Non-Woven Bag GSM: How to Specify 80, 100 or 120 GSM
GSM means grams per square metre, a measure of fabric mass per unit area. EcoBag lists non-woven bag options from 80 to 120 gsm; use the figure as one part of a complete specification, not as a stand-alone promise of strength or load capacity.
This guide is for importers, promotional product distributors and packaging buyers comparing non-woven tote quotations. The product range on the custom non-woven bags page lists 80–120 gsm options. Ask each supplier to quote the same bag shape, dimensions, handles, colour, print, packing and quantity so that the weight comparison is meaningful.
What GSM measures
GSM is shorthand for grams per square metre. It expresses the mass of a given area of fabric, rather than the weight of a finished bag. ISO 9073-1:2023 is the current published ISO test method for determining the mass per unit area of nonwoven fabrics. A supplier can confirm the target fabric weight and how it is checked for the specific order.
When you compare a swatch or sample, record the stated gsm, fabric colour, surface finish and any lamination separately. A finished bag may also include seams, handles, a bottom or side gusset, print and packing. Those construction details affect the finished item, so the fabric number should not be treated as a complete description of the bag.
How to compare 80, 100 and 120 gsm options
The website currently presents three example weight points. The use cases below reflect the product-page guidance; they are starting points for a discussion, not independent test results or a load rating. Confirm the actual construction and end use with the factory before placing a production order.
| Example weight | Use-case note on the site | What a buyer should confirm |
|---|---|---|
| 80 gsm | Short-life giveaways, inserts and liners where cost is a priority | Bag dimensions, handle construction, print area and the expected use |
| 100 gsm | General promotional totes and conference bags | Finished shape, gusset, handle attachment, quantity and sample appearance |
| 120 gsm | Retail-oriented or laminated bag specifications | Whether lamination is required, the finish, and all construction details |
A higher gsm may mean more fabric mass per area, but that fact alone does not prove that the finished bag will carry a specified load or last for a specified number of uses. If load performance matters, state the item weight and handling conditions and ask what product-specific test or sample review is available. Do not infer a durability claim from a fabric-weight label.
Keep lamination and printing separate in the specification
Lamination is a film finish applied over the non-woven fabric. The product page treats lamination as a selectable construction option; it does not make the base gsm figure a substitute for describing the finish. In the RFQ, write the target fabric gsm and the requested finish as separate lines. Ask the supplier to confirm the agreed combination on the quotation and approved sample.
The published non-woven range includes 1–2 colour silk-screen printing in listed prices. If you need more colours, another print method, a different print area or an unprinted bag, describe that requirement rather than assuming the standard line applies. Send artwork only after confirming the printable area and accepted file format.
Build a like-for-like non-woven bag RFQ
Include the following details when asking a factory to quote. A photo, sketch or product reference helps resolve construction questions, but the written specification should still state the critical measurements and options.
- Bag style: die-cut, self-fabric handle, webbing handle, gusseted or another defined construction.
- Finished size: width, height and side or bottom gusset in centimetres.
- Fabric: target gsm, colour and any surface or lamination requirement.
- Handles and seams: type, length, attachment and any reinforcement shown in the approved sample.
- Decoration: print colours, artwork, print area or a clear blank/no-print instruction.
- Order and delivery: quantity for every style/colour/size, packing, destination and target date.
The published custom-production minimum is 500 pcs per style, per colour and per size. Working samples are listed at 3–7 working days after specifications and any required artwork are confirmed. FOB Guangzhou is the standard trade basis; CIF or DDP may be quoted on request and must be confirmed for the actual product, route and order. Ask for all inclusions and exclusions to appear in the written quotation.
Common GSM comparison mistakes
- Comparing two quotes where the bag sizes, handles, gussets or quantities are different.
- Assuming gsm directly specifies thickness, strength, carrying capacity or product life.
- Combining lamination and fabric weight into one unclear description.
- Approving a fabric swatch but not checking the finished bag construction and print placement.
- Comparing unit prices without checking packing, shipping basis, destination or quantity split.
For a side-by-side material overview, see non-woven vs cotton totes for bulk orders. For dimensions and order inputs, use the custom bag selection guide. You can send your finished specification through the factory quote form.
Frequently asked questions
What does GSM mean for non-woven fabric?
Does a higher GSM guarantee a stronger bag?
Which non-woven bag weight should I request?
What details should I include in a non-woven bag RFQ?
What is the MOQ and sample timing?
Is lamination included in the GSM figure?
Request a factory quotation
Send the bag style, target gsm, size, handles, print requirement, quantity split, destination and target date. EcoBag will confirm the product specification, quote basis and schedule for the order. Use the custom bag RFQ form or review available non-woven bag styles.
Technical reference: ISO 9073-1:2023 — Nonwovens, test method for determination of mass per unit area. This page does not claim that EcoBag holds ISO certification for fabric testing.