Top 5 Cloth Grocery Bags: It’s Easy and Fashionable to Say No to Paper & Plastic

One of the easiest ways to lessen your carbon foot print is to switch to cloth grocery bags. Considering the BYOB approach (Bring Your Own Bag) isn’t as difficult as it sounds. The truth of the matter is, any tote bag that you have laying around will work well and when it comes to being truly eco-friendly, using something you already have, or making a bag from existing materials is always the best way to go.

However, some smart eco-friendly designers have created bags that will make your transition super easy. As a busy mom who’s already lugging a big diaper bag and two kids around, I’m happy to purchase new bags if I know that I’m actually going to use them. Like most folks, the idea of switching to cloth bags isn’t the problem; it’s remembering to bring them with you. The beauty of the new cloth grocery bags on the market is that they actually fit more than the ones you might have hidden in your closet. So, if you’re definitely looking for the convenience factor, consider my top 5 bag choices.

At Cool Mom Picks, I’ve had the pleasure of testing out some amazing cloth grocery bags, many of which are created by small companies who are truly dedicated to green-minded living. But, like most people, I’ve got my personal favorites.

• » See also: Fleurville Bags: Eco-friendly, Family-friendly…and Sexy?!
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5. Minus Bags are awesome cloth bags in bold colors that feature modern graphics. Snag them with longer handles or short ones, depending on your preference. ($16).

4. If you like to shake things up a bit, you might try Vancouver-based BYOB. They have a variety of styles, including a cool artist series, plus my favorite one that’s sure to turn heads. ($35 and up).

3. Skeeda makes great cloth totes that carry up to three bags of groceries in one bag. The long straps make them easy to carry over your shoulder and the fun fabrics make them decidedly un-totish. ($15).

2. Baggu Bags (pictured) are brightly colored, extremely cost effective, and ridiculously handy. ($22 for 3)

1. The Olive Smart Sack is actually six large bags that fit neatly into a handy sack that’s the size of a large travel coffee mug. I rarely use all the bags, but better, I’ve NEVER left home without them. Plus, people dole out compliments every time I pull them out of my bag ($39).

Feel free to leave your favorite bag choices in the comments.

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