How to Clean and Care for Your Canvas Tote

Quick answer

Spot-clean your canvas tote with mild soap and water, then air-dry flat. For upcycled styles like the Springwood Upcycled Canvas Tote, avoid bleach and machine washing to preserve the unique color variations.

Step-by-step canvas tote cleaning guide

1. Empty and shake out debris: Turn the tote inside out and shake it over a trash can to remove loose dirt, crumbs, and dust. Check all pockets and seams for hidden debris. Skipping this step can grind dirt into the fabric during washing, causing stains.
2. Spot-clean stains with mild soap: Mix a few drops of mild liquid soap (like dish soap) with cool water. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution, wring it out, and gently blot the stained area. Avoid scrubbing, which can spread the stain. Using hot water or bleach can set stains or fade the canvas, especially on upcycled bags.
3. Rinse with a damp cloth: Wipe the cleaned area with a cloth dampened with plain cool water to remove soap residue. Repeat until no suds remain. Leftover soap can attract more dirt, so thorough rinsing is key.
4. Air-dry flat away from direct heat: Lay the tote flat on a clean towel or drying rack in a well-ventilated area. Do not wring, twist, or hang it, as that can distort the shape. Avoid direct sunlight and heaters, which can cause fading. Machine drying or hanging while wet can shrink or misshape the canvas.
5. Brush or fluff the fabric when dry: Once fully dry, use a soft-bristle brush or your hand to gently brush the canvas in one direction. This restores the fabric's texture and removes any remaining dust. Skipping this step can leave the canvas looking flat or matted.

Product spotlight

• Springwood Upcycled Canvas Tote: Made from preloved Lo & Sons Catalina Collection bags, each tote is uniquely created and saves these materials from the landfill. Because each bag is one-of-a-kind, cleaning methods that cause fading or discoloration can permanently alter its look, so gentle care is essential.