How to Wash and Clean Canvas Tote Bags

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Owning a canvas bag can be a useful and practical decision. Canvas is a very versatile fabric, and large canvas tote bags are a strong material for holding all of your things, while still being affordable and stylish. Although canvas was traditionally made from hemp, modern-day varieties are usually made from cotton or linen, and then blended with polyvinyl chloride (or PVC – a synthetic, plastic polymer. Similar to oilcloth). Due to the resilient nature of the material, the canvas is very durable and has many practical uses in our modern world. Bags, sails, backpacks, painting surfaces, and tents are just a few things that can be made from canvas. There are a few different types of canvas used to make large canvas tote bags, and each type requires a specific cleaning method.

Soft canvas

Soft canvas is usually made from cotton or linen and is fine to put in the washing machine. Make sure to wash soft canvas with like colors only. This is the only type of canvas that can be machine laundered.

PVC covered canvas

If your wholesale canvas bags are made with PVC, the cleaning process should be very easy. Wipe stains off with a warm towel.

Waxed canvas

Waxed canvas is the most sensitive type of canvas bag material and should, therefore, be treated with the most care. Use a sponge and scrub your canvas bag with cold water. Do not sure soap, hot water, solvents, or detergents on your waxed canvas bags. Never send your waxed canvas bags to the dry cleaners or put them in the washing machine.

Stains

Because machine laundering your canvas could cause it to lose its structure, we recommend spot treating as much as possible to preserve your canvas.
Oil stains can be removed by using something absorbent, such as cornstarch. Apply the cornstarch to the stain for a couple of hours, then use a dry towel or soft brush to remove excess powder. Repeat until stain is no longer noticeable, then rinse with warm water.
Ink stains can be moved with a mixture of toothpaste and baking soda. Gently apply the mixture to your canvas bags with a toothbrush and let sit for 5 minutes. Remove with a warm cloth and repeat the process until your canvas is clean.

Washing frequency.

Fortunately, canvas bags do not need to be washed often. You will only need to wash your bag every few months. Wash canvas by hand when possible to preserve the shape.

Different types of washing soaps or detergents
Use gentle soaps and alkaline free detergents to wash your wholesale canvas bags. A good rule of thumb is the gentler the detergent the better.

Drying
Canvas should be hung to dry or can be steamed to speed up the drying process.

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