Drawstring Bags
The ultimate lightweight carry — for gym, school, travel, and adventure.
Why Choose Eco-Friendly Drawstring Bags?
Drawstring bags are one of the most versatile and widely used bag styles in the world. From school kids carrying PE kits to gym-goers packing workout gear, from festival-goers to day-trippers — the drawstring backpack is everywhere. But most mass-produced drawstring bags are made from cheap polyester or nylon derived from virgin petroleum, contributing to the fashion industry's massive carbon footprint. The textile industry produces 1.2 billion tonnes of CO2 annually — more than international flights and maritime shipping combined.
Switching to an eco-friendly drawstring bag made from organic cotton, recycled polyester, or hemp reduces this environmental impact significantly. Organic cotton uses 91% less water than conventional cotton and eliminates synthetic pesticide use. Recycled polyester (RPET) requires 59% less energy to produce than virgin polyester and diverts plastic bottles from landfill. Hemp, one of the fastest-growing plants on earth, requires no irrigation, no pesticides, and enriches the soil — making it one of the most sustainable textile fibres available.
Eco-friendly drawstring bags are not just better for the planet — they are also better quality. Natural fibres are stronger, more breathable, and more comfortable to wear than synthetic alternatives. A canvas drawstring bag from EcoBagHub will outlast several cheap polyester bags, making it a genuinely sustainable choice that saves money over time.
Types of Drawstring Bags
Canvas Drawstring Backpacks
Made from heavy cotton canvas (typically 8–12 oz), these are the most durable and structured drawstring bags available. Canvas bags hold their shape well, stand upright when filled, and provide a polished, natural look. They are ideal for everyday use — from school to the gym to casual outings. The cotton fabric is breathable, reducing sweat buildup on your back during warmer months.
Mesh Drawstring Bags
Lightweight and see-through, mesh drawstring bags are popular for gym clothes, swim gear, and laundry. The openmesh allows air to circulate freely, preventing odours and mildew from damp items. They are also commonly used for sports equipment and as event swag bags. Recycled polyester mesh versions offer the same functionality with a much lower environmental footprint.
Recycled Polyester Drawstring Bags
Modern RPET drawstring bags look and feel like traditional nylon or polyester bags but are made entirely from recycled plastic bottles. They are lightweight (typically 50–80g), water-resistant, and available in a wide range of colours. RPET bags are excellent for travel, hiking, and outdoor use where weight matters.
Personalised / Custom Printed Drawstring Bags
Drawstring bags are one of the most popular promotional items in the world — and for good reason. They are useful, affordable, and offer a large print surface for branding. Custom-printed eco-friendly drawstring bags made from organic cotton, recycled PET, or hemp provide a powerful marketing message that aligns your brand with sustainability.
Size Guide for Drawstring Bags
| Size | Dimensions (W x H) | Volume | Typical Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 12" x 14" | 5–7 litres | PE kit, gym change, small electronics |
| Medium | 14" x 17" | 8–12 litres | School books, gym + towel, daily carry |
| Large | 16" x 20" | 13–18 litres | Travel, laundry, bulky gym gear, beach |
| Extra-Large | 18" x 22" | 19–25 litres | Overnight trips, laundry bag, camping |
Key Features to Look For
- Drawcord Closure: Look for thick, smooth cord that slides easily through reinforced eyelets. Flat or round cord both work — flat cords are less likely to dig into shoulders.
- Gusseted Bottom: A flat, gusseted base allows the bag to stand upright and hold more volume without bulging awkwardly.
- Interior Pocket: A small interior pouch or key clip keeps valuables secure and easy to find.
- Reinforced Straps: The points where the drawcord straps join the bag should be double-stitched or riveted for durability. This is the most common failure point on cheap drawstring bags.
- Zippered Main Compartment (optional): Some premium drawstring bags add a top zip for security, keeping the drawcord purely decorative or as a secondary closure.
Versatile Uses
Drawstring bags are surprisingly versatile. Here are just some of the ways our customers use them:
- Gym & Fitness: Carry workout clothes, shoes, towel, water bottle, and toiletries in one lightweight bag. Mesh bags are ideal for damp gear.
- School & University: Canvas drawstring bags make excellent book bags for lighter days. The hands-free design is comfortable for walking or cycling.
- Hiking & Outdoors: When you need a lightweight pack for day hikes, summit pushes, or carrying extra layers. RPET bags are waterproof and weigh under 100g.
- Laundry & Storage: Use as a wash bag for delicates, a travel laundry bag, or a storage sack for linens and soft goods.
- Events & Promotions: Custom drawstring bags are the #1 promotional product for conferences, festivals, trade shows, and corporate events. They are useful, visible, and reusable.
- Beach & Pool: Mesh drawstring bags let sand fall through, so you don't bring the beach home with you. They dry quickly and pack flat.
Custom Printing for Events & Promotions
Drawstring bags are the ideal canvas for your brand message. We provide end-to-end customisation services for businesses, schools, event organisers, and non-profits:
- Full-colour screen printing (1–6 colours) on the front, back, or both sides
- Digital transfer for photographic or complex artwork
- Embroidery on cotton and canvas bags
- Custom piping, lining colours, and bag dimensions
- Minimum order: 50 units for standard designs, 200+ for fully custom specifications
- Lead time: 3–4 weeks from artwork approval
Our Drawstring Bag Collection
Organic Canvas Drawstring Backpack
Material: GOTS Organic Cotton Canvas (8 oz)
Capacity: Medium (14" x 17") / 12 litres
$16.99 – $21.99
Everyday drawstring backpack with gusseted base, interior zip pocket, and adjustable drawcord straps. Natural, black, or undyed options.
Recycled Polyester Drawstring Bag
Material: 100% RPET (8 recycled bottles per bag)
Capacity: Large (16" x 20") / 18 litres
$10.99 – $14.99
Ultra-lightweight (65g) and packable. Water-resistant exterior, zippered security pocket, and reflective stripe for visibility at night.
Mesh Drawstring Backpack
Material: Recycled Polyester Mesh
Capacity: Large (16" x 20") / 15 litres
$8.99 – $12.99
Breathable mesh backpack perfect for gym, swim, and sports. Sand and water pass right through. Reinforced drawcord and padded base.
Large Canvas Drawstring Bag
Material: 100% Cotton Canvas (12 oz)
Capacity: Extra-Large (18" x 22") / 22 litres
$19.99 – $25.99
Oversized heavy-duty canvas bag with full zipper closure and drawcord top. Interior organiser pockets and reinforced grab handle.
Custom Printed Drawstring Bag
Material: Choice of Canvas / RPET / Hemp
Any size (MOQ 50)
From $5.99/unit (volume pricing)
Fully customisable drawstring bags for your brand, event, or organisation. Screen printing, digital print, or embroidery. Free artwork setup for orders over 500 units.
Event & Promotional Bulk Orders
Drawstring bags are the most effective promotional giveaways — 85% of recipients keep and reuse them. Make your next event sustainable with eco-friendly custom drawstring bags. Request a quote for your bulk order today.
Get a Promotional Quote