Garment bags: Practicality, aesthetics lead R&D efforts

China suppliers of garment and toiletry bags are improving key product aspects as part of differentiation efforts.

Makers see the need to distinguish themselves amid strong competition. This is heightened by the fact that most operations utilize the same materials and offer models with similar water-resistant and air-permeable characteristics.

Enhancements target usability and appearance. Examples under the latter include the addition of gussets and side strips to expand garment bags.

Nonfoldable types usually measure 60x100x10cm and may be customized.

Foldable kinds come in two- or threefold models and can help save storage space.

R&D in the line also emphasizes improved convenience and practicality. Foldable designs may have two extra flaps that help transform the bag into a rectangular carryall when it is collapsed and zipped. Further, some releases have room for a pair of shoes. Elastic bands hold clothes in place, while leak-resistant mesh liners keep damp and dry pieces separate.

Handles and shoulder straps can also be attached such as in the threefold model from Quanzhou Haiheng Sports and Tour Goods Co. Ltd.

Both foldable and nonfoldable garment bags from China can have hangers and internal pockets. Compartments with zipper or hook-and-loop closures are suitable for small pieces of clothing such as ties, socks and underwear.

Toiletry bags also come in foldable and nonfoldable forms. Most designs have handles and hooks. Pouches and mesh pockets in some variants are for towels, combs and other grooming products. Releases can also have custom add-ons such as mirrors, bottles and shower caps.

To improve appearance, suppliers of toiletry bags, especially those offering women's models, emphasize color, style and printing. Midrange bags feature floral, rainbow or zebra-stripe themes and tend to be more compact.

In addition to these enhancements, suppliers are more safety-conscious.

For instance, products from All Star Houseware Ltd have been SGS-tested for formaldehyde and azo content. Moreover, the company uses PEVA that has been tested for the 15 SVHC under REACH regulations.

Most garment and toiletry bags from China target the low end and midrange, although high-end designs are available from a few suppliers.

As regards materials, certain types are commonly adopted because of their inherent properties.

For instance, 75 to 100gsm nonwoven fabric with a 0.1 to 0.12mm back coating is the primary option for garment bags. The material is dust-resistant, lightweight and air permeable, and is more cost-effective than other textiles.

Nonwoven fabric is laminated with PEVA or PVC for water repellence.

Oxford and canvas are also used as they are both water- and crease-resistant.

PE is adopted, but only for basic low-end garment bags. Such designs are quoted at $0.50 to $1. Other models in this price range are nonfoldable and made of 75gsm nonwoven fabric with a 0.1mm PEVA back coating.

Midrange garment bags come in 100gsm nonwoven fabric with a 0.12mm layer of PEVA, PVC, nylon or canvas. They go for $1.50 to $8.

High-end versions are from $8.50 to $15 and use PU, nylon, canvas, or synthetic or genuine leather.

As for toiletry bags, they usually come in 200 to 600d nylon, polyester, PU or PVC. The lining is also made of nylon, but in 190 to 210d.

Quoted at $0.20 to $0.50, low-end models are typically one-chamber pouches in PVC and EVA. Upscale varieties in nylon, polyester, PU or PVC and with more compartments and add-ons can range between $0.80 and $3. High-end models can be made of cotton or canvas as well.

Dimensions, the complexity of the manufacturing process and the type of accessories used also determine prices.

Quotes will remain unchanged in the next six months given the stable cost of synthetic fibers.

The majority of garment and toiletry bag makers in China are private locally owned, although a few are foreign-invested.

Production is mainly OEM-oriented and designs are mostly exported to the EU and the US.

Garment bags are usually from makers specializing in nonwoven fabric products such as tablecloths, and disposable medical gowns and masks.

Models designed for toiletries, on the other hand, come from bag manufacturers.

Trading companies offer both lines.

Regardless of the category, most manufacturing processes, including cutting and sewing, are usually done in-house.

Silk-screening is the most common printing technique employed. Some factories are equipped with precision 10-color copper plate printers that can be used on plastic compounds such as OPP, PET, CPE, PVC and AL.

This article "Garment bags: Practicality, aesthetics lead R&D efforts" is originally posted in Global Sources.

All Star Houseware Ltd
Beijing Stronger Rich Imp.Exp.Co,.Ltd. Fashion Dept
Fuzhou Oceanal Star Bags Co Ltd