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The Best Trash Bags

Last updated on October 18, 2021

Our Review Process

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Our Picks For The Top Trash Bags

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Product Overview
Key Takeaway
 Best Overall

Hefty 13-Gallon Triple-Action Kitchen Trash Bags, 80-Count

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Hefty

13-Gallon Triple-Action Kitchen Trash Bags, 80-Count

If you're looking for toughness, this set of trash bags has you covered. The bags are designed to stretch without ripping, while the drawstrings remain break-resistant. The set includes a total of 80 bags, which means it should last you a long time.

Overall Take

Helps Tame OdorsNot only do these trash bags eliminate odors, but they also produce a sweet lavender and vanilla aroma.

 We Also Like

Ultrasac 45-Gallon Industrial Strength Trash Bags, 50-Count

Ultrasac

45-Gallon Industrial Strength Trash Bags, 50-Count

When tackling big projects in the backyard or cleaning up the job site, these trash bags won't let you down. The set includes 50 bags, each of which can handle up to 45 gallons of waste. In fact, the thick, industrial strength bags won't rip or tear, even when filled with sharp objects.

Overall Take

Eco-Friendly OptionYou can feel good about purchasing these trash bags, as they are constructed using recycled materials.

 Strong Contender

Glad 13-Gallon ForceFlex Leak-Guard Trash Bags, 110-Count

Glad

13-Gallon ForceFlex Leak-Guard Trash Bags, 110-Count

These trash bags do an excellent job of trapping and then neutralizing unpleasant odors. Those odors are then replaced with a fresh clean fragrance to keep your kitchen space warm and welcoming. The bags themselves are stretchy and made to expand without ripping.

Overall Take

Designed to ExpandThe reinforced bottom on these trash bags prevents leaks from seeping through to your trash can.

 Also Great

Jaoul 1.2-Gallon Compostable Mini Trash Can Liner, 80-Count

Jaoul

1.2-Gallon Compostable Mini Trash Can Liner, 80-Count

Small, unscented and eco-friendly, the Jaoul Store’s 1.2-gallon trash can liners are made from plant starch material, so they are biodegradable. They fit well in smaller-sized trashcans and are multipurpose for use inside and outdoors.

Overall Take

Better for the EnvironmentSave the planet when you use these great little biodegradable liners in your bathroom.

Buying Guide

Taking care of the trash, recycling and compost that your family produces can be an unpleasant job. However, it doesn’t have to be if you have the right tools. Without proper trash bags, you can end up with a messy, smelly and foul chore. However, the right bags can 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 big. 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.

Most recycling bins don’t require trash bags, but you may wish to toss your recycling into a trash bag to help keep your recycling bin clean throughout the week. The bin needs 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

  • 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 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.
  • Biodegradable and compostable garbage bags may need to stored differently than regular ones. Some specify that they must be kept out of excessive heat or be stored in a cool, dry place.

More to Explore

When you start paying attention to the trash you and your family throw away, the quantity can be quite alarming. Often, we don’t notice how many things we are throwing away in the garbage can. 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, even if you have to buy a drink, you can have them make it into 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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