposure to light. In your absence of a dust cover, a pillowcase made of cotton can prove to be useful, as it will help keep dust away from your tote bag.
Clean Regularly
Sometimes, normal cleaning of the fabrics may not be effective; thus, it will help to check out for dirt and stains. If your tote bag has not been stained heavily, it should be washed with a lighter wash, maybe once every two or three weeks.
Avoid Overloading
Do not overpack your tote bag with heavier stuff, as this puts pressure on the handles and strains the fabric, thus causing a breakage.
Spot Clean Spills Immediately
If you get some type of stain on your tote bag, be sure to wash it off quickly so that it does not set in. Then wipe with a clean cloth and wash the region with mild soap if the stain persists.
Rotate Your Bags
However, if you have a number of tote bags, it becomes advisable to use each tote bag at different incidents to avoid spoiling a single tote bag. This will also be helpful in making sure that you use only clean and fresh bags every time they are used.
Conclusion
A tote bag is a versatile and functional accessory that can be with you over a period of years. Due to its usage, it may become dirty faster, therefore requiring a wash. But a safe and conscious washing process can make it shine without losing its durability. For a tote bag, it is best to prefer hand washing. Always keep the manufacturer guidelines on priority.
How you have in-depth information about how to wash a tote bag by hand without shrinking including machine wash.
FAQs
Can you put tote bags in the washing machine?
Washing a tote bag by hand is safe and preferred. But, in case of deep stains, you can wash it in the machine as per manufacturer guidelines (label).
How can I clean my tote bag?
Empty the Bag, shake it to remove the loosened dirt, and then remove the stains by spot cleaning. Moreover, in case of deep stains, you may go for machine washing.
Do tote bags shrink when washed?
Usually, tote bags don’t shrink on washing. However, severe machine washing may lead to shrinkage. So, machine washing is not preferred.
How do you hand wash a cotton tote bag?
Prepare a solution of the mild and eco-friendly detergent. Apply it to the Bag and rub gently. Finally, wash with the freshwater.
