Thirty One Bags, produced by the company Thirty-One Gifts, have become a staple in many households for their durability, versatility, and organizational potential. Whether you are looking for a way to carry groceries, organize a playroom, or find a reliable work tote, these products offer a wide range of solutions. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the different styles available, how to use them effectively, and what you should know before making a purchase.
What is Thirty-One Gifts?
Thirty-One Gifts is a direct-selling company founded in 2003. The name is derived from Proverbs 31 in the Bible, which celebrates the virtues of a woman who manages her household with wisdom and strength. While the brand has roots in faith-based values, its products are designed for anyone looking for functional and stylish storage solutions.
The company operates through a network of independent consultants rather than traditional retail storefronts. This model allows customers to shop via home parties, catalog parties, or online through a consultant’s specific website. This direct-selling approach often includes monthly specials and incentives for those who host events.
Popular Thirty One Bag Styles
The brand offers hundreds of products, but several specific styles have gained a reputation for being the most useful. Understanding the features of these flagship items can help you decide which bag fits your specific needs.
The Large Utility Tote
The Large Utility Tote is arguably the most recognizable product in the Thirty One lineup. It features a structured wire rim that keeps the bag open, making it easy to load and unload items. It is made from heavy-duty polyester and can hold a significant amount of weight.
Common uses for the Large Utility Tote include carrying groceries, transporting sports equipment, or acting as a trunk organizer. Because it collapses flat when not in use, it is easy to store in a vehicle or a closet.
The Zip-Top Organizing Utility Tote
Often referred to as the “ZOUT,” this bag is a favorite for professionals and parents. It includes seven exterior pockets (two of which are mesh) and a zipper closure to keep contents secure. The size is slightly smaller than the Large Utility Tote, making it more portable for daily use.
Many users find this bag ideal as a diaper bag, a mobile office, or a teacher’s tote. The multiple pockets allow for easy access to smaller items like water bottles, pens, and phones.
Thermal Totes and Coolers
Thirty One offers a variety of thermal bags designed to keep food and drinks at the desired temperature. These range from small lunch bags for individuals to large family-sized coolers. Some models feature “Leak Lock” thermal lining, which allows you to put ice directly into the bag without worrying about water seeping through the fabric.
Home Decor and Storage Cubes
Beyond portable bags, the brand produces several items intended for permanent home storage. This includes “Your Way” Cubes and Rectangles, which are designed to fit into standard shelving units. These items often feature clear windows or chalk panels for easy labeling.
Key Features and Benefits
Several factors set Thirty One bags apart from standard retail options. Knowing these features can help you justify the investment in these products.
- Personalization: Most bags can be customized with monograms, names, or icons. This makes them popular for gifts and helps identify your bags in a crowded setting.
- Durability: The materials used are typically high-grade polyester or canvas. The reinforced stitching on handles ensures they can carry heavy loads without tearing.
- Pattern Variety: The company releases new patterns and prints seasonally. This allows users to match their bags to their personal style or home decor.
- Collapsibility: Most of the utility totes are designed to fold flat. This is a major benefit for those with limited storage space.
Practical Ways to Use Thirty One Bags
While many people buy these bags for a specific purpose, their versatility allows them to be repurposed as your needs change. Here are some practical ways to use them throughout your home and daily life.
In the Kitchen and Pantry
Use the “Your Way” Rectangles to group similar items on pantry shelves, such as baking supplies or snacks. The Large Utility Tote is also an excellent tool for carrying bulk items from warehouse clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club.
In the Car
A Large Utility Tote can serve as a permanent trunk organizer. Use it to hold emergency supplies, extra blankets, or reusable shopping bags. This prevents items from rolling around while you are driving.
For Travel and Day Trips
The thermal bags are essential for road trips or beach days. For overnight stays, the various sizes of duffel bags and crossbody bags provide organized space for clothing and toiletries. The “All About the Benjamins” wallet is a highly-rated accessory for keeping travel documents and currency organized.
For Cleaning and Laundry
The Stand Tall Bin is a popular choice for a laundry hamper because it is sturdy enough to stand on its own but light enough to carry to the laundry room. Smaller utility totes can be used to create a portable cleaning caddy for household chores.
How to Buy Thirty One Bags
If you are interested in purchasing these bags, you have a few options. Because it is a direct-sales company, the process is slightly different than shopping at a big-box store.
- Find a Consultant: You can visit the official Thirty-One Gifts website and use their “Find a Consultant” tool. This will link you to someone in your local area.
- Shop Online Directly: You can often shop directly through the corporate website, though you may still be assigned to a consultant to handle the transaction.
- Host a Party: If you have a large wishlist, hosting a party (either in-person or virtually) allows you to earn “Hostess Rewards,” which can include free or deeply discounted products.
- Secondary Markets: Many people sell gently used Thirty One bags on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, or Facebook Marketplace. This is a great way to find retired patterns at a lower price.
Care and Maintenance Tips
To ensure your bags last for many years, proper care is essential. Most Thirty One products are not machine washable due to the structural elements like wire rims or thermal linings.
Spot Cleaning: Use a damp cloth with mild soap to clean the exterior and interior of the bags. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the prints and weaken the fabric.
Drying: Always air dry your bags. Never put them in a clothes dryer, as the heat can melt the thermal lining or warp the structured components. Open the bags fully to ensure they dry completely and prevent mildew.
Storage: When not in use, fold the bags according to their design. Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of collapsed utility totes, as this can bend the wire rims out of shape.
Conclusion
Thirty One Bags offer a practical and stylish way to manage the clutter of everyday life. By choosing the right style for your needs and maintaining it properly, you can enjoy a highly organized home and more efficient travel. Whether you are a busy parent, a professional, or someone looking to tidy up their living space, these bags provide a reliable solution.
For more tips on household management and smart shopping, explore our other guides on home organization and consumer products to help you make the best choices for your lifestyle.