Finding a fashionable, multi-functional bag suitable for everyday use can be challenging. You are heading to work, other businesses, or even a weekend trip; a tote can be your ultimate friend.
Have you ever had to deal with a bag that is too small to accommodate all your needs or too big, making it hard to carry?
Now your problem is solved! Meet the tote bag, which is relevant in all aspects of our lives, whether you are a student who has to carry his books or an office employee who requires a large bag.
In this blog post, you will learn the purpose of a tote bag, its history, various categories, and why a tote bag can be the best option for you.
What is a Tote Bag?
A tote bag is a large jute bag with an open top and two parallel handles. It looks simple but is very versatile and functional. Originally, tote bags were manufactured using rough materials such as canvas. As fashion evolved, their structure and material also upgraded.
Nowadays, tote bags may be made of leather, polyester, nylon, recycled plastics, organic cotton, and other eco-friendly fabrics.
One more reason to highlight the minimalist design of a tote bag is that it has large pockets within its structure that can contain laptops, books, groceries, and gym wear.
Tote bags usually do not include many sub-divisions that are present in other bags such as pockets and zippers. They have only one large main pocket which makes them good for the transportation of large or massive items.
History of a Tote Bag
As earlier noted, the history of tote bags can be dated back to the 17th century. The term tote means ‘to carry’ and this points to the function of the bag to carry goods conveniently.
A few decades ago, the tote bag was just a plain container that was mostly used by workers and housewives to carry items. The first totes were also produced with sophisticated fabrics, such as burlap or thick canvas, that offer great durability.
Evolution of a Tote Bag
The tote bag as we think of it today was not developed until the 1940s. The most significant evolution of the tote bag was made by LL Bean in 1944.
This decade is considered to be critical to the tote bag as it would be popularized for casual use. During the 1970s and 1980s, environmental consciousness emerged. This trend was further enhanced by the discovery and use of reusable bags in the 21st century. It was due to the increased awareness about environmental safety.
Today, tote bags do not only serve their functions of being useful items; they also represent fashion accessories. They have been welcomed and adopted by designers and brands, resulting in added varieties in terms of styles, materials, and designs.
Purpose of a Tote Bag
Tote bags are actually very handy and can be used in so many ways; that’s why they became popular. Here is a closer look at the many uses of a tote bag:
Shopping
The most basic function of tote bags is being used to carry purchases from stores, for instance, shopping. They are often large and built to be very strong, because of which they are ideal for use in holding groceries, clothes, or anything else one may choose to buy.
A tote bag is preferable to be used when shopping because it is more environmentally friendly than disposable plastic bags that cause pollution.
Work
Tote bags have always been friends of business professionals. The interior of their designs is large enough to store a laptop, notebooks, files, and many other office items. Even more often, tote bags have extra pockets or sections that make it easier to put their belongings in the most suitable place.
Leather or high-quality material bags are quite classy and should fit any casual and formal setting of work.
Travel
When it comes to traveling, no woman can ever leave her house without her tote bag. They are perfect to be used as hand luggage during traveling; they provide enough space for documents, snacks and tickets, etc.
They can also be used as beach bags where you can carry other items such as towels and sunscreens. This is an aspect that gives them a lot of popularity with travelers, as they are perfect for a trip bag that can perform several functions during the journey.
Gym
They are also useful for carrying gym wear and items such as sports shoes, shorts, t-shirts, towels, water bottles, etc. Tote bags are spacious enough to accommodate everything from exercise clothing to footwear and water and protein bottles.
There are also tote bags with water-resistant linings to enable one to carry wet items like swimming costumes and sweating towels.
Everyday Use
For regular outings or simple occasions; shopping, traveling, or lazing around, a tote bag is very convenient to use. Whether you are going for a short-term outing such as going to the grocery store, going out for coffee with friends, or a day out in town, a tote bag proves to be very handy.
Types of the Tote Bag
After knowing the purpose of a tote bag you feel surprised that tote bags come in a wide variety of styles, materials, and designs, making it easy to find one that suits your specific needs. Here are some of the most popular types of tote bags:
Canvas Tote Bags
The most popular and probably the oldest kind is canvas tote bags. Being extremely hard-wearing and sustainable, canvas handbags are great for walking from home to the office to the supermarket. They are mainly used for shopping, beach excursions, as well as other day-trip purposes.
Many people also use canvas tote bags for advertisement campaigns since the bags are easy to imprint.
Leather Tote Bags
This model is designed to give your bag an executive-prominent look and can be used in formal or business environments. They are neater looking than canvas bags and are used when going to work or business meetings, among others.
Leather tote bags seem strong and long-lasting, but do need more attention to be given to them for washing.
Designer Tote Bags
Super cool and stylish totes are on every fashion-forward and luxury lover’s list. Many of these bags use fancy fabric, beautiful and artistic designs, as well as marks of quality producers.
Handbags that are originally designed can be expensive, but they come with the fashion and convenience of a bag.
Personalized Tote Bags
Customized tote bags are some of the most common carriers that organizations and people love to use as gifts or on occasions such as weddings and birthdays. This is because the name, initials, or a special design can be added to them, making them a very special gift.
They are more individualized and hence can be used as bridal shower favors, company giveaways, or souvenirs.
Utility Tote Bags
Some bags are built for everyday use, and these are utility tote bags. Such types are usually designed with some extra features, such as divided sections, and strengthened grips, and are normally made from nylon or polyester. These totes are ideal for transporting tools, sports equipment, or any other loads that are so heavy.
As mentioned earlier, some utility totes are also waterproof, thus making the totes suitable for carrying equipment during various outdoor activities.
Eco-Friendly Tote Bags
Available in organic cotton, jute, or recycled plastic, one can say that these types of totes are of great interest to eco-conscious consumers. Durability and functionality are not the only benefits you will get from these bags; they are eco-friendly too.
Foldable Tote Bags
It is collapsible, portable to carry along with your purse or car, and easily washable.
They can be unfolded and used when needed, making them perfect for shopping trips or as a backup bag while traveling.
11 Reasons to Choose a Tote Bag
So, let us list down some of the many reasons why tote bags are now part of many people’s daily essentials. Here are 11 compelling reasons to choose a tote bag:
Versatility: Tote bags are very much needed for different purposes such as work, shopping, traveling, and many more. It has been observed that they come without or with fewer complexities in terms of construction and design, which makes it easy for the gear to fit in almost every scenario.
Spaciousness: Another major benefit of tote bags is that they allow you to have a large open cavity to accommodate just about everything that one might require. It doesn’t matter if you are a college student carrying your laptop or a housewife with her groceries, or if you are off for a day at the beach with sand toys and towels, a tote bag is enough to contain all that you need.
Eco-Friendly: Most tote bags come in natural materials such as canvas, organically grown cotton, as well as recycled plastics. Taking a tote bag as your shopping bag can go a long way in minimizing your use of plastic bags hence being environmentally friendly.
Durability: Besides the advantages, tote bags have been famous for their durability. Regardless of the material used, the heavy canvas or thick leather, a good tote bag can very well go on years of usage without much of a scratch.
Style: Tote bags can be purchased in a wide array of designs, colors, and prints, and therefore finding the bag of choice is quite easy. From plain, simple designs to multi-colored, artistic totes, totes are for everyone.
Customization: Tote bags are easy to customize; thus, one can be designed according to the style of the business or requirements to be used. Tote bags are very versatile when it comes to customization; you can write your initials, your company’s logo, or any design in a large format.
Lightweight: Still, tote bags are seldom bulky and are most often pleasantly light even when containing a good quantity of loading. This makes them convenient to use regularly.
Comfort: Tote bag handles often reach the length necessary for you to sling over your shoulder, thus sharing the given load with your arms. This makes them more comfortable to carry than many other types of bags such as briefcases, trolley cases, or suitcases.
Accessibility: The most appealing aspect of most totes is the open-top feature, which gives you easy access to your items. It is easy and convenient to get to something you want without having to waste time on zippers and clasps.
Affordability: Tote bags are available in different price ranges; therefore, most people can afford them. Whether you want to buy a cheap tote bag or a designer tote bag, then you will find it easily because they are versatile in terms of design and price.
Timelessness: Tote bags are something that does not give the impression of going out of fashion. The models of the tote bag are more practical and remain in trend for several years.
Tote bags are probably one of the most versatile and useful accessories that you can have. The article below will focus on the various factors that a person needs to consider before choosing a tote bag.
How to Choose the Right Tote Bag?
There are several aspects that must be considered when looking for the right tote bag. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a tote bag:
Purpose
Think of the purpose of the tote bag you will mostly be employing to accomplish, as this will guide your choice of its design. For instance, if you require a bag for your workplace, then there is a high probability that a structured leather tote will be the most appropriate option.
In case of shopping or other casual occasions, then a canvas or an environment-friendly tote might be a better option.
Size
They are also available in different sizes depending on the needs and therefore, consider what you will be using them for. If you require a large bag in which to accommodate a laptop, books, or any similarly-sized item, then choose a big tote.
Consumables and other items that one would need in a normal working day may, for instance, require a medium-sized tote.
Material
The kind of material that should be used in the tote bag should also be determined since it determines the circumstances, durability, and trendiness of the users.
Canvas and leather-made totes are long-lasting materials; nylon and polyester: are light-colored fabrics and can be easily washed.
Organic cotton, and recycled plastic, those materials are perfect for those who decide to do something for the preservation of the environment.
Comfort
It is also worth pointing out the extensions of the handles concerning their length and width. Longer handles are designed to be put around the shoulder while the shorter handles may make it necessary for one to hand carry the bag. Make sure the handles are comfortable so that they don’t pinch your skin.
Style
Tote bags are available in many designs; there are those that are plain and some that are flashy and in different colors. Select the style that is comfortable for you and suits your sense of fashion and your wardrobe.
Price
There are always tote bags for all classes of people depending on the price the manufacturer puts on the tote bag. There’s always the factor of price, so you will need to set your amount of money for the exercise and seek the best bargain for that amount of money. Also, remember that the most expensive item is not always the best, you should check customers’ feedback and evaluate the brand.
Brand
Some people are willing to purchase a tote bag under a specific brand they like, whereas others are more concerned with the bag’s utility. In case the brand is a value to you, do consider looking at brands that offer you high-quality tote bags.
How to Clean Your Tote Bag?
A tote bag is one of the most functional accessories that is used in every single task, from everyday outings to formal events. So, it becomes dirtier faster and needs cleaning regularly. Here is a guide to cleaning your precious accessory without losing its quality and durability:
Empty the Bag: Before going towards washing and cleaning, put all the equipment out of the bag.
Shake Well: Shake the bag well to remove the loose dirt.
Dusting: After shaking and removal of the loose dirt, go for a dusting of the bag with a soft cloth. It will help to remove the temporary dust and stains also.
Spot Cleaning: Spot cleaning is the fastest and safest way to remove medium-strength stains. Mark the areas with much stronger stains than the normal dust. Use a mild detergent or cleaner to remove the stains.
Detergent Solution: Select a mild and effective detergent depending on the type of material you have. Then prepare its solution in the water.
Apply detergent and wash: Apply the detergent solution to the bag with a cloth. Gently rub the area of the stain and then wash with water.
Safe Drying: Air drying is the safest drying method for totes. Don’t dry a tote bag in direct heat. It may damage the texture of a tote bag.
General Tips for the Care of the Tote Bag
Following some preventive measures, you can notice a huge difference in how your tote bag looks and how long it will last. Here are some general tips to keep it in great condition:
Regular Spot Cleaning
Treat spillages and marks immediately so as to avoid them becoming a part of the upholstery. Sometimes it may be necessary to clean the totes, and this should best be done either using soft soap for general fabrics or leather cleaner for leather totes.
Avoid Overloading
Do not load the bag with materials that can put a lot of pressure on the seams and straps of the bag, such as books. This practice is good for maintaining the shape and form of the bag.
Proper Storage
To avoid these problems, it is best to keep your tote bag in a cool, dry location. Do not expose it to direct sunlight, especially for a long period, to avoid fading.
Reshape After Washing
You can reshape the fabric after washing when it is in a damp condition. It serves the purpose of making sure that the bag regains its shape once it has been used.
Use a Liner
It is also possible to insert a fabric liner to cocoon the inside of the tote to prevent it from the substances that are hard to clean.
Handle with Care
Do not rub it on streets or any surface that can harm it, and please beware of any sharp items that may lead to rips or scratches.
Condition Leather
Leather for totes should be conditioned now and then to hold the softness of the skin and to avoid cracking. Do not expose the leather bags to water because excessive moisture is unhealthy for the bags.
Conclusion
The main purpose of a tote bag is to serve as a functional accessory as well as a fashion icon for bag lovers. A wisely selected bag that is worn consciously can upgrade your look to be impressive. It is a versatile product that is available in different designs and materials. You can embed it from everyday wear to professional setups. From the 17th century to the present, it evolved and kept its space in the market.
With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy your journey with the tote bag in a better way. The above guide is to update your knowledge about tote bags.
FAQs
What is the purpose of a tote bag?
When it comes to the usage of the tote bag, it is very versatile. It helps to carry essentials like keys, a phone, a wallet, and even clothes. But mostly, it is used while shopping because it can handle most of the grocery items.
What is the difference between a tote bag and a normal bag?
Tote bags have an open top and mostly have a structured handle as a part of the bag.
Why is a bag called a tote?
The term “tote” means “to transfer/to carry." But, nowadays this term is dedicatedly known for the type of large bags with opened tops, called tote bags.
Can a tote bag be used as a purse?
Yes! Tote bags can be used as purses. But, choose a small-sized tote bag with a compact design to use as a purse.
