How many branded tote bags do you currently own?
Promotional tote bags have become a part of everyday life. Whether it’s for grocery runs, beach days, or corporate events, tote bags are everywhere. They’re reusable, practical, and a fantastic way for businesses to promote their brand.
But with so many material options, how do you know which tote is the right fit for your company? In this guide, we’ll explain the different materials, helping you make an informed decision that balances cost, durability, and brand appeal.
Non-woven polypropylene is a common material for promotional grocery totes. It’s a lightweight, non-absorbent, and affordable option, making it perfect for high-volume giveaways.
Did you know? According to ASI, 42% of consumers prefer promotional products they can use daily, and grocery totes are a perfect match. Non-woven bags may not be as strong as other materials, but they get the job done for lighter loads. Keep in mind that complex logos may not transfer well to this material because of its texture, so simple designs work best.
Best Use Case: Grocery stores, farmer’s markets, or events where the bags will be used regularly.
Polyester is often used in backpacks, drawstring bags, and even duffels. It’s a woven fabric, meaning it’s stronger than non-woven materials. Polyester is also moisture-wicking and lightweight, making it ideal for a variety of promotional items, from totes to messenger bags.
Polyester is also the go-to fabric for full-color dye sublimation—a printing method that allows for eye-catching, high-detail designs. If your brand needs a bold look with full-color logos, polyester is a solid choice.
Best Use Case: Messenger bags, backpacks, and duffle bags for employee or client gifts
Originally invented in the 1930s and used for parachutes, nylon is known for its durability. It’s a strong woven fabric that works great for promotional products because it’s stretchable and long-lasting.
According to PPAI research, promotional products like bags generate more impressions than any other product, with each bag getting about 3,300 impressions throughout its life. Nylon, being strong and smooth, also works well with detailed logos, providing a sharp, professional finish.
Best Use Case: Drawstring bags, backpacks, and premium giveaways.
Clear vinyl bags are increasingly popular, especially for stadiums or events with strict security protocols. The material allows easy inspection, making these bags convenient for concerts, sports events, or festivals.
One thing to note is that clear vinyl bags typically support single-color imprinting due to the nature of the material. A simple logo design works best here.
Best Use Case: Stadium events, concerts, or any venue requiring see-through bags.
Cotton is a natural, woven fabric, making it a favorite for eco-conscious promotional products. If your brand is looking to promote sustainability, a cotton tote bag is a perfect choice. It’s durable, washable, and great for long-term use.
Cotton canvas (which is typically heavier, around 10 oz or more) is the go-to material for sturdier totes like boat bags. These are strong and long-lasting, which means your logo will be seen over and over again.
Fun Fact: ASI reports that 57% of people feel more positive about a company that gives them a promotional product that’s environmentally friendly. Offering cotton totes aligns your brand with sustainability and quality.
Best Use Case: Eco-friendly campaigns, premium giveaways, or retail gift promotions.
Other than virgin materials, many new styles of tote bags are made of recycled polyester (RPET) and cotton. Many RPET totes are made from recycled water bottles. It is durable and material can be wiped clean easily. Some totes are made with a combination of RPET and recycled cotton. As for recycled cotton, sometimes the totes are made from pre-consumer wastes, i.e., fabric scraps leftover from other manufacturing process, and some are made from post-consumer waste, which is fabrics that are used and subsequently renewed into new fabric materials. In any of these cases, using recycled materials for totes bags are beneficial for the environment and gives brands a way to show their dedication to the sustainability efforts.
When choosing the right tote bag, you may come across terms like GSM and Denier, which measure fabric strength and density. Here’s a quick rundown:
GSM (Grams per Square Meter): This measures the fabric’s density. The higher the GSM, the thicker and more durable the fabric. Most grocery totes fall between 70-100 GSM, offering enough durability for everyday use.
Denier (D): This refers to the weight and strength of woven fabrics, often seen in descriptions like “600D Polyester.” Higher Denier means thicker fabric—perfect for messenger bags and backpacks.
Here are a few factors to consider when deciding on the perfect tote:
Purpose: Is the bag a giveaway, a premium gift, or something in-between?
Audience: Who will be using the bag? Is it for a high-end event or a general marketing giveaway?
Logo Design: Does your logo have fine details? If so, choose a material like nylon or polyester that can handle intricate designs.
Budget: Consider the balance between price and durability. Non-woven polypropylene is budget-friendly, but cotton and nylon offer more longevity.
Grocery Store Giveaway: Non-woven polypropylene bags are affordable, easy to produce, and perfect for daily use.
Sales Team Messenger Bags: Opt for 600D Polyester or Nylon—both are strong enough to handle travel and professional wear.
Gift with Purchase for a Clothing Brand: Cotton canvas totes are durable, stylish, and eco-friendly, making them ideal for retail promotions.
Promotional tote bags are more than just a product—they’re a brand extension. By choosing the right material, you not only align with your brand’s values but also ensure that your promotional investment lasts for years to come.
If you need help selecting the perfect tote bag for your next campaign, feel free to reach out! We’re here to help your brand shine.
