The Red, White, and Green

I know, I know: It appears we’ve reached a market saturation point with the eco-friendly tote bags. My own hall closet is bursting with them — cotton canvas, mesh, polypropylene, recycled PET — so many that I could probably pack up my whole apartment in them instead of boxes the next time we move.

Here’s the thing, though, about most of the reusable bags I’ve accumulated over the years: They’re fine for tossing in the car or for doing a quick marketing on my morning walk when I’m in my sweats and looking grungy, but they don’t look so cute when I’m out and about on the weekends, shopping with friends at the farmers market or the swap meet. I hate to sound vain, but I like to make green look at least a little bit glam. How can I convince other people to think reusable bags are cool if I’m schlepping a wrinkled and stained Trader Joe’s number?

Enter these adorable jute shopping bags from June Fifteen. I picture a très chic Parisian woman carrying one of these, which is exactly who I’m going to pretend to be when I stuff mine with bread, cheese, and flowers at the Hollywood Farmers Market this weekend.

What’s great about the bags is that they’re flat-bottomed, so it’s super easy to keep your purchases neatly organized. A couple styles come with built-in wine holders, too. What a perfect way to pack up a romantic picnic lunch for you and your sweetie! (I know Valentine’s Day was last weekend, but it never hurts to keep trying.)

–Jennifer Grayson

Do this now: Don’t forget to wash the reusable bags you already own — they can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Toss your cotton totes in the wash (just don’t dry them on high, unless you want a mini tote), and soak your plastic-based ones in a bath of soapy water and a quarter cup of white vinegar. June Fifteen’s jute totes have a waterproof lining; use a damp cloth to wipe out the inside.

Related posts:
Neato! Reusable wine totes
Reusable produce bags

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