Non-woven Polypropylene Totes have been highly popular promotional products for the past several years, and are the most common style of reusable grocery tote.  Non-woven polypropylene is a form of sheet plastic that has been debossed to give the appearance of woven cloth.  The primary measurement for non-woven totes is “grams per square meter” or GSM which is based on the weight and density of the material.  As GSM increases, the material will become denser, and therefore stronger and more durable.  These reusable shopping bags are typically between 70 and 100GSM.  The chosen weight varies based on size and intended use of the tote.  There is a significant quality difference between these two ends of the spectrum.  The density of the material is directly related to the quality and durability of the tote.  The most common sizes are 12” x 8” x 13” and 13” x 10” x 15”.

However, density is not the only factor in measuring the quality and durability of a particular tote.  Color Consistency, Stitch Count, Reinforced Seams, Grommets and Bottom Boards are indicators of quality as well.  Shade variances between production runs can occur, but not color consistency with a particular product.  The color should be even across the entire product without any overly dark or faded areas.  If the stitch count along seams is too great it can have a “shearing” effect and result in significantly reduced durability.  Ideally, there should be a balance of stitches-to-GSM ratio with 6 stitches per linear inch at 100GSM.  Higher or lower stitch counts will reduce the strength and durability of the product.  Quality totes will also feature cross stitch reinforced seams on straps.  And, some will include grommets at the tote and strap junction to further improve durability. Bottom Boards are typical of quality totes, and are usually a sheet of back polyethylene or a sewn-in-and-covered piece of cardboard.

Non-Woven Polypropylene Totes are most frequently screen-printed for spot color logos, or have transfer prints for four color process images.  The surface of these totes is heavily textured in contrast to a cotton t-shirt, and not porous or absorbent.  To achieve the best ink coverage when screen printing this product specially formulated inks are used to accommodate the rough surface and adhesion requirements.  Similarly, the curing (or drying) process for both screen-printing and transfer prints has been adapted to the lower heat tolerance of this material in contrast to that required with apparel.  Transfer prints work very well on this material, and can produce vivid color, close registration and photo-like images.

A significant factor in the ongoing popularity of this product is its eco-friendliness.  The most environmentally-conscious manufacturers use recycled content and reclaim production waste.  Products made of Non-woven Polypropylene are 100% recyclable, and most totes made from this material are used over and over again as an alternative to disposable paper and plastic bags.

These totes, as with all promotional products, are subject to local, state and federal Product Safety and Compliance regulations.  In general, these laws focus on acceptable levels of mercury, chromium, cadmium and lead.  TheMarketPro works with known and reputable manufacturers that can provide the necessary certification to support compliance with these laws.

Please contact TheMarketPro when you are considering promotional products and decorated apparel so that we can provide the information you need to make the best possible purchasing decisions.  TheMarketPro can be reached at 800-905-0073 or sales@themarketpro.net .  Additional articles can be found at www.TheMarketPro.net in our “Going Green with Promotional Products” and “Coffee Break Reading” sections.

Sources: 

Cornnell, Michael, “Cleanup on Aisle Tote”, PromoMarketing, September 2011, pages 70-78.

“Non-Woven Totes: What You Need to Know”, www.bagmakersinc.com, 2009.

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Author:             Connie King

Published:        October 2011