Easy Tips for Clean Reusable Shopping Bags
Here’s The Best Way to Clean Your Reusable Shopping Bags
Cleaning your reusable shopping bags is important. This is a good habit to form because it can prevent you and your family from coming into contact with germs and bacteria. Reusable shopping bags can be made from a variety of materials, so knowing how to properly and effectively clean your bags without damaging them is challenging but also significant. Here’s the best way to clean your reusable shopping bags.
Why Wash Reusable Shopping Bags
There has been a lot of concern about the cleanliness of reusable shopping bags due to the spread of COVID-19. It’s important to wash your reusable shopping bags for the same reason it’s important to wash your hands, surfaces, and reusable items. When you bring your bags to the store it is possible they can pick up bacteria or germs which can cause illness. Since so much is still unknown about COVID-19, all concerns should be taken seriously.
However, the bacteria that cause salmonella and even the germs behind the common cold are also valid concerns and are very good reasons why you should wash your shopping bags. Properly washing your reusable shopping bags after you use them will effectively remove germs and bacteria and protect the health of you and your loved ones.
How to Clean Your Reusable Bags
The first thing to do when it comes to cleaning your reusable shopping bags is to look for any instructions either printed on the bag or on a label inside of the bag. Always follow washing instructions if they are provided. If there are no washing instructions to be found, then base your cleaning method on the material of the bag.
Sustainable Fabrics
If your reusable shopping bag is made from cotton or any type of sustainable textile then it can be washed in a washing machine. If the fabric has a loose-knit and you worry it will not hold up in a washing machine then you can always wash it by hand in a sink.
Recycled Plastic Materials
Recycled plastic materials, like woven and non-woven polypropylene and RPET, typically cannot be cleaned in a washing machine, but they can be hand-washed in a sink. Insulated cooler bags are usually candidates for handwashing, as well.
Proper Washing Technique
When washing your reusable shopping bags by hand, fill a sink, or even a tub with warm water. Make sure to submerge the bags in warm, soapy water and swish them around. You can use a nylon brush to scrub any stains. Rinse the bags thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
Drying Your Reusable Shopping Bags
If your reusable bags include care instructions and the dryer is listed as okay then follow the guidelines and toss everything in the dryer. Hanging everything to air dry is normally the best way to dry your reusable shopping bags.
Quick Tip
Washing your reusable shopping bags after each use will ensure they are safe for continued use. However, you may not always have the time. Another option to clean your reusable shopping bags is to completely wipe them down using disinfectant wipes. Make sure to clean the inside as well as the outside and wipe down the handles. If the bags are sturdy enough to remain open on their own then leave them open to dry completely. Cloth bags can be hung to dry.
Learn More
Getting into the habit of cleaning your reusable shopping bags after each use can prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. Washing your bags are soon as you get home, or as soon as you are able, will ensure they are ready to go next time you head out to the store. Subscribe to our newsletter to learn more green tips and news, stay current with Eco Specials and more!
Tagged
