Nowadays tote bags have rightfully blown up in popularity to become more than just a convenient accessory for carrying belongings. They’ve evolved into fashion statements as well as practically essential accessories.
So, it’s a good idea to learn how to tell quality tote bags from inferior ones. You don’t want to get attached to a bag that comes apart at the seams way sooner than it should!
Here’s what to look out for if you prioritize longevity, dependability, and resistance to the rigors of daily use.
Strong Materials
The primary indicator of a tote bag that’ll last you ages is the material with which it has been made.
While certain tote bags are really for aesthetics, certain materials are chosen for their resistance to wear and tear to make functional bags. For example:
- Canvas is a popular choice for its durability. It’s made from tightly woven cotton, that means strength and resilience to endure heavy loads and resist abrasion
- Nylon tote bags are lightweight yet tough because the material’s synthetic nature makes it resistant to moisture and tearing, meaning a longer lifespan
- Leather tote bags are not only very stylish but also durable. High-quality leather even becomes more supple with time while remaining sturdy
Say you’re a student who needs a tote bag for carrying textbooks and notebooks. Opting for a leather tote bag with its strong material is how you can be sure it’ll hold the weight of your books and withstand the daily wear and tear of campus life.
Reinforced Stitching
Loose seams are one of the most frustrating things about inferior bags.
Reinforced stitching is essential to prevent the seams and handles of a tote bag from unraveling or tearing and compromising durability. For example, bartack stitches are used at stress points like handles. These are dense, interlocking stitches that add extra strength to the handles.
Say you’re shopping for a tote bag for grocery shopping. You want to pay attention to the seams for these kinds of sewing techniques if you want the bag to be able to carry heavy items like cans and vegetables without the risk of the handles breaking.
Quality Hardware
Hardware means the parts of a tote bag such as zippers and clasps and they affect the overall durability of any bag. These components of a tote bag should function well over time without breaking or jamming.
For example, durable tote bags often feature heavy-duty zippers with larger teeth and a robust slider. Similarly, clasps or buttons are made from materials like metal or high-quality plastic so that they don’t snap or come undone with use.
For example, you want high-quality zippers and clasps to securely hold your gear for outdoor activities like hiking.
Such features – strong materials, reinforced stitching, and quality hardware – work together to make a tote bag durable and capable of withstanding the demands of different situations, whether it’s daily use, heavy loads, or outdoor adventures.