What is a tote bag?
A tote bag is essentially a simple, spacious bag—usually without a closure—featuring two parallel handles. Its most distinctive feature is its open-top design, making it easy to carry on your shoulder while holding all your everyday essentials.
Tote bags come in a wide variety of materials, including canvas, polyester, PU leather, and recycled fabrics.
The history of tote bags
While tote bags may feel like they’ve always been part of our lives, their evolution from a practical tool to a cultural fashion icon is truly fascinating.
The American company L.L.Bean is widely credited with creating the first popular tote bag in the 1940s. Originally called the “Ice Bag,” it was simple, durable, and designed to carry ice and firewood. It was made from sturdy canvas and featured two strong rope handles.
In the 1960s, L.L.Bean renamed the bag the “Boat and Tote,” and around that time, new tote bag styles began to emerge.
By the 1980s, tote bags had become widely popular, establishing themselves as an essential everyday fashion item.
What is a tote bag used for?
In short, a tote bag can carry just about anything. Its spacious, open-top design makes it incredibly versatile and suitable for all kinds of situations. While its uses are nearly endless, they typically fall into a few main categories:
Shopping bag: Perfect for grocery runs and trips to the farmers market.
Commuter bag: Ideal for carrying essentials for work or school.
Beach or pool bag: Great for packing towels and sunscreen.
Fashion accessory: From sleek leather styles to artistic printed canvas, a tote bag can elevate any outfit.
Diaper bag: The open compartments make it easy to quickly find wipes, bottles, or a change of clothes.
How to store tote bags?
To keep your tote bags in good condition, proper care is essential.
For everyday storage:
For fabric totes like canvas or nylon, lay them flat and fold them. Smooth out any wrinkles, fold the sides inward, and then fold the bag in half or thirds. This saves a lot of space.
For leather or structured canvas totes that need to keep their shape, fill them with acid-free tissue paper, bubble wrap, or even a clean pillowcase. This helps prevent sagging, misshaping, or deep creases.
If you have enough closet space, hanging your tote bags on sturdy hooks or hangers is a great option. It keeps them accessible and avoids folding. Make sure the hooks are strong enough for heavier bags so the straps don’t get pulled or stretched.
For long-term or seasonal storage:
Before storing your tote bags, make sure they’re clean and completely dry. Any dirt, debris, or moisture can cause stains or mold.
Place folded or stuffed tote bags in a breathable cotton pillowcase or a reusable storage bin. Avoid airtight plastic containers for long-term storage since they can trap moisture. If you must use plastic, leave the lid slightly open.
Store your tote bags in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. A closet shelf works well. For heavier totes, avoid hanging them long-term, as the straps may stretch or deform.
Tote bags vs. shoulder bags
Tote bags and shoulder bags each have their own unique qualities and are better suited for different occasions. Here’s a brief explanation of the most noticeable differences between the two. If you’d like a more detailed comparison, check out this article: Tote Bag vs. Shoulder Bag.
Here’s a quick overview of the main differences:
A tote bag is usually a larger, open-top bag with parallel handles, featuring a roomy, boxy, or slightly relaxed shape. A shoulder bag typically has a longer strap and a top closure such as a zipper or flap.
Why choose JetPrint to design your tote bags?
So, what is a tote bag? It’s more than just a handbag—it’s versatile, durable, eco-friendly, and fits into nearly every part of your daily life. From the grocery store to the beach, from the library to the office, its simple design offers endless possibilities.
Whether you’re looking for promotional items for your business, new styles for your store shelves, or a memorable gift, JetPrint offers a wide variety of options to help you create the perfect tote bag for your needs.
Our easy-to-use design tools and variety of bag styles ensure your logo, artwork, or message looks great and is ready for printing.
