A registered nurse, homemaker, and community volunteer, Tonia Torrellas had an “Ah-ha” moment to reduce and eliminate use of disposable cleaner bags. Completely frustrated with the unnecessary waste produced, Tonia knew there had to be something better. The result: It’s My Bag – a proven, patented alternative solution. Inspired by the end product, Torrellas trademarked other reusables to reduce and even eliminate many of life’s disposable options.
Throughout 2010-2013, Torrellas beta-tested the concept of a built-in hamper, and it was met with nothing but high marks. Receiving their USA patent, Canada is still pending. The materials were challenging, with the vinyl needing to recreate the visual aspect. Soft, flexible and durable, it’s made from an American-made collection, but costly.
Crafting a reusable, dry cleaning bag that customers could use to drop off and pick up their clothes, It’s My Bag helps to completely eliminate pesky plastic coverings traditionally sent home by cleaners. Taking just two months to brainstorm the initial design, It’s My Bag took up to two-plus years and counting to change the habits of both customers and dry cleaners:
“In the beginning, I was starry-eyed thinking it was all going to be easy. I was mistaken.”
Facing the life-altering event of losing her husband in 2013, it seemed that Tonia was climbing a consistently uphill battle. Finding difficulty in bringing a high quality, affordable product to the market, she wondered if her “Ah-Ha” moment was enough?
In 2014, Torrellas took It’s My Bag to the next level. Creating a place where innovation could meet the main goal through specialty gifting ensembles, events, and fundraising options for not-for-profits with a green twist, the bold company made its leap into the public eye.
Pointing out that there is a huge divide between bags that are currently available on the market, Torrellas offers modest-looking, inexpensive bags made with eco-friendly ideals in mind. On a mission to “pave the middle ground,” she is looking to keep clothes wrinkle-free and ready to wear – at a stylish, yet low-cost alternative. As an added bonus, the eco-friendly bags deliver a new, innovative way to support recycling efforts across the globe.
Super premium bags, It’s My Bag fits easily into most overhead compartments, and hangs with ease in any closet. Water resistant by design, the bag features patented, built-in hamper technology that can separate clean and dirty clothes while the bag is in use. Guaranteed for travel for up to five years, they are available in two different colors!
Fostering a belief that no one should mix dirties with cleans, It’s My Bag founder crafted a product that works equally well for a variety of uses including dry cleaning, garment storage, general clothing transport and more!
With this year’s hurricane season tearing through the nation, It’s My Bag is dedicated to lending a hand. Donating It’s My Bags to victims who have been displaced due to the hurricanes, the company is the perfect solution for those without a stable home. Described by many as a traveling closet – proven strong during Super Storm Sandy – It’s My Bag hopes to be a bright spot in whatever it is these hurricane victims are going through. Displaced during Hurricane Sandy, Torrellas’ own sister-in-law used It’s My Bag was a lifesaver to move clothes during such an unpredictable time.
As October was National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and with her own family affected, It’s My Bag founder is on a mission to support making a real impact in the lives of others. If you buy one It’s My Bag, the generous founder will donate to a survivor who has been affected by both the hurricane season and breast cancer.
Be the change you want to see in the world – buy an It’s My Bag and make an impact in the lives of breast cancer and hurricane survivors! Together, we can green the world, one reusable accessory at a time. Be part of making a real difference in the lives of others with It’s My Bag.
Want to get involved? Head to It’s My Bag’s website at https://its-my-bag-gives-back.myshopify.com.