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Tote bags serve as a fashion statement, branding tools, and eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastic bags. The fabric you choose determines the durability, style, and practicality of your tote bag.
In this article, we’ll explore 8 amazing fabric options for tote bags. Helping you find the perfect balance between function, style, and sustainability.
So let’s get started.
1. Canvas Tote Bags
Canvas is one of the most popular options for tote bag making. Historically, canvas referred to a fabric made from hemp fibers. Today, modern canvas fabric is made from a blend of cotton and linen.
The most popular canvas fabric is made from plain-weaving cotton threads. This knitting technique results in a lightweight but sturdy fabric that is resistant to most types of wear and tear. Even a low-quality canvas bag can easily hold 20 lbs.
Canvas bags offer a high strength-to-weight ratio. Meaning you get a strong bag without the unnecessary extra weight. Although some weaving techniques result in a heavier bag with even higher durability and increased weight-carrying capacity.
As canvas is just cotton with extra steps, it shares many of the benefits of cotton tote bags.
- Canvas is easy to dye. So you can make canvas bags in almost any color you want.
- It’s an easy-to-wash item. Wash your canvas bags with cold water and a mild detergent.
- It has an exceptionally long lifespan. Minor damage can be mended or darned with a needle and some thread.
- You can also print anything you want on a canvas bag. However, due to the textured finish of canvas fabrics, the sharpness will be lower than that of soft cotton bags.
- It’s a very environmentally friendly material. You can reuse, repurpose, and recycle canvas to further reduce your carbon footprint.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Applications |
| DurableHeavy DutyEasy WashCustomizableEco-Friendly | ExpensiveLimited PrintingCan be HeavyNot Waterproof | Shopping BagsGrocery BagsPromotional BagsWork BagsDesigner Carry Bags |
2. Cotton Tote Bags
Cotton is by far the most useful fabric in human history. It was discovered over 7000 years ago and is still relevant in the textile industry. Unlike canvas, which results in a textured and durable tote bag, cotton bags offer a softer and more comfortable design.
Tote bags made from cotton are more flexible and delicate. Meaning they are easy to fold and store, but their weight-carrying capacity is significantly reduced. Still, cotton bags are quite durable and can take the occasional beating. However, we recommend avoiding sharp objects as they can cut or poke through the material.
Cotton bags have so many benefits that it’s difficult to list them all.
- Cotton is an easy-to-process material. Manufacturers prefer it, as it reduces the production time on the factory floor.
- It has a smooth finish. So if you often wear short-sleeved shirts or sleeveless dresses, the feel on the skin will be much more pleasant.
- There are no washing requirements for cotton bags. Just throw them into the washing machine with the rest of your clothes.
- Customization is cotton’s strong point. You can bleach and dye it in a million different ways.
- Additionally, digital prints on cotton are sharper and more precise.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Applications |
| Lightweight & SoftMore AffordableCustomizablePrint & Embroidery FriendlyEasy WashingEco-Friendly | DelicateNot-WaterproofCan Wrinkle | Shopping BagsGrocery BagsPromotional BagsCasual Use |
3. Jute Tote Bags
The word “Jute” refers to the jute plant, jute fibers, or jute fabric. It’s an incredibly versatile and resilient material, traditionally used to make ropes. Jute fabric has a very distinct texture; it’s rough, coarse, and yet soft to the touch.
Jute bags have recently risen in popularity due to the increased demand for more eco-friendly materials and products. These bags are designed for rough use, as they have a good weight-carrying capacity and don’t fray easily.
However, modern jute bags are treated as more of a luxury material and often marketed as a fashionable accessory. Its rustic look and muted color complement your different colored outfits.
Jute tote bags are a practical choice, but with limited benefits.
- Jute is a natural fiber that is easy to grow, increasing its eco-friendliness.
- Jute tote bags retain their shape and look.
- Manufacturers often coat jute in natural wax or resin to make it water-resistant. Though you shouldn’t expect it to withstand heavy rain.
- You can print designs on jute bags. But their rough texture limits design options.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Applications |
| CompostableBiodegradableUnique AppearanceMore AffordableEco-Friendly | Rough TextureLimited PrintingNot Washable | Eco Shopping BagsWork BagsCasual UseLuxury Carry Bags |
4. Polyester Tote Bags
Polyester is a synthetic fiber made from a variety of plastic compounds. It’s a lightweight and versatile material that is used in various clothing and home furnishings.
Manufacturers love polyester, as it is a low-cost material that is easy to source, stock, and process. Consumers love polyester as it’s affordable, waterproof, lightweight, and comes in different bag styles.
Speaking of styles, polyester tote bags have a lot to offer.
- Standard Tote bag designs are good for casual use.
- Mesh tote bags are great for a quick visit to the farmers’ market.
- Grocery handle bags offer a flexible shape that can fit different-shaped items.
- Knitted polyester bags offer a unique texture and design that improves aesthetic appeal.
- Polyester bags have a wide range of colors.
- You can print complex designs, patterns, and logos on polyester.
Let’s be clear, polyester is a plastic, and polyester tote bags are chemically the same as plastic bags. They don’t degrade or compost, naturally or chemically. So, eco-conscious buyers should decide on a different material for their tote bags.
Polyester fabric is one of the leading causes of microplastic pollution in oceans. Wholesale vendors and suppliers prefer polyester for its affordability. And overcome its cheap feel with unique colors and prints.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Applications |
| Strong & LightweightWrinkle ResistantWater-ResistantCost-EffectiveWide Range of ColorsFully Customizable | Non-BiodegradableNot Eco-FriendlyLess BreathableCheap Feeling | Travel BagsSports/Gym BagsPromotional EventsOutdoor Uses |
5. Non-Woven Fabric Tote Bags
Non-woven is a category of fabric that doesn’t use woven threads. Instead, they are made from gluing or heat pressing layers of loose fibers into a sheet.
While you can use cotton and other natural fibers to make non-woven fabrics, that’s not the case for most applications. Today, non-woven bags use a blend of two plastics: polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene(PE).
Non-woven fabrics have tiny holes, which makes your tote bag lighter and more breathable. These tote bags can carry heavy items, but degrade very quickly. Plus, they have all the disadvantages of polyester, such as environmental pollution.
Durability is also a concern with non-woven fabrics. Most non-woven fabrics are weaker than paper. The only hope for non-woven bags is their cost. It has insane value for its price. You can buy bulk non-woven bags from China at a fraction of the price, making it ideal for supermarkets.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Applications |
| LightweightCost EffectiveWide Range of ColorsPartially Recyclable | Not DurableTears EasilyShort LifespanNot Eco-Friendly | Giveaways BagsGrocery BagsConference/Branding EventsMedical & Pharmacy Bags |
6. Nylon Tote Bags
Nylon is a premium plastic material. It has better durability and abrasion resistance than polyester. It should be noted that nylon is a category of synthetic polymers.
When you purchase a nylon fabric, it comes with a specification sheet from the vendor that outlines the specific properties of that fabric roll. So, the quality of nylon tote bags varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.
The three most common types of nylon for tote bag manufacturing are as follows.
- Ripstop Nylon – Resistant to Tearing & Ripping
- Taffeta Nylon – Silky Smooth Finish
- Tricot Nylon – Breathable Fabric with Smooth Surface
It is one of the most commonly used materials in our modern society. From duffel bags to automotive parts, you can find this incredible material everywhere. You can easily find suppliers that sell fully custom nylon tote bags locally or bulk import them from China.
While nylon is also a plastic fabric, it has two distinct advantages over other plastic bags.
- Nylon bags are generally designed to a higher quality and have a more premium feel.
- Nylon is recyclable, so its environmental impact is less than other plastic-based fabrics.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Applications |
| Very Strong & DurableWater-ResistantEasy WashLightweight & FlexibleRecyclable | Non-BiodegradableLess PremiumVulnerable to UVHigher Cost | Travel BagsSports/Gym BagsPromotional BagsLag |
7. Synthetic Leather
Synthetic leather, also known as faux leather, vegan leather, or PU leather, is a plastic-based fabric designed to mimic the look and texture of real leather. It’s commonly manufactured from polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
The texture and feel of synthetic leather are similar to real leather. However, when it comes to durability, it’s not even close.
Synthetic leather is made by sandwiching a fabric layer (plastic or cotton) between two layers of leather-textured polyurethane. If you have ever bought a faux leather product, it looks great in the beginning. But after a year, the outer plastic layers start to degrade.
Its only benefit is that it’s a cruelty-free product. Meaning no animals were harmed in the making of leather tote bags.
While you’re protecting animals, you are indirectly hurting the environment. At the end of the day, synthetic leather’s only function is to give you an inferior leather-like product. So, for the environmentally conscious people, we recommend you skip this one.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Applications |
| Leather-like AppearanceAffordableWater ResistantEasy to CleanCruelty Free | Not Eco-FriendlyLess DurableShort Lifespan | Fashion Accessory BagOffice Tote BagsCorporate GiftsPromotional Items |
8. Leather Tote Bags
Genuine leather tote bags are luxury items. They have a distinct look and feel that no other bags can match. Leather is a hard-to-work material, and most leather products are made by hand. So it shouldn’t surprise you when you see an incredibly high sale price.
And trust us when we say, it’s worth every penny. Leather bags are naturally water-resistant, scratch-resistant, and durable. In fact, after regular use, the leather surface gets a shiny layer called patina. Patina is a natural transformation of leather and a highly valued attribute in the fashion world.
If all of that wasn’t enough, genuine leather is incredibly eco-friendly. A quality leather tote bag can last up to 20 years with proper care. Afterwards, you can recycle the old leather bag or compost it.
When ordering custom leather tote bags, we recommend contacting the factory and asking for a sample first. Leather’s only downside is that it’s made from animal skin. We’ll let you decide if this material choice aligns with your business’s values.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Applications |
| Extremely DurableLong-LastingPremium AppearanceAges BeautifullyExcellent Weight-Carrying CapacityEco-Friendly | ExpensiveRequires MaintenanceNot Vegan | Luxury BagsProfessional/Office UseHigh-End GiftsLong-term Personal Use |
Comparing the Best Tote Bag Fabric Options for Your Business
Now it’s time to take these top fabrics and directly compare them with one another.
Table – Comparing the properties of different fabrics for making tote bags
| Fabric | Durability | EnvironmentFriendly | Customizable | Cost | BestApplications |
| Canvas | High | Yes | Yes | High | Work, Shopping, and Fashion |
| Cotton | Medium | Yes | Yes | Medium | Daily Use & Gifts |
| Jute | Medium | Yes | Limited | High | Eco-Friendly Daily Use Bag |
| Polyester | Medium | No | Yes | Low | Travel and Sports Bag |
| Non-Woven | Low | No | Yes | Very Low | Supermarket Shopping |
| Nylon | High | No | Yes | Low | Waterproof Needs |
| Synthetic Leather | Medium | No | Yes | Medium | Affordable Fashion |
| Leather | Very High | Yes | Limited | High | Luxury, Fashion, Office Use |
Cotton Or Canvas: Which Material is Better for Tote Bags?
Here’s a head-to-head comparison of the two most popular tote bag fabric options. Remember, tote bag factories offer flexible pricing for each type of tote bag based on MOQs (minimum order quantities).
Cotton Bags
- Cotton bags are more affordable, easy to dye, and provide a smooth surface for digital prints.
- Because of their lower cost, they are an excellent alternative to plastic grocery bags.
- You can easily wash these bags and reuse or repurpose them.
- A great option for a busy person like a mother, teacher, or blue-collar worker.
Canvas Bags
- Canvas bags are more expensive, but offer higher durability and longer life.
- They are harder to clean, so be careful how you use them.
- Generally recommended for someone who carries a lot of heavy items, books, or a laptop.
- Great choice for a student, office worker, or regular traveler.
Bag Making Techniques
Cotton is an everyday fabric, and cotton tote bags use a standard double stitch to ensure strength and durability. As a lower-priced item, most manufacturers just use a simple flat strip of folded cotton for the handle. Custom cotton tote bags are often more expensive because of the dyeing and printing costs.
Canvas is a thicker material, requiring thicker threads for sewing. You can use a duck weave canvas fabric for a heavy-duty bag, or a plain weave for everyday use. As a more expensive product, tote bag vendors often add flourishes like leather handles or brass accent pieces to increase its appeal to customers.
7 Factors to Help You Choose the Right Tote Bag Fabric?
Here is a quick and easy way to choose the right tote bag fabric.
1. Durability & Lifespan
The lifespan of a tote bag is dependent on two factors: durability and maintenance. Durable materials like leather, canvas, and nylon are resistant to wear and tear. However, these materials need regular maintenance and upkeep.
In comparison, materials like cotton, polyester, and non-woven fabrics are less durable, but don’t require special washing or maintenance practices. Tote bag making involves balancing the durability and maintenance to ensure a long-lasting product.
2. Aesthetic Appeal
Aesthetic appeal is subjective and depends on the consumer.
- Customers looking for a premium look and feel will choose leather bags.
- Customers who prefer a more rustic aesthetic will be attracted to natural jute or canvas bags.
- Customers who like colors and unique print designs can choose either plastic or cotton tote bags.
3. Weight & Comfort
Leather and heavy-duty canvas are particularly heavy. If you carry your bag all day long, it will result in general discomfort and even shoulder pain.
The easiest solution to reducing the discomfort is thicker and softer straps. Bigger straps help distribute the weight over a larger area of your shoulder. Alternatively, you can buy a lightweight tote bag made from polyester, cotton, or nylon.
4. Eco-Friendliness
If you’re an eco-friendly individual or business, the easiest way to keep the environment safe is to avoid plastic materials like polyester, nylon, and synthetic leather.
Using recycled polyester and nylon is another good way to reduce your carbon footprint.
5. Weight Carrying Capacity
This is a relatively simple equation. Thicker material equals more weight-carrying capacity. Alternatively, you can reinforce your seams with double stitching to account for a thinner fabric. Remember to pay close attention to the handles as well.
6. Customization Potential
Tote bags reflect the personality of the owner. So customization is a great way for businesses to offer a wide range of products that cater to more customers.
Other than leather and jute, all other fabric materials listed are print and dye-compatible. An eco-friendly customization option is to use embroidery to add designs instead of harsh dyeing agents.
7. Cost vs. Value
Cost and value are two very different things. Cost refers to the sale price of a bag, determined by the tote bag vendor. Whereas value refers to the objective and subjective qualities of the bag, determined by the customer.
- Long lifespan and durability are objective values.
- Eco-friendliness or a premium look are subjective values.
A good product should offer better value than the competition at the same cost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most durable fabric for tote bags?
Canvas, nylon, and leather are the three most durable options for tote bag making.
Which tote bag material is most eco-friendly?
Jute is the most eco-friendly material for tote bags, with cotton and canvas coming in second.
Are polyester tote bags eco-friendly?
No, polyester is plastic and bad for the environment. However, it’s durable and the most affordable option.
What fabric is best for printing logos?
Cotton and polyester offer smooth surfaces that are ideal for printing.
Can tote bag fabrics be washed?
Cotton, polyester, and nylon are machine-washable. Canvas and jute require gentle or hand washing.
Conclusion
Tote bags are practical and fashionable. Choosing the right type of fabric helps you shape the look and feel of your tote bag. From durability to eco-friendliness to cost-effectiveness, everything is determined by your tote bag fabric. Next time you need to look for a quality fabric, use the comparison table above to make the choice a little easier.
Get the Right Tote Bag for Your Brand from Tendee!
Tendee is a customizable packaging solutions provider. With over 13 years of industry experience, we have proven ourselves as the go-to eco-friendly company for all your custom bag needs.
We specialize in high-quality tote bags made from cotton, jute, and canvas. We offer in-house customization options to help you make the perfect tote bag.
