Common mistakes when choosing trash bags and how to avoid them
Choosing the right trash bag may seem trivial, but a poor selection can lead to annoyances such as leaks, tears, or even environmental problems. Here are the most common mistakes in choosing trash bags and practical tips to avoid them.
1. Not choosing the right size
Mistake:
Opting for a trash bag that is too small or too large for the bin used. This can lead to overflows or poor bag attachment.
How to avoid it:
- Measure the bin: Take into account the circumference and the height.
- Use a sizing guide (e.g., a 50 L bin requires a bag of about 60 L to leave some margin). Discover our 60 L trash bags.
2. Ignoring the type of waste
Mistake:
Using standard bags for specific waste (food, sharp, liquid, etc.), leading to leaks or tears.
How to avoid it:
- Heavy or bulky waste: Choose reinforced bags or double-layered.
- Food waste: Opt for moisture-resistant and leak-proof bags.
- Recyclable waste: Use transparent trash bags to facilitate sorting.
- Organic waste: Go for compostable bags.
3. Neglecting bag strength
Mistake:
Choosing bags that are too thin for heavy or sharp waste, which can cause tears or accidents during transport.
How to avoid it:
- Check the micronage (thickness of the bag): the higher it is, the stronger the bag.
- Prefer reinforced bags for sharp or bulky waste.
4. Using the wrong color for selective sorting
Mistake:
Confusing the colors of trash bags, which can complicate sorting or make your collection non-compliant with local regulations.
How to avoid it:
- Yellow: Recyclable waste (plastics, cardboard).
- Green: Organic waste or bio-waste.
- Black: Non-recyclable household waste.
- Consult local guidelines to ensure proper use of colors.
5. Buying bags not suited to the volume of waste generated
Mistake:
Choosing bags that are too small or not anticipating the volume of waste, leading to frequent changes or overflows.
How to avoid it:
- For households, prefer bags of 30 to 50 L depending on the size of the bin.
- In businesses or communities, opt for 120 L to 240 L bags for large volumes.
6. Ignoring environmental impacts
Mistake:
Using classic non-recyclable plastic bags, which contribute to pollution.
How to avoid it:
- Prefer recycled or compostable bags to reduce environmental impact.
- Look for certifications such as the European ecolabel or mentions of "100% recycled".
7. Underestimating the importance of sealing
Mistake:
Using non-waterproof bags for liquid or wet waste, which can cause unpleasant leaks.
How to avoid it:
- Check the bag specifications, particularly its moisture resistance.
- For food waste or liquids, choose bags with a waterproof seal or reinforced welds.
8. Buying bags not suited to the place of use
Mistake:
Using the same bags everywhere, without considering the specifics of the environment (office, kitchen, garden, construction site).
How to avoid it:
- Office: Light bags for paper waste.
- Kitchen: Resistant bags for food waste.
- Garden: Reinforced bags or those specific for green waste.
- Construction sites: Ultra-robust bags for rubble.
9. Buying based solely on price
Mistake:
Opting for poor-quality bags to save money, which leads to additional expenses (double bagging, frequent replacements).
How to avoid it:
- Compare the price-quality ratio rather than the price alone.
- Invest in durable bags that will reduce long-term costs.
10. Forgetting to store the bags properly
Mistake:
Leaving bags exposed to heat or moisture, which can deteriorate them before use.
How to avoid it:
- Store the bags in a dry and cool place.
- Avoid compressing them to not damage their structure.
Conclusion: Make the right choice with Covr
To avoid these mistakes, it is essential to choose trash bags that are suited to your specific needs. At Covr, we offer a complete range of trash bags:
- Reinforced for heavy or bulky waste.
- Compostable and recycled for reduced environmental impact.
- Suitable for every use, from the kitchen to the construction site.
With Covr, trust in quality bags for simplified and effective waste management.