Compostable and biodegradable bin bags are a great way to reduce the amount of plastic you use at home, making your home greener and also supporting the environment.
When first introduced, compostable bin liners were rather flimsy and there weren't many options available. However, as councils opting for food bins became more commonplace, more companies started offering biodegradable bin liners, suitable for a multitude of uses, including in the kitchen, bathroom and even for garden waste.
Biodegradable vs compostable - what's the difference?
• Biodegradable means the product will break down by natural processes over time.
• Compostable means the material will break down into non-toxic components.
So, if you're wanting to boost your green credentials, it's better to look for compostable on the label, rather than biodegradable.
It's worth noting too that some councils will refuse to collect rubbish if it is not placed in the correct bag type. Make sure you use a compostable bin bag in your food waste kitchen bins if you have them, rather than biodegradable.
These days you can also get compostable bin bags for your wheelie bins (great for garden waste), as well as compostable dog poo bags and eco-friendly bags for sanitary products. So swap out the plastic and go green!
The best compostable bin liners
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100% Biodegradable Bags Made from corn starch with EN13432 Certification. You get 150 6L extra strong bags, which have a gathered base to prevent any leaks - great for using in a kitchen food bin.
Coming in a range of sizes, including 6L, 10L and 30L - this is a great option if you're looking for 7 litre compostable bin liners and up. Made from corn starch, vegetable oils and fully compostable polymers, these bags meet stringent requirements of municipal composting programs: European EN13432.
Contains 120 compostable caddy bin liners, 42cm x 54cm. Great for collecting food waste and leftovers for the purpose of composting. Fits most standard kitchen caddy food waste bins. Breathable bags keep odours to a minimum. They're also suitable for putting in your garden compost bin.
If you're wanting something larger that will fit into your wheelie bin, for garden waste or even recyclables, or to help keep your bins clean, these are a perfect. Approved for food waste recycling with most councils, they're also certified to EN 13432 and carry the European standard Seedling logo. Made from corn starch - 100% biodegradable and compostable.
If you have a dog, swapping out your usual poo bags for a compostable version is also an easy way to go greener. Certified "Backyard Compostable" - these dog poo bags are plant-based, contain zero plastic, and are ASTM D6400 certified. The Party Pack of 9 fragrance-free rolls (135 compostable bags) will last most owners over two months and fit in all standard sized dispensers.
For discreet disposal of sanitary towels, tampons, panty liners, feminine wipes and other feminine hygiene products, try these bags by Fab Little Bag. They're made from 60 per cent sugar cane, 10 per cent corn starch (both of which are renewable and sustainable sources) and 30 per cent recycled plastic. The bag seal is even made with vegan glue!
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