Do Drawstring Bags Really Live Up to the Hype?

Have you found yourself wondering if drawstring bags are worth it? You’re not alone. These ultra-simple bags have exploded in popularity recently, leaving many folks scratching their heads. Should you hop on the drawstring bandwagon or stick to tried and true backpack and tote options? Grab a snack and settle in as we unpack everything you need to know to decide if drawstring bags are for you.

In short: Drawstring bags rock for certain uses but aren’t the most practical everyday bag. Dangling drawstrings can be a tripping hazard, and lack of structure limits organization. But when you need a super lightweight and compact bag, like for travel or the gym, drawstring bags can’t be beat!

Now let’s dive into the nitty gritty details. By the end you’ll be a drawstring bag expert!

First up, a quick history lesson so you can understand how we ended up with these purse-backpack hybrids in the first place. Back in ye olden days, drawstring bags were called ditty bags. Sailors used them to hold personal items and tools when out to sea. Pretty practical for life on a ship!

Fast forward to the 1970s. Athleisure wear was on the rise, and sports bags were shifting from structured leather to lightweight nylon. Drawstring bags offered an inexpensive, casual way to tote gear to practice or the big game. And the rest is history!

Now that you know how we got here, let’s unpack the pros and cons of drawstring bags. You’ll get the real dirt on what makes them rad plus limitations to keep in mind.

First up, what’s awesome about drawstring bags?

• They’re mad lightweight. Seriously, they weigh next to nothing even when empty. No heavy zippers, buckles, or frame here!
• The cinch-able opening means they store super compactly. Just loosen the strings and pack it down.
• Drawstring closures mean you can really stuff these bags full and they expand to handle it. Bigger storage capacity than their small size suggests.
• They come in tons of cute prints and colors to show off your personal style. Having options is never a bad thing!
• No fancy hardware and simple construction means drawstring bags are generally affordable as far as bags go. More money left over for other fun stuff!

Okay, those are some definite pros in the drawstring bags column. But what are the drawbacks?

• Lack of structure means they don’t offer much in the way of support. Not ideal for holding heavy items.
• Minimal interior and exterior organizational pockets. So finding keys or a chapstick can turn into a game of hide and seek.
• Overstuffing can lead to distorted shape and warped seams. Designated packing cubes can help.
• Dangling drawstring along the bottom is notorious for catching on stuff and tripping people up. Tie it up!
• Limited security since drawstring closure isn’t very secure. So maybe don’t use it as your daily purse-replacement unless you’re careful.

Phew, that’s a lot of detailed information to digest so far! Let’s shift gears and talk about the best uses for drawstring bags so you can decide if you need one in your life.

Drawstring bags truly excel anytime you need an ultra-compact, lightweight bag. Like these scenarios:

• At the gym – Drawstrings cinch down easily in a locker and hold shoes, towel, and shower supplies with room to spare.
• As a swim bag – Wet gear won’t seep through, and chlorine-soaked suits won’t stink up the inside.
• For travel – Must for carry-on essentials; they take up barely any space when not in use.
• Everyday purse – Cute style if you don’t overload them and keep an eye on the strap.
• Diaper or kids bag – Easy access wipes and portable gear contained. Machine washable is a major perk!

Convinced yet? Let’s cap things off with tips for picking out and caring for a drawstring bag so you’ll get the most out of yours!

Some key features to look for include:

• Sturdy canvas or nylon exterior that can withstand reasonable wear and tear.
• Smooth zipper closure to keep smaller items secure in an interior pocket.
• Wide shoulder strap made of soft material for serious comfort when carrying heavier loads. No painful digging!
• Inner divider pockets, even just 1 or 2, to contain small essentials for easy access.

Caring for your drawstring bag is breeze. Follow these tips and it will look great for years:

• Spot clean stains right away before they have time to set.
• Use a fabric protector spray to guard against dirt and spills.
• For thorough cleaning, hand wash gently and line dry. Avoid harsh machines!
• Stuff with tissue paper when storing to retain nice shape.

Phew, that was a lot of info! Let’s circle back to the key question: Are drawstring bags right for you?

If you need a super lightweight, compact, affordable bag for certain uses like the gym, travel, or a day out, the answer is a resounding yes! But for heavy loads or all the organizational pockets of a work or school bag, traditional backpacks and totes are still your best bet.

Hope this drawstring bag deep dive helped you decide if it should earn a spot in your closet! Let me know if you have any other drawstring bag tips or questions. And don’t forget to order yours today if you’re ready to give this trendy bag a whirl