As we never tire of reminding, custom cotton tote bags are more than just carriers; they are walking billboards for your brand. Whether you are a marketing manager planning a corporate event or a retail shop owner looking for eco-friendly packaging, ordering in wholesale can be a significant investment.

However, not all cotton totes are created equal. To ensure your brand is represented by quality that lasts, here are 5 critical things to look out for before you place your bulk order.

1. Fabric Weight: Understanding GSM and Ounces

The "feel" of a bag is determined by its weight. In the wholesale world, this is measured in GSM (grams per square meter) or Ounces (oz).

• Promotional Grade (130-150gsm / 4-5oz): These are thin, lightweight, and perfect for one-time giveaways or light grocery items.
• Standard Grade (200-230gsm / 7-8 oz): A great middle-ground for retail and gift bags.
• Premium/Canvas Grade (280+ gsm / 10+oz): These are heavy-duty, durable, and offer a high-end feel.

Pro Tip: If your business wants to be associated with "premium quality," never go below $8 oz for a retail-ready tote.

2. Stitching and Construction Quality

A bag is only as strong as its weakest seam. When ordering wholesale, request close-up photos or samples to inspect the stitching.

• Handle Reinforcement: Look for "X-stitch" or cross-stitching where the handle meets the bag. This ensures the handles don't snap when the bag is loaded with heavy items.
• Overlocked Seams: Ensure the internal edges are overlocked to prevent the fabric from fraying over time.

At D'Arts and Designs, we prioritize reinforced construction because we know a bag that breaks is a bad reflection on your brand.

3. Handle Type and Length

The utility of a tote bag is often overlooked. You need to choose a handle that fits your target audience's lifestyle.

• Shoulder Length: Usually 60-70 cm in total length. This is the most popular choice as it allows for hands-free carrying.
• Hand-Carry: Shorter handles (30-40 cm) are better for small gift bags or "cuboid" shaped totes.
• Material: Do you want "self-fabric" (cotton handles) for a seamless look, or "webbing" (thicker, woven straps) for extra comfort and a sporty aesthetic?

4. The Right Printing Method for Your Logo

The cost and look of your wholesale order will change drastically based on the printing method.

• Screen Printing: Best for large wholesale runs with 1-3 solid colors. It is incredibly durable and cost-effective.
• Heat Transfer/Digital Printing: Essential if your logo has gradients, shadows, or many colors.
• Embroidery: Choose this if you want a 3D, premium texture for employee gifts or high-end merchandise.

Check out our guide on customization costs to see which fits your budget.

5. Ethical Sourcing and Sustainability

In 2025, your customers care about where their products come from. Using "eco-friendly" bags loses its meaning if the production process isn't ethical.

When vetting a wholesale partner, ask:

• Are the materials biodegradable?
• Does the company follow fair labor practices?
• Is the cotton natural or processed with harsh chemicals?
• Are local stocks and production available?

Choosing a partner like D'Arts and Designs ensures that your business aligns with sustainable values, using natural fibers like jute and cotton that appeal to the modern, conscious consumer.

Ready to start your wholesale journey?

Don't let the technical details overwhelm you. Whether you need 100 or 10,000 bags, we are here to guide you through fabric weights, printing styles, and design choices.

Browse our collection or request a custom wholesale quote.