Your Florida Ecobags tote is built to last — after all, it's made from sailcloth that survived years on the open water. But a little care goes a long way in keeping it looking great and extending its life even further. Here's everything you need to know about caring for your recycled sail bag.
What Is Sailcloth, Exactly?
Sailcloth is engineered for performance: it's UV-resistant, water-resistant, and incredibly strong. Most sails are made from woven polyester or nylon with a laminated film layer. This makes the material naturally easy to care for — it was designed to handle sun, salt, and spray, after all.
Because each bag is made from a unique section of a retired sail, the material may have slight variations in texture, color, or finish. These aren't flaws — they're part of what makes your bag one of a kind.
Everyday Cleaning
For light dirt and everyday grime, a damp cloth is usually all you need. Wipe down the exterior with a clean, damp rag and let it air dry. Sailcloth doesn't absorb water easily, so most surface dirt comes right off.
For more stubborn spots, use a mild soap (like dish soap or a gentle hand soap) diluted in water. Apply with a soft cloth or a soft-bristle brush, scrub gently, and rinse with clean water. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive scrubbers, which can damage the laminate layer or affect the artwork.
Washing
If your bag needs a more thorough clean, hand washing is the safest option. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the bag, gently agitate, and rinse thoroughly. Reshape the bag and hang or lay flat to air dry — avoid wringing or twisting the material.
We don't recommend machine washing, as the agitation and heat can stress the seams and affect the artwork over time.
Drying
Always air dry your sail bag. Keep it out of direct, intense sunlight for extended periods while drying — although sailcloth is UV-resistant, prolonged unnecessary sun exposure can gradually fade any material. A shaded spot with good airflow is ideal.
Never put your sail bag in the dryer. Heat can warp the laminate layer and damage the bag's structure.
Storage
When you're not using your bag, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you're storing it for a longer period, make sure it's clean and completely dry first to prevent any mildew or odor.
Sailcloth is naturally resistant to mold and mildew — another benefit of its marine heritage — but it's still good practice to store it clean.
The Artwork
The original coastal artwork on your bag is applied to withstand regular use, but treat it with the same care as you would any printed fabric. Avoid scrubbing directly over the artwork with abrasive materials, and keep it away from harsh solvents.
A Bag Built to Last
With a little care, your Florida Ecobags tote will be a companion for years to come — just like the sail it came from. That's the whole point: creating things that last, from materials that already proved they could.
Shop our full collection of handmade recycled sail bags: