What is RPET?
RPET stands for recycled polyethylene terephthalate, or recycled PET. PET is a type of plastic commonly used to make drinks bottles. When these bottles are collected and recycled, the material can be processed into raw materials for new products. For our bags, recycled PET is transformed into fibres, which are then spun into yarns and made into fabrics. This gives used plastic bottles a new purpose as part of a bag. The result is a versatile material suitable for a wide range of applications, from lightweight shoppers to durable backpacks and travel bags.
From used bottle to new fabric.
Before a PET bottle can become part of a bag, the material goes through several stages.
Collection and sorting: Used PET bottles are collected and separated from other materials.
Cleaning and shredding: The bottles are cleaned and shredded into small plastic flakes.
Processing into fibres: The recycled PET is melted and spun into new fibres.
From fibre to fabric: The fibres are processed into yarns and then made into textiles.
From fabric to bag: The RPET fabrics are used to create new bags, bringing together design, functionality and quality finishing.
This is how a used PET bottle is transformed into a valuable resource with new possibilities.
Why do we choose RPET?
Producing virgin plastic requires fossil-based raw materials. By reusing existing PET materials, we reduce the need for newly produced PET. RPET offers several benefits:
Reusing existing resources: Collected PET bottles are given a new purpose.
Reduced reliance on virgin PET: Recycled materials can replace part of the demand for newly produced plastic.
Versatile applications: RPET can be processed into a variety of fabrics, textures and finishes.
Strong and functional: Suitable for bags designed for regular use.
New design possibilities: From lightweight and practical to stylish and premium.
The overall environmental impact depends on several factors, including the recycling process, manufacturing, transport and product lifespan. That's why we look beyond the origin of the material and also consider how it is used in the finished bag.
Recycled down to the details.
At Recycle Bags, we don't just use RPET for the outer fabric of our bags. Within our Premium Collection, we take things a step further with our Recycle to the max philosophy. This means making as many textile components as possible from recycled PET bottles, including the outer fabric, lining, zip tape, webbing and mesh. By also focusing on the less visible components, we make the most of the possibilities offered by recycled materials. Because thoughtful material choices go beyond what's visible on the outside.
Durable in use, thoughtfully designed.
Above all, a bag needs to do what it's designed to do. That's why, at SL BAGS, we look beyond recycled materials and also focus on durability, carrying comfort, appearance and everyday practicality. RPET offers a wide range of possibilities. Within Recycle Bags, recycled materials form the foundation of our collections. At VASAD, we use RPET where it complements the design and desired characteristics of a bag, for example as a lining material. We also combine RPET with recycled cotton when the properties of both materials complement each other. Recycled cotton consists of shorter fibres, and adding RPET can help make the fabric stronger and improve its shape retention. Because a great bag isn't just about the materials we use. It's also about quality, functionality and long-lasting performance.
Transparant and verifiable.
At SL BAGS, we believe that information about recycled materials should be supported by verifiable evidence. With Trace Me!, we make product information accessible via a QR code, including details about materials, origin, production and the calculated carbon footprint. This gives our business customers greater insight into the background of their products and the evidence supporting material claims. It helps distributors, resellers and their customers make informed choices and communicate the story behind their branded merchandise or corporate gifts with transparency.
Not just telling you what goes into a bag, but making that information transparent and verifiable.
From plastic bottle to valuable everyday product.
RPET demonstrates how used materials can be given a valuable new purpose. By transforming recycled PET bottles into new fabrics, we create opportunities for bags that combine material reuse, design and functionality. Within Recycle Bags and VASAD, we apply these possibilities in different ways. Each brand has its own distinct character, but both share the same focus on thoughtful material choices and everyday practicality. From existing resources to new possibilities. That's how we approach material use at SL BAGS.
