Terra Thread Review: We Tested Truly Sustainable Bags

Terra Thread is one of the best brands that make truly sustainable bags and accessories. The bags are recognized by Forbes, Newsweek, TreeHugger, and The Good Trade as one of the most sustainable bags on the market.

Terra Thread’s vision is quite simple – To create the world’s most affordable, durable, sustainable, and ethically produced backpacks and bags, while having a positive impact on the world. That’s why Terra Thread makes products using Fairtrade cotton in Fairtrade Certified factories.

In this review, I’ll show you, first-hand, Terra Thread products and their features. I will review a backpack, a mesh bag, and a fanny pack. Also, I will guide you through Terra Thread’s manufacturing process and the efforts to save the planet and the people on it.

PROS

  • High-quality products
  • Products made from organic cotton
  • Fairtrade Certified Factory
  • Sustainable
  • Durable
  • Many customization options
  • Outstanding customer service

CONS

  • Products such as backpacks and duffer bags are heavier since they’re made of organic cotton canvas

Note: We received this product for free. No other compensation was provided, and as always, all opinions are our own. If you buy through affiliate links, we may earn commissions, which help support our testing. Learn More

What Is Fair Trade

Before we dive in, I’d like to clarify what means to make products using Fairtrade cotton in a Fairtrade Certified Factory.

Being a Fair Trade Certified Factory means that Terra Thread has to ensure safe working conditions and fair pay for farmers and workers.

This also means that the entire supply chain is completely traceable and transparent. Speaking of organic cotton which Terra Thread uses, it is grown without the use of GMOs, fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides.

Terra Thread Review

If you need a backpack, gym bag, or simply a mesh bag, does it really have to be the polyester one found in all shops? Terra Thread makes all the products in a sustainable and eco-friendly way.

This way, when your purchase a Terra Thread bag, you’re actually contributing to preserving our planet and supporting the hardworking people who made those products.

On the Terra Thread website, there are 20 products divided into 7 different categories:

  • Backpacks
  • Duffel and Gym Bags
  • Laptop Sleeves
  • Totes and Mesh Bags
  • Makeup and Toiletry Bags
  • Pencil Bags
  • Fanny Packs and Sling Bags

I personally tested a backpack, a mesh bag, and a fanny pack.

Here’s what I think of them.

Terra Thread Sustainable Backpack Review

You know that feeling when you grab an empty backpack. It weighs, like, 8 ounces. This bag is different. It’s a bit heavier and it feels eco-friendly. I was used to those nylon/polyester backpacks, but this is something completely different. Also, the products came without a box, just wrapped in a USP bag because Terra Thread doesn’t use plastic bags and excessive packaging. It’s not eco-friendly.

Respect.

The backpack is made from 14 oz organic cotton canvas that is made in a Fair Trade Certified Factory. This canvas is exactly what I tried to describe – a thick and sturdy material that should hold up well to daily use.

Speaking of its features, it has everything the other backpacks have – two adjustable shoulder straps and a carrying handle. Also, there are two compartments: a smaller one in the front for snacks, keys, and maybe a wallet, and a larger one in the back for your laptop. It’s machine-washable as well.

Terra Thread Backpack has standard YKK zippers (and they are lead-free) as well as two side pockets for water bottles and coffee thermos.

The backpack comes in 15 different colors.

Since Terra Thread cares about people as well, your purchase also supports Feeding America’s campaign to end hunger by helping donate meals to kids and families in need.

Terra Thread Cadera Fanny Pack Review

It’s summertime, and all you need to carry is a phone and keys. It’s so frustrating to hold them in case your pockets are too small. That’s where sling bags and fanny packs come in. This lovely, Cadera Fanny Pack will follow you along the way. Made with organic cotton canvas it has  the main zippered compartment with a separate drop-in pocket to keep your phone away from keys.

Also, there’s an external zippered pocket for other small items women like to keep handy.

Speaking of adjustments, there’s a detachable hook on one side for easy strap adjustments. The bag also has YKK lead-free zippers.

Terra Thread Cadera Fanny Pack comes in 8 different colors and your purchase also supports Feeding America’s campaign to end hunger by helping donate meals to kids and families in need.

Terra Thread Organic Cotton Mesh Bag

Cool Looking Organic Cotton Mesh Bag

This Fairtrade organic cotton mesh is so convenient. It’s a great tote bag and plus thanks to its minimalistic design, you can toss it even in your fanny pack. The bag is durable therefore you can shop for some bulky fruit such as watermelons or use it as a beach bag.

Another great thing is two sets of handles, one long, one short, so you can easily carry it on the shoulder or by hand.

The mesh bag is available in one color only and it is machine washable.

Who Is Terra Thread For

Terra Thread brought to us something we are not used to – durable, ethical, and eco-friendly products you can use every single day, for years. The products are made of sturdy materials such as organic cotton and they are made in Fair Trade Certified Factories.

The products are made for everyone, whether you’re heading to the gym, shopping for groceries, or carrying around your essentials while walking in the park. The best part – the products are made in an environmentally responsible way.

The workers who made the products are paid fairly and by purchasing Terra Thread products you support Feeding America’s campaign.

For those who are well aware of responsible brands, I’d say we’re talking here about the new Patagonia.

Terra Thread Customer Reviews

Terra Thread has many reviews online. I’m not going to analyze the website ones only, but the reviews on Etsy, Judge.me, and other authority websites.

I noticed that besides products, color, and design, customers really appreciate the fact that Terra Thread cares about our planet, farmers, and workers.

On Etsy, Terra Thread has an impressive 5-star rating based on 4000+ sales. Speaking of the Terra Thread online shop, nearly all products have a 5-star rating based on dozens of reviews.

Also, on Judge.me the brand has a fantastic 4.8-star rating based on 500+ reviews.

Here’s a review on Terra Thread Backpack written on Etsy.com Beautiful color (olive green is just as pictured) and super high quality. Exactly what I was looking for! Shipping was also incredibly fast & the pack came with two cute pouches 🙂 Really appreciate the fair trade/organic/carbon neutral + partnership with Feeding America—support this store! 🌱

And here’s one on TerraThread.com I live in the UK and the back pack was a graduation present for my Granddaughter in California. It arrived when you said it would and was exactly what she had asked for. I can’t comment otherwise, but I’m glad to know that I gave a sustainable gift. The star rating should be ignored.

Speaking of cons, some buyers didn’t like the fact that it’s a bit heavier and tall –  (…) A few cons… It was heavier than I expected, but I know that is because of the durable cotton canvas (vs. backpacks made from synthetic materials that I’m used to). IMO, it was a little too tall (16″), leaving quite a bit of space at the top of the bag (beyond what is required for a binder or laptop).

Terra Thread definitely is a responsible and reliable brand. Customers have noticed the efforts Terra Thread makes to meet Fair Trade standards and they appreciate it. The products are amazing, I tested them first hand, and I love them!

Terra Thread Shipping and Return Policies

Terra Thread offers free shipping on all orders, and that’s amazing considering that some products cost $13.

Speaking of returns, you can return unused products in new condition (clean, with hang tags attached) within 10 days from the date you received the order.

Your refund will be processed, and a credit will automatically be applied to your credit card or original method of payment within a week after we have received the returned product.

Bear in mind that Terra Thread won’t cover the return shipping fee. The reason is quite simple – returns add to climate-warming carbon emissions, and that’s why they encourage customers to shop conscientiously no matter where or what they are purchasing.

For any questions regarding returns, please send an email to [email protected]

Is Terra Thread Worth It?

Terra Thread is absolutely worth it. When you purchase a backpack or a duffel bag you’re contributing to planet preservation, you’re contributing to fairly paid workers across the globe. Also, it feels great knowing that you’re using something so sustainable.

If you’ve ever wondered if Terra Thread is legit and if the entire sustainability thing is true, have a look at the certificates Terra Thread earned.

First, Fairtrade Cotton certificate proves that all Terra Thread products are made with Fairtrade certified organic cotton. This is an excellent alternative to harmful synthetic fibers.

Next, GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) means that all the products meet GOTS’ strict social and environmental criteria across the entire supply chain.

Carbon Neutral certificate proves that all the products Terra Thread makes are carbon neutral.

Fair Trade Certified Factory guarantees safe working conditions for workers.

Terra Thread is a B Certified corporation meaning that the company meets high standards of verified performance, accountability, and transparency.

Last but not least, Terra Thread supports Feeding America’s campaign to end hunger.

The bottom line is, I’m honored to review such a brand and heartfully recommend it to you.

READ NEXT: Tovala Review: Smart Oven and Meal Delivery Service