Best trash bags
Low-quality trash bags result in leaks and unpleasant odors. Choose from the best trash bags for more efficient waste disposal.

Trash bags are one of those necessities that don't seem very significant in the grand scheme of things. However, you realize how important they are when you run out or find yourself using a low-quality option. To avoid trash bags with holes, leaks, or unpleasant odors, you'll want to choose one of the best trash bags like the choices on this list. Don't be caught in a dreaded waste-disposal debacle!
Solimo tall kitchen drawstring trash bags
The affordable pick
For families running a tight ship, an affordable trash bag is ideal. This selection is a great value buy.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Comes in an 80-pack
- Drawstring design
Cons:
- Material may not be as tough as some other brands
Stay on budget with these low-cost trash bags from Solimo. They come in big 80-bag boxes, keeping you stocked for months at a time. The standard 13-gallon kitchen bags could prove a bit thinner and less durable than other more expensive brands, however.
Hefty strong multipurpose large drawstring trash bags
Big bags for big jobs
For large tasks (especially dirty jobs), sometimes a standard kitchen bag just won't do. These extra-large and extra-strong bags from Hefty are great for outdoor projects and landscaping work.
Pros:
- Large 30-gallon size
- Strong durable material
- Fits larger outdoor trash cans
Cons:
- Cumbersome to carry when full
If you have large outdoor trash cans at your home or job site, you'll need some large bags to put in them. These 30-gallon bags from Hefty are durable and puncture-resistant for such applications. Use them outside as well for landscaping and gardening work. These extra-large trash bags are great for big projects, no matter the place.
Glad ForceFlexPlus tall kitchen drawstring trash bags
Best for the kitchen
Here's the ideal trash bag for the kitchen due to its reinforced, leak-proof lining.
Pros:
- Leak-proof lining
- Strong material
- Drawstring design
Cons:
- Drawstring is not as strong
The Forceflex bag is known for its give and stretch. It starts small and stretches to fit as you fill it. The leak-proof lining reinforces the bottom of the bag, so no liquids escape from the bottom, making this an excellent choice for the kitchen. These bags are also made with Febreze to neutralize bad odors.
UNNI 100-percent compostable bags
Best for composters
Avid composters will love that these bags can be tossed into the compost heap along with organic rubbish.
Pros:
- Compostable bags
- Decomposes with organic matter
- Made from plant-based materials
Cons:
- May decompose too fast
Here's a trash bag you can feel good about. In the compost heap, it will decompose quickly alongside organic waste. Even if these bags end up in a landfill, they won't add to plastic waste; instead, they will simply deteriorate over time. Keep in mind that if you fill them with damp or rotting food, composting may begin within a couple of days.
Home Depot heavy-duty paper lawn and refuse bags
Best for lawncare
Another eco-friendly choice, paper refuse bags are an excellent option for yard work.
Pros:
- Great for leaves and lawn clippings
- Biodegradable
- All-natural materials
Cons:
- Expensive
When you're collecting leaves, lawn clippings, or other outdoor refuse, a paper bag is the way to go. If you're dealing with dry materials, they can even be dumped and reused. Because of their all-natural paper construction, the bags are also biodegradable and compostable. When it comes to waste disposable, non-plastic alternatives are always preferable.
Lily Queen recycle waste bin bags
Best for recycling
When dealing with recyclable goods, there's no reason to use plastic bags. These fabric waste bins are large and reusable, great for recyclables.
Pros:
- Fabric, reusable bags
- Perfect for recyclables
- Collapsible design
Cons:
- Could be cumbersome when full
Collect recyclables without wasting plastic. These fabric bins are large and roomy, perfect for all your plastic, glass, or paper-based recyclable goods. Once they fill up, simply dump and reuse them. If ever you need to get these bins out of the way, simply fold them down and put them on a shelf.
Hefty ultra-strong tall kitchen trash bags
Best scent
For those who appreciate a sweet smell as opposed to the aroma of garbage, these ultra-strong bags from Hefty are infused with a pleasing mix of lavender and vanilla.
Pros:
- Fresh scent
- Fights unpleasant odors
- Strong materials
Cons:
- Scent may seem overpowering to super smellers
Not only are these bags made with odor-neutralizing Arm & Hammer baking soda, but they are also infused with lavender and vanilla scents. Using them in your kitchen, you'll breathe in pleasing aromas, never the smell of garbage. They are also made with Hefty's 0.9-millimeter thick, extra-strong material to resist tearing and holes. With a reasonable price to boot, they are a great staple to keep in the kitchen at all times.
Renovate your rubbish
If your waste-disposal system is becoming a daily debacle, you may need to consider better trash bags. For example, you can buy a good trash bag for a very low price with Solimo trash bags. When you buy a pack of 80, you get an even better deal.
If you're looking for an outdoor solution to use in the garden, Home Depot's heavy-duty paper bags are both eco-friendly and reusable. They are perfect for collecting leaves, lawn refuse, and grass clippings. There are several traditional plastic bags and even some sustainable choices on this list, so you can find the best trash bags to fit your family's lifestyle.
Why trust us?
At GardeningEtc, we recommend the best products to enhance your life. As expert curators, we handpick products based on quality and usefulness to positively impact your day-to-day, from cart to doorstep. We take our responsibility seriously — testing products, reading reviews, and sourcing knowledgeable outlets to ensure our selections are worthy of your time and money. We deliver detailed product overviews, balancing objective information with subjective opinions, so making the best choice for your home and lifestyle is as easy as possible.
Jaclyn is a content writer at Future. She has a flair for creating (written works, design, photos; you name it!) on her devices. When she’s not churning out new things, Jaclyn loves exploring the world, playing with her kids, and good old-fashioned baking.