The Complete Guide to Caring for Handmade Cotton Bags

Handmade bags are more than just accessories; they’re an eco-friendly, durable piece of art carrying stories of tradition and craftsmanship. Moulded into various shapes such as totes, shoulder bags, duffle bags, backpacks, nowadays popular sling bags, drawstring pouches, and eco-friendly grocery bags, these handmade bags are versatile, stylish and practical. Many of these bags, born out of the imaginations of talented women artisans using 100% cotton, make a unique, sustainable, and stylish present for loved ones. With the right care, every handmade bag can last for years while maintaining its beauty and strength.

Why Proper Care is Important

• Cotton is natural: it’s breathable and sustainable but also sensitive to harsh chemicals and heat.
• Handmade means unique: each stitch reflects the artisan’s originality and effort, so protecting the craftsmanship matters.
• Sustainability starts with you: the longer your bag lasts, the more you contribute to reducing waste and saving the planet for generations to come.

Cleaning Tips for Handmade Cotton Bags

1. Spot Cleaning First

For minor stains, gently dab and clean with a soft cloth, cold water, and mild detergent. Avoid scrubbing harshly to protect prints or embroidery.

2. Hand Wash with Care

• Use cold or lukewarm water.
• Add a gentle, eco-friendly detergent.
• Soak for a few minutes, then lightly rub problem areas.
• Rinse until the water is clear.

3. Machine Wash (Only If Needed)

• Always use the gentle cycle.
• Wash with similar colours.
• Turn inside out to protect prints and decorative work.
• Avoid hot water; it can result in shrinking the product.

4. Drying the Right Way

Never use a dryer. Instead, air-dry your bag in the shade or lay it flat on a clean surface. This helps prevent shrinking and keeps colours vibrant.

Caring for Embroidery & Prints

• Turn the bag inside out when washing to protect decorative designs and special artisanal work.
• Use a soft brush for gentle cleaning around embroidered details.
• Avoid prolonged soaking. It may weaken threads or embellishments.

Storage & Everyday Use

• Keep out of direct sunlight when not in use, as it can fade colours.
• Store in a breathable cotton cover or cloth bag, never in plastic.
• Make sure it’s completely dry before storing to avoid mildew.

A Sustainable Choice

When you care for your handmade cotton bag, you’re not just extending its lifespan; you are also supporting sustainable fashion and reducing waste. Every well-maintained bag means less demand for fast fashion and more respect for the women artisans who put their heart into crafting these pieces.

Empowering Women Artisans Through Financial Stability

Behind every handmade 100% cotton bag lies a story of resilience and empowerment. Many of these bags are crafted by women artisans, often from rural and marginalised communities. By creating and selling their handmade products, these women gain:

• Financial independence – Craftsmanship provides a steady source of income, helping artisans support their families.
• Skill recognition – Every stitch and design reflects cultural heritage, turning traditional skills into sustainable livelihoods.
• Confidence & empowerment – Earning from their craft allows women artisans to make decisions, educate their children, and contribute to their communities.
• Sustainable future – Unlike mass-produced products, artisan work ensures fair wages and promotes ethical production.

It also is a significant step towards providing women the freedom to dream and work towards protecting their cultural roots and diminishing craft.

Where to Find Authentic Handmade Cotton Bags

If you’re looking for 100% cotton, handmade bags created by women artisans, check out Akidat. Akidat’s collection celebrates craftsmanship, sustainability, and timeless style, making it easy for you to carry a piece of tradition wherever you go. It celebrates the artistry and hard work of women artisans. By supporting Akidat, you:

• Promote fair trade and ethical craftsmanship.
• Encourage sustainable fashion choices.
• Help women artisans achieve long-term financial security.

So, the next time you carry a handmade cotton bag from Akidat, know that you’re carrying a story of empowerment, tradition, and change.