What Are Standard Trash Bag Sizes? A Perfect Guide For You!

Helen Skeates
Helen Skeates
32 min read

Garbage bags are a need in every home. Because they keep your home clean, they are also an effective technique of containing solid waste. When you use trash bags to line your garbage chute, you prevent it from being clogged up with food waste or damp debris. A bad smell is also eliminated by this method. Rather than having their garbage cans parked outside their homes, many people want to have them collected and disposed of at a predetermined location on a regular basis.

It’s critical to know how big your household’s trash bags should be. You don’t want a soggy mess, do you? Many considerations must be taken into consideration while selecting the standard garbage bag size, especially when there are varying sizes of trash bags. If you don’t know what kind of trash can you have, you won’t know what size trash bag to buy.

Contents

Bag Dimensions

What are the typical sizes of garbage bags when the majority of trash bags are available in a variety of diameters to accommodate different trash cans and disposal chutes?

26×36

In terms of width and height, the first bag measures 26 inches wide and 36.5 inches tall. Small trash cans like these are great for folks who don’t accumulate a lot of garbage, and this is just what they need. If you have a circular can with a diameter of 16 inches and a height of 18 inches, you can easily put this into it.

26×30

The second bag is 26′′ W x 30′′ H in size. This is perfect for trash cans with a rectangular form. This includes the ones with a 15-inch width, 11-inch length, and 20-inch height.

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A Guide to Standard Kitchen Trash Can Sizes

The next step after deciding on the size of your garbage bags is to determine the size of your trash container.

Capacity

The capacity of the garbage can should be the first consideration when determining the typical size of trash bags. When it comes to your kitchen or any other area in your home, you should be aware of how much garbage is generated each day from these sources. Having a larger trash can is necessary if you just take out the trash once a week because you produce less waste.

The smaller the trash bag, the better if you produce a lot of waste every day and the larger the trash bag always gets filled. Why? Because they’re more convenient to remove daily, your kitchen will always have a new look. Taking the garbage out every day is a simple method to keep your kitchen area clean and sanitary.

Lid

The garbage can’s lid should also be taken into account while making your selection. As a result, trash cans come with a variety of lid alternatives. You can choose between a lid with a flip-up cover, a pedal lid cover, or a simple lid that you pick up to open and close.

If you spend most of your time cooking or baking in the kitchen, then the ideal lid for your trash can should be the hands-free pedal one. Without constantly washing your hands, you can move fast and efficiently without having to keep doing so.

Material

Hard plastic and stainless steel are the two main elements that go into the construction of trash cans. When deciding between the two, the first thing to take into account is your financial situation. There are certain drawbacks to using a plastic garbage can instead of a steel one, including the fact that it is more expensive. If you don’t want the trash to smell while you’re taking it out, stainless steel is the best option.

Weight

Weight should not be taken into account when purchasing a garbage can if you want to merely remove the trash bag from within. To make things easier, if you have to move the trash can outside in order to dispose of it, you should acquire a lighter one. This will make it less cumbersome.

Height

Trash bags are typically 20 inches tall, with a 4-inch overhang, and a 5.5-inch bottom part.

Are Trash Bags Sanitary?

It’s safe to say that they’re suitable for storing your garbage. Toss it in a garbage bag and you’re good to go. When you’re taking the garbage out, you don’t have to worry about stuff spilling all over the place. They also help to keep the trash can itself clean.

There are many people that utilize garbage bags to pack and move, which is perfectly acceptable. However, some people believe it is acceptable to store food in trash bags. That’s a risky move, to say the least.

It is not safe to store food in garbage bags because they are not composed of food-grade plastic (1). The chemicals included in the bags pose a significant risk of food contamination. Save money and the environment by storing your food in reusable tupperware.

What Makes a Trash Bag Strong?

Trash bags are made to last thanks to high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship.

Elasticity is one of the characteristics of a good trash bag. As a result, even when it’s completely overstuffed, it won’t snap open. In order to effectively disperse the weight, however, it extends a little bit.

Next, a high-quality trash bag will have a somewhat thicker feel. The thinner the material, the more quickly it will tear and leak.

Finally, consider the density of the waste bags. Low-density garbage bags are thicker, more flexible, and more resistant to tearing than high-density trash bags. It will be thinner if it has a high density. These are ideal for use in restroom and workplace garbage cans, where paper is the predominant waste type.

How Long Do Trash Bags Take to Decompose?

Depending on the source, decomposition of a plastic bag can take anywhere from 10 to 20 years. It’s not clear how long plastic bags take to degrade because they haven’t been around long enough. As many as 500 years have been estimated by certain authorities.

Plastic bags disintegrate in landfills over the course of between 10 and 1000 years.

How to Choose the Best Trash Bags

Buying garbage bags is a simple matter of grabbing the first one you see, especially if it is on cheap. If you really want to get the best out of your garbage bags, here are the most important things to look for.

Durability

What is the bag’s expected lifespan? Checking the density is the most accurate approach to do it. Trash bags made of low-density polyethylene are the most long-lasting.

Second, look at the mils (a unit of thickness measurement). 0.9 mils or more is the ideal thickness. The higher the number, the more durable the bag will be. This is the standard thickness for a kitchen bag.

Eco-Friendliness

A plastic bag can take up to 20 years to degrade, as previously stated. It’s possible that it goes on much longer. Choose an eco-friendly bag if you wish to reduce the amount of plastic trash in the environment.

Recycled plastic is a great way to reduce your environmental footprint. Others can be composted and decompose much more quickly. This is a far more environmentally friendly option. As a result, there are only a few choices when it comes to environmentally friendly trash bags.

Recommendation

Find out if biodegradable bags will break down in your local landfill. However, this is not always the case due to the shortage of oxygen.

Odor Control

The stench of trash can be unbearable. Consider purchasing a waste bag that includes additional odor control if you’re fed up with the stench.

Closing Mechanism

No matter where we go, we always make sure to get garbage bags with a closure mechanism. So much easier to tie the trash bag and take it outside, thanks to its convenient tether. It’s possible to purchase bags that have ties, handles, or even better, drawstrings to make this dreaded task a little bit more bearable.

Versatility

Is the garbage bag a useful item? If you’re on a budget, you may want to seek for something that can be used in other rooms in the house.

You can be looking for a bag that can be used in a variety of trash cans. If this is the case, we suggest purchasing a larger bag to ensure that it will fit in all garbage cans.

Maybe you’re looking for a garbage bag that doubles as a storage container while you’re moving. This situation necessitates an extra-sturdy product.

The Best Trash Bags of 2022

A lot of time and effort went into putting up this list of seven best garbage bags, and we hope you find it useful.

1. Reli 13 Gallon Biodegradable Trash Bags

Best Biodegradable Trash Bag

For a biodegradable garbage bag, Reli bags are our top choice. They employ EPI chemicals in the waste bags to ensure that they breakdown in the soil.

Biodegradation of these waste bags takes only two to three years, a major improvement over that of conventional plastic trash bags. As long as you keep them in use or in a safe place in your home, they won’t begin to decay.

Pros

  • Within two years, decompose.
  • Has a plethora of uses.
  • Certification by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
  • It’s watertight and tearproof.

Cons

  • Expensive.

2. Plant-Based – Hippo Sak Tall Kitchen Bags

Best Tall Trash Bags

A tall garbage bag is a need if you have a high trash container. Invest in the Hippo Sak Tall Kitchen Bags. Their dimensions are 15.5 inches X 8.5 inches X 29.4 inches, with a 13 gallon capacity. Measure your garbage can before placing your order to ensure that they will fit!

What Size Trash Can Is Right For Your Home & Kitchen? - Trash Cans Unlimited

What’s so special about them? To begin, their wide handles make it simple to remove them from the trash bin and secure them so that they may be disposed of without creating a mess.

Next, they’re extremely powerful. They’re still leak-, tear-, and puncture-proof, despite the fact that they’re constructed of largely plant-based components.

Finally, they have a reinforced bottom, making them ten times more durable than other trash bags in the market. There will be no spillage even if you put a lot of weight on the bag’s bottom.

Please take note of the following:

Plant-based components are used in the production of these bags, which help to lessen your carbon impact. They cannot, however, be composted or degraded.

Pros

  • Plant-based and biodegradable components make up the bulk of this product.
  • It’s impervious to tearing and leaking.
  • Fits tall trash containers.
  • Bottom is reinforced.

Cons

  • They can’t be decomposed in a landfill or composted.
  • Expensive.

3. Member’s Mark 39 gal. Power-Guard

Best Trash Bag for Leaves and Lawn

Consider using Member’s Mark Power-Guard to get rid of your yard garbage. The 39-gallon capacity means you can get rid of anything you need to.

The bag is impervious to tears and leaks. You don’t have to be concerned about the bag rupturing when disposing of sharp things, twigs, or branches. It’s time to get rid of your garbage!

When it comes to strength, this bag’s top is twice as robust as the rest. This prevents the bag from tearing open when it is completely overflowing. The rest of the bag is equipped with Power Flex technology, which allows it to expand without ripping to accommodate larger items.

Pros

  • Double the power of the country’s most popular brand.
  • Drawstring closure makes it easy to put on and take off.
  • It’s made of elastomeric plastic, which makes it tear and leak-proof.
  • There has a total volume of 39 gallons.

Cons

  • There are times when the drawstring tears.

4. Glad ForceFlex Drawstring Trash Bags

Best Durable Trash Bag

For ultimate durability, we recommend the Glad ForceFlex Drawstring Trash Bag. Protects against leaks and tears by employing two levels of defense. The inner layer, in particular, is super strong and resists tears before they can reach the outside of the bag.

Pros

  • Glad’s ForceFlex Drawstring Trash Bag is our top pick for maximum durability. It has two layers of protection to prevent leaks and tears. With its sturdy inner layer, the bag is resistant to tears before they reach the outside.
  • To avoid leaks and tears, there are two layers.
  • Designed to suit trash cans that are both narrow and tall.
  • Easy to remove three-ply drawstring.

Cons

  • The aroma of Febreze is now overpowering.
  • Not all trash cans can fit them. For tall people.

5. Veska Gallon Clear Garbage Bags

Best Extra Large Trash Bag

Larger garbage cans and outdoor bins will benefit from the 95-gallon capacity of Veska garbage bags.

Low-density plastic is used to make them, which can manage all types of household and business waste. If you’re utilizing this at home or at work, it’s an excellent option.

Even though the garbage bags are clear, they are quite sturdy. Trash cans that can hold 95 gallons of waste have been created. So when you’re taking out the garbage, you won’t have to be concerned about spills in the trash can or on your shoes.

They’re also flexible and resistant to punctures. It’s safe to say that these trash bags can also be used to haul away yard rubbish.

Pros

  • A capacity of 95 gallons.
  • Disposes of both commercial and residential garbage.
  • No rips or tears.
  • For yard garbage, this is a terrific tool!

Cons

  • Expensive.
  • No closing mechanism.

6. Solimo Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags

Best Trash Bag With Value for Money

There is no way to shut the door.

Trash bags from Solimo are less expensive, yet they are still of high quality. If you’re looking for a quality product that won’t break the bank, go no further than these.

Just remember to use them in a tall trash can if you plan on using these bags! Having said that, the 13-gallon capacity is quite impressive.

They have a thickness of 0.9 millimeters, which is fine. The drawstring closing mechanism makes it simple to tie, pull, and remove them from the garbage can without getting your hands soiled..

Pros

  • Excellent value for money and a good fit for any budget.
  • Drawstring closure makes it easy to close your bag.
  • Unscented. Useful if you’re sensitive to the scent of chemicals.
  • There is a yearlong guarantee of complete pleasure.

Cons

  • They can be punctured.
  • Due to the fact that it isn’t particularly flexible, it won’t fit on all garbage cans. Most suitable for individuals who are tall and slim in stature.

7. GreenPolly Blue Trash Bags with Drawstring

Best Drawstring Trash Bag

In order to close a trash bag, drawstrings make it easier. When the can is removed from the trash and disposed of outside, the work becomes easier (and, of course, less disgusting).

The drawstring mechanism of the GreenPolly Blue Trash Bags is superb and long-lasting. It’s simple to use and easy to carry the bag to the outside dumpsters.

In addition, these bags are comprised of up to 80% recycled plastic and reusable materials. Bags made from recycled material are superior than those made from virgin plastic since they may be composted and degraded.

Finally, the three-ply design of these bags ensures that they won’t leak or tear. However, because they are only 0.9 mm thick, some consumers have found them to be readily punctured.

Pros

  • The majority of the material is recycled plastic.
  • An easy-to-use drawstring system.
  • a three-ply framework

Cons

  • If overcrowded, it’s vulnerable to tearing and puncturing.
  • Standard kitchen garbage cans may not be able to accommodate this item.

What Can I Use Instead of Trash Bags?

The use of trash bags is ubiquitous and handy, but there are alternatives.

  • You know those heavy-duty reusable plastic bags you can get at the store? You can make a trash bag out of that. Since paper waste and recycling won’t contaminate the bag, it’s better to use this bag for those items. Ensure that you wash it after each use.
  • If you’re going to get rid of something else, why not repurpose it first and save money? For example, you can make a temporary garbage bag from an empty pet food bag or a large cardboard box. That manner, it can be used for a longer period of time before being thrown away.
  • Go without a bag: This is an option. This eliminates all of the need for single-use plastic bags. It may require more time and effort to clean your trash can, but it’s a surefire method to save money and reduce the amount of plastic you use.

FAQs

What are my shipping options?

You can get free shipping on all of your purchases from us. Please check out our shipping page for further details, including transit times.

What is your return policy?

Visit our returns and exchanges page for the full list of policies and procedures.

How do I track my order?

Hover your cursor over MY ACCOUNT in the top navigation bar and then click TRACK MY ORDER.

Are your bags recyclable?

Yes. In order to recycle them, you’ll first need to remove the rubbish from them. If you need bags for your recycling bin, please see our page on recycling bags. Enter your zip code at Plasticfilmrecycling.org to find a drop-off site near you.

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What is the correct size bag for my can?

There are many different types of bags, and finding the right one is all about finding one that comfortably fills out the can without falling in or squeezing the top too tightly. You want a bag that hangs down about 4-6 inches from the top of the can. This is the greatest spot to shop if you know how many gallons you need. Even if the drawings don’t match your container, you could recognize it. Just remember that it’s better to go overboard rather than under.

What’s the difference between trash bags, garbage bags and can liners?

To be honest, they’re referring to the same thing. In the end, who you are determines which word you use. In the home, the word “trash bags” or “junk bags” is commonly used, although “can liners” is more commonly used in commercial and industrial settings. Bin bags or “bin liners” are the terms used in the United Kingdom for waste bags.

How thick should my bag be?

The type of waste you intend to put in the bags will have a significant impact on how much space you need. Thinner (high-density) bags can be used for lighter rubbish, such as bathroom trash or a desk-side bin. If you have a lot of heavy, bulky or sharp rubbish, a thicker (low density) bag is the best option. Mils and microns are the units used to quantify bag thickness. The thickness of most trash bags in the store is between 0.7 and 1.0 mil. It is common for thicker bags, such as those used by contractors, to have a thickness of at least 3.0 mils.

What is the difference between “high density” and “low density” trash bags?

High density (HD) bags are thin, crisp feeling, often clear bags that offer a cost-effective option. They are thinner than linear low density bags and are not as puncture resistant, yet they can carry very heavy loads. High density bags are ideal for office and bathroom waste, high traffic areas as well as trash cans located in public areas where sharp, heavy objects are not usually deposited. High density bags are also perfect for storage of clothes, linens and dry goods. They are not recommended for use in kitchen or objects with sharp edges.

HD bags are thin, crisp, and often transparent, and they’re an economical alternative. Despite being thinner and less puncture-resistant than linear low density bags, these bags can nonetheless hold a significant amount of weight. These bags are suitable for high traffic areas, public garbage cans, and regions where sharp, heavy objects are not commonly dropped. In addition to clothing, linens, and dry goods, high-density bags are ideal for storing these items. They should not be used in the kitchen or with products that have sharp edges.

More robust in terms of puncture and tear resistance than their high-density counterparts are the linear low density (LLD) or low density (LD) bags. It’s best to use low-density bags for kitchen garbage, construction sites, or trash that includes glass and metal.

Mils are the units used to gauge the thickness of low density bags.

What’s the difference between mils and microns?

There are 1,000 mils in a millimeter (0.001). Low density bags can have a thickness ranging from 0.7 to 6.0 mils, and the unit of measurement is called a mil. Standard trash bags in supermarkets have a mil count of 0.7 to 1.0. Choosing a bag with a mil count of 3.0 or greater is recommended for heavy or significant amounts of garbage.

A micron is one thousandth of a millimeter, and it is the smallest unit of measurement (a standard sheet of paper is 100 microns thick). The thickness of high density bags is measured in microns, which range from 6.0 to 20 microns.

Where are your bags made?

Our bags are currently manufactured in the United States and abroad. It is with great pride that we stand by and support our high-quality products.

Do your bags come on rolls?

High Density Liners are always delivered in rolls. Flat-packed Low Density Liners, save for our 42 Gallon Contractor bags (and 65 Gallon Extra-Heavy Trash Bags), are presently being sold in boxes. Please let us know if you have a specific bag in mind and we’ll see if we can get it for you.

How Can I Get a Sample?

Samples of any of our garbage bags are available on our Samples Page.

Are the bag dimensions listed on our site in inches, centimeters or feet?

Inches.

What kind of seals do your bags have?

Gusset seals are common on our low density liners. The star seal may be found on all of our high density liners. Flat-sealed liners are also available. Get in touch with us if you have any questions!

My box says 23x10x39. Is this the same as 33×39?

Yes. Measurements for our gusset-sealed bags are shown below. While the gussets are listed separately in 23x10x39, they are also included in 3339 when calculating the bag’s overall width. Here’s a case in point:

The bag’s width is 23 inches. Gussets: 10 inches wide (each 5 inches wide)

Thirty-three centimeters

Can I get custom printed trash bags?

Definitely! If you’d like a quote, please get in touch with us so that one of our customer service representatives may gather the details you require.

Are your bags available in stores?

For the time being, you may only purchase our products from our website, but remember that all orders come with free shipping. We also ship quickly, so you can get your hands on our bags in a jiffy!

Where can I find trash bags for a 21 gallon trash can?

PlasticPlace.com carries the bags for your 21-gallon can, including the most recent motion-sensor can. White, clear, and black are all available as options. On this page of 20-30 Gallon Garbage Bags, you can see all of our products.

Do you carry trash bags for motion sensor trash cans?

Yes. Our Shop by Gallon Page is a great place to start if you’re looking for a motion sensor garbage can with a specific gallon capacity. A 20-30 gallon waste bag is the most common size for motion sensor trash cans.

How can I figure out which bag I need with the diameter of my can?

To begin, multiply the diameter of your can by 3.14 to obtain its circumference (pi). You’ll need to divide the circumference by two to get the bag’s breadth.

Conclusion

Taking out the trash bag on a daily basis may seem like a hassle, but it is necessary if you want to keep your kitchen and home clean. When looking for a garbage can, look for one that won’t leak and is dependable. If there are any symptoms of leakage, you should immediately remove it. Choosing standard trash bag sizes is also important since it helps you collect the proper amount of trash that will fit in your garbage bin. Find out more about trash bags right here!

Helen Skeates

Helen Skeates

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