garbage bags
Tips for Choosing the Right Garbage Bags


The world and the attitudes of its inhabitants continue to evolve as education increases and new technology makes revelations. There is a far greater inclination to purchase items that are good for the environment, whether they are reusable or easy to recycle. However, it is also inevitable that there will always be waste to dispose of, even if in smaller quantities.


Whether in residential or commercial premises, finding the right way to leave unwanted rubbish for collection is important so that it doesn’t create any health issues and is easier for those who will take it away. Garbage bags are an obvious solution, such as bulk garbage bags at Big Clean. Here are a few tips for those who are trying to choose the right bags for their requirements.
  • With so many different types of garbage bags available, it is sensible to think about what they will be used for before buying. There are endless cases of people seeing a wide selection in the supermarket and then just choosing the ones that have attractive packaging or are the cheapest. The choice should be a bit more scientific than that to avoid purchasing inadequate goods, which in turn become garbage of their own.
  • It is important to consider the size of the materials that the bag will be holding. Things like whether it will be easy to fit the items inside and then even take them out where necessary should be considered. Sizes are stated on the packaging containing the bags, while those who purchase online have the extra benefit of being able to take time to think about their usage and ask questions of experts if necessary. Questions about the odor control of the bags may also be asked.
  • With size inevitably comes weight. Therefore, it is wise to find out about the durability of the garbage bags. Checking online reviews is one way of doing this, as well as asking friends or business colleagues as to which ones they use. Picking up a bag and seeing the enclosed items fall out of the bottom because they are too heavy is time-consuming and extremely frustrating, not least for those taking the discarded goods away. They may also appreciate being provided with garbage bags that have handle options.
Garbage bags can save time and hassle, provided they can handle weight and the required sizes.

Here’s a deeper dive into each factor and how they contribute to choosing the best garbage bags:

1. Environmental Awareness

  • With rising environmental consciousness, many prioritize products with minimal ecological impact. Biodegradable and compostable garbage bags are increasingly popular because they break down over time, reducing landfill burden. However, not all biodegradable bags are created equal; some break down faster and under specific conditions (like industrial composting) rather than typical landfills. Assessing environmental certifications and the bag's lifecycle impact can help consumers choose options that align with sustainability goals.

2. Intended Use and Specific Needs

  • Garbage bags are manufactured in different sizes, materials, and thicknesses to suit diverse needs. The article suggests considering the context:
    • Household Waste: Small to medium-sized bags work well for kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Kitchens, in particular, often benefit from bags with odor-blocking features or antimicrobial coatings to handle organic waste.
    • Commercial Use: Offices, warehouses, and industrial sites may need large, heavy-duty bags for bulk waste or sharp materials. Bags designed for commercial use are typically thicker to prevent tearing under heavy loads.
    • Yard and Garden Waste: Bags for yard waste like branches, leaves, and grass clippings need to be large and resilient. Many companies offer compostable or extra-thick yard bags that withstand the bulk and weight of organic matter.

3. Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Bag

  • Size and Capacity: Each bag is labeled with its volume capacity, usually in liters or gallons. Matching bag size to trash receptacle size is critical, as undersized bags can slip, and oversized bags may waste material. For kitchen bins, typical sizes range from 13 to 20 gallons, while larger bags (up to 50 gallons or more) are needed for commercial dumpsters or yard waste.

  • Material Strength and Durability: Understanding terms like “microns” (a measure of thickness) helps when selecting bags. Thicker bags are better for heavier waste, while lighter bags are often sufficient for paper or plastic recycling. Hefty, tear-resistant bags (made of high-density polyethylene, for example) can handle weighty materials and sharp edges, ideal for construction sites or garages.

  • Weight Capacity: Manufacturers often indicate the maximum weight a bag can support. Heavy-duty bags can carry loads over 50 pounds, whereas typical household bags might cap at 10-15 pounds. In commercial applications, skimping on weight capacity can result in waste spills, creating hazards and sanitation issues.

4. Odor Control and Sealing Technology

  • Odor-blocking technology typically involves materials that neutralize odors or prevent bacteria buildup. Bags with activated carbon or scented coatings help manage smells, especially for food waste. Many garbage bags also feature double or triple seams for added leak resistance, particularly important for containing liquid waste in kitchen or bathroom bags.

5. Handle and Closure Options

  • Handle and closure designs vary:
    • Drawstring Bags: Easy to seal and carry, especially useful for household trash bins. The drawstring acts as a tie to secure contents and prevent leaks.
    • Flap-Tie Bags: Featuring flaps instead of drawstrings, these are easier to tie by hand but can be less sturdy.
    • Flat-Sealed Bags: Flat-sealed bags maximize space but don’t have handles, which makes them harder to tie. They’re popular in industrial settings where bags are removed and secured using external ties.
  • These options make it easier to transport waste, especially when it’s heavy or has the potential to leak.

6. Assessing Product Reviews and Getting Recommendations

  • User reviews can provide real-world insights into bag performance, highlighting potential weaknesses like poor durability or misleading capacity claims. Asking others who use garbage bags frequently (such as maintenance staff or waste collectors) can provide practical advice. Reviews can reveal which brands or specific bag types offer the best performance for specific needs, such as heavy waste or odor control.

7. Cost and Bulk Purchase Considerations

  • Purchasing garbage bags in bulk is often economical, particularly for businesses. Bulk packs tend to reduce the price per bag and save time reordering. This strategy works well if the bag specifications meet the user’s needs. However, if bought in excessive quantities, bulk bags can consume storage space and may be challenging to dispose of if they don’t serve their intended purpose well.

8. Specialty Bags

  • Recyclable Bags: For people sorting recyclables, choosing transparent or lightly tinted bags may be necessary as some recycling facilities mandate visible contents for sorting.
  • Compostable Bags: Ideal for compost bins and compatible with waste that decomposes, these bags break down faster but need specific conditions to decompose efficiently. Choosing compostable bags certified by recognized standards like ASTM D6400 (in the U.S.) or EN 13432 (in Europe) ensures they’re truly compostable.

Conclusion: Why Thoughtful Selection Matters

  • Thoughtful selection of garbage bags ensures that waste disposal is effective, safe, and environmentally friendly. Inadequate bags may lead to spillage, additional waste, and avoidable costs, creating more hassle than convenience. Proper research and consideration lead to efficient waste management solutions that align with both individual and environmental needs, helping consumers and businesses avoid unnecessary waste in all forms.