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The Best Trash, Recycling & Compost Bags & Cans

Last updated on October 6, 2021
Trash, Recycling & Compost

Our Review Process

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Our Picks For The Top Trash, Recycling & Compost Bags & Cans

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Product Overview
Key Takeaway
 Best All-Around Pick

Simplehuman Stainless-Steel Dual-Bucket Trash, Recycling & Compost Can, 12.2-Gallon

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Simplehuman

Stainless-Steel Dual-Bucket Trash Can, 12.2-Gallon

This bin has two separate compartments for trash and recyclables and a strong steel pedal for opening. The lid closes silently using patented Lid Shox technology.

Overall Take

Modern LookKeep your trash and recyclables separate in this bin.

 Runner Up

Inwaysin Leak-Proof Trash, Recycling & Compost Bags, 6-Gallon, 100-Count

Inwaysin

Leak-Proof Trash & Compost Bags, 6-Gallon, 100-Count

Use these biodegradable bags for trash or compost. They are strong and durable but will naturally decompose. The bags are larger than the typical four-gallon trash bags.

Overall Take

Eco-Friendly OptionThese compost bags naturally decompose without causing damage to the environment.

 We Also Like

Jaoul Tear-Resistant Biodegradable Trash, Recycling & Compost Bags, 4-Gallon, 60-Count

Jaoul

Tear-Resistant Biodegradable Trash Bags, 4-Gallon, 60-Count

These trash bags made from corn starch are biodegradable. They are sturdy and tear- and leak-resistant. The bags are a perfect fit for four- to five-gallon trash bins.

Overall Take

Made from Corn StarchThese biodegradable bags are made with corn starch and other natural materials.

 Strong Contender

Rubbermaid Vented Slim Jim Trash, Recycling & Compost Bin, 23-Gallon

Rubbermaid

Vented Slim Jim Trash, Recycling & Compost Bin, 23-Gallon

Ideal for heavy-duty use, this recycling and compost bin is made from commercial grade materials. It features structural ribbing along the rim to resist crushing. The bin has a slim, space-saving profile.

Overall Take

Heavy-Duty ConstructionThis recycling and compost bin is made from commercial-grade materials.

Buying Guide

Taking care of the trash, recycling and compost you and your family produce can be an unpleasant job. However, it doesn’t have to be if you have the right tools. Without proper trash, recycling and compost bags and cans, you can end up with a messy, smelly and foul chore. However, the right bags and cans ensure that your garbage is always neatly put away, there is no lingering odor and it’s easy for the sanitation workers to pick up.

When it comes to trash bags, the first thing you have to look at is size. The bag needs to be large enough to fit inside your trash bin. If the bag is too small, it will end up falling inside the bin and creating a mess. If the bag is too large, you will have a lot of unused space in the bag. In addition, check to see the thickness of the bag so you can make sure it is durable to handle the weight of the material inside. The last thing you want is for the bag to split open when you take it out of the trash can, spewing trash all over the place.

For recycling bins, first consider where you will be placing them. They need to be in an easily accessible place so you can conveniently toss in any recyclable materials throughout the day. Some people prefer to keep them in the garage while others like to have a small recycling bin in their kitchen. The placement of the bin will help you determine the size you need. Ensure that the bin is portable so it’s easy for you to pull it out to the curb for the sanitation workers to pick up.

What to Look For

  • With compost bags, the material is of the utmost importance, because you can’t use a regular plastic bag to hold your compostable waste. The bag itself needs to be compostable as well, so that it can also biodegrade along with the contents inside. In some regions, using the right compost bags is required by the sanitation department, and they will not collect your compost if you are using the wrong bags.
  • Keep in mind that compost bags have a tendency to leak. As a result, you might want to place something underneath the bags in your compost bin so that you don’t end up with a watery mess when you change out the bag.
  • Check to see whether your region has specific requirements for trash, recycling or compost bags and bins. For example, some areas may require you to place your trash in bags on the curb while others may require your trash in a bin.
  • Most trash or compost bags don’t come with a specific type of closure, so you have to tie the ends shut. However, some do come with a drawstring type of closure. Another option is bags that have ties built into the bag so it’s easy to tie them shut.

More to Explore

When you start paying attention to the waste you and your family make, the quantity can be quite alarming. Often, we don’t notice how many things we are throwing away. While recycling as many items as possible is key, as is composting food waste, there are still other ways you can reduce the amount of waste you can create. One easy-to-implement tip is to always bring a reusable water bottle and coffee cup with you wherever you go. That way, when you have to buy a drink, you use your reusable cup as opposed to wasting a paper or plastic one. Another tip is to have a stash of reusable shopping bags in your car. That way, you can significantly reduce the number of plastic bags you use because the reusable option is always within reach.

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