We Asked Cleaning Pros for Their Tote Bag Cleaning Tips—What Actually Works

Tote bags are one of the best multipurpose items in your home. They work well for grocery trips, library visits, a more fashionable diaper bag, or a work bag. Summer wear can be even harder on tote bags as beach days and road trips increase, and sand and spills dirty the bag. 

We spoke to pros in cleaning and laundry to learn how to clean your tote bags, no matter the material, to keep them in tip-top shape all year long.

Can You Just Put Tote Bags in the Washing Machine?

Yes, most tote bags (especially ones made of canvas or cotton) can be washed in the washing machine. Some materials, however, should be spot cleaned only, such as jute, straw, or leather. Always check the care label before using a washing machine to see the materials or if the bag has special washing instructions.

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How to Clean Tote Bags So They Last Longer

1. Empty the bag completely, including all pockets.
2. Shake out dirt and crumbs.
3. Spot clean any stains using a mild soap and warm water. Gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth.
4. Turn the bag inside out.
5. Wash the bag in a machine on a gentle cycle with cold water. Use a mesh laundry bag if you have one. 
6. Remove the tote bag from the washing machine and let it air dry on a towel or drying rack. Avoid wringing the bag since this can damage the fabric’s fibers.

If your bag is made of nylon or another specialty material, Dan Miller, founder and CEO of Mulberrys Garment Care, recommends spot cleaning and handwashing it to be safe.

“If the bag has leather or suede details, avoid soaking them and stick to spot cleaning those areas with the right leather-safe products,” he says.

How Often to Clean Tote Bags

Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean, says tote bags with light use should be cleaned as needed or at least once a month. However, bags that are used weekly or for outdoor activities, like the beach, need to be cleaned more often. 

“It’s best to clean it every one to two weeks or right away if it gets sweaty, sandy, or comes into contact with spills or sunscreen,” Sokolowski says.

6 Tips for Making Your Tote Bags Stay Cleaner for Longer

Small habits can keep your tote bag cleaner longer and lengthen the time between washes, according to experts. Here’s what the pros recommend to help your bag stay clean during and between uses.

• Keep it in a cool, dry place when not in use. Miller also recommends storing the tote in a dust bag. 
• Use small pouches to store pens, makeup, snacks, or liquids inside to prevent interior stains.
• Avoid setting your bag directly on the ground or beach.
• Use a reusable bag liner (like a thin, washable insert) to prevent stains and odors.
• Shake out dirt and crumbs after every use. 
• Spot clean stains immediately.

FAQ

• No, don’t put reusable bags or other tote bags in the dryer since high temperatures can destroy the fabric’s fibers. Instead, leave the bag to air dry on a towel or drying rack.

• The best way to remove odor from a tote bag is by airing it out, ideally outdoors. Empty the bag and turn it inside out, and let it sit outside for a couple of hours. If the smell persists, sprinkle baking soda inside the bag and let it sit for a few hours to absorb the odor. Then, dump out the baking soda and wipe down the inside of the bag.