Reusable food storage bags are a great way to reduce plastic waste and save money. However, keeping them organized can be a challenge. Here are some tips and tricks for keeping your reusable bags tidy so you always know where to find the right size bag when you need it.
Why Use Reusable Bags?
Single-use plastic bags are incredibly wasteful. The average American family takes home almost 1,500 plastic shopping bags per year. Most of these bags are used only once before being tossed in the trash. This plastic waste ends up in landfills and litters our environment.
Reusable bags are a much more eco-friendly option. High quality reusable bags can be used hundreds of times. Switching to reusable bags is an easy way to significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste your household generates.
In addition to being better for the environment, reusable bags save you money in the long run. Disposable plastic bags aren’t free – their cost is built into grocery and retail item pricing. With reusable bags, you pay a one time fee and get to skip paying for bags on future shopping trips.
Choosing Reusable Bags
When selecting reusable bags, look for ones made from durable, machine washable fabrics. Canvas, polyester, and cotton are good options. Avoid bags with thin mesh panels as they can easily rip.
Get bags in a few different sizes. Large bags are great for big grocery shops. Medium sized bags work well for produce and bulk items. Small bags are handy for organizing snacks, sandwiches, and other items with odd shapes.
Bags that fold up into small pouches take up very little space in your home when not in use. Backpack style reusable grocery bags with shoulder straps are another convenient choice.
It’s also nice to have a few insulated reusable bags on hand. They help keep refrigerated and frozen foods cold on the trip back from the store.
Labeling Your Bags
A labeling system makes it easy to identify what each bag is intended for at a glance. Here are some approaches to labeling:
- Use permanent marker or sew on labels to write the intended contents on each bag e.g. “Produce”, “Frozen Foods”
- Use colored ribbons, fabric paint, or appliques to categorize your bags. For example, draw fruit on produce bags, snowflakes on freezer bags, etc.
- Attach ribbon tags and write the category on each
- Print out category labels on your computer using printable iron-on sheets
Storing Bags for Easy Access
The way you store your reusable bags will determine how convenient they are to use. Here are some storage ideas:
- Hang near the door – Use hooks, over the door storage, or a wall mounted rack to hang bags by the door you most often leave from. This makes grabbing what you need on the way out a breeze.
- Under the sink – If you have cabinets under your kitchen sink, store bags there. Add shelf dividers or small bins to separate bag categories.
- Pantry – Designate a shelf in your pantry for folded reusable bags. Stand them upright and use bookends to keep each category together.
- Basket – Place different types of bags in a large basket or storage bin. If needed, use smaller bags or boxes to help separate and organize the categories within the larger vessel.
- Backpack – If you use the backpack style bags, keep them by the door ready to go for your next grocery run.
- Car – Keep a stash of reusable bags in your vehicle so you have them handy when shopping.
Maintenance Tips
With regular use, reusable bags get dirty. Here are some tips for keeping them clean and functional:
- Machine wash bags periodically – Use cold water on a gentle cycle. Let air dry.
- Spot clean as needed if they get smears or food residue on them.
- Sanitize with diluted bleach, vinegar, or antibacterial wipes if bags get meat juices or other bacteria risks on them.
- Periodically check for rips and holes. Mend small openings or retire bags that can no longer be repaired.
- Replace worn out bags as needed to maintain your supply.
Remembering Your Bags
The best reusable bag system falls apart if you constantly forget to bring your bags with you when shopping. Here are some tips to remember them:
- Keep a reminder note by your door to grab bags on your way out
- Set a reminder on your phone / smart speaker for when you usually go shopping
- Place your reusables in the car so they’re always with you
- Store your bags somewhere you will see them as you get ready to leave like by the door or on your kitchen counter
- Keep extra bags in your purse / work bag so you’re always prepared
Teaching Family to Use the System
To make your reusable bag system work for the whole family:
- Hold a “training” to explain the organization system and where each type of bag is kept
- Label the storage location so others know where to replace bags
- Ask for feedback on what works and doesn’t work about the system
- Remind family members to bring reusable bags until it becomes habit
- Let everyone pick out their favorite bag design to encourage buy-in
- Lead by example by using the bags consistently yourself
With some trial and error, you’re sure to find a reusable bag storage and organization system that works for your unique needs. The key is to make the bags visible and accessible. Before you know it, grabbing your reusable bags on the way out will be second nature.
Benefits of Properly Organized Reusable Bags
Taking the time to organize your reusable food storage bags pays off with these benefits:
- Saves money – You won’t over-buy bags if you can see what you already have on hand.
- Reduces waste – Proper organization stops you from misplacing bags and buying replacements you don’t need.
- Saves time – You won’t waste time searching for the right bag or rummaging through a messy collection.
- Increases use – You’ll actually use all your bags if you can easily access what you need.
- Keeps bags clean – Organized storage helps prevent dirty buildup on your bags.
- Trains family – Makes it easy for everyone to return bags to the right spot.
Most Organized Home System
Here is an example reusable food storage bag organization system for the most organized home:
Storage Location
- Mount a row of hooks inside the pantry door for filled bags ready to use
- Use shelf dividers and bins to sort bag categories
- Backpack style bags hang on coat rack near back door
- Carry pouches go in a basket on kitchen counter
Labels
- Bold tape labels on the front identify categories like “Produce”
- Colored ribbons attached to zipper pulls match category colors
Categories
| Color | Category |
|---|---|
| Green | Produce |
| Blue | Dairy/Cheese |
| White | Bread |
| Yellow | Bulk Items |
| Red | Meat |
| Orange | Frozen Food |
| Brown | Miscellaneous |
Reminders
- Whiteboard on fridge lists who is going shopping and to take reusable bags
- “Don’t forget bags” reminder magnet on front door
- Bags stored near doors you use the most when leaving home
Making an Organized System Work For You
Customize your reusable bag storage based on your home layout. Make your own labels with a color scheme that fits your style. Find the right sized bags for how much you typically have to carry. Most importantly, make sure your bags are visible and accessible in locations you already use.
The goal is to make reusables your new normal. With a reusable food storage bag system that works with your lifestyle, you’ll reduce waste while making shopping much more organized.
