I is coated so it is well protected. I used it and did not worry about it getting messed up at all. I just wiped it off with a wet wipe when I spilled a little coffee on it. Then it rained pretty hard and tote was fine.I also got a daily in silt with F&F at Macy's. I haven't cut tags b/c I'm trying to wait and sell some things so I don't feel guilty but man I like this tote. I'm deathly afraid of white so it being coated is perfect. I'm almost ready to take my daily to Macy's today to see if they'd let me even exchange for the tote. TPF always gets me in trouble. Lol

I like how low maintenance it is .