The 5 Best Biodegradable Garbage Bags

You probably think about what and how much you throw away – but do you ever stop to think about what you throw it into? If you’re using a garbage bag made of cheap plastics, you might be unknowingly contributing to excess waste. Biodegradable garbage bags are designed to break down with the items inside them, minimizing organic waste and its impact on emissions and our planet’s overall health. 

Jump To Our Picks

What is a Biodegradable Garbage Bag, Anyway?

A biodegradable garbage bag is an item that’s made with packing or materials that are – you guessed it – biodegradable. But what does that really mean?

The concept of biodegradability refers to an item’s capacity for biological degradation into base substances by living organisms. In less fancy language, biodegradability describes how easily microorganisms can break an item down into water, carbon dioxide as well as basic elements. 

How do biodegradable trash bags work?

Many common trash bags are made with plastic-based materials, which have a low biodegradability level. In other words, they take a really, really long time to be broken down into their “ingredients.” And when they do break down, they may leave behind residue that causes lasting harm to the planet.

So, are biodegradable dustbin bags better for the environment? And what about compostable trash bags – what’s the difference there? 

Biodegradable items are generally better for the environment than their counterparts because they break down more efficiently. Compostable items take it a step further and completely transform into nutrient-rich soil within a few months under the right conditions.

Some biodegradable trash bags are also compostable, meaning they, too, can become soil and break down in weeks. Others are not, though they may still be made with materials that break down faster than most traditional bags. 

Top 5 Biodegradable Garbage Bags: How We Chose

As we selected our list of the best biodegradable garbage bags on the market, we looked for a few key factors:

• Certifications: We prioritized items with certifications that verify they’re biodegradable, sustainable, or eco-conscious
• Materials: Our top picks are all made with natural and sustainable materials that not only break down but also cause minimal harm to the planet.
• Value: No one wants a leaky garbage bag that tears, especially not if it was expensive! We looked for items from reputable brands that have performed well over time. 

Our Picks

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author and DGHQ editors. However, Do Good HQ may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

1. HoldOn Bags Compostable Tall Kitchen Bags

Our overall favorite pick is these biodegradable kitchen trash bags from HoldOn, a brand dedicated to creating a better way to go about daily chores. While these large bags fit most standard tall kitchen bins, they are also made with heavy-duty, durable materials. 

Highlights

Say goodbye to leaks and spills with HoldOn’s tri-ply bag design, which gives you an extra extra layer of support. They’re also unscented and free from any BPA or PFAS.

Things to Consider

Since these bags are also compostable, you can choose to use them for compost scraps instead of traditional trash. Keep in mind, though, that the bags are only certified for composting at a commercial facility, not at home. 

2. Repurpose Compostable Tall Kitchen Bag

Repurpose impresses with these compostable garbage bags, made from plant-based polylactic acid, and indeed designs them to fit tall kitchen trash cans.

Highlights

Compost lovers rejoice – these trash bags are Certified Compostable for commercial facilities and backyard composting! That means these are ideal for anyone looking for a compost-friendly bag that will safely contain their scraps. 

Things to Consider

All in all, you can save some money on your items by bundling and getting a 2- or 3-pack. You can also opt to Subscribe & Save 15% on your products while also getting them regularly shipped right to your door!

3. Keep Nature Wild Bio-Degradable Trash Bags

We think these simple biodegradable trash bags from Keep Nature Wild (KNW) are perfect for cleanup events as well as yard trimmings, and similar purposes.

Highlights

If you need lots of bags for a large cleanup effort, these are a great find. They’re large, clear, and also rectangular, which makes them easy to carry and fill as a group. Plus, KNW removes a pound of trash from the wild for every product sold!

Things to Consider

The clear design of these bags shows off how much trash volunteers collect, but it might not be super practical for everyday use.

4. Simply Bio 3 Gallon Compostable Trash Bags

Looking for heavy-duty biodegradable garbage bags that can handle waste from a whole family? Try these bags from Simply Bio. They’re extra thick for maximum strength.

Highlights

Simply Bio makes these trash bags with an eco-friendly blend of PLA and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), a biodegradable alternative to materials commonly used in similar products. This helps them stay compostable and biodegradable without compromising on durability.

Things to Consider

While these bags are the perfect size for a compost bin (and are compostable themselves), they won’t be big enough to replace your average trash bag. 

5. Budget Find: Hefty Compostables Small Kitchen Scrap Bags

If you need compostable scrap bags or more affordable biodegradable bags, this pick from Hefty is a great fit.

Highlights

These bags, like many others on our list, have the added benefit of being compost-friendly. It’s hard to beat their price, too, especially considering how easy it is to find Hefty products both in-store and online.

Things to Consider

These bags won’t fit a tall bin, but they will fit most compost and small trash cans.

How to Find Biodegradable Garbage Bags for Your Home

As you choose the best bags for your sustainable kitchen and home, consider questions like these to make sure you invest in the right product:

• What is my primary goal? Do you want to completely replace all dustbin bags in your entire home, or just swap out your kitchen bags?
• Do I have a composting facility near me? If you do or if you compost at home, do you want a bag that’s also compostable?
• How much waste do I output? Do you need super strong bags that can hold up to heavy weight and lots of liquid, or is something smaller and thinner okay?

In summary, with these tips and products in mind, you’re sure to find something that fits seamlessly into your routine. 

Featured image via Repurpose