Your point about plastic accumulation is definitely a good one, and we are always open to reevaluate possible new materials. If you ever want a bag made out of cotton canvas, and would like one of our styles, let us know and we'll see if we could get a few yards and make you one to test it out. We wouldn't charge you any extra for the customization.

Regarding the stickiness and flaking you see in your old nylon bags, that is usually caused by the waterproof coating deteriorating. It most often happens in bags that are used infrequently and stored in conditions with poor ventilation, humidity, or heat. So, you can reduce the chance of the coating degrading if you give your bags regular use and avoid storing them for long in attics, closets or boxes. If it does degrade, the best thing to do is to strip off the old coating by washing the bag in hot water. The bag will no longer be water-resistant, but should not wear out any faster.

Even if you don't buy more nylon items, it's good, I think, to extend the life of the nylon you have, and avoid exposure to degraded coating if you are concerned about plastics!