I own a collection of these totes accumulated over the years in every color and size. I like the zip tops the best. I have bought them for everyone in the family including both of my grandmothers. They pack so well and are steel tough. If you really need to wash them throw them into a commercial washer with cold water, a little soap and have at it. Make sure it is the one WITHOUT an agitator. I have also just washed them and dried them in the yard with the garden hose. Again I love them and you will too.
I moved south from Brunswick 13 years ago and have been taking my Boat and Tote bags to the grocery store ever since. I always hear "Where did you find these bags?" I smile and tell them "LL Bean". Everyone is amazed of how sturdy they are and how much they will hold. I love my bags and just ordered two more. Who needs plastic?
I bought my two teacher daughters the medium bag with a Zipper and had their names embroidered on the bag. They like the long straps so they can sling it over their shoulder while carrying other items. They use it to take home the students workbooks and papers that need grading. The zipper keeps the contents secure. This durable bag takes quite a beating during the course of a school year.
This is a terrific bag for a day trip or for visiting friends for the day. We just throw stuff in it, toss it in the car, and off we go. It's very thick cloth so it stands upright and won't flop over - its like a soft sided box with handles. It doesn't need a zipper because it won't tip over. It is comfortable to carry and we never have to worry about overloading it with heavy stuff - this bag can carry almost anything. It's that strong.
