Caring for Your Customizable Tote
In a world forever changed by the COVID-19 pandemic, now more than ever there is a focus on sanitation. While we often think about wiping down surfaces and using hand sanitizer to prevent the spread of bacteria, tote bags should be part of our cleaning regime. No matter what you chose to use your bag for, inevitably it will come in contact with bacteria, and being sure to regularly clean your tote bag ensures the prevention of spreading disease and illness. In addition to preventing the spread of germs, regular cleaning keeps your bag looking fresh, extending its life so you can use it for years to come.
Why Use a Customizable Tote Bag to Begin With?
There are many ways you can use a tote bag in your day-to-day life. Many shoppers frequent a tote bag on their trip to the grocery store or farmer’s market, a trend that has become increasingly popular over the last few years as consumers begin to focus on eco-friendly solutions to plastic bags. Other “conventional” uses for your tote bag might be as a gym bag, to store your beach items, as a work bag for your laptop and books, an overnight bag, or as carry-on luggage for your next plane ride. However, consumers have gotten creative with their use of the tote bag as well, hanging various totes in their homes for office, bathroom, or playroom storage. A customizable tote bag also makes a great gift for yourself or a friend, allowing you to showcase your own personal style through an item that has many versatile uses.
Tote bags are a great eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags, reducing waste in a way that is sustainable for the environment and good for future generations. By using a good quality and unique tote you can care for the environment while standing out (and also possibly saving money as some stores have begun to charge for single-use bags).
How Do I Care for My Tote?
First and foremost, how you care for your tote depends on its material and print. This article will help you care for your Domanda Design tote so be sure to do some research before cleaning other totes you might have in your home.
Domanda Design totes are 100% Polyester both outside and in the lining with cotton handles. Because these items are printed, we suggest that you dry or spot clean only. But what does this mean and how can you dry clean from home? Here’s how:
Spot Cleaning:
Spot cleaning simply means only cleaning visible stains and spots by hand. This can be done by pre-treating stains with laundry detergent mixed with warm water and then scrubbing by hand with a terry washcloth or soft bristle brush. You should then rinse your tote and allow the bag to air dry.
Dry Cleaning at Home:
If you are using your bag often or to transport food, you may want to consider cleaning your bag more often and thoroughly. This can be done by mimicking the dry cleaning process at home. Follow the steps below from RealSimple.com to keep your bag looking fresh without damaging it:
- Hand wash your tote bag in a clean sink - use a small amount of delicate detergent mixed with warm water
- Gently swish the bag in the detergent water and allow it to sit for 20 minutes
- Drain detergent water from the sink and gently press the tote against the side of the sink to drain water from the fabric
- Re-fill the sink with clean warm water and rinse
- Drain the sink again and gently press - do not squeeze as this may harm the fabric or dye
- Allow tote to air dry on a flat towel or drying rack
Whatever means you choose to clean your bag, it is important to remember that proper care and maintenance can keep your tote bag looking fresh for years to come while also preventing the spread of bacteria and viruses.
No matter how you are planning to use your bag, or if you are planning to give one to a friend, we’ve got you covered! Head over to our totes page and select a color and pattern that expresses your unique sense of style!
This blog post was written by Emma Becker.
