FAQs

What can I Used To Be bags be used for?

The uses are endless! Keep the wet out, and the dry in, or the wet in, dry out! Store damp togs, activewear post workout, accident-prone toiletries when travelling, make-up, keeping the sand out of your phone at the beach, for super suitcase organisation, for overnight getaways, or as fun clutch bags! I Used To Be bags have you covered.

Let us know your favourite ways to use our bags on Instagram or Facebook.

What makes I Used To Be bags different? 

Each one is totally unique! They’re made from a material that can’t be recycled in New Zealand, which means we’re doing a small favour to our planet and saving the pool toys from landfill (at least for a bit longer).

What are the bags made from?

They’re made from PVC recycled pool toys that are otherwise destined for landfill – because they’ve popped and are no longer usable, or they’ve been sitting around, gathering dust for too long. All of the pool toys are donated to us. Find out how you can donate yours here. All of the zips are YKK.

How do I care for my bag?

This is as easy as wiping clean with warm water and a bit of dishwashing liquid if it’s extra dirty, and letting your bag dry. Then it’s good to go again! Please don’t iron your bag as it will melt...

Is my bag waterproof? 

The bags are splashproof but not waterproof. They’re great to be used around water, however your things inside will still get wet if your bag goes for a swim with you! 

Why has the pattern rubbed off my bag?

With the more use your bag gets, you may find that the pattern and colour wears or rubs off, this is due to the nature of PVC – we reckon it gives the bags more character!

Why does my bags have marks and creases? 

At I Used To Be we embrace our imperfections, by repurposing materials that have lived a life already, there are sometimes marks we cannot get out. We like to think that this gives our bags character and history, we encourage you to embrace these speckles as well.

Do you have any stockists?

At the moment, we’re only selling our wares online and at various markets! Please get in touch if you’d like to find out more info about becoming a stockist.

How do you make the bags?

Every one of our bags is handmade and unique! They’re sewn by hand by a handful of talented makers in Auckland. See some photos here

Can I donate old pool toys?

Yes, absolutely! We have several drop off locations around Auckland. Give us a shout if you want to be a new drop off point!

Why does my bag not look exactly like the pictures?

We do our best to ensure that our photos are as accurate as possible. Please contact us if you have any issues with the bag(s) you’ve received.

Want to get in touch?

Any questions we haven’t answered here? Get in touch, we’re always happy to help!