You might think those plastic bin bags are just a small thing, right? Wrong! They’re a HUGE contributor to our growing plastic problem. Even those “biodegradable” ones often end up sitting in landfills for years, doing more harm than good. It’s time for a change, and luckily, there are tons of awesome and affordable alternative to plastic bin bags that actually work!

The Problem with Plastic Bin Bags (and Why You Should Ditch Them):

Think about it: every time you toss out a plastic bin bag, you’re essentially throwing away something that’s going to hang around for centuries. Plastic doesn’t just magically disappear. It clogs up our landfills, pollutes our oceans, and harms wildlife.

And here’s the kicker: even those “biodegradable” or “compostable” plastic bags often need very specific conditions to break down properly. Unless you’re sending your trash to a commercial composting facility (which most of us aren’t!), those bags are likely ending up in the same place as regular plastic – the landfill.

So, what can you do? The good news is, there are plenty of Eco-friendly bin liners for plastic bin bags that are easy to use and much kinder to the planet.

What Are Microplastics & Why Are They a Problem?

7 Seriously Awesome Bin Bag Alternatives – Beyond the Plastic:

Think ditching plastic means sacrificing convenience? Think again! There are tons of amazing alternatives to plastic bin bags out there, and they’re easier to use than you might think. Whether you’re a composting enthusiast, a DIY guru, or just looking for a simple swap, there’s a plastic-free option for you. Let’s explore some of the most popular and effective choices:

1- Reusable Bin Liners

Imagine this: you toss your trash, but instead of throwing away the liner too, you simply toss it in the wash! That’s the magic of reusable bin liners. Typically made from durable, washable fabrics like nylon or PUL (polyurethane laminate), these liners are designed to be used over and over again.

Why you’ll love them:

• They’re seriously tough: Say goodbye to those annoying rips and tears that lead to messy spills! These liners can handle even heavy loads without breaking a sweat.
• They save you money: Think of all the money you spend on plastic bin bags every year! While reusable liners might cost a bit more upfront, you’ll save a bundle in the long run.
• They’re eco-friendly: By choosing reusable liners, you’re drastically reducing your plastic waste, which is a huge win for the planet.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Washing: Yes, you’ll need to wash them, but it’s really not a big deal. Most reusable liners can be tossed in the washing machine with your regular laundry. Just turn them inside out, and wash them every 1-2 weeks, or more often if needed.
• Not ideal for everything: While reusable liners are fantastic for general waste and recyclables, they might not be the best choice for super messy food waste. For that, you might want to consider a separate compost bin.

Pro Tip: Look for liners with a drawstring or other closure mechanism to keep your trash secure and prevent spills.

2- Home compostable garbage bags:

These bags are designed to break down completely in a composting environment, leaving behind nothing but nutrient-rich compost. But here’s the key: make sure they’re truly compostable, not just “biodegradable.” Look for certifications or labels that clearly state they can be composted at home in your backyard compost bin.

Why they’re great:

• They actually break down: In the right conditions (a compost bin with the right mix of brown and green materials), these bags will decompose into compost, which is amazing for your garden!
• Perfect for food scraps: They’re an excellent choice for lining your kitchen compost bin. Just toss the whole bag, food scraps and all, into your compost bin.

Things to consider:

• Cost: Compostable bin liners can be a bit more expensive than those cheap plastic bin bags, but the environmental benefits are worth it.
• Leaking: Some compostable bags aren’t as strong as plastic and might leak if you put very wet waste in them. Look for brands with good reviews and consider double-bagging for extra protection.

Important note: Even if a bag says “compostable,” it might not break down in your backyard compost bin. Many require the high heat of an industrial composting facility because without these conditions, they may release methane gas. So do your research and choose bags that are specifically designed for home composting.

3- Newspaper:

Remember the good old days when everyone lined their bins with newspaper? Well, this classic method is still a great plastic-free option! Simply layer a few sheets of newspaper in the bottom of your bin to absorb liquids and prevent your bin from getting dirty.

Why it works:

• It’s free (or very cheap): If you already get the newspaper, you’ve got a ready supply of bin liners! And even if you don’t, you can often find old newspapers for free or very cheap at recycling centers or community bulletin boards.
• It’s readily available: No need to order anything online or make a special trip to the store. Just grab a few sheets from your recycling pile and you’re good to go.
• It absorbs moisture: Newspaper is surprisingly absorbent and does a great job of soaking up any liquids, keeping your bin cleaner.

Things to keep in mind:

• It can tear easily: Newspaper isn’t as strong as plastic, so it might not be ideal for heavy items. Be careful when lifting the newspaper out of the bin, especially if it’s wet.
• Not ideal for very wet waste: For super messy stuff, you might want to use a different option, like a compost bin or a reusable liner with a waterproof coating.

Pro Tip: Crumple the newspaper before lining your bin to create a more absorbent and cushioning layer.

4- Cardboard Boxes:

Don’t throw away those empty cereal boxes or shoe boxes! Repurpose them as bin liners for a simple and sustainable solution.

Why it’s a good idea:

• It’s sturdy: Cardboard is much stronger than newspaper and can hold more weight. It’s a great option for heavier items like glass bottles or cans.
• It’s free: You’re giving those boxes a second life instead of sending them to the recycling bin, which saves resources and reduces waste.
• It can be composted: Once the box is too dirty to use, you can often compost it in your backyard bin. Just tear it into smaller pieces to speed up the composting process.

Things to consider:

• Not ideal for wet waste: Cardboard can break down if it gets too wet, so it’s best for dry waste like paper, cardboard, and plastic packaging.
• May take up more space in the bin: Boxes can be bulkier than bags, so they might not be ideal for small bins.

Pro Tip: Line the bottom of the box with newspaper for extra absorbency and leak protection.

5- No Liner at All:

For the ultimate zero waste solution, consider skipping the liner altogether! This works best for dry waste like paper, cardboard, and plastic packaging.

Why it’s awesome:

• Zero waste: You’re eliminating the need for any kind of liner, which means less waste going to landfills.
• Simple and easy: Just toss your waste directly into the bin. No need to worry about finding the right size liner or remembering to buy more.

Things to consider:

• Your bin will need more frequent cleaning: You’ll need to wash your bin more often to prevent it from getting dirty. But hey, a clean bin is a happy bin!

Pro Tip: If you’re worried about your bin getting dirty, you can sprinkle some baking soda in the bottom to help absorb odors and keep it fresh.

6- How to make DIY bin liners at home

Get crafty and make your own bin liners from old fabric! Old towels, t-shirts, or even shower curtains can be repurposed into simple, reusable bin liners.

Why it’s a great idea:

• It’s unique: You can create custom liners that fit your style and needs. Add some personality to your trash routine!
• It’s sustainable: You’re giving new life to old materials that might otherwise end up in the landfill.
• It’s a fun project: Get creative and enjoy the process! It’s a great way to learn a new skill and reduce waste at the same time.

Things to consider:

• Requires some effort: You’ll need basic sewing skills and some time to make the liners. But if you enjoy sewing, it can be a relaxing and rewarding activity.

Pro Tip: Use a waterproof fabric like PUL (polyurethane laminate) for liners that will hold wet waste.

7- Bioplastics

Bioplastic bin bags are made from plant materials like corn starch instead of petroleum. They offer a more sustainable option compared to traditional plastic bags. 

Why they’re good:

• Often compostable: Many bioplastic bags are designed to break down in composting facilities, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.
• Less reliance on fossil fuels: They help reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, which contributes to climate change.

Keep In Mind:

make sure that you know the specific composting requirement for the bioplastic bags you choose. Some may be compostable at home, while others require industrial composting facilities.

Pro Tip: Look for bioplastic bags that are certified compostable by a reputable organization, such as the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI).

Take a Look at a Pro Tip For Zero Plastic Kitchen.

Green Alternatives to Single-Use Trash Bags – It’s Not as Hard as You Think!

You might think all eco-friendly bin liners are created equal, but that’s not the case! Just like finding the right pair of shoes, the best alternative to plastic bin bags for you depends on your specific needs and lifestyle. Let’s break it down and find your perfect match!

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to eco-friendly bin liners. To help you make the best choice, consider these factors:

• What kind of waste are you dealing with?
  • Mostly dry waste? If it’s mainly paper, cardboard, and plastic packaging, you might be able to skip a liner altogether or use newspaper.
  • Lots of food scraps? Compostable bags or a small compost bin are your best bets. Did you know that food waste makes up about 21% of all landfill waste? Composting is a fantastic way to reduce that number and create nutrient-rich soil for your plants.
  • General waste? For a mix of everything, reusable liners are a great all-around option. They’re durable, washable, and can handle most types of household waste.
• How big is your bin?
  • Small bin? If you have a small bin, you might need smaller liners. You could also try using something like a repurposed cereal box or a small compostable bag.
  • Large bin? For larger bins, reusable liners or compostable bags are usually easier to find in appropriate sizes.
• What’s your lifestyle like?
  • Short on time? Reusable liners might not be ideal since they require washing. Compostable bags or newspapers might be a more convenient option.
  • Super committed to zero waste? Skipping the liner altogether or using newspaper might be the way to go. You can also try composting as much of your waste as possible.

Best Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Plastic Bin Bags 2024:

Discover sustainable plastic household waste solutions to replace traditional plastic bin bags. These Plastic-free trash bag options are designed to reduce waste, support a greener lifestyle, and are categorized based on their materials and features.

• Plant-Based Waste Disposal Bags.
• Reusable Waste Disposal Liners.
• Compostable Trash Bags

1- Plant-Based Waste Disposal Bags:

A- HoldOn:

Heavy-duty, plant-based trash bags that are 100% home compostable, designed for easy breakdown in your compost.

B- Repurpose Trash Bags: Plant-based, non-toxic, compostable trash bags that are taller than average for a secure fit without spills.

2- Reusable Waste Disposal Bags

A- TomBag:

 Durable, reusable garbage bags made from recycled plastic water bottles; washable and perfect for replacing single-use plastics.

B- Marley’s Monsters: 

Handmade, reusable trash bags in various sizes, ideal for on-the-go use like the Mini Reusable Trash Bag with a versatile hanging strap.

3- compostable Trash Bag:

A- Thrive Marketplace: 

A membership-based marketplace offering a variety of affordable compostable trash bags for different needs.

You can find them from places like Etsy or Amazon, in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and materials. Some home goods stores also carry them, so be sure to check your local shops.

Extra Tips for Reducing Bin Waste

Choosing the right bin liner is a great first step, but why stop there? Here are a few extra tips to help you minimize your trash even more:

• Compost, compost, compost! Food scraps and yard waste make up a huge portion of household waste. In fact, according to the EPA, food scraps and yard waste together make up more than 30% of what we throw away! If you have a backyard, consider starting a compost bin. If you live in an apartment, look into worm composting or see if there’s a community composting program in your area. This is a fantastic way to reduce your reliance on bin bags altogether and create nutrient-rich soil for your plants.
  

Waste Type	Percentage
Food scraps	21%
Yard trimmings	13%
Plastic	13%
Paper & Cardboard	28%
Metal	9%
Glass	5%
Other	11%

• Become a food waste warrior: Plan your meals, store food properly, and get creative with leftovers to minimize food waste in the first place. Did you know that the average American family throws away about 31% of the food they buy? That’s a lot of wasted food and money!
  
• Buy in bulk: Reduce packaging waste by buying in bulk when possible. Bring your own reusable containers to the store to avoid unnecessary plastic packaging.
  
• Think before you toss: Before you throw something away, ask yourself if it can be reused, repurposed, or recycled. Get creative and find new uses for old items! For example, you can use old jars to store food, old t-shirts as cleaning rags, and empty toilet paper rolls for crafts.

FAQs:

1- Are Biodegradable Bin Liners Really Biodegradable?

Biodegradable Biodegradable waste bags or bin liners often claim to break down naturally, but their effectiveness depends on the conditions. Most require specific environments, like industrial composting facilities, to fully decompose. In regular landfills, they might not degrade properly due to the lack of oxygen and microorganisms. So, while they have the potential to be biodegradable, their actual breakdown process can vary significantly based on where they end up.

2- How to choose compostable trash bags for home use

When choosing compostable trash bags for home use, look for certified labels like BPI or ASTM D6400 to ensure they decompose properly. Opt for “home compostable” bags to break down in backyard conditions and choose a size that fits your bin to avoid leaks. Prioritize durability to handle waste without tearing, and consider buying in bulk to reduce costs. Keep in mind that even home compostable bags may take months to break down, so ensure a balanced compost pile for faster decomposition

3- How to make DIY bin liners at home?

To make DIY bin liners at home, you can repurpose materials like newspaper, old fabric, or cardboard boxes. Layer several sheets of newspaper for a simple liner that absorbs moisture, or use old fabric like towels or t-shirts, adding a drawstring to secure it in your bin. For dry waste, sturdy cardboard boxes work well; just line them with newspaper for extra leak protection. These options are cost-effective, reduce plastic waste, and are an easy step towards a more sustainable lifestyle.

 4- I’m worried about reusable bin liners getting smelly. Any tips?

Totally get it! Here’s the thing: reusable liners actually don’t get as smelly as you might think, especially if you’re using them for general waste and not super messy food scraps. But to keep things fresh, here are a few tricks:

Baking soda: Sprinkle some baking soda in the bottom of the liner to absorb odors.

Essential oils: Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the wash when you clean the liner.

Sunshine: Sunlight is a natural disinfectant! Hang your liner out in the sun to dry whenever possible.

5- Are compostable bags really worth the extra cost?

Great question! While they might be a bit pricier than plastic bags, compostable bags have some big perks. They break down completely in a composting environment, which means less waste going to landfills. Plus, they’re a great way to dispose of food scraps without making a mess. If you’re serious about reducing your environmental impact, compostable bags are definitely worth considering.

6- I live in an apartment and don’t have a backyard. Can I still compost?

Absolutely! Even if you don’t have a backyard, there are still ways to compost. Look into worm composting (it can be done indoors!) or see if there’s a community composting program in your area. Many cities now offer drop-off locations or curbside pickup for compostable materials.

 7- I tried using newspaper as a liner, but it ripped and made a mess. What did I do wrong?

A: Newspapers can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re dealing with heavy or wet waste. Here are a few tips to prevent rips and spills:
Use multiple layers: Don’t be shy with the newspaper! Use several sheets to create a sturdier liner.

Crumple it up: Crumpling the newspaper before lining your bin helps create a more absorbent and cushioning layer.

Fold the edges: Fold the edges of the newspaper over the rim of the bin to keep it in place.

What’s the best way to clean a reusable bin liner?

Most reusable liners can be washed in the washing machine with your regular laundry. Just turn them inside out and wash them on a warm or hot cycle with detergent. You can also add a bit of baking soda or vinegar to the wash for extra deodorizing power. Hang them to dry or tumble dry on low.

What’s the most affordable eco-friendly bin bag alternative?

 Newspapers are definitely the most budget-friendly option! If you already get the newspaper, it’s essentially free. If not, you can often find old newspapers for free or very cheap at recycling centers or community bulletin boards. Another affordable option is repurposing cardboard boxes as bin liners. Just save those empty cereal boxes and shoe boxes and give them a second life as trash containers.

 I’m feeling overwhelmed. Where do I even start?

It’s totally understandable to feel overwhelmed! The key is to start small and make gradual changes. Maybe try swapping out your plastic bin bags for compostable ones or newspapers. Or maybe start composting your food scraps. Every little bit helps! Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection.