Ever wonder why you have to fight with a trash bag that rips or leaks? It’s a small annoyance, but it happens to everyone. You’re just trying to get rid of your kitchen scraps, and suddenly, you’re dealing with a messy cleanup. Choosing the right kitchen trash bag feels surprisingly complicated, doesn’t it? There are so many brands, sizes, and features to consider, and picking the wrong one can lead to frustrating leaks, unpleasant smells, and even a torn bag that makes a bigger mess than the trash itself.
But what if there was a way to make this everyday chore a little easier? This post will help you understand what really matters when you’re picking out those essential kitchen trash bags. We’ll look at what makes a bag strong, how to pick the right size for your bin, and even touch on some eco-friendly options. By the end of this read, you’ll feel confident knowing exactly which trash bags will work best for your home, saving you time and preventing those unwelcome surprises.
Our Top 5 Kitchen Trash Bags Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Amazon Basics 13 Gallon Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
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Hefty Ultra Strong Tall Kitchen Trash Bags | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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Hefty Ultra Strong 13 Gallon Trash Bags | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Amazon Basics Trash Bags | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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Glad Tall Kitchen Trash Bags 13 Gallon | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Kitchen Trash Bags Detailed Reviews
1. Amazon Basics 13 Gallon Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of flimsy trash bags that rip and leak? The Amazon Basics 13 Gallon Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags offer a reliable solution for your kitchen waste. These bags are designed for everyday use and come in a convenient pack of 80. They even have a fresh scent to help keep your kitchen smelling nice.
What We Like:
- Made with 10% recycled materials, which is good for the environment.
- The drawstring closure makes tying and carrying the bags easy.
- They fit standard 13-gallon tall kitchen trash cans perfectly.
- The clean, fresh scent helps mask unpleasant odors.
- You get 80 bags, so you won’t run out quickly.
- The white color with a red drawstring makes them easy to spot.
What Could Be Improved:
- While generally strong, they might not be the best choice for very heavy or sharp items.
These Amazon Basics trash bags are a solid choice for keeping your kitchen clean and fresh. They offer good value and are a responsible option for your household needs.
2. Hefty Ultra Strong Tall Kitchen Trash Bags
Rating: 9.0/10
Say goodbye to messy trash can overflows and unpleasant smells with Hefty Ultra Strong Tall Kitchen Trash Bags! This 80-count package of 13-gallon bags comes in a delightful Lavender & Sweet Vanilla scent, making your kitchen chores a little more pleasant. These bags are built to handle even your toughest kitchen messes.
What We Like:
- These bags are super strong and resist tearing or ripping.
- The drawstring is tough and makes tying up the bag easy.
- Arm and Hammer’s special odor control really works to keep smells away.
- The Lavender & Sweet Vanilla scent is a nice touch that freshens your kitchen.
- They offer great protection against leaks and punctures.
What Could Be Improved:
- The scent might be too strong for some people.
- While strong, very heavy or wet trash might still cause occasional leaks.
Overall, Hefty Ultra Strong bags are a reliable choice for keeping your kitchen clean and smelling fresh. They offer excellent durability and odor control for everyday use.
3. Hefty Ultra Strong 13 Gallon Trash Bags
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of flimsy trash bags that rip and leak? Hefty Ultra Strong 13 Gallon Trash Bags are here to save your kitchen from messy mishaps. This package comes with 20 white bags in the popular 13-gallon tall kitchen size, and they boast a delightful Cinnamon Pumpkin Spice scent to combat odors. Get ready for a stronger, fresher way to handle your trash.
What We Like:
- These bags are Hefty’s strongest, offering tough protection against rips and punctures.
- The break-resistant drawstring makes closing and carrying easy.
- Arm and Hammer odor control works with the cinnamon pumpkin spice scent to keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
- They offer 6-in-1 protection: flex strength, a tough drawstring, odor control, and resistance to leaks, punctures, and rips.
- Hefty offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can buy with confidence.
What Could Be Improved:
- The Cinnamon Pumpkin Spice scent might be too strong for some people.
- While strong, the bags are a bit pricier than some basic options.
Overall, Hefty Ultra Strong bags are a reliable choice for keeping your kitchen clean and odor-free. If you’re looking for durability and a pleasant scent, these bags are definitely worth a try.
4. Amazon Basics Trash Bags
Rating: 8.8/10
Keeping your kitchen clean and tidy is a breeze with Amazon Basics Trash Bags. These 13-gallon tall kitchen drawstring bags are designed to handle your everyday trash needs. They are unscented, which is great for masking those not-so-pleasant smells. Plus, you get a big pack of 120 bags, so you won’t run out quickly.
What We Like:
- Durable Strength: These bags are made with 0.9 mil thickness, so they’re strong enough to handle your daily kitchen waste without ripping or leaking.
- Spacious Capacity: The 13-gallon size is perfect for most kitchen bins, giving you plenty of room for your garbage.
- Easy to Use: The red drawstring makes closing and carrying the bags simple and mess-free.
- Fresh and Unscented: They help keep your kitchen smelling nice, either by being unscented or by having a light, pleasant scent available in other options.
- Versatile Options: You can choose from different scents to best suit your preferences.
What Could Be Improved:
- While strong, for very heavy or sharp items, extra care might be needed to prevent punctures.
- The unscented option is great, but for those who prefer a strong scent to combat odors, the current unscented version might not be enough.
These Amazon Basics trash bags are a reliable and budget-friendly choice for your kitchen. They offer good performance for everyday use, making trash day a little less of a chore.
5. Glad Tall Kitchen Trash Bags 13 Gallon
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of trash bags that rip and smell? Glad Tall Kitchen Trash Bags, 13 Gallon, Fragrance Free, Odorshield with Drawstring, 110 Count are here to help! These bags are designed to make your kitchen cleanup easier and cleaner. They are tough enough for heavy loads and won’t let odors escape.
What We Like:
- FORCEFLEX TECHNOLOGY: These bags have a special double layer that stretches. It helps them handle sharp objects and heavy trash without ripping.
- FRAGRANCE FREE: If you don’t like strong smells, these are perfect. They have no added scents, which is great for people sensitive to perfumes.
- GRIPS-THE-CAN DRAWSTRING: The drawstring stays put in your trash can. It also has strong handles to make carrying the trash out simple.
- 13 GALLON SIZE: These fit most tall kitchen trash cans. They are strong and stretchy to prevent messy leaks.
- RENEWABLE ENERGY: Glad uses 100% renewable electricity for making these bags in the USA. This means they are better for the environment.
What Could Be Improved:
- Pack Variation: The packaging you receive might look different from what’s shown.
These Glad trash bags offer excellent strength and odor control for your kitchen. They are a reliable choice for keeping your home clean and fresh.
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Kitchen Trash Bags
Picking the right kitchen trash bag might seem simple, but a good bag makes a big difference. It keeps your kitchen clean and prevents messy leaks. This guide will help you find the perfect bag for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
Durability and Strength
A strong bag won’t rip or tear easily. Look for bags that can hold heavy trash without breaking. This saves you from cleaning up messes.
Leak Protection
No one wants liquids seeping through the bag. Good kitchen trash bags have reinforced bottoms and strong seams to stop leaks.
Odor Control
Kitchen trash can smell bad. Many bags have special features, like charcoal filters or baking soda, to trap odors and keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
Size and Capacity
Trash cans come in different sizes. Make sure the bag fits your can snugly. Most bags are labeled with the size of the trash can they fit, usually in gallons.
Drawstring or Tie Feature
A drawstring or tie makes closing the bag simple. It also helps to keep the trash securely inside. This feature makes taking out the trash much easier.
Important Materials
Polyethylene (PE)
Most trash bags are made from polyethylene. This is a strong plastic. There are different types of polyethylene. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is flexible. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is thinner but stronger.
Recycled Content
Some bags use recycled plastic. This is good for the environment. These bags are often just as strong as new ones.
Additives
Manufacturers might add things to the plastic. Some additives help control odors. Others make the bags more resistant to punctures.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Thickness (Mil)
The thickness of a trash bag is measured in mils. A higher mil number means a thicker, stronger bag. Thicker bags are better for heavy or sharp trash. Thinner bags might be okay for lighter waste.
Seam Construction
The seams where the plastic is joined are important. Bags with reinforced seams are less likely to break. A star-sealed bottom is often stronger than a flat seal.
Brand Reputation
Trusted brands often make better quality bags. They have a history of making durable and reliable products. Reading reviews from other users can help you choose a good brand.
User Experience and Use Cases
Everyday Kitchen Waste
For regular kitchen scraps like food waste and packaging, a standard-sized bag with good odor control is usually enough. You won’t need the thickest or strongest bag.
Heavy or Wet Trash
If you often deal with heavy items like leftovers or wet garbage, choose a thicker bag with reinforced seams. This will prevent leaks and tears.
Composting and Recycling
Some brands offer special bags for compost or recycling. These can be made from biodegradable materials or have specific features for sorting waste.
Special Needs
For busy households or those with pets, extra-strong bags with superior odor control are a great choice. They handle more waste and keep smells contained.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best type of kitchen trash bag for preventing leaks?
A: Look for bags with reinforced seams and a thicker mil thickness. These features help stop liquids from escaping.
Q: How do I know what size trash bag to buy?
A: Check the capacity of your trash can in gallons. Most trash bags are labeled with the gallon size they fit, like 13-gallon or 30-gallon.
Q: Are thicker trash bags always better?
A: Thicker bags are stronger, but they can also be more expensive. For light trash, a thinner bag might be fine and more cost-effective.
Q: How can I reduce odors from my kitchen trash?
A: Choose trash bags that advertise odor control features, such as added baking soda or charcoal filters. Tying the bag tightly also helps.
Q: Can I use a drawstring bag for a trash can without a lid?
A: Yes, a drawstring bag is very useful for trash cans without lids. The drawstring helps keep the trash contained and prevents it from spilling out.
Q: Are biodegradable trash bags worth it?
A: Biodegradable bags are better for the environment. They break down over time. However, they might not be as strong as plastic bags.
Q: What does “mil” mean on a trash bag package?
A: “Mil” refers to the thickness of the plastic. A higher mil number means a thicker and stronger bag.
Q: How often should I change my kitchen trash bag?
A: It’s best to change your kitchen trash bag daily or whenever it gets full to prevent odors and keep your kitchen clean.
Q: Are there trash bags made from recycled materials?
A: Yes, many brands offer trash bags made with recycled plastic. These are a good choice for eco-conscious consumers.
Q: What should I do if a trash bag rips?
A: If a bag rips, carefully gather the trash into a new, strong bag. Clean up any spilled waste immediately to maintain hygiene.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!




