How to Clean a Cotton Tote Bag
A primary reason for switching from plastic bags to cotton tote bags is the latter’s sustainability and reusability. However, as with all things, regular cleaning and maintenance is essential for these much-loved tote bags too, to keep them looking new and odor-free. Here’s a basic guide to cleaning cotton tote bags:
1. Before cleaning your cotton tote bag, check for the ‘Care’ label for specific instructions. This is because some are machine washable, while others require handwashing or spot cleaning.
2. Empty the contents of your tote bag and shake it to get rid of any loose debris or dirt before starting the cleaning process.
3. You will need to pre-treat any noticeable stains on the tote bag prior to washing. Apply a paste of detergent or stain remover directly to the spot, and then rub it gently with a brush or sponge. Let this pre-treatment sit for a few minutes before proceeding further.
4. Where applicable, you can wash your tote bag in the washing machine with a mild detergent in a cold-water cycle – this will prevent shrinkage and damage to the fabric. Don’t wash along with heavy items like jeans or towels to prevent pilling of the material.
5. Where necessary, handwash the tote bag gently in a bucket of cold water with a mild laundry detergent. Swish the contents of the bucket lightly to loosen dirt, and use a soft brush for spot cleaning and heavy soiling.
6. After the washing stage, rinse the cotton tote bag thoroughly with cold water to remove residues of the detergent. To remove excess water, press down on the material instead of wringing it, as this will result in distorting its shape.
7. When it comes to drying of the tote bag, hang it up to air dry in a spot away from direct sunlight. You should also avoid using a dryer as the heat can lead to fabric shrinkage, damage to the material as well as loss of shape of the bag.
By following these basic steps, you can prolong the life of your cotton tote bag and use it multiple times too. It will also keep your bag looking at its best, ensuring it remains a stylish accessory for your outings!
