Non-woven fabric is a textile made by bonding fibers together directly, instead of weaving or knitting them into threads. Because it skips the weaving step, it is fast and inexpensive to produce, which is why it is used for everything from reusable shopping bags to medical masks.
How non-woven fabric is made
The fibers – most often polypropylene (PP) for bags – are laid out in a web and then bonded with heat, pressure, chemicals or mechanical needling. The most common type for promotional bags is spunbond polypropylene, where melted plastic is spun into continuous fibers and bonded with heat into a sheet.
Non-woven fabric is sold by weight in grams per square meter (GSM). A heavier GSM gives a thicker, stronger bag.
Woven vs non-woven: what is the difference?
- Woven fabric (such as woven polypropylene or canvas) is made from threads interlaced on a loom. It is usually stronger and more rigid.
- Non-woven fabric has no threads or weave pattern. It is lighter, softer, cheaper and has a smooth surface that is easy to print.
Why non-woven bags are popular
- Reusable – a non-woven tote can be used many times, unlike a single-use plastic bag.
- Low cost – a low price per bag makes them ideal for trade shows, retail stores and giveaways.
- Easy to print – the smooth surface takes screen printing and heat transfer well.
- Light and flat – bags pack flat, so many fit in a carton and a container.
Common uses of non-woven fabric
- Reusable shopping and promotional tote bags
- Drawstring bags for schools, sports and events
- Medical masks, gowns and caps
- Wipes, diapers and hygiene products
- Tea and coffee bags, packaging and agricultural covers
Non-woven bags from our factory
May Long Phu manufactures non-woven tote bags in grocery, shopper, exhibition die-cut and gift sizes, as well as non-woven drawstring bags, in our factory in Vietnam. We also make can coolers and koozies for the same wholesale and decorator customers. Email sales@maylongphu.com for prices or request a sample.