A reusable bag only does good if it gets used, again and again, for years. So before you buy an RPET (recycled plastic bottle) bag, it's worth five minutes to check it will actually suit your life and live up to what it says on the label. Here's the checklist we'd use ourselves.
New to RPET? Start with What is RPET Fabric?
Step 1: Check the composition
Look for a clear statement of recycled content, and notice which parts it covers. "Made with recycled fabric" can mean the outer fabric only, while zips, linings, labels or trims are made from new materials.
- Is there a percentage, or just the word "recycled"?
- Does the claim cover the whole bag, or only the main fabric?
- Is there a figure you can make sense of, like the number of bottles used?
Example: our Medium Hackney Backpack lists its outer and inner fabric and labels as 100% recycled plastic bottles and its zipper as 100% recycled plastic, and says it's made from 17 recycled bottles. Our original Medium Reusable Bag is made from 6.
Step 2: Choose the right size
A bag that's too small gets left at home; one that's too big becomes a chore to carry. Think about your most common trip:
- Weekly food shop: something that holds a couple of supermarket bags' worth. Our Medium Reusable Bag (39 x 64 x 17cm) fits 2-3 grocery bags of shopping.
- Top-up shops and errands: a smaller bag you'll always have on you, like our Mini Reusable Bags.
- Commute or day out: a tote or backpack with room for a laptop. Our Recycled Tote has a 10cm-wide base and fits a 16" laptop.
Step 3: Check the practical details
These are the details that decide whether a bag becomes a daily habit:
- Does it fold away? If you often forget your bag, choose one that packs into a pocket-sized pouch and lives in your coat or handbag.
- Is there a stated load limit? A number is more useful than "strong". Our Medium Reusable Bag is rated to carry up to 20kg.
- Are the handles comfortable? Wide straps that sit on your shoulder make heavy shops easier.
- Is it water-resistant? Handy for rainy walks home.
Step 4: Read the evidence, not just the adjectives
Words like "eco-friendly", "green" or "planet-friendly" don't tell you much on their own. Look for specific, checkable information:
- Materials and recycled content, stated clearly on the product page.
- Recognised third-party certification where it applies, such as the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) for recycled content.
- A company you can find out more about, for example through a B Corp certification or a clear page about how products are made.
And be wary of claims that sound too good: recycled polyester is still polyester, it isn't biodegradable, and most areas can't recycle it at home yet. That's exactly why the next step matters.
Step 5: Plan to use it, a lot
The most sustainable bag is the one you keep using. Before you buy, decide where it's going to live so it's with you when you need it: by the front door, in your coat pocket, in your work bag or in the car.
Then check the care instructions so it lasts. Most of our bags machine-wash at 30°C on a delicate cycle (spin 600-800 rpm) and shouldn't be tumble dried; our laptop sleeves are hand wash only.
Your quick checklist
- Recycled content stated clearly, and you know which parts it covers.
- The right size for your most common trip.
- Folds away, has a stated load limit and comfortable handles.
- Specific evidence behind the green claims.
- A plan for where it lives, and care instructions you can follow.
Already have a reusable bag that still works? Keep using it. But if you're ready for a new one, we'd love you to find one that fits your routine.
