So, you've joined the ranks of eco-warriors with a tote bag slung casually over your shoulder, saving the planet one shopping spree at a time. But let's be real, folks – despite our best efforts, billions of single-use plastic bags are still produced yearly, used for a quick run from the grocery store to home, and then tossed away shamelessly. Besides the whole mess of plastic production, these disposable bags contribute to an unimaginable pile of plastic waste and micro plastics. Here at SANVT, we're about to lay down 10 benefits of a tote bag and why you need one. And guess what? It's not just about being eco-friendly; there's more to it!
While some countries have taken steps to curb plastic bag consumption, the stats are still pretty grim. We can't just sit around waiting for governments to magically make plastic bags disappear overnight. Nope, it's time for us, the eco-conscious consumers, to take this matter into our own hands. Every time we shop, we've got the power to give that plastic bag the cold shoulder and opt for a trusty tote bag instead. And if you don't own one yet, fear not, our list of 10 benefits of a tote bag is here to convert you.
10 benefits of a tote bag at a glance:
1. Biodegradable Sustainability
2. Durability
3. Reduced Carbon Footprint
4. Reusability
5. Versatility
6. Practicality
7. Washability
8. Cost Savings
9. Style
10. Expression of Individuality
1. Biodegradable Sustainability
While nowadays most cloth bags made of cotton are called tote bags, the original tote bag is made of jute fibre - a natural fibre that is biodegradable and renewable, and proves to be much more sustainable compared to conventional cotton (but more on that later). Compared to plastic bags, which take 10 to 20 years to decompose, jute can decompose in as little as a few weeks to a few months. In addition, no harmful chemicals are released into the environment during decomposition, making jute bags a much more environmentally friendly choice than plastic bags.
Cotton, on the other hand, takes between 6 months and 5 years to decompose, depending on the circumstances. Unlike plastic bags, neither jute cloth bags nor cotton cloth bags release micro plastic particles when they break down, which is less harmful to water quality and ecosystems.
Find out here, how sustainable cotton really is.
2. Durability
Tote bags, whether made from jute or cotton, are much more resilient and tear-resistant compared to flimsy plastic bags. They can handle heavy loads and therefore stick around longer, which is a massive plus when you're talking sustainability. After all, longevity and quality are key points in the sustainability game.
The Canvas Tote Bag from SANVT. Crafted from 100% organic cotton of a heavyweight 310 GSM cotton canvas fabric.
3. Reduced Carbon Footprint
Speaking of sustainability, let's delve into the nitty-gritty of the carbon footprint of grocery bags. Now, most tote bags these days are made from regular cotton, and we all know about the pesticides and water-guzzling ways of conventional cotton farming. So, is a cotton tote bag really greener than a plastic bag? Well, a team of British researchers crunched the numbers on the carbon emissions associated with paper bags, plastic bags, and cotton bags. The verdict? A cotton tote bag needs to be used whopping 131 times to beat a plastic bag in the eco-friendliness department, according to the experts.
But don’t worry: if you happen to have a tote made from organic cotton or actual jute, you're in the clear. Jute requires far less water and chemicals than cotton. And even organic cotton consumes less than half the water of conventional cotton, and no pesticides at all. So, if you're leaning towards a cotton tote for style reasons, look out for ones made from GOTS-certified organic cotton. And don't forget, there are tote bags crafted from other environmentally friendly materials like linen, bamboo, hemp, and more.
4. Reusability
Yet even if you're rocking a tote bag that has an excellent carbon footprint rating, you've got to use it more than 131 times to make it count. That's why reusability is key, and tote bags must become a reflex for all conscious shoppers. Tote bags can be your trusty bag for countless trips to the shops, helping slash the tsunami of single-use plastic.
5. Versatility
This brings us to another benefit of tote bags: they are not only reusable, but also versatile in their use. Unlike those far less elegant plastic bags, tote bags are also suitable as carrier bags for books, sportswear, picnics and much more – you name it.
6. Practicality
Beyond their versatility, tote bags are super easy to store. Fold them neatly, and they'll slide into the tiniest of handbags without adding extra bulk – always handy for those impulse buys. And although you theoretically could do the same with a plastic bag, let's face it: a packed tote bag has far more style.
7. Washability
After multiple outings, your tote might get a little grubby. But no worries, most cotton tote bags (organic or not) can take a spin in the washing machine at 40 degrees and come out looking fresh! However, be gentle with jute-fiber totes, as jute can be damaged by water. We therefore recommend hand washing them gently, if needed.
8. Cost Savings
Here's a perk you might not have considered – tote bags are money-savers in the long run. With plastic bags becoming pricey in many places, those extra cents added to every purchase add up quickly. Tote bags, on the other hand, are a one-time investment that pays off handsomely over the years thanks to their durability.
9. Style
Now, let's talk about a tote-tally chic aspect of these bags: style. Tote bags made from (organic) cotton come in a rainbow of colours, prints, and designs. Our tip: go for totes with longer straps for that casual over-the-shoulder look, ideal for hauling even the heaviest of shopping hauls. Also, opt for a natural, undyed tote to sidestep unnecessary chemical dyes and rock that sleek off-white aesthetic. And if your tote bag is truly stylish, no question you’ll be using it much more often!
10. Expression of Individuality
While you can find plenty of cool natural tote bags with quirky prints and slogans, you can also get creative yourself. Grab some eco-friendly fabric paints or even embroidery gear and turn your tote into a portable canvas to express your unique style. And just like that, your tote bag could become the ultimate fashion statement!
The Canvas Tote Bag by SANVT
Speaking of portale canvases and it-pieces; allow us to introduce our newest product. We at SANVT wanted more than just the run-of-the-mill totebag. We decided to redefine your bag game, and trust us, it's anything but basic. We've gone above and beyond to create the ultimate canvas tote bag, crafted from robust 310 GSM Panama fabric. This bag, made from 100% certified organic cotton, is designed to take on heavy-duty tasks with ease. And because we're all about quality, sustainability, style, and functionality, we've added some nifty features. Our canvas bag isn't just your average carry-all; it's a multitasking marvel. Equipped with a laptop compartment and a secure inner pocket to keep your valuables safe, it's also got exterior pockets for things like water bottles. In a timeless dark blue design, this bag is your trusty companion whether you're headed to the office, jetting off on your next adventure, hitting the beach, or picnicking in the park.