Every year, Americans throw away billions of plastic trash bags that end up in landfills and oceans, taking hundreds of years to break down.
If you’re trying to reduce your household’s environmental footprint, switching to compostable trash bags is one of the easiest changes you can make.
These plant-based alternatives break down naturally in composting environments, returning to the earth instead of polluting it.
In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the best compostable trash bags available in 2026 so you can find the right fit for your kitchen, budget, and composting setup.
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What Makes a Trash Bag Truly Compostable?
Not all bags labeled “biodegradable” are created equal.
Truly compostable trash bags are made from plant-based materials like cornstarch, vegetable oils, and compostable polymers such as PLA (polylactic acid) and PBAT.
Look for certifications like BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) in the U.S. or OK Compost Home from TÜV Austria, which confirm the bags meet rigorous composting standards like ASTM D6400.
These certifications guarantee that the bag will fully break down within a specific timeframe in either industrial or home composting conditions — unlike “oxo-degradable” bags that simply fragment into microplastics.
1. UNNI Compostable Trash Bags — Best Overall
UNNI has become the gold standard in compostable kitchen bags, and for good reason.
These 13-gallon bags are extra thick at 0.9 mil, which means they hold up to heavy kitchen waste without tearing or leaking.
They carry triple certification — BPI, CMA, and OK Compost Home — so they’re verified for both industrial and backyard composting.
Made from plant starches and compostable polymers, they meet ASTM D6400 standards and come in a 50-count roll at an affordable price point.
If you want a reliable, well-reviewed compostable bag that just works, UNNI is the one to beat.
2. HoldOn Compostable Tall Kitchen Bags — Best Premium Pick
HoldOn has quickly earned a reputation as the premium choice in the compostable bag space.
Their 13-gallon bags are made from PBAT, PLA, and cornstarch — completely plant-based with zero petroleum-derived plastics.
What sets HoldOn apart is the drawstring handles, which make tying and carrying full bags much easier than flat-top alternatives.
They’re also heavy-duty enough to handle wet kitchen scraps without breaking down prematurely.
HoldOn is a certified B Corporation and all their bags are BPI-certified, so you can trust that your money supports a genuinely sustainable brand.
3. BioBag 13 Gallon Kitchen Bags — Best Made in USA
BioBag is one of the original pioneers in the compostable bag industry, and their products are proudly made in the USA.
These 13-gallon tall kitchen bags are BPI-certified and meet ASTM D6400 standards for compostability.
They’re made from a resin derived from plants, vegetable oils, and compostable polymers — no polyethylene whatsoever.
BioBag’s bags are accepted at most municipal composting facilities, making them a great choice if your city offers curbside composting.
The 48-count box gives you excellent value, and the bags are breathable, which actually helps reduce odors in your kitchen bin.
4. Simply Bio 13 Gallon Drawstring Bags — Best Heavy-Duty Option
If strength is your top priority, Simply Bio delivers with their extra-thick 1.0 mil drawstring bags.
That’s noticeably thicker than most competitors, which makes these bags ideal for heavier loads and wet waste.
They carry both BPI and OK Compost Home certifications, meaning they’ll break down in backyard compost piles — not just industrial facilities.
The drawstring closure is a nice touch for easy tying and carrying, and the bags fit standard 13-gallon kitchen trash cans perfectly.
At 30 bags per box, they’re priced competitively for a premium heavy-duty option.
How to Choose the Right Compostable Trash Bag
When shopping for compostable trash bags, keep these factors in mind.
Thickness matters. Bags rated at 0.85 mil and above are far less likely to tear or leak, especially with wet kitchen waste.
Check certifications. Always look for BPI certification at minimum. OK Compost Home certification is a bonus if you plan to compost at home rather than through municipal pickup.
Size and fit. Most kitchen trash cans use 13-gallon bags, but measure yours to be sure. A bag that’s too small will tear, and one that’s too large wastes material.
Drawstring vs. flat top. Drawstring bags cost a bit more but are significantly easier to tie off and carry without spilling.
Tips for Using Compostable Bags Effectively
Store your compostable bags in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and moisture can cause them to start breaking down before you even use them.
Don’t stockpile too many at once — most brands recommend using bags within a year of purchase for best performance.
If you’re using a curbside composting service, confirm that they accept compostable bags. Some facilities require specific certifications.
For home composting, tear the bag open before adding it to your pile. This helps the material break down faster and mix with other compost ingredients.
The Bottom Line
Switching to compostable trash bags is a small change that makes a real difference over time.
For most households, UNNI Compostable Bags offer the best balance of price, durability, and certifications.
If you want a premium option with drawstring convenience, HoldOn bags are worth the upgrade.
And if buying American-made matters to you, BioBag has been leading the compostable movement for years.
Whichever option you choose, you’ll be keeping hundreds of plastic bags out of landfills every year — and that’s a win for your home and the planet.