Burlap Sack Bag Shopping Guide: Types, Uses & Buying Tips

Discover the timeless charm and versatility of the burlap sack bag—a stylish, eco-friendly accessory perfect for conscious shoppers. Whether you’re seeking a rustic touch for your wardrobe, a durable tote for daily errands, or sustainable packaging solutions, burlap sack bags offer unmatched practicality and natural appeal. Explore why these trendy bags are a must-have addition to your shopping list.

Burlap Sack Bag Types and Applications: Comparison Table

Type/Variation	Common Sizes	Typical Uses	Strength/Weight Capacity	Special Features	Reusable?	Food Grade Availability
Standard Burlap Sack	14″x26″, 18″x30″, 22″x36″, 24″x40″, 36″x48″, 48″x72″	Storage, agriculture, sandbags, flood barriers, plantings, crafts	50–200 lbs	Breathable, biodegradable	Yes	Yes (select models)
Drawstring Burlap Bag	3″x5″, 4″x6″, 12″x19″	Gift packaging, small item storage, crafts	1–50 lbs	Easy closure, reusable	Yes	Some
Heavy-Duty Coffee Sacks	~27″x40″, assorted	Coffee bean transport, DIY, decor, gardening	150 lbs	Authentic graphics, extra-strong	Yes	Often
Colored/Printed Burlap Bags	Various	Branding, retail, events, weddings	5–100 lbs	Customizable, logos/prints	Yes	Select options
Small Craft or Gift Burlap Bags	3″x5″, 4″x6″, 12″x19″	Favors, party bags, jewelry, small goods	1–10 lbs	Often have drawstrings	Yes	Sometimes

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Types of Burlap Sack Bags

Burlap sack bags come in a wide range of variations, making them suitable for countless purposes. Understanding the primary types will help you narrow down your choices:

1. Traditional Sacks

These are the classic, unadorned burlap bags—typically brown, rectangular, and extremely sturdy. Their hallmark is versatility. Sizes commonly range from small (12″x19″) to extra-large (36″x48″ and beyond).

Typical uses:
– Agriculture: Storing potatoes, onions, grains, coffee, peanuts, etc.
– Sandbags: Flood control, construction site ballast, erosion control
– Planting/gardening: Root balls, temporary transplanting, composting
– Sack races and festivals

2. Drawstring Burlap Bags

Smaller in size (from 3″x5″ to 14″x26″), drawstring burlap bags are popular for anything requiring secure closure, such as:
– Gift packaging or wedding favors
– Small-scale food storage
– Jewelry or craft supplies
– Organization in travel bags

3. Heavy-Duty/Bulk Coffee Sacks

Originally designed to transport up to 150 lbs of coffee beans, these are larger (approximately 27″x40″), extra thick, and often adorned with authentic graphics denoting their origin. Perfect for:
– Heavy-duty storage
– DIY projects and home décor (upholstery, totes, wall hangings)
– Garden use (mulching, weed suppression)
– Themed events or rustic weddings

4. Custom/Printed Burlap Bags

Burlap bags can be customized with logos, color prints, labels, or graphics, excellent for:
– Retail packaging (eco-conscious brands)
– Event branding or gift bags
– Corporate giveaways

5. Small Craft or Gift Burlap Bags

Tiny burlap pouches with or without drawstrings, ideal for:
– Wedding or party favors
– Jewelry
– Soap or handmade goods
– Advent calendars or gift baskets

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Material Choices: What Makes One Burlap Bag Different from Another?

Burlap bags are mainly crafted from jute—a natural, renewable, and biodegradable fiber. However, not all burlap is created equal. Here’s what to consider:

1. Material Source & Weave

• Jute fibers: The gold standard—robust, with superior breathability.
• Alternative fibers: Rarely, burlap can also be made from flax, sisal, or hemp for specialty applications.
• Weave tightness: Looser weaves allow more air and drainage, suitable for root ball wrapping. Tighter weaves are preferred for sandbagging or food storage.

2. Fabric Weight (Ounces per Square Yard)

• Lightweight (7 oz): Best for light-duty use, crafts, lining baskets, or décor.
• Standard (9–10 oz): The most versatile, balancing strength and flexibility—appropriate for storage, agriculture, food, and most commercial uses.
• Heavyweight (12+ oz): Designed for maximum durability—ideal for industrial uses, erosion control, flood barriers, or repeated use/handling.

3. Food Grade vs. Standard

• Food grade burlap is hydrocarbon-free and produced with food-safe oils only, ensuring zero contamination—essential when storing produce like potatoes, onions, or coffee intended for consumption.
• Standard burlap may use petroleum-based treatments and isn’t recommended for direct contact with consumables.

4. Color and Finish

• Natural brown: The most common, reflecting untreated natural jute.
• Bleached, dyed, or printed: Used for decorative and branding purposes. Note: Dyed burlap isn’t recommended for food or garden uses unless clearly labeled as safe.

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Usage Occasions for Burlap Sack Bags

Burlap sacks shine due to their ruggedness and eco-friendliness. Here are popular ways you can use them:

Everyday & Household

• Storing root vegetables, nuts, or coffee beans (in food-grade bags)
• Organizing laundry, shoes, or linens
• Packing for a move (cushioning, wrapping fragile items)
• Toy storage or general clutter control

Gardening & Outdoors

• Grow bags for tomatoes, potatoes, or herbs
• Plant covers for frost, heat, or pest protection
• Temporary mulch or weed suppression
• Composting biodegradable matter
• Collecting yard waste or transporting garden debris

Events & Games

• Sack racing at parties, field days, family gatherings (24″x40″ or 36″x48″ recommended for adults)
• Themed weddings or rustic celebrations (custom print or mini sacks for favors)
• Halloween trick-or-treat bags

Commercial & Industrial

• Flood control or temporary barricades (fill with sand; sturdy, biodegradable option)
• Erosion control on construction sites or riverbanks
• Packing agricultural products for market

Creative & DIY

• Home décor: pillow covers, wall art, table runners, lampshades
• Craft projects and upcycling
• Custom printed retail bags (for small businesses)

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How to Match Burlap Sack Bags with Outfits & Occasions

Although not traditionally used as fashion accessories, burlap sack bags have found a place in rustic, bohemian, and eco-friendly style trends. Here’s how you could make them work for you:

Classic Tote or Shopper Bag

• Pair an upcycled burlap sack tote with jeans and a tee for a farmers market or grocery run.
• For boho vibes, attach leather handles and a lining—match with a flowy maxi dress and sandals.

Backpacks

• Some brands offer burlap “backpacks” with canvas reinforcements—earthy, casual, and perfect for casual day trips or festivals.

Mini Burlap Pouches

• Use as unique accessories: store makeup, as a coin purse, or as an organizer in a larger handbag.

Event or Occasion Dressing

• Custom printed or dyed burlap clutches work great for outdoor, rustic, or nature-themed events.
• Attach brooches, lace, or fabric florals for a chic upcycled accent.

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Tips and Best Practices for Choosing & Using Burlap Sack Bags

Keep these practical pointers in mind to get the most from your burlap bags:

Choosing the Right Bag

1. Match size to purpose: Opt for smaller bags (under 18″x30″) for crafts, gifts, or favors; large bags (24″x40″ and up) for storage, gardening, or events.
2. Check weight capacity: Ensure the fabric weight matches your needs—heavier items require 9–12 oz bags or greater.
3. Food grade for edibles: Select bags labeled “food grade” for storing any consumables.
4. Drawstring or standard? Use drawstrings for anything needing secure closure or subdivided organization.
5. Look for reinforced seams for heavy or repeated use, particularly for sack racing or construction applications.

Using Your Burlap Bags

• Cleaning new bags: Shake out dust and, if planning to use for food, rinse with warm water. Air dry—never use a dryer, as it may shrink or damage fibers.
• Washing used bags: Wash only without other laundry. Use mild detergent, set on delicate. Hang dry.
• Storage: Keep bags dry and cool. Dampness can invite mold or mildew.
• Reuse & Upcycle: Repurpose aging bags for crafts, garden row covers, or even DIY textiles.

Maintenance Tips

• If bags become stained, scrub with mild soap and rinse. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• For long-term uses outdoors (erosion control), secure with landscape staples or tie-downs.
• Inspect periodically for weakness at seams—replace where necessary for safety.

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Technical Features & Specifications: Comparison Table

Attribute/Model	Common Size(s)	Material / Weight	Maximum Load	Food Grade Option	Closure Type	Key Use Cases	Reusability	Biodegradable
Standard Burlap Bag	22″x36″, 24″x40″	Jute, 9–10 oz	100–150 lbs	Yes/No	Open/stitched	Storage, sandbags, planting	Yes	Yes
Extra Large Sack	36″x48″, 48″x72″	Jute, 10 oz+	200 lbs	Yes	Open	Flood barriers, sack races	Yes	Yes
Drawstring Bag	3″x5″, 4″x6″	Jute, 7–10 oz	1–10 lbs	Some	Drawstring	Gifts, favors, crafts	Yes	Yes
Coffee Sack	~27″x40″	Jute, thick weave	150 lbs	Often	Stitched	Coffee, decor, gardening	Yes	Yes
Printed/Custom Bag	Variable	Jute, 7–10 oz	1–100 lbs	On request	Custom	Branding, events, retail	Yes	Yes
Small Craft Bag	3″x5″, 4″x6″	Jute, 7–10 oz	1–5 lbs	Sometimes	Drawstring	Jewelry, small gifts	Yes	Yes

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Conclusion

Burlap sack bags are the embodiment of function meeting sustainability. Their simple construction belies incredible strength, breathability, and earth-friendly benefits. Whether you need to store garden harvests, host a field day race, transport industrial materials, or create rustic-inspired décor, there’s a perfect burlap sack bag for the job.

When shopping, consider the bag’s size, fabric weight, closure style, and whether you require a food-grade option. Remember, a quality burlap bag is reusable and will serve you in countless ways—while doing right by the planet.

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FAQ

What sizes do burlap sack bags come in?
Burlap sacks range from small pouches (3″x5″) to large sacks (up to 48″x72″). Common storage and sandbagging bags are 14″x26″ to 24″x40″. Choose the size based on your intended use.

How strong are burlap sack bags?
Standard burlap sacks (9–10 oz) hold between 50 and 150 lbs, while heavy-duty coffee or extra-large sacks can handle up to 200 lbs. Always check maximum load ratings before use.

Are all burlap bags food safe?
No. Only bags labeled “food grade” or “hydrocarbon free” are safe for storing consumables, as they are manufactured using food-safe oils and processing methods.

Can you wash burlap bags?
Yes, but wash them separately from other laundry. Use warm or cold water with mild detergent, on a delicate cycle, and always hang them to dry to avoid shrinkage and shedding.

Do burlap bags break down in landfills?
Yes, authentic jute burlap is 100% biodegradable, decomposing naturally without leaving harmful residues.

What are common uses for burlap sack bags?
They’re popular for agricultural storage, sandbags for flood control, erosion prevention, gardening applications, event decor, crafts, and party games like sack racing.

What’s the difference between a burlap bag, gunny sack, and hessian bag?
All describe the same basic product but may differ by region: “burlap” (US/Canada), “hessian” (UK/Commonwealth), and “gunny sack” refers to bags used for transportation of goods.

Can burlap bags be customized?
Yes. Many suppliers offer custom printing or logos, colored dyes, or reinforced seams—ideal for branding, gifts, or unique event needs.

How should I store burlap sacks when not in use?
Store them in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight to prevent mold, mildew, or fiber weakening.

Are there eco-friendly advantages to burlap sacks compared to plastic bags?
Absolutely. Burlap bags are made from renewable jute fibers, are fully compostable, reusable, and contribute far less waste to landfills than plastic alternatives. They’re an excellent choice for sustainable storage and packaging.