Choosing the right bin liner. Everything you need to know

When you choose a trash bag, it may seem like a simple task. But did you know that there’s a lot more to choosing the right bin liner than you might think? In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of materials and how to calculate the right size waste bag for your waste bin.

Material selection: HDPE vs. HDPE LDPE

Garbage bags are typically made of two different types of materials: HDPE and LDPE. But what does this mean exactly, and which material best suits your needs?

• HDPE (High Density Polyethylene)
  HDPE stands for high-density polyethylene and is a material characterized by its wrinkled texture. Although it is lightweight, you have to be careful with sharp waste because once there is a hole in it, it easily tears further. HDPE garbage bags are therefore best suited for light waste.
• LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene)
  LDPE, on the other hand, is a low-density material, which is soft and elastic. The big advantage of LDPE is that holes do not tear easily, which makes the material ideal for heavier waste. Additionally, LDPE is 100% recyclable, making it an eco-friendly choice as well.

How do you calculate the right size garbage bag?

You might think that the size of your trash bag corresponds to the contents of your trash can, but unfortunately, this is not so simple. A garbage bag must be at least 30% larger than the dimensions of the waste bin. The correct size depends on the shape and type of the bin.

• For square or rectangular waste bins:
  • Width of the bag: Add up the length and width of the bin.
  • Length of the bag: Add the height of the bin and half of the longest side, plus an extra 10 to 20 cm for the cover.
• For round waste bins:
  • Width of the bag: Diameter of the bucket multiplied by 1.57.
  • Length of the bag: Add the height of the container, a quarter of the diameter, plus an extra 10 to 20 cm for the cover.

That extra 10 to 20 cm is essential for tipping the bag over the edge of the bin. For smaller containers, 20 cm may seem excessive, but for larger containers, such as a 400L container, it is often just enough.

Conclusion

Choosing the right bin liner comes down to understanding your waste needs and selecting the right material and size. Whether you’re dealing with light or heavy waste, whether you have a round or square bin, with this information, you’ll be well-equipped to make the right choice.