Top 10 Best Biodegradable and Compostable Trash Bags in 2020 (BioBag, ProGreen, and More)

• 50 bags

• made for faster biodegradation when placed in compost
• use within 6 to 9 months
• BPI and ASTM D6400-12 certified
• produced in Canada and certified in the US

Recommended for:

• if you want a leak-free, strong bag and have a city compost program

These trash bags are hefty, strong, and don’t break down with normal use. However, their strength means they likely cannot be used in home compost systems. Many reviewers were happy with how sturdy the bags held up—no need to double bag them! If you're looking for a smaller sized option, you can also check here.

• 100 bags
• thick, well-made, and don't rip easily
• comes in 8-gallon, 33-gallon, and 13-gallon sizes
• ASTM D6400 certified
• comes with instructions on how to best handle the bag

Recommended for:

• people looking for extra heavy-duty bags

These trash bags are hefty and are considered one of the strongest among compostable bags. However, as they are compostable, there are some precautions you need to take to ensure that the integrity of the bag is not compromised. Reviewers liked how these bags were durable and tough, and they were happy with the thickness.

• 100 bags
• easy to pull out a new bag from the packaging
• TUV AUSTRIA HOME OK, BPI, and ASTM D6400 certified
  
• good for kitchen scraps or cat litter
• can be composted in a facility or in a home composting system
  

Recommended for:

• when you want the convenience of smaller bags and don't want to take the trash out too often

These little bags are strong enough not to break down within a few days and the packaging allows for easy pull-out, making these as convenient as traditional bags. Reviewers were happy with the cost and many said they held up well to dog or cat litter. With the small size, it's also perfect for kitchen compost bins, so we recommend checking this one out.

• 48 bags
• degrades 10 to 45 days, biodegrades in less than 6 months
• made by the blind or visually impaired
• star sealing method reduces leakage
• USCC, BPI, and ASTM D6400 certified
• larger than your standard kitchen trash bag at 30 gallons

Recommended for:

• its strong seal and large capacity

These bags are great for the environment and also support those who might otherwise have a hard time finding work since they are made by people who are blind or visually impaired. Critical reviewers felt these bags tore too easily, but many more reviewers loved the large size and say that the bags stretch well.

• 100 non-colored bags
• extra thick build
• biodegrades within 26 weeks
• OK Home Compost, BPI, and ASTM 6400 certified

Recommended for:

• being non-colored and not having to be taken out too often

However, reviewers liked how useful they were for kitchen compost bins and how they fit bathroom trashcans. Some also mention that they can last for up to two weeks of use, even with moist food waste.

• 50 bags
• taller dimensions (23.8 x 29.4 inches)
• BPI-, ASTM D6400, and European TUV certified

Recommended for:

• how it fits your compost and trash cans perfectly

These compostable bags are certified compostable by both US and European standards. Unlike many compostable bags, they’re the right height for any 13-gallon trash can. And while they still aren’t as strong as your average conventional trash bag, reviewers say that they do hold up well, particularly without any decomposing food matter in them. 

Recommended for:

• its trusted brand and not having to take your compostable garbage out frequently

As these bags are meant to be used in a lower temperature home compost system, they do break down fairly quickly, so reviewers say that they need to be changed every two to three days or you risk your trash getting all over your container and countertops. If you do decide these are the bags for you, here's a great small-sized compost bin that works well with these bags!

• 50 bags
• made from non-GMO plant starches to create their bags
• BPI, ASTM D6400, and OK Compost Home certified
• thick enough to hold up to average trash use
  

Recommended for:

• being GMO-free, certified, and able to be broken down easily

Some reviewers have noted that they’re a bit shorter than traditional 13-gallon bags. However, they are able to be broken down in either industrial composting facilities or in-home composting systems. And though they are durable, they should still be changed every week or so.

• 100 bags
• most likely to biodegrade quickly
• BPI, ASTM D6400, and OK Compost Home certified
• perfect size for countertop kitchen waste collection or food waste
  
• meant to be used for compost collection services
  

Recommended for:

• if you can take out your trash daily and like to use smaller bags

Some reviewers note that they may be a bit too biodegradable as food waste left for too long can cause the bottom of the bag to lose integrity within a few days. However, they're quite durable, and most reviewers are satisfied with these bags.

• 144 bags
• thanks to an additive, it will biodegrade in one to seven years regardless of the environment
• can be recycled and used more than once

Recommended for:

• being made of fully compostable plastic, their reusability and durability makes them reliable

As these bags are made with plastic, they’re stronger than most compostable bags and are able to last longer even with wet things inside. However, they do not have any compostable certifications, so if your bags need to have them, skip this one. If you just want something that will break down, though, these can even be tossed in your home compost pile. 

A few reviewers say their city compost programs did not accept these bags—so make sure to check first. They also aren't sure if they're really 100% eco-friendly, but many reviewers do say these bags work well and are quite durable.