Maintaining reusable bags: Effective cleaning and disinfection guidance for eco‑conscious shoppers

Reusable bags are not just eco-friendly but also advantageous for our funds. Shopping with such bags reduces plastic consumption and can be a significant saving - money that would otherwise be spent on disposable bags. Therefore, having such bags at home is a prudent decision.

Much emphasis is put on the quality of our food and its storage. However, the same level of care is not always applied to the bags we use while shopping. Often left on the floor, in the car's boot, or even near the waste bin, these bags, particularly those made of fabric, can easily pick up dirt and stains from their surroundings. Thus, it's crucial to understand how and why we should clean them regularly.

Pathogens from animals, commonly associated with raw food, can contaminate the material of the bag and pose a potential health risk. According to microbiologist Jason Tetro, fabric bags stained by raw food or liquid should be washed immediately.

The care given to bags should be as meticulous as that given to clothes. Regular disinfecting spray can clean bags made of waxy materials. On the other hand, cotton and hemp bags require washing. Similar to clothing, fabric bags can be thrown into a washing machine with laundry detergent, which will eliminate stains and microbes. Set the machine temperature to 86 degrees Fahrenheit without a spin cycle or with a low-speed cycle. After washing, simply let them dry thoroughly, ideally laid flat.

If you aim to conserve water, soaking the bags in a bowl and hand washing them with moderate detergent could be a good alternative. Then, let them soak for several minutes. Finally, rinse them thoroughly and let them dry. This method is safer for the bag's shape than using a washing machine.

Although washing at 86 degrees Fahrenheit will remove stains and dirt, it will not kill all bacteria. Therefore, after the bags are dried, it's recommended to iron them at up to 302 degrees Fahrenheit. Doing so will not only eliminate microbes but also help the bag regain its original shape and appearance.

You may wonder if ironing alone is satisfactory, or whether it's necessary to wash the bags beforehand. Unfortunately, it is necessary to wash first. Ironing a dirty bag can make stains and other dirt permanent, making them harder to remove without strong stain removers later.

Fabric bags often come with prints like amusing statements, fine art reproductions, or ecological advocacy slogans. Over time, these prints can be damaged due to washing, therefore they require special attention. To maintain their appearance, wash these bags at low temperature, turning them inside out beforehand. Avoid drying them in direct sunlight to prevent discoloration. When ironing these bags, turn them inside out and never iron directly over the print. It's helpful to cover the print with a towel while ironing to provide extra protection.