Reusable grocery bags have become increasingly popular in recent years as more people aim to reduce waste and be environmentally friendly. However, storing these bags can present some challenges. Proper storage is important to keep the bags clean, prevent damage, and make them easy to access when it’s time to shop. Here are some tips for the best ways to store reusable grocery bags.
Why Use Reusable Bags?
First, let’s review the benefits of using reusable grocery bags in the first place:
- Reduce waste – Disposable plastic bags create huge amounts of unnecessary waste and often end up in landfills or littering the environment.
- Save money – Reusable bags can be used for years, saving you money compared to constantly buying disposable bags.
- Eco-friendly – Reusable bags are a greener choice and far less taxing on the environment than single-use plastic bags.
- Strong and durable – High quality reusable bags are designed to carry heavier items without breaking.
- Customizable – Reusable bags come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and materials to suit different tastes.
Storing Bags for Daily Use
If you use your reusable grocery bags frequently for regular shopping trips, you’ll want to keep them somewhere easily accessible. Here are some good options for storing bags you use often:
- Near the door – Keep bags in a bin, hook, or rack near your main door so you can grab them on the way out.
- In the car – Leave bags in your vehicle so you always have them when you arrive at the store.
- By the pantry – Hang or stack bags in or near the kitchen so they’re handy when grocery shopping.
- In your purse/bag – Fold up a reusable bag small to carry in your handbag or backpack for unplanned trips.
Key things to consider are making sure the storage spot is somewhere you will easily see and remember the bags, but also keeping them out of the way from dirt or damage. A row of hooks, a hanging canvas bag, or a bin on a shelf are all good options.
Ideal Storage Spots for Frequently Used Bags
- Coat closet or front hall
- Backseat or trunk of car
- Pantry or kitchen
- Inside purse or work bag
Long-Term Reusable Bag Storage
For reusable grocery bags that are used less frequently or seasonally, you may want to store them more out of the way. Here are some suitable options for long-term storage:
- Under beds – Clear plastic underbed containers allow you to stash bags while keeping them visible.
- On a shelf – Fold or roll bags and store upright on a closet or pantry shelf.
- In dresser drawers – Place excess bags in empty drawers or compartments.
- Box or bin in the garage or basement – Corral infrequently used bags all together in a sturdy storage box.
When storing reusable grocery bags long term, aim for areas that are cool and dry to prevent mildew or moisture damage. Stacking bags vertically helps save space and keeps them neat and tidy.
Good Long-Term Storage Spots
- Under the bed
- Closet shelf
- Dresser drawer
- Garage or basement bin
How to Fold Reusable Bags for Storage
Folding reusable grocery bags neatly can help maximize storage space. Here are some tips for folding bags:
- Shake out the bag and make sure it is empty.
- Lay the bag flat and smooth out any wrinkles.
- Fold the sides of the bag in toward the center.
- Continue folding toward the center until the bag is a compact square.
- Fold or roll the bag into thirds or quarters for more compact storage.
- Stand folded bags upright to save shelf space.
Remember to unfold bags fully and let the fabric relax before reusing so you don’t strain the seams. Stacking folded bags makes efficient use of storage containers.
Protecting Reusable Grocery Bags in Storage
In addition to folding bags neatly, you’ll want to take a few extra steps to protect reusable grocery bags that are being stored:
- Allow bags to air dry fully – Don’t put away damp bags or mold can grow. Let them dry completely after use.
- Clean periodically – Wipe down bags every so often with a disinfectant cloth to remove germs and dirt.
- Use breathable storage – Choose fabric bins or wire shelves so air can circulate. Avoid sealing in plastic.
- Avoid direct sunlight – UV rays can damage and fade reusable bag fabrics over time.
- Check for damage – Inspect bags for holes, tears or wear before storing. Repair or replace damaged bags.
Taking these simple precautions will extend the usable life of your reusable grocery bags and keep them clean and ready to use when you need them.
Reusable Bag Storage Solutions
Here are some of the most practical and convenient storage solutions for organizing reusable grocery bags:
1. Over the Door Canvas Holder
An over-the-door canvas holder allows you to hang reusable bags vertically for easy access. The canvas construction prevents bags from getting dusty or dirty. Hang this organizer on a pantry or closet door to keep grocery bags neatly stored but ready to grab on the go.
2. Mounted Wall Dispenser
Wall mounted dispensers or racks provide handy storage for reusable bags right where you need them. Mount by the front door, in the car, or wherever you transition to reusable bags when shopping. The open design allows air circulation.
3. Standing Storage Bin
A simple standing storage bin on a shelf or the floor neatly corrals boxes of reusable grocery bags. Opt for a bin with a lid to keep bags dust-free but not fully sealed in. An accessible bin in the kitchen or garage lets you stash extra bags.
4. Underbed Storage Bins
Clear underbed bins allow you to utilize the storage space under beds to keep reusable grocery bags organized. The see-through plastic makes finding the right bag easy. Roll or fold bags to fit more in each organized bin.
5. Drawstring Pouches
Small reusable drawstring pouches are the perfect solution for storing a folded bag in your purse or car. The lightweight fabric protects bags from dirt while you’re on the go. Easy to toss in a handbag or glove box.
Best Materials for Reusable Grocery Bags
Reusable grocery bags come in a variety of different fabrics. The material you choose impacts convenience, durability, and how easily the bag can be stored. Here are some of the best fabrics for reusable bags:
| Material | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Soft, breathable, machine washable, prone to staining |
| Canvas | Durable, stain resistant, thick, can be folded or rolled |
| Polyester | Water resistant, strong, packs down small |
| Recycled PET | Made from recycled bottles, waterproof, softens over time |
| Nylon | Lightweight, packs down very small, wrinkle resistant |
Consider how you’ll use the bags and what features are important to you when deciding on material. For frequent daily use, canvas is one of the most versatile and durable options.
Choosing the Right Size Reusable Bag
Reusable grocery bags come in a range of sizes and capacities. Choosing bags in different sizes allows you to use the right one for each shopping trip. Here are some popular reusable bag sizes:
- Small – About 12″ H x 12″ W x 6″ D. Good for lunches, snacks, produce.
- Medium – About 15″ H x 15″ W x 8″ D. Suitable for light grocery trips.
- Large – About 18″ H x 18″ W x 10″ D. Used for major shopping trips.
- Oversize – About 22” H x 22” W x 12” D. Great for bulky items like paper towels.
Make sure to have a variety of sizes – small for quick trips, larger for big shops. Bags that fold or roll up compactly are easiest to store. An assortment of reusable bag sizes covers all your grocery shopping needs.
Storing Reusable Produce Bags
In addition to full-size reusable grocery bags, many people also use small produce bags for loose fruits, vegetables, and bulk items. These lightweight mesh or cloth bags reduce the need for wasteful plastic produce bags. Here are handy ways to store reusable produce bags:
- Roll up into your main reusable tote – Tuck a few into the bottom of your shopping bags.
- Attach to your grocery cart or purse – Clip them on with a carabiner, binder clip or bag clip.
- Keep near your grocery list – Store next to where you plan your shopping for easy grabbing.
- Hang them up – Install hooks in the kitchen to hang packs of reusable produce bags.
The key is keeping your reusable produce bags in a designated spot you’ll remember when grocery shopping. Small bags can easily get misplaced, so develop a habit of where to store them.
Remembering Your Reusable Grocery Bags
One of the challenges many people face with reusable grocery bags is simply remembering to bring them into the store each time they go shopping. It’s easy to forget and fall back on old single-use bag habits. Here are some tips to remember your reusable bags:
- Keep bags visible – Store bags somewhere obvious like your front hall or car backseat.
- Make a checklist – Add “bags” to your grocery shopping checklist.
- Put a reminder in your purse – Use a small tag, coin or charm to jog your memory.
- Designate a bag spot – Always place your reusable bags in the same spot when unpacking groceries.
- Tie a reminder on your keys – Attach a small bag charm, keychain or tag to your keys.
- Keep a stash in your car – Leave bags ready in the trunk so you don’t forget.
Developing set routines can help you get in the habit of bringing reusable bags each time. Many stores now also prompt customers to use reusable bags at checkout.
Cleaning Reusable Grocery Bags
Regularly cleaning reusable shopping bags helps remove germs, bacteria, dirt, and food residue that can accumulate. Here are some tips for washing reusable bags:
- Shake out crumbs – Empty out any food debris into the trash after each use.
- Spot clean stains – Use a small amount of gentle detergent and a damp sponge to spot clean.
- Wash by hand – Place one or two bags in warm, soapy water. Agitate and scrub.
- Toss in the laundry – Many reusable bags can be tossed right in with your regular laundry.
- Disinfect with vinegar – Mix a 50/50 vinegar and water solution to kill germs without harsh chemicals.
- Let air dry – Hang or lay flat to dry completely before storing or reusing.
Give used bags a quick wipe down or hand wash periodically. Deep clean very dirty bags by throwing in the washing machine.
Signs Your Bags Need to Be Replaced
With proper care, most reusable grocery bags will last for many years. But normal wear and tear means they eventually need to be replaced. Here are some signs it’s time to get new reusable bags:
- Holes, tears, or split seams
- Broken handles or dysfunctional closure
- Faded colors, stains, or other aesthetics issues
- Distorted shape that no longer folds/rolls up
- Texture changes like visible cracks, brittleness, or mushiness
- Mold, mildew, or lingering bad odors
- Inability to wash out dirt, crumbs, and debris
For inexpensive reusable bags, about 50 uses is a general lifespan. Higher quality bags often last 150 uses or more. Rotate multiple bags to extend their collective usable life.
Creating a Reusable Bag Collection
Having a collection of reusable grocery bags makes it easy to always have the right bag for each shopping trip. Follow these tips for curating your set of bags:
- Vary shapes and sizes – Include totes, foldable bags, backpacks, and handheld bags in small, medium and large.
- Mix up materials – Choose canvas, nylon, polyester, mesh, recycled cotton, etc. for diverse selection.
- Coordinate colors – Select coordinating colors or complementary patterns for a cohesive look.
- Include specialized bags – Get insulated bags, produce bags, wet/dry bags for versatility.
- Get bags you love – Opt for styles and designs you find attractive and fun to use.
Curate a collection you’re excited to use. Aim for 5-10 reusable bags in different fabrics, colors and silhouettes. The right assortment makes you ready for any shopping trip!
Conclusion
With the right storage solutions and habits, reusable grocery bags can be an easy, convenient and eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags. Keep bags organized and accessible by storing daily use bags somewhere visible like your front hall or car. Longer term bag storage can utilize spare space like under beds or on closet shelves. Regularly cleaning bags, noting signs they need replacement, and curating a collection makes reusable grocery bag use simple and sustainable.
