↑ Table of contents ↑

Sustainable Materials Used In High-Quality Handbags

Published on 25 Apr 23, Updated on 06 Jun 23.
Sustainable Materials Used In High-Quality Handbags

Sustainability is not a trend but a lifestyle that many fashion companies are adopting. As a society, we have realised how fast fashion is harming our planet and have started making conscious decisions towards better choices. Handbags are an essential part of any outfit, and switching to sustainable materials can make a positive impact on our environment.

High-quality handbags are known for their durability and longevity, and by incorporating sustainable materials, we can ensure that they are also eco-friendly. In this blog post, we will explore some sustainable materials used in high-quality handbags, their benefits and how they contribute to creating a greener world.

Table of contents

Sustainable Materials Used In High-Quality Handbags

Handbags are an essential accessory for many people, providing both style and function. However, the production of handbags often involves the use of materials that are harmful to the environment. Fortunately, there are now many sustainably-sourced materials being used in the production of high-quality handbags. These materials are not only better for the planet, but they also offer unique benefits over traditional materials.

1. Cork

Cork is a highly sustainable material that is harvested from the cork oak tree. The trees do not have to be cut down to harvest cork, making it an incredibly eco-friendly alternative to leather. Additionally, cork is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant, making it an ideal material for handbags.

2. Recycled Plastic

Many companies are now using recycled plastic to produce high-quality handbags. This material is often sourced from plastic bottles that would otherwise end up in landfills or the ocean. Handbags made from recycled plastic are not only environmentally friendly, but they are also durable, waterproof, and come in a variety of styles.

3. Organic Cotton

Conventionally-grown cotton is often highly-processed and treated with chemicals that are harmful to the environment. However, organic cotton is grown without the use of pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, making it a sustainable and environmentally-friendly choice for handbags. Organic cotton is also incredibly soft, durable, and easy to care for.

4. Pi±atex

Pi±atex is a sustainable alternative to leather made from the fibers of pineapple leaves. The material is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant, making it an ideal choice for handbags. Pi±atex is also biodegradable and can be easily recycled, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.

5. Hemp

Hemp is a highly sustainable material that requires few pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers to grow. In addition to being eco-friendly, hemp is also incredibly strong and durable, making it an ideal material for handbags. Hemp handbags are also naturally resistant to mold and mildew, making them a great choice for people with allergies or sensitivities.

Organic Cotton

Organic cotton is a sustainable material used in high-quality handbags. This type of cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. It is also non-GMO and free from other harmful chemicals found in conventional cotton. Organic cotton helps reduce the environmental impact of cotton production by promoting soil health and water conservation. It also supports the well-being of farmers and workers who cultivate and harvest cotton.

Benefits of Using Organic Cotton in Handbags

Handbags made with organic cotton offer several benefits. These bags are durable, soft, and breathable, making them an excellent choice for everyday use. They are also hypoallergenic, making them suitable for people with sensitive skin. Handbags made with organic cotton are also biodegradable, which means they can break down easily in the environment, reducing waste.

Challenges of Using Organic Cotton in Handbags

One of the main challenges of using organic cotton in handbags is the higher cost. Organic cotton is more expensive to produce than conventional cotton, which can make the end product more expensive. However, the benefits of using organic cotton outweigh the cost, as it promotes sustainable practices and supports the health of the planet and people.

Recycled PET

Recycled PET stands for polyethylene terephthalate, which is a type of plastic that is commonly used for making bottles, packaging, and textiles. By utilizing PET waste, recycled PET helps reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills and oceans. It also requires less energy and resources to produce than virgin PET.

Production Process

The production process for recycled PET involves collecting discarded PET products and breaking them down into small pieces. The broken-down PET is then cleaned and melted to create new yarn or textiles that can be used in handbag production.

Benefits

Hemp

Hemp is a sustainable material that has been used for thousands of years. It is a versatile plant that can be used to make a variety of products, including clothing, paper, and handbags. Hemp is a renewable resource that can be grown without the use of pesticides or herbicides. It also requires less water than other crops and can be used to improve soil health.

Benefits of Hemp in Handbags

Hemp is a popular material for handbags because it is durable, lightweight, and breathable. It is also naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and bacteria. Hemp can be woven into a variety of textures and can be blended with other materials to create unique designs. Handbags made from hemp are not only stylish but also eco-friendly.

The Future of Hemp

As more people become aware of the benefits of sustainable materials, the demand for hemp products is expected to increase. In addition to handbags, hemp can be used to make a variety of other products, including shoes, backpacks, and wallets. As hemp cultivation becomes more widespread, it is expected to become more affordable and accessible to consumers. With its many benefits, hemp is likely to play an important role in the future of sustainable fashion.

Cork

Cork is a highly sustainable material that is often used in high-quality handbags. It is made from the bark of cork oak trees, which are native to the Mediterranean region. Cork is a renewable resource, as the bark is harvested every 9-12 years without harming the tree. It is also biodegradable and recyclable, making it a truly sustainable material. One of the great things about cork is its durability. It is water-resistant, fire-resistant, and resistant to wear and tear. This makes it a great material for handbags, which are often subjected to a lot of use and abuse. Cork handbags are also lightweight and easy to clean, making them perfect for everyday use. Another benefit of cork is its unique texture and appearance. Each cork piece is unique, giving every handbag made from cork a one-of-a-kind look. Cork can also be dyed and treated to create a variety of colors and finishes, from natural earth tones to bold and bright hues.

Cork Leather

Cork leather is a specific type of cork that is made to look and feel like traditional leather. It is created by laminating thin slices of cork to a fabric backing, then treating it with a polyurethane coating to make it more durable. Cork leather is a great alternative to animal leather, as it is just as durable and versatile but much more sustainable.

Cork Fabric

Cork fabric, also known as cork cloth, is another popular form of cork used in handbags. It is made by bonding thin slices of cork to a fabric backing, creating a flexible and versatile material that can be used in a variety of ways. Cork fabric is often used for handbag linings, straps, and decorative details, adding a unique touch of sustainability to any design.

Pi±atex

Pi±atex is a natural and sustainable material that is made from pineapple leaf fibers. These fibers are a byproduct of the pineapple harvest and would normally be discarded. Pi±atex uses these fibers to create a leather-like material that is eco-friendly and cruelty-free. It is a popular choice for high-quality handbags and fashion products.

Production Process

The production process for Pi±atex is simple and sustainable. The leaves are harvested and the fibers are extracted through a mechanical process. The fibers are then cleaned, dried, and processed to create a non-woven mesh. This mesh is then pressed and treated to create a leather-like material that can be used for a variety of products, including handbags.

Benefits

Pi±atex has many benefits as a sustainable material for handbags. It is completely vegan and cruelty-free, as it is made from a byproduct of the pineapple industry. It is also biodegradable, meaning that it will naturally break down at the end of its life cycle. Pi±atex is also durable and water-resistant, making it a practical choice for handbags and other fashion accessories.

Vegan Leather

Vegan leather is a sustainable material used in making high-quality handbags. It is a synthetic substitute for traditional leather and is made from materials that are not derived from animals. This makes it an ethical choice for eco-conscious individuals who want to avoid products that involve animal cruelty.

Types of Vegan Leather

There are different types of vegan leather, each with its unique qualities. Some of the popular variants include:

  • Pi±atex - made with fibers from pineapple leaves
  • Mushroom Leather - made with mushroom caps
  • Cork Leather - made with cork oak bark
  • Recycled Leather - made from recycled materials like plastic bottles and rubber tires.

Benefits of Vegan Leather

Vegan leather has several benefits over traditional leather:

  • Sustainability - It is made from eco-friendly materials that reduce the carbon footprint and waste.
  • Cruelty-free - No animals are harmed in the making of the material, making it an ethical choice.
  • Water-resistant - It is water-resistant, making it easy to clean and maintain.
  • Durable - It is sturdy and long-lasting, making it a practical choice for handbags that get frequent use.

Bamboo

Bamboo is a highly sustainable material that is becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry, particularly in the production of handbags. Not only does bamboo grow quickly and abundantly, it also requires very little water to grow, making it a perfect choice for eco-conscious shoppers.

Durability

Bamboo is also incredibly durable, making it an excellent choice for high-quality handbags. It is strong, flexible, and resistant to damage from water and UV rays, ensuring that bamboo handbags can last for years without showing signs of wear and tear.

Compostable

Another benefit of bamboo is that it is biodegradable and compostable. This means that once a bamboo handbag has reached the end of its useful life, it can be returned to the earth without causing harm or pollution.

Style

Bamboo handbags come in a wide range of styles, from casual to dressy, and can be found in many different colors and patterns. This makes it easy for shoppers to find a bamboo handbag that suits their individual style and preferences.

Jute

Jute is a natural fiber that is extracted from the stem of the jute plant. It is a highly sustainable material that is commonly used in high-quality handbags due to its durability and strength. Jute is also biodegradable, which makes it an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials that can take hundreds of years to decompose.

Benefits of Jute

Jute has a number of benefits that make it a popular choice for handbag manufacturers who are looking to create sustainable products. One of the main benefits of jute is that it is highly durable and strong, which means that it can withstand daily wear and tear without becoming damaged. Jute is also resistant to moisture, which makes it ideal for use in handbags that may be exposed to rain or other types of moisture.

Sustainability of Jute

Jute is a highly sustainable material that is grown in many different countries around the world. It is a renewable resource that can be harvested annually, which means that it is not subject to the same limitations as non-renewable resources like petroleum. Additionally, jute is biodegradable, which reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

Upcycled Materials

Upcycling is the process of transforming old, unwanted products into something new and useful. This method helps to reduce waste and minimize the use of new materials. In the fashion industry, upcycling has become a popular trend due to its sustainable nature. Many high-quality handbags are made using upcycled materials which are then transformed into stylish and eco-friendly bags.

Recycled Plastic Bottles

Plastic bottles are one of the most significant contributors to environmental pollution. They take years to decompose and are harmful to the environment. However, the recycling process can turn these bottles into usable materials used in the creation of handbag designs. These recycled plastic bottles can be transformed into beautiful fabrics with elevated quality compared to virgin plastic materials.

Repurposed Fabrics

Designers often use repurposed fabrics, such as old clothes, discarded seatbelts, or even car airbags, in creating high-quality handbags. These materials can be transformed into unique designs and provide a sustainable alternative to traditional fabric suppliers.

Recycled Leather

Recycled leather is another commonly used upcycled material for handbags. Recycled leather is made by collecting leather scraps from the manufacturing process, breaking them down, and creating a new product from them. This process helps to reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact of the leather industry. Using upcycled materials in handbag production helps to reduce waste and provide a sustainable option for consumers. By choosing handbags made from these materials, individuals can help to minimize their carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the environment.

Linen

Linen is a sustainable material used in high-quality handbags. It is made from fibers obtained from the stem of the flax plant. The plant grows quickly and requires less water and pesticides compared to other crops. Linen is also known for its durability, absorbency, and natural luster.

Benefits of Linen

Linen is a popular choice for eco-conscious consumers because it is an environmentally friendly material. It is biodegradable and does not contribute to pollution. Linen is also easy to care for and can be washed in cold water, dried quickly and does not need ironing.

Uses of Linen in Handbags

Linen is commonly used in the construction of the outer layer of handbags. It provides a natural, textured appearance that complements the design aesthetic of many eco-friendly handbag brands. The material can also be used for linings or pockets, providing a strong and durable internal layer within the bag. In addition, linen can be combined with other sustainable materials such as recycled leather or organic cotton to create unique and high-quality handbags.

Waxed Canvas

Waxed canvas is a sustainable and durable material used in high-quality handbags because it can endure all kinds of wear and tear. The material is made from cotton fibers that are woven into a canvas, and then coated in wax to give it water-resistant qualities. The process of waxing canvas was commonly used in the past for sails and outdoor equipment as well. But now, designers have embraced this material, using it to make a range of versatile bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Why Waxed Canvas is Sustainable

Waxed canvas is a sustainable and eco-friendly material due to the following reasons:

  • Long-lasting: Since waxed canvas is water-resistant and durable, it can last for years without needing to be replaced.
  • High-quality: Waxed canvas bags are made to last, reducing the need to constantly buy new bags.
  • Biodegradable: Unlike synthetic materials, waxed canvas is made from natural fibers and is biodegradable.
  • Low-impact manufacturing: The production of waxed canvas bags does not require a lot of energy, and the wax is usually made from natural ingredients.

Caring for Waxed Canvas Bags

Waxed canvas bags are easy to maintain and can last for years if well taken care of. Here's how to care for your waxed canvas bag:

  • Clean with a damp cloth: Avoid using soap or harsh chemicals to clean your waxed canvas bag. Instead, use a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and stains.
  • Re-waxing: Over time, the wax coating on your bag may wear off, leaving it less water-resistant. To re-wax your bag, apply a thin layer of wax and use a hairdryer to melt it into the canvas.
  • Storage: Store your waxed canvas bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Felted Wool

Felted wool is a sustainable material that is commonly used in high-quality handbags. It is made by taking wool fibers and felting them together, creating a dense and sturdy material that is both warm and water-resistant. Felted wool is an eco-friendly option because it is made from natural fibers and requires no additional chemicals or processing.

Advantages of Using Felted Wool

There are several advantages to using felted wool in handbags. One of the biggest advantages is its durability. Felted wool is a dense material that is resistant to tearing and wear, making it ideal for use in high-quality handbags that are designed to last. Felted wool is also naturally water-resistant, which can help protect the contents of your handbag from rain or spills.

How Felted Wool is Produced

Felted wool is produced by taking raw wool fibers and applying heat, moisture, and pressure. This causes the fibers to bond together, creating a dense, felted material. The process of felting wool has been used for centuries, and it is still commonly used today in the production of high-quality handbags.

Caring for Felted Wool Handbags

Felted wool handbags are generally easy to care for, and they can be cleaned using a damp cloth or sponge. It is important to avoid using hot water or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the surface of the wool. Felted wool handbags should also be air-dried, as machine drying can cause them to shrink or lose their shape. With proper care, a high-quality felted wool handbag can last for many years.

Apple Leather

Apple leather is a sustainable alternative to traditional leather made from animal hides. It is a vegan material that is made from the skins and cores of apples that are discarded from the food industry. These byproducts are then crushed into a pulp and mixed with a binding agent to create a malleable material with a texture similar to that of leather. The result is a durable material that can be used in a variety of products, including handbags.

The Benefits of Apple Leather

Apple leather has many advantages over traditional leather. For one, it is an eco-friendly alternative to animal hides, which are often produced using harsh chemicals and contribute to deforestation. Apple leather is biodegradable and does not contain any toxic substances, which means that it is less harmful to the environment. Additionally, apple leather is lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for use in high-quality handbags and other fashion accessories.

The Future of Apple Leather

As eco-conscious consumers become more aware of the impact that traditional leather production has on the environment, there is a growing demand for sustainable alternatives like apple leather. In recent years, several fashion brands have started to incorporate apple leather into their collections, and it is likely that we will see more of it in the future. While it is still a relatively new material, apple leather has the potential to revolutionize the fashion industry and create a more sustainable future.

SeaCell

SeaCell is a sustainable material used in high-quality handbags that has gained popularity in recent years. This material is made from a blend of cellulose and seaweed, which is harvested in a sustainable way. The seaweed used in SeaCell is grown in a pristine fjord off the coast of Iceland, and the entire process is environmentally friendly.

What Makes SeaCell Sustainable?

The sustainability of SeaCell comes from the way it is made. Seaweed is a renewable resource that grows quickly, and it doesn't require any land or water to produce. The harvesting of seaweed used in SeaCell is done in a way that does not harm the environment, and the process has a minimal impact on the marine ecosystem. Additionally, SeaCell is made using a closed-loop production process, which means that any waste produced during the manufacturing process is reused or recycled.

Benefits of SeaCell

Aside from being sustainable, there are many benefits to using SeaCell in handbags. For one, SeaCell is incredibly soft and comfortable to the touch, making it perfect for use in accessories that come into close contact with skin. Additionally, SeaCell is naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic, which means that it is ideal for people with skin sensitivities. SeaCell also has moisture-wicking properties, which help to keep the contents of your handbag dry and free from mold and mildew. SeaCell is just one example of the many sustainable materials that are being used in high-quality handbags. As consumers become more eco-conscious, the demand for sustainable fashion is growing, and designers are responding by using materials that are both stylish and environmentally friendly. When shopping for a new handbag, consider choosing one made from SeaCell or another sustainable material to help reduce your impact on the planet.

Tencel

Tencel is a brand of lyocell fabric that is made from sustainably sourced eucalyptus trees. The production process of Tencel is closed-loop, which means that the solvents and chemicals used are recycled and reused, resulting in minimal waste. Tencel is known for its softness, durability, and moisture-wicking properties, making it a popular choice for fashion and textiles.

Benefits of Tencel:

  • Lower environmental impact compared to other fabrics
  • Biodegradable and compostable
  • Reduced water usage in production
  • Soft and comfortable to wear
  • Does not require special care or maintenance

Uses of Tencel in Handbags:

Tencel is a versatile fabric that can be used in a variety of handbag styles. It is often used as lining material because of its softness and moisture-wicking properties. Tencel is also used in the construction of the outer shell of some handbags, and can be blended with other materials such as leather or recycled polyester. Handbags made with Tencel have a luxurious feel and are long-lasting, making them a sustainable choice for eco-conscious consumers.

Looking for Handbags, Wallets & Cases?
Shop sustainable and ethical Handbags, Wallets & Cases from purpose-driven brands on our marketplace...
Handbags, Wallets & Cases
Featured products
Featured categories
Looking to live more sustainably?
You may also like