How to Properly Clean Reusable Grocery Bags

How often do you clean your reusable grocery bags? Are you washing them correctly? These questions are increasingly important in light of recent scientific findings. The University of Arizona and Loma Linda University in California conducted a study on reusable grocery bags, revealing that these Eco-Friendly bags can harbor harmful bacteria that pose health risks. So, how should we clean reusable grocery bags to prevent any harm? Let’s explore!

The simplest approach is to follow the manufacturer’s care labels. If those are unavailable, here are some general tips:

• Cotton and Canvas Bags: Wash these bags as you would other cotton or canvas items, using hot water and detergent to eliminate E. coli. For removing food stains, dirt, grime, and fruit or vegetable stains, pre-wash with white vinegar. Use oxygen-based stain removers and enzyme cleaners to ensure your bags are thoroughly disinfected. Dry them in fresh air or a dryer.

• Nonwoven Polypropylene and Recycled PET Bags: Hand wash in hot water with enzyme cleaners and detergent. Alternatively, you can use a gentle cycle with warm water in the washing machine. Do not dry these bags in the dryer, as the heat can damage them.

• Insulated Bags: Wipe down with disinfectant wipes after each use, especially if carrying meats. For general disinfection, use pine oil, white vinegar, or phenolic disinfectant.

• Polyester Bags: Hand wash with warm water and liquid detergent. Use the gentlest cycle on your washing machine for a thorough clean, and air dry.

If your grocery bags have an unpleasant odor, make sure they are completely dry before using them again. Never store reusable bags, especially dirty ones, in your trunk, the back of your car, or in-house drawers or cabinets. Avoid storing them while they are still moist, as heat and humidity create an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Instead, keep your bags in a cool, dry place with good air circulation.

For bags with inserts, clean them with a disinfectant spray, paying special attention to seams, nooks, and fabric creases. You don’t want spilled juices, meat blood, or vegetable dirt to become a breeding ground for bacteria.

Additional Tips and Tricks for Cleaning Reusable Grocery Bags

• Use Natural Fibers: Experts recommend opting for bags made from natural fibers like hemp and jute. These materials are naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and bacteria.

• Avoid Chlorine Bleach: Do not use chlorine bleach on cotton or canvas bags as it can damage the fibers.

• Mesh Bags: If you use mesh grocery bags, hand wash them in hot water with liquid detergent. Allow them to air dry.

• Washing Frequency: If you shop weekly, wash your bags weekly. If you use them daily, wash them after every 2-3 uses, or even after each use if possible.

Safe Usage of Grocery Shopping Bags

In addition to cleaning your grocery bags, proper usage is crucial for safety and health. Here are some tips to follow:

• Color Coding or Labeling: Use differently colored canvas bags for various food groups and household items you frequently buy, such as meat, produce, dairy, fruits and vegetables, and cleaning products. If you prefer not to use different colors, label the bags accordingly.

• Double Bagging: To ensure safety, use plastic shopping bags inside your canvas or cotton bags for meats, poultry, and eggs to prevent leaks. Even if the items don't leak, bacteria can be transferred through the packaging.

• Dedicated Bags: Don't mix the bags for different purposes. Use specifically labeled bags for groceries, a duffel bag for sports or gym, a backpack for work or school, and a polypropylene Shopping bag for detergents and chemicals.

• Avoid Contamination in Carts: Never place your grocery bags in the baby carrier area of the shopping cart, as bacteria can multiply there.

• Washable Bags: Only use bags that can be easily washed or disinfected. Canvas bags are among the best and easiest to clean.

• Extra Disinfection: For added safety, include a cup or two of white vinegar in your washing machine load to eliminate bacteria, microbes, and stains.

Now that we understand the importance of cleaning reusable grocery bags and how to do it, we'd love to hear from you. What are your favorite types of shopping bags? Which ones do you use the most? Do you prefer machine washing or hand washing them? Do you use a variety of bags in different colors for different types of groceries, or do you stick to a single bag for everything? Share your thoughts and practices with us!