What is your ultimate summer essential accessory? Besides your swimsuit, that is, of course.
Well, your trusty canvas bag, no?
The more you use it though, the dirtier it gets. This is why knowing how to clean a tote bag and a canvas bag properly, can be an extra asset to keep it looking always brand new and stylish.
Lucky you! You are in the right place, to learn about the ultimate tote cleaning guide.
Here you will find useful tips and tricks to make your canvas bags seem like you’ve just bought them.
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Why Clean Your Tote and Canvas Bags?
A clean bag just looks better. Simple as that.
Cleaning it means that you can also remove stains, spills, and those mysterious smudges that appear out of nowhere. And the truth is that some of them can be persistent.
And then there are hygiene issues, as well. A dirty canvas bag can carry multiple germs you can’t see but can potentially harm your health in some way.
Not to mention that regular cleaning can extend the life of your bag and let you enjoy it for much longer.
What You’ll Need to Clean Your Tote Bag & Canvas Bag?
Before diving into the “Holy Bible” of the proper tote bag cleaning, let’s see what you’ll need and should gather first. Here are your necessary supplies:
A mild detergent (like dish soap or a gentle laundry detergent).
A soft-bristle brush or a toothbrush.
A clean cloth or sponge.
A sink or basin.
Warm water.
Baking Soda (optional - for tough stains).
Ready to do some canvas bag cleaning? Let’s get started!
Your Step-by-Step Cleaning Tote & Canvas Bags Guide
Follow the steps below and you’ll have your totes and canvas bags looking fresh and fabulous.
1. Empty the Bag
As obvious as it may seem, the first step is to make sure your bag is empty.
So, check all the pockets and shake out any crumbs or debris. If your bag comes with a detachable purse make sure you extract it and clean it separately.
2. Check the Label
Totes and canvas bags come with care instructions. Look inside of them to find it. And give it a quick read.
It might have specific recommendations or warnings that can save you from a disaster. Fabric totes are usually laundry washable in warm temperatures (between 90°F to 110°F).
However, hand washing is recommended, to keep the bag’s shape and fabric intact.
3. Clean Stains First
Begin with cleaning first any small stains or spills. A quick spot clean is often necessary and makes the whole cleaning way more effective.
Mix a bit of mild detergent with warm water. Dip your cloth or sponge in the solution and gently dab the stained area.
Avoid rubbing it too hard though. You don't want to damage the fabric or cause any discoloration.
Extra Tip: For tough stains, you can try a mixture of baking soda and water. It can do wonders. Just apply the paste on the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Then scrub gently and rinse it off.
4. Hand Wash Your Tote Bag
Now the deep cleaning. Fill your sink or basin with warm water and add a few drops of mild detergent.
Create some foam and submerge your bag into the water. You can leave it in the foamy water for some minutes to soak well. Then gently scrub it with your soft-bristle brush. Insist more on any stained or heavily soiled areas. Be gentle but thorough!
Clean the front and rear sides and the bag handles as well. Then turn it inside out and clean the internal - pockets included. You can repeat the deep hand washing one more time if you see that your tote bag or canvas bag needs it.
5. . Rinse Thoroughly Your Canvas Bag
Once you’ve given your bag a good scrub, rinse it thoroughly with clean, cool water. You may need to do it several times to make sure all the soap is out.
You don’t want to leave any detergent residuals. Residuals can leave your bag feeling stiff not to mention that it can attract more dirt.
Extra Tip: While doing the last rinsing, keep your bag in the water and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Let it in the water for 5-10 minutes. It will leave your canvas bag discreetly perfumed. And you’ll love it!
6. Dry Out Your Bag
You are almost there. To a freshly cleaned tote bag.
The final step requires you to mildly squeeze out excess water and then lay your canvas bag flat on a clean, dry towel. This will absorb more water.
You can also roll it up to remove a bit more water, and then reshape your bag and let it air dry.
Don’t leave it under direct sunlight though, as it can fade the fabric and make it feel stiffer.
Some Extra Tips & Tricks
Now that you know how to clean a tote bag and a canvas bag, discover some extra tips for their proper maintenance:
Regular Cleaning : Add to your To-do list a quick clean every few weeks to prevent dirt from setting in.
Machine Washing : If your canvas bag can handle a machine wash, then you should better place it in a mesh laundry bag before starting the washing program. And always avoid machine dryers.
Lining Your Bag : To keep its interior clean for more time, you can use a removable liner for groceries or messy items to catch spills. You can also use canvas or water-proof pouches of various sizes to guard sensitive and fragile belongings to prevent your bag from stains.
Cleaning Spills Immediately : Clean any spills immediately after they occur. The sooner you tackle a spill, the less likely it is to stain.
And if you are looking for some trendy and practical totes or canvas bags to carry your essentials while on a city leisure walk or a beach trip, you can visit the wide range of rockflowerpaper’s bag collection.
Surely you’ll find a piece you’ll like to wear this summer. And you won’t have to worry about cleaning it, right?
