What is a Tote Bag? Everything You Need To Know About Totes

Chapter 1: Background History of Tote Bags

Let us examine the history of tote bags before we answer the question ‘what is a tote bag?’

The word “tote” is believed to be of West African origin, meaning “to carry”.

The history of the tote bag can be traced as far back as the 1940s when Ice Bags were introduced as a solution for transporting ice. The purpose of the ice bags was to help transport ice from one location to another.

An American designer Bonnie Cashin took the tote bag from a mere carry bag to something more fashionable. After this, the Strand, a famous bookstore in New York creates its own version of the tote bag.

The totes created by L.L. Bean (the maker of Ice Bag) and the Strand are still in use to date.

Chapter 2: What Is A Tote Bag?

What is a tote bag? Tote bags are very common nowadays as they have replaced plastic bags to an extent. Individuals and corporate bodies, including small and large businesses make use of tote bags for different purposes.

This is a simple definition of a tote bag- A tote bag is a useful accessory suitable for many purposes. A tote bag can be described as a simple mid-large sized bag with two parallel handles.

Tote bags are usually loose at the top and they are bigger than many handbags

Tote bags can be made from a range of materials and they come in multiple colours and patterns.

Tote bags are often made from a wide range of durable materials like denim, canvas, jute and so on.

2.1, What are tote bags used for?

Tote bags serve different purposes, from fashion accessories to shopping bags. A tote bag can be styled effortlessly.

This is to say that a tote bag is a versatile product which can be used for a number of applications.

The stylish nature of a tote bag makes it easy to combine with a corporate/formal occasion or casual outfit. A tote bag is easy to dress up or dress down depending on the occasion.

Tote bags are also used for shopping. The tote bag size makes it perfect for transporting daily items and a reusable alternative to plastic bags.

Chapter 3: Tote Bag Materials

What materials are tote bags made of? And what is the best material you can use? Tote bag manufacturers use various materials to create unique tote bags for their clients.

Materials for tote bags include felt, cotton canvas, denim, corduroy, non-woven, PP woven, jute/burlap, polyester, linen, mesh, oxford, nylon, vinyl, muslin, PVC and metallic materials.

The above materials are durable and they can carry a significant amount of weight.

Since people are becoming more environmentally aware, they choose reusable tote bags as a replacement for plastic bags. Tote bags cut back on the use of plastic; they are reusable, washable and sturdy.

If you are looking for an eco-friendly bag for convenient shopping, a tote bag is just what you need.

What if you want to customise your tote bag? Tote bags are incredibly versatile, hence, you can customise them for personalisation and brand promotion.

The common printing methods that will help you achieve uniqueness on your tote bags are sublimation, silk screen, thermal transfer, embroidery, etc.

You can print logos, artworks, patterns, texts and other details on your tote bags irrespective of the material.

3.1, Tote bag uses

Do you need a bag for shopping? Do you need a perfect bag for a visit to the beach? Do you need a bag for the gym? Do you need the means to put your business or services in the faces of people? Tote bags are versatile, a single tote bag can help you achieve all activities mentioned above and more.

Can you shop for groceries using a tote bag? Absolutely yes! Have you ever shopped with plastic bags and the bag ripped apart before getting to your destination, leaving you with damaged groceries? Reusable tote bags are durable and great for shopping.

How about going to the beach? A tote bag can serve as a beach bag. It has enough room for your sunscreen, towel, sunglasses, etc. Beach tote bags are made in a variety of fun colours, patterns and sizes.

Visiting the gym? You need a bag to transport your towel, workout shoes, water bottle and other gym necessities, then you need a tote bag.

Tote bags can replace backpacks for high school and college students. A tote bag provides a fun and easy way of carrying books and other school supplies.

Moms can use tote bags to carry toys, baby clothes, diapers, lotion, tissue, etc for their little ones throughout the day.

These are just a few ways among many ways you can use a tote bag.

3.2, How to care for your tote bag

Tote bags are generally long-lasting, in order for you to use the bag for as long as possible, you need to maintain the bag.

The following are the recommended ways to care for your tote bag:

Remove all items in the bags including pins before you throw them in a washing machine.
To ensure the printing on the tote bag will not bleach, carry out spot cleaning. That is, wash a small portion of the bag before dipping the entire bag into a washer.
If your cotton canvas bag is white or has a colour that does not bleach, you can either handwash or wash it in a washing machine. Ensure you read the bag label before washing.

It is important that you care for your tote bags so that they can last longer.

Chapter 4: Why do You Need a Tote Bag?

Tote bags are versatile. You can use it for shopping, work, school, casual activities, gym, or as a beach bag.
Tote bags are eco-friendly, so they make a sustainable replacement for plastic bags.
Tote bags are made in a variety of patterns, materials, sizes and design options.
They are safe for carrying personal items like laptops, tablets, phones, wallets, etc.
They can serve as a gift item for loved ones, clients, employees, etc.
Tote bags have enough space and it is easy to access all your items.

Chapter 5: Conclusion

This article has discussed everything you need to know about tote bags. We have discussed the versatility of tote bags, materials for tote bags, tote bag applications and why you need to own or use a tote bag.