COVID-19 & Reusable Bags

With the COVID-19 pandemic in full swing, much is being written and propagated that is untrue. We should only trust those sources we know to have the resources to research and answer our questions. One of these untruths focuses on reusable bags and their supposed ability to carry and spread the virus. I am uncertain how or where this rumor started but it has very quickly pervaded mainstream. The truth according to the CDC website; “In general, because of poor survivability of these coronaviruses on surfaces, there is likely very low risk of spread from products or packaging that are shipped over a period of days or weeks at ambient temperatures. Coronaviruses are generally thought to be spread most often by respiratory droplets. Currently there is no evidence to support transmission of COVID-19 associated with imported goods and there have not been any cases of COVID-19 in the United States associated with imported goods. Information will be provided on the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) website as it becomes available.” Any reusable bag is as likely to transmit/carry the virus as the clothes you are wearing on your person as you shop. If you wash your bags on a regular basis in the washer (make certain you air dry them); the likelihood of spreading any bacteria is slim to none. ALL reusable bags, whether they are woven or nonwoven, can be put in the washing machine. Same as your clothing. Some will say that I write this because my company makes reusable bags and we do. BUT we also manufacture your normal plastic t shirt bags that are being touted as “safe from spreading the virus” and which are being banned across the country slowly but surely. So, for those that think I am communicating this because we may lose business, you are wrong. I am writing to ask people to slow down, think and research the claims that you hear before drawing an incorrect conclusion. Let common sense prevail rather than listening to Karen on Facebook.