Should I buy biodegradable trash bags? We can’t help but ask if there are any eco-friendly garbage bags that are better than traditional plastic. So, the answer to this is yes, you should definitely invest in biodegradable trash bags feels weird as you can’t be sure, these bags will keep stray waste from flying out of trash cans.
It can be hard to let go of trash bags. Biodegradable trash bags aka biodegradable garbage bags are truly compostable which means they will decompose but it’s not something that will not eventually into a tiny teeny plastic on the surface of the ocean.
The best way you can truly be eco-friendly about trash bags is to try and not create any trash at all. Plastic trash bags should definitely be avoided just as much as you avoid plastic bags you get at the takeout restaurant as they also have some sort of environmental impact.
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What Are The Benefits Of Using Biodegradable Trash Bags?
Biodegradable trash bags can also be referred to as biodegradable plastic bags. They are still plastic bags that have microorganisms added to them but finding the best biodegradable trash bags can be a bit overwhelming.
When talking about zero waste, we are quick to mention single-use plastic bags from grocery stores while we forget about trash bags that have just the same environmental effect as trash bags. So, here are some of the benefits of using compostable biodegradable trash bags.
- Biodegradable trash bags reduce carbon footprints as it only emits nearly 8 tons of carbon, unlike traditional plastic that releases 4 tons of emission.
- It can also minimize the use of petroleum supplies. The manufacturing of traditional plastic bags consumes a lot of the country’s petroleum while biodegradable plastic bags are manufactured using starch, plants, orange peels, corn, and switchgrass.
- They are safe and don’t release toxins during their breakdown, unlike traditional plastic trash bags.
- They are also easy to recycle without releasing toxic elements and they moldable as well.
8 Best Biodegradable Trash Bags
So, after discovering that plastic bags can be biodegradable then we guess the next thing is looking for the best ones to buy. Although these biodegradable trash bags are often used as liners for compost bins fortunately they work just as well for regular non-compostable trash too.
The BPI certification of biodegradable trash bags doesn’t guarantee that they won’t rip and leak over your cabbage can when you are trying to take it out. So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, here are some of the best biodegradable trash bags recommended by eco-conscious consumers.
1. BioBag Compostable 3-Gallon Bags- Best Overall
- Contains 100 compostable food scrap bags, 16.9 inches x 17.7 inches , 0.64 mil
- Certified Compostable by The Biodegradable Products Institute to meet ASTM D6400 Standards
- Our 3 gallon bags are home compostable and can be put into a backyard compost system
- BioBags are made from the starches of plants, vegetable oils and fully compostable polymers
- BioBag food waste bags fit most kitchen countertop composting pails and keeps buckets clean
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These BioBags are the ideal and most recommended biodegradable trash bags. This is the ideal choice if you are looking to store a small amount of composting waste or for transporting food scraps from your kitchen to a drop-off. It also comes in a larger 13 Gallon size if you need something bigger. According to reviews, they never tear or break even when sharp things are tossed in. It is designed mainly for home composting.
2. Stouts By Envision Ecosafe 6400 Compostable Bags- Best For Kitchen Cabbage
- Case of 45 rolls 13 Gallon Green Bags measure 24 x 30
- ASTM 6400 Compostable bags are engineered for composting and the collection of organic waste
- Our compostable bagswill typically degrade in 10 to 45 days and biodegrade in less than six months in a commercial compost facility
- ASTM 6400Compostable bags meet the stringent requirements of ASTM D6400 and carry the USCC and BPI certifications.
- Made in America by People Who Are Blind or Visually Impai
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Another biodegradable trash bag you might want to give a chance is the Stout Envision trash bag. This trash bag can hold 30 gallons of trash and are 1.1 mm strong enough to resist tear and leak. However, you can’t have them used for backyard composting and they take 50 to 100 days to break down in compost. They are regarded as pretty basic for the price and will do just fine.
3. PlasticPlace 40-45 Gallon Compostable Trash Bags- Best Heavy Duty Trash Bag
- 40x46
- 100 per case
- Black
- 1.5 Mil
- Made in the U
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PlasticPlace Compostable trash bags is a 40-45 gallon-sized bag which makes it viable for packing heavy loads in it. It’s the best option if you are going to b throwing lots of trash in it but avoid putting it something too sharp as they are not that thick. This trash bag is one of the best biodegradable and compostable trash bags in the market. In addition, the translucent nature of the bag allows you to see what inside.
4. Aircover 8-12 Gallon Biodegradeble Trash Bag- Best Rated
- BIODEGRADABLE TECHNOLOGY: Our ECM biodegradable trash bags decompose into carbon dioxide and water by microorganisms in the soil under natural conditions to complete the organic cycle, without causing damage to the environment.
- SUPER THICK & STRONG TRASH LINERS：As thick as 1.2 MIL (twice thicker than many other brands), extra durable to hold heavier garbage, deliver strength and toughness you can trust to prevent rips and tears. Ultra-thick design trash bags also can protect against leaks and trash messes.
- MULTIPURPOSE: Suitable for both indoor use (kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living room, office, diaper disposal, paper shredder etc) and outdoor applications (dog waste, car trash et
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Aircover 8-12 Gallon Biodegradable trash bags are quite durable and won’t rip or leak but will decompose into water and carbon dioxide through microorganisms in the soil. This is highly rated for anyone who is in search of compostable trash bags. Unlike other biodegradable trash bags mentioned above, this comes with a drawstring for easy tying. It is also suitable for indoor use (kitchen, bedroom, paper shredder, diaper disposal) and outdoor use (dog waste, car trash, etc)
5. UNNI 100% Compostable Trash Bags- Best Eco-Friendly Trash Bag
- CERTIFIED COMPOSTABLE IN U.S. & EUROPE: Certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) under US standard ASTM D6400. Certified OK Compost Home under European standard EN 13432 by Vinçotte and Tüv Austria. OK Compost Home certification guarantees 100% BIODEGRADABILITY IN HOME COMPOSTING facilities.
- HIGHEST BIOBASED CONTENT: UNNI Compostable Bags are made from plant starches and contain NO polyethylene. Bags are durable, nontoxic, easy to use and great for the environment.
- UNNI compostable bags are the ethical choice for a cleaner environment and an ECO-FRIENDLY future. Thank you taking care of our planet for FUTURE GENERATIONS by replacing plastic with our sustainably manufactured, compostable bags. Together, U ‘n’ I make Earth a better pla
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For a cleaner and eco-friendly environment, the best choice of biodegradable trash bag is the UNNI 100% Compostable trash bag. It is also a great alternative to single-use normal shopping bags and it’s also quite thick enough to hold 3 gallons of trash without tearing. This is loved for its multipurpose use but keep in mind that it’s pretty thin and small compared to a kitchen’s regular trash bag.
6. Reli. Compostable Trash Bag- Best Budget
- Compostable Trash Bags | 30-33 Gallon | 40 Count
- Eco-Friendly (33x39): Compostable (ASTM-D6400) in municipal and industrial composting facilities
- Compostable: Go green! These bags are made from plant based materials. ASTM-D6400 certified
- Tear-Resistant (28 mic): Tough 30-33 gal trash can liners made for a leak-proof disposal
- Rely on Reli.: We proudly stand behind delivering quality & environmentally friendly garbage ba
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The Reli Compostable trash bag is a lot easier on the pocket compared to a 13-gallon kitchen bag. Using this biodegradable trash bag is certainly a lot better than using the traditional trash bag and in addition to it being plant-based, the company making them employ Environmental Products EPI chemical additives that help these biodegradable bags degrade more easily in response to heat or mechanical stress like crushing.
7. Primode 100% Compostable Trash Bags- Best For Small Trash Cans
- 100% COMPOSTABLE: Made from plants and vegetables Ideal to use for kitchen trash bag, food waste collection bag, each bag comes with A fresh natural light green color.
- US BPI- ASTM D6400 CERTIFIED, EUROPEAN TUV: Our compostable bags meet BPI requirements. Also meets European TUV requirements.
- EASY TO USE: The composting bags are easy to use and just the right size, perfect for compost pails on the counter top or small kitchen trash cans.
- STRONG & DURABLE: The compost trash bags are much tougher than others which tear and fray easi
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This compostable bag is made with a capacity of 4-gallon size trash which means you can have them placed in compost pails on your kitchen counter or small kitchen trash cans. The Primode 100% compostable trash bags as the name suggests certified for industrial composting and they are stronger than other degradable trash bags made in this size.
8. Powertec Certified Compostable Trash Bags- Best For Backyard
- CERTIFIED GREEN: Bags are BPI certified to meet the North American ASTM D6400 specifications and exceed the OK Compost Home Composting Standards - one of the world’s most respected home composting certifications based on the European Packaging of Waste (EN 13432)
- MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Polyethylene free, each compostable bag is plant derived, made from the starches of plants and ultimately meant to replace traditional harmful plastic bags providing earth friendly sustainable products
- USES: Perfect option for environmentally friendly composting garbage disposal, can be used as small kitchen trash bags, or as for backyard compostable bags for food scraps and waste pic
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Not every biodegradable trash bag is strong enough to be used as a backyard compostable trash bag but this is durable and strong enough. This compostable bag is ultimately made to replace traditional plastic bags but avoid putting in lots of wet cabbage.
Qualities To Check When Purchasing Biodegradable Trash Bags
Biodegradable trash bags are becoming flimsy for everyday use but this is definitely changing and to adopt the zero-waste lifestyle, you need to deal with little to no plastic. So to help you swap from traditional trash bags to biodegradable trash bags. Here are some qualities to check when purchasing biodegradable trash bags.
1. Proper Size
Biodegradable trash bags need to be changed more often than plastic bags so it’s usually best to have them purchased in a smaller size so you won’t have to throw out a bag that is only half full.
2. Biodegradable Garbage Bag Cost
The cost of biodegradable bags is definitely something worth putting into consideration as they are more expensive than plastic trash bags so you will be sure to find something within your budget.
3. Reviews
Beware of sponsored reviews when searching for biodegradable trash bags online. Check the reviews for the trash bag on sites like Amazon, Target, Walmart as these are considered more reliable.
Biodegradable Trash Bags FAQ
Feel free to leave a comment if you have more questions.
Is biodegradable plastic more expensive?
In general, biodegradable trash bags are considered more expensive than fossil-based plastic on a weight basis and biodegradable materials are also more expensive than non-biodegradable materials.
How do you dispose of biodegradable bags?
You can have biodegradable bags disposed of through biowaste collection and after processing, the biowaste can be used directly as compost as renewable energy.
How long do biodegradable bags take to decompose?
Biodegradable trash bags can take three to six months to fully decompose. If they are placed in a microbe environment to help it break down then they can take years or months before they completely break down.
What is better biodegradable or compostable?
The difference between biodegradable and compostable is simply that compostable products require a specific setting in order to break down but biodegradable products tend to break down naturally.
What are biodegradable garbage bags made of?
Biodegradable garbage bags are made from natural materials like corn starch and wheat starch rather than petroleum.
Final Thoughts
Although we must agree the best way to handle trash is to create none or less of it and not need trash bags or the alternatives at all.
Plastic trash bags are made from plastics and take years to break down but this is not the case with biodegradable trash bags, which are typically made of plant-based materials and recycled plastic.
The ability of biodegradable trash bags to break down when exposed to heat and moisture is great but ensure you take out the trash often and have it changed regularly.
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