Plastic-free reusable produce bags are a must-have way to avoid those flimsy single-use plastic bags you grab while shopping in the bulk produce aisles.
I’ve updated this post for Plastic-Free July to remind you how great reusable produce bags are and to help you find bags that work for you.
Get a few and do what I do: put them with my reusable cloth shopping bags. This way, I’ll definitely take them to the store and have them on hand when I need to stock up on loose green beans or a half-dozen apples. I don’t like using throwaway plastic bags that are so thin that they can’t be used more than once.
We originally partnered with SGM Reusable Mesh Produce Bags to tell you what plastic-free options were readily available. Even though they’re out of stock, here are three other great options so you never have to use any plastic bags again.
Organic Cotton Mesh Reusable Produce Bags – These bags come in a set of 3 large bags, 3 small bags and 4 medium bags. I have a set of 3 medium cotton mesh bags. I use them for everything except bulk beans. I can put them and the product they bring straight into the fridge, so they’re very convenient. If you put heavy food in them they will become a little flexible, but this will not affect their performance.
Simply Eco Reusable Produce Bags with See-Through Window – This set of 7 bags includes muslin bags for bulk shopping. It also includes mesh bags for shopping produce, and according to the manufacturer one bag works as a lettuce keeper in the fridge.
Reusable produce and muslin bags, plus bonus bags – Looks like a nice set. Includes three produce bags and three muslin bags (good for seeds, oats and grains, rice, grains, etc.). And larger drawstring bags can be used either for heavier items like apples or corn, or as grocery bags.
Here’s why you’ll love it reusable produce bags
⇒ They are both durable and washable. These can be reused over and over again, so each bag can potentially replace thousands of discarded items. The more often you go shopping, the longer they will last.
⇒ They often come in “value packs” of 12, in three sizes: 3 small, 6 medium and 3 large. Use smaller pieces for foods like herbs, nuts and raisins that you buy in bulk. Use medium size for lettuce, broccoli, cabbage, radishes, onions, carrots, plums, etc. Use the large one for large quantities of grapes, apples, oranges, bananas, and whatever else you need to get through. (I personally don’t need more than 8-10. You may need a few more or less.)
⇒ They are “Multi-Purpose”. In addition to using them for produce, you can also use them as mini laundry bags when traveling, or to hold kids’ toys, office supplies, and “delicate” clothes (i.e., underwear!).
⇒ They are cheap. And once you buy them, you never need to buy them again.
⇒ You can wash the fruits directly in the bag and then keep the bag directly in the refrigerator. They don’t create any extra waste or packaging.
⇒ They are versatile. Use them at the grocery store as well as the farmers market.
⇒ These are easy to store. Just put them in one of those reusable tote bags you take to the grocery store.
At least once a day, someone from the Big Green Purse community contacts me asking where they can find one reusable produce bags, For many people, getting rid of single-use throwaway plastic produce bags is really the final step towards plastic-free shopping!
We are happy to connect you with these bags and hope you get some bags immediately. And please share this post and link on your social media. The more people use them, the less plastic we throw away.
Note: Partnerships and affiliate links enable us to bring you the expert green living content you want at no cost to you. Our editorial recommendations remain ours only. Thank you!
10 Ways to Embrace Reusable Produce Bags
Ditch plastic and embrace eco-friendly shopping with these tips for using reusable produce bags:
- Shop Your Stash:
Before each shopping trip, check your reusable bags and see what sizes you might need. This helps avoid forgetting them at home.
- Match the Bag to the Produce:
Use smaller mesh bags for delicate items like herbs or cherry tomatoes. Medium bags are ideal for leafy greens, apples, or potatoes. Large bags work well for bulky items like melons or large quantities of grapes.
- Pre-Weigh Your Bags (Optional):
Some stores allow tare weights for reusable bags. Weigh your empty bags beforehand and write the weight on a tag. At checkout, the tare weight can be deducted from the produce weight for accurate pricing.
- Double Duty for Dirty Produce:
For some dirty vegetables like potatoes or onions, use a mesh bag for transport and transfer them to a separate bag for storage at home.
- Wash and Reuse:
Reusable bags are washable! After each use, turn them inside out and hand wash with warm water and a mild detergent. Let them air dry completely before storing.
- Label for Storage (Optional):
For long-term storage of produce like herbs or leafy greens, consider labeling your bags with the contents and date to avoid spoilage.
- Embrace Multitasking:
Reusable produce bags aren’t just for groceries! Use them for organizing small items in drawers, packing delicates for travel, or even as laundry delicates bags.
- Clean Up Spills Promptly:
Address any spills or messes in your bags right away to prevent stains and lingering odors.
- Store Them Strategically:
Keep your reusable bags in a designated location, like near your reusable shopping totes, for easy access when you’re heading out the door.
- Spread the Word:
Encourage friends and family to adopt reusable produce bags! Share your positive experience and the environmental benefits of ditching plastic.
By following these tips, you’ll become a pro at using reusable produce bags and contribute to a more sustainable shopping routine. Remember, every small step towards plastic-free living makes a difference!
FAQs:
Plastic-free reusable produce bags are sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic bags, typically made from materials like organic cotton or muslin. They are designed for carrying and storing produce and bulk items.
Using reusable produce bags helps reduce plastic waste, conserves resources, and minimizes environmental pollution. They are also more durable and can be used for various purposes.
Common options include mesh and cotton bags, with some offering see-through windows or drawstring closures.
Most reusable produce bags can be machine washed or hand washed. It’s recommended to wash them regularly to maintain hygiene, especially if used for fresh produce.
Bags typically come in sets with various sizes, suitable for everything from herbs to bulky fruits.
The number depends on your shopping habits. Consider 8-10 bags in different sizes to cover various needs.
Some bags allow washing produce directly inside and storing them in the refrigerator for convenience.
Absolutely! They can be used as laundry bags, storage for small items, or even delicate clothing.
They are available online, at eco-friendly stores, and sometimes at local farmers’ markets.