How to Care for Your Art Tote Bag
By Holly Bones Art & Design | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to wash, dry, and store your art tote bag to keep the print looking vibrant. Simple steps for polyester tote bags.
Quick answer
To keep your art tote bag looking its best, wash it gently by hand in cold water, air dry it flat, and store it away from direct sunlight.
Why care matters for printed totes
Art tote bags feature designs printed directly onto fabric. That print is the main reason you bought the bag, so preserving it is key. The Holly Bones Art & Design "Ghost Light" Tote Bag, for example, is made from 100% polyester. That material is durable and holds its shape well, but it also means the print is heat-sensitive and can fade with harsh treatment.
A little routine care will keep the colors bright and the bag sturdy for daily use. Skip the shortcuts and your tote will reward you with years of service.
How to wash and care for your art tote bag
- Step 1: Check the care label: Look inside the bag for any manufacturer tags. Most polyester totes can be machine washed on gentle, but always confirm first. If the label says hand wash only, follow that instruction. Skipping the label is the most common mistake.
- Step 2: Pre-treat stains gently: Spot clean stains with a mild detergent and a soft cloth. Rub gently from the outside in to avoid spreading the stain. Do not scrub hard, as that can wear down the print.
- Step 3: Wash in cold water on gentle cycle: Turn the bag inside out to protect the printed side. Use cold water and a gentle cycle. Hot water can cause the print to crack or fade. Use a mild, color-safe detergent. Skip bleach and fabric softeners. Hot water and harsh chemicals are the top enemies of printed totes.
- Step 4: Air dry only: Remove the bag from the washer promptly. Do not wring or twist. Hang it or lay it flat to dry away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The dryer will damage the print and shrink the polyester. Never put your art tote in the dryer.
- Step 5: Store flat or hung: When not in use, store the tote bag flat in a drawer or hung by its handles. Avoid folding it in a way that creases the printed area for long periods. Keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. Proper storage prevents creases and color loss.
About this tote
- "Ghost Light" Tote Bag: 100% polyester body for exceptional durability and shape retention. Polyester resists shrinking and wrinkles, but it is sensitive to high heat, so you must wash in cold water and avoid the dryer.
"Ghost Light" Tote Bag
