10 Best Compost Bin Bags That Actually Keep Odors at Bay (2025 Edition)
You want to reduce waste, you want to minimize odors, and you want to choose responsibly—three essential goals that compostable bin bags can help you achieve. Composting food scraps doesn’t have to mean dealing with unpleasant smells or messy leaks that test your environmental commitment. The right compostable bag makes all the difference between a pleasant kitchen experience and one that sends you running back to plastic options. Let’s explore which 2026 models truly deliver on their odor-control promises while maintaining eco-friendly credentials.
Table of Contents
Quick Overview
- Bags with drawstrings or handle ties provide superior odor containment for kitchen scraps and wet food waste.
- Multi-layer film technology, especially those made from corn starch, offers better odor barriers while remaining fully compostable.
- BPI-certified bags with thicknesses of 0.7-0.8 mil provide optimal balance between strength and biodegradability for odor control.
- Star-sealed or reinforced bottoms prevent leaks from acidic food waste that often cause unpleasant smells during decomposition.
- Products with OK Compost HOME certification should be used within three days for acidic waste to minimize odor development.
| Compostable Kitchen Food Scrap Bags (80 Count) |
| Best Overall | Size/Capacity: 1.2 gallon/4.5 liters | Count: 80 count | Material: Corn starch, plant-based | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| SUPERBIO Compostable Food Scrap Bags 1.6 Gallon 50-Count |
| Most Popular | Size/Capacity: 1.6 gallon/6 liters | Count: 50 count | Material: Plant-based bioplastic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| bioMat 3 Gallon Certified Compostable Trash Bags (125-Count) |
| Eco-Certified Choice | Size/Capacity: 3 gallon/11 liters | Count: 125 count | Material: Plastic-free renewable resources | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| UNNI Compostable Kitchen Trash Bags (2.6 Gallon 200 Count) |
| Best Value | Size/Capacity: 2.6 gallon/9.84 liters | Count: 200 count | Material: Compostable material | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| FORID Compostable Garbage Bags 150 Count 2.6 Gallon |
| Budget-Friendly Pick | Size/Capacity: 2.6 gallon/10 liters | Count: 150 count | Material: Plant-based bioplastic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Compostable Kitchen Bin Liners 13 Gallon (10 Count) |
| Heavy-Duty Option | Size/Capacity: 13 gallon | Count: 10 count | Material: Renewable plant materials | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Compostable Food Scrap Bags with Handles (100 Count) |
| Most Convenient | Size/Capacity: 1.6 gallon | Count: 100 count | Material: Plant starch (corn) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 60-64 Gallon BPI Certified Compostable Bags (12-Pack) |
| Best Large-Capacity | Size/Capacity: 60-64 gallon | Count: 12 count | Material: PLA and PBAT plant-based | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 3 Gallon Compostable Trash Bags (100-Pack) |
| Most Versatile | Size/Capacity: 3 gallon | Count: 100 count | Material: PLA and PBAT blend | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| UNNI Compostable Kitchen Trash Bags (2.6 Gallon 100 Count) |
| Editor’s Choice | Size/Capacity: 2.6 gallon/9.84 liters | Count: 100 count | Material: Plant-based compostable | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Compostable Kitchen Food Scrap Bags (80 Count)
T.FORING’s 1.2-gallon compost bags stand out for eco-conscious households looking to cut down on plastic waste without sacrificing strength. Made from corn starch and plant-based materials, these bags are completely free of polyethylene while maintaining impressive tear resistance.
You’ll get 80 green bags per roll, each measuring 15″ × 15.7″ with 0.8 mil thickness—sturdy enough for food waste, diapers, and pet waste. Their multiple certifications (BPI, OK Compost HOME, and CMA) guarantee these bags truly decompose within 6-12 months into just CO2, water, and organic biomass.
With a 4.6-star rating from 352 reviews, they’re a reliable choice for your kitchen counter, bathroom, or office composting needs.
- Size/Capacity:1.2 gallon/4.5 liters
- Count:80 count
- Material:Corn starch, plant-based
- Certifications:BPI, OK Compost HOME, CMA
- Thickness:0.8 mil
- Special Features:Tear resistant, high tensile strength
- Additional Feature:Tear resistant design
- Additional Feature:6-12 month decomposition
- Additional Feature:Ethically manufactured
SUPERBIO Compostable Food Scrap Bags 1.6 Gallon 50-Count
Environmentally conscious consumers will appreciate the SUPERBIO Compostable Food Scrap Bags, which consistently deliver both eco-friendly credentials and practical functionality.
These plant-based bioplastic bags boast impressive certifications (BPI, OK compost INDUSTRIAL, and SEEDLING from TÜV) while meeting ASTM D6400 and EN 13432 standards. You’ll find the 1.6-gallon capacity ideal for countertop bins, with handle ties and star-sealed bottoms preventing leaks and tears.
For best results, store these unscented bags in a cool, dry place and dispose of filled bags within three days, particularly when containing acidic waste. Check if commercial composting facilities exist in your area to maximize their environmental benefits.
- Size/Capacity:1.6 gallon/6 liters
- Count:50 count
- Material:Plant-based bioplastic
- Certifications:BPI, OK Compost INDUSTRIAL, SEEDLING
- Thickness:0.63 mil
- Special Features:Handle tie, star-sealed bottom
- Additional Feature:Handle tie design
- Additional Feature:Star-sealed reinforced bottom
- Additional Feature:Patented processing technologies
bioMat 3 Gallon Certified Compostable Trash Bags (125-Count)
For families looking to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing convenience, the bioMat 3 Gallon Certified Compostable Trash Bags offer an impressive combination of sustainability and performance.
Made from plastic-free corn starch with multi-layer film technology, these bags decompose in under 90 days in industrial facilities without leaving microplastics. You’ll appreciate the leak-proof, tear-resistant design with double-welded bottoms that handle wet food waste effectively.
Each pack provides 125 bags (five rolls of 25) that fit standard kitchen compost bins. They’re produced in a carbon-neutral facility and certified by BPI, TÜV Austria, and CMA for legitimate compostability.
- Size/Capacity:3 gallon/11 liters
- Count:125 count
- Material:Plastic-free renewable resources
- Certifications:BPI, ASTM D6400, OK Compost Home, CMA
- Thickness:Not specified
- Special Features:Leak-proof, double-welded bottom
- Additional Feature:Carbon-neutral manufacturing facility
- Additional Feature:Double-welded bottom
- Additional Feature:Odor-reducing design
UNNI Compostable Kitchen Trash Bags (2.6 Gallon 200 Count)
When managing a busy kitchen that generates substantial food waste, UNNI’s Compostable Kitchen Trash Bags stand out as the premium solution for eco-conscious households. These San Francisco-designed bags boast impressive credentials with BPI, CMA, and European certifications, meeting stringent ASTM D6400 standards for home and industrial composting.
At 0.71 mil thickness, they’re robust enough to handle wet food scraps without tearing. You’ll appreciate the generous 200-count package that lasts months even with daily use. For best results with juicier waste, line your bin with paper and change bags regularly. Their 4.5-star rating from over 46,000 reviewers confirms their reliability and value.
- Size/Capacity:2.6 gallon/9.84 liters
- Count:200 count
- Material:Compostable material
- Certifications:BPI, CMA, OK Compost HOME
- Thickness:0.71 mil
- Special Features:Strong, durable for heavy waste
- Additional Feature:Separates cleanly
- Additional Feature:San Francisco brand
- Additional Feature:Extra thick design
FORID Compostable Garbage Bags 150 Count 2.6 Gallon
FORID’s 150-count compostable bags offer an impressive blend of eco-friendliness and practicality for conscientious consumers. Made from plant-based bioplastic derived from natural starch extracts, these bags meet strict ASTM D6400 and EN 13432 standards for composting.
You’ll appreciate their durability—tested to hold up to 26 pounds without tearing—and the octagonal sealed bottom that prevents leakage even with wet waste. At 15.7 × 19.6 inches, they’ll fit most small round bins (≤10″ diameter) and rectangular wastebaskets.
The clear green material lets you identify contents while keeping kitchen, bathroom, or office waste contained until it’s ready for your home compost.
- Size/Capacity:2.6 gallon/10 liters
- Count:150 count
- Material:Plant-based bioplastic
- Certifications:ASTM D6400, EN 13432
- Thickness:Not specified
- Special Features:Octagonal bottom sealed, withstands 26 lbs
- Additional Feature:Octagonal sealed bottom
- Additional Feature:Clear green visibility
- Additional Feature:26 lb strength
Compostable Kitchen Bin Liners 13 Gallon (10 Count)
Eco-conscious homeowners seeking reliable kitchen waste management will appreciate Responsible Products’ Compostable Kitchen Bin Liners. These BPI-certified 13-gallon bags break down in 90 days at commercial composting facilities, completely eliminating plastic waste.
You’ll find these heavy-duty bags surprisingly strong and leakproof, handling food scraps, oils, and grease without tearing or trapping odors. Made from renewable plant materials, they’re ideal for both compost bins and kitchen trash.
With dimensions of 23.62 x 26.77 inches, these drawstring bags fit standard kitchen bins perfectly. Though only available in 10-count packages, they’re a solid investment in sustainable living since becoming available in February 2024.
- Size/Capacity:13 gallon
- Count:10 count
- Material:Renewable plant materials
- Certifications:BPI-certified
- Thickness:Not specified
- Special Features:Heavy duty, leakproof, oil-resistant
- Additional Feature:Drawstring design
- Additional Feature:Oil-resistant construction
- Additional Feature:90-day breakdown period
Compostable Food Scrap Bags with Handles (100 Count)
Transform your kitchen waste disposal with HECTOLIFE‘s plant-based compostable bags that offer both eco-friendliness and remarkable durability. Made from corn starch, these 1.6-gallon bags feature convenient handle-ties that seal in odors while making disposal effortless.
At 0.7 mil thickness with a star-sealed reinforced bottom, they’re engineered to handle heavy loads without leaking. Each pack includes 100 bags (two rolls of 50), perfect for daily kitchen scraps, bathroom waste, or pet cleanup.
With triple certifications (ASTM D6400, US BPI, and Europe OK Compost Home), you’ll feel good knowing you’re using a truly compostable product that breaks down naturally.
- Size/Capacity:1.6 gallon
- Count:100 count
- Material:Plant starch (corn)
- Certifications:ASTM D6400, BPI, OK Compost Home
- Thickness:0.7 mil
- Special Features:Handle-tie, star-sealed bottom
- Additional Feature:Handle-tie design
- Additional Feature:Star-sealed bottom
- Additional Feature:Multipurpose applications
60-64 Gallon BPI Certified Compostable Bags (12-Pack)
Large-scale composters will find their match in these heavy-duty 64-gallon compostable bags. Made from plant-based PLA and PBAT, these 2-mil thick bags handle the toughest yard waste without tearing.
You’ll appreciate their impressive credentials—BPI certified and ASTM D6400 compliant—ensuring they’ll break down completely in commercial facilities or home bins without leaving microplastics behind.
Perfect for fall cleanup, these unscented flat-top bags hold up to 242 liters of landscaping debris. At 47 x 60 inches, they’re ideal for restaurants and homes generating significant food and yard waste. The 12-pack offers excellent value for serious composters.
- Size/Capacity:60-64 gallon
- Count:12 count
- Material:PLA and PBAT plant-based
- Certifications:BPI, ASTM D6400, OK Compost HOME
- Thickness:2 mil
- Special Features:Heavy-duty, extra thick for yard debris
- Additional Feature:Heavy-duty construction
- Additional Feature:Flat-top design
- Additional Feature:Commercial facility compatible
3 Gallon Compostable Trash Bags (100-Pack)
These 3-gallon compostable trash bags represent the perfect balance between convenience and environmental responsibility for households wanting to manage organic waste efficiently. Measuring 16.9 x 17.7 inches, they’re perfectly sized for countertop bins and kitchen food waste collection.
You’ll appreciate their plant-based PLA and PBAT blend construction, providing surprising strength while remaining fully compostable. BPI certified to meet ASTM D6400 standards, these bags break down into organic fertilizer within 180 days under industrial composting conditions.
For best results, store unused bags in a cool, dark place and use within a year of purchase.
- Size/Capacity:3 gallon
- Count:100 count
- Material:PLA and PBAT blend
- Certifications:BPI, ASTM D6400
- Thickness:Not specified
- Special Features:Suitable for countertop bins
- Additional Feature:Plant-based PLA blend
- Additional Feature:180-day breakdown period
- Additional Feature:Creates organic fertilizer
UNNI Compostable Kitchen Trash Bags (2.6 Gallon 100 Count)
Eco-conscious households will appreciate UNNI’s certified compostable kitchen trash bags, designed specifically for collecting food scraps and organic waste. These 2.6-gallon liners come 100 to a pack and feature an extra-thick 0.71 mil construction that prevents tearing when handling wet food waste.
With multiple certifications including BPI, CMA, and TÜV AUSTRIA’s OK compost HOME, these bags meet strict ASTM D6400 standards. You’ll find them perfect for small kitchen bins, bathrooms, and office spaces. Store in a cool, dry place and use within 9 months for peak performance. They’ve earned a 4.5-star rating from over 46,000 satisfied customers.
- Size/Capacity:2.6 gallon/9.84 liters
- Count:100 count
- Material:Plant-based compostable
- Certifications:BPI, CMA, OK Compost HOME
- Thickness:0.71 mil
- Special Features:Extra-thick liners
- Additional Feature:BPI certified
- Additional Feature:Field-tested by CMA
- Additional Feature:Nine-month shelf life
Factors to Consider When Choosing Compost Bin Bags
When choosing compost bin bags, you’ll need to take into account several key factors to make certain they meet your specific needs. Look for proper certifications like BPI or ASTM D6400, appropriate size for your bin, and material composition that balances environmental impact with functionality. The thickness, durability, and expected decomposition timeline will also determine how well the bags contain waste without leaking while still breaking down properly in your composting system.
Certification and Standards
Understanding certification standards represents a crucial step when selecting compost bin bags that truly deliver on environmental promises. Look for third-party verifications like ASTM D6400/D6868, EN 13432, or BPI/OK Compost that confirm standardized biodegradation criteria.
Pay attention to each certification’s specific environment—EN 13432 and ASTM D6400 apply to industrial composting facilities, while OK Compost HOME certifies bags suitable for home composting. These standards don’t just measure decomposition rates but also test for ecotoxicity and absence of microplastics.
Always validate a certification’s validity by checking the certifier’s database with the provided certificate number. Be aware that some certifications only apply to specific disposal conditions or timeframes (typically ≤90 days for industrial composting). This verification guarantees you’re choosing bags that will actually break down as promised.
Bag Size and Capacity
Beyond certifications that verify environmental claims, the practical aspects of your compost bin bags will materially impact their functionality.
You’ll want to match bag capacity to your bin’s volume—typically 1-3 gallons for countertop collectors and 13 gallons for standard kitchen bins. Measure your container’s rim circumference and depth to make certain the bag fits without excess material that causes spills or gaps.
Consider your emptying routine too. If you’re disposing of food scraps daily, smaller bags work well, while less frequent emptying requires larger capacity liners. Remember that bigger bags need greater strength to handle heavier loads without tearing.
Don’t forget compatibility with your final disposal method. Whether you’re using municipal collection or home composting, your bags should fit within the system’s size requirements and capacity limits.
Material Composition
The building blocks of your compost bin bags determine their environmental impact, strength, and breakdown efficiency. Look for bags made from plant-based polymers like PLA, PBAT blends, or starch-based materials that break down into CO2, water, and biomass.
Verify authenticity through certifications like ASTM D6400 or EN 13432, ensuring they’ll actually decompose as promised. For zero microplastic residue, choose fully plastic-free options made from non-GMO corn starch or other renewable starches, which perform better in home composting environments.
Consider the bag’s construction carefully – single-layer designs differ from multi-layer ones in tear resistance and leak prevention. Remember that thickness matters; higher-gauge films offer superior puncture resistance for heavy food scraps, though they may require specific composting conditions for complete degradation.
Thickness and Durability
Selecting the right thickness for your compost bin bags balances durability against decomposition time. Measurements range from 0.5 to 2.0 mils (thousandths of an inch), with thicker bags offering superior puncture and tear resistance for heavy food waste.
Don’t be swayed by vague “strong” claims. Instead, look for specific weight-holding capacities or laboratory-tested strength ratings that verify performance. Bags with multi-layer construction or star-sealed bottoms distribute weight more effectively, preventing splits when handling wet waste.
While thicker bags better contain moisture and odors, they decompose more slowly. Match your bag thickness to your composting method—thinner for home systems, sturdier for industrial processing.
Store your bags in cool, dry locations and use within the manufacturer’s recommended shelf life to maintain their structural integrity over time.
Decomposition Timeline
Understanding how quickly compost bin bags break down is central to making an informed choice for your specific needs. If you’re using a commercial composting service, look for industry-certified bags (ASTM D6400 or EN 13432 compliant) that decompose within 90 days under ideal conditions.
For home composting, expect a longer timeline of 6-12 months, and specifically choose bags labeled “home compostable.” Environmental factors greatly impact breakdown speed—higher temperatures, proper moisture levels, and good aeration accelerate decomposition. Conversely, cold, dry, or waterlogged conditions will extend the process.
The bag’s material composition also matters. Thinner bags typically break down faster than thicker ones, while starch-based formulations tend to decompose more readily in home systems than PLA-based alternatives that often require industrial heat to properly biodegrade.
Handle vs. Drawstring
When choosing between handle ties and drawstrings for your compost bin bags, you’ll need to weigh several practical factors that impact daily use. Handle ties excel for countertop composting, providing secure carrying for small bags while reducing spills during transport to outdoor bins. They’re ideal for single-handed lifting and daily emptying.
Drawstrings, however, offer faster sealing for larger 13-gallon liners and create tighter odor barriers when fully closed. They distribute weight more evenly, reducing tears at the opening—a vital benefit for heavier loads.
For wet food waste, look for reinforced handles or double-stitched drawstrings to prevent ruptures. Consider your routine: handles work best for short trips and frequent emptying, while drawstrings suit longer storage periods and larger bins.
Cost per Bag
Beyond handle designs, the true value of compost bin bags often comes down to their cost efficiency. Don’t just look at the sticker price—divide the total pack cost by the number of bags to compare unit economics across different sizes.
Remember that shelf life impacts your actual cost. Even premium bags become worthless if they degrade before use, typically after 9-12 months. Also factor in disposal fees for commercial composting or municipal collection.
Consider your household’s waste volume when calculating costs. Smaller bags might seem cheaper initially but require more frequent changes. Durability matters too—thicker bags that prevent leaks and tearing might cost more upfront but save you money by eliminating the need for double-bagging or cleaning up messy spills.
Storage and Shelf-Life
Although often overlooked, proper storage dramatically affects the lifespan and effectiveness of your compost bin bags. Store them in a cool, dry, dark location away from sunlight and heat sources to prevent premature degradation of the plant-based polymers.
Most compostable bags maintain their integrity for 9-12 months from manufacture, so check dates and use them within this window. High humidity and temperature fluctuations will accelerate breakdown, so avoid damp basements, garages, or areas near hot appliances.
Keep bags in their original packaging or sealed containers to limit exposure to air and moisture, which can weaken them and cause brittleness. Implement a “first in, first out” approach and only purchase quantities you’ll use within a year to avoid wasting money on degraded bags.
Conclusion
You’ve now explored the absolute best compost bin bags that’ll transform your kitchen waste management. Remember, choose bags with proper certifications, consider size and thickness for your needs, and look for odor-control features that’ll keep your kitchen smelling fresher than a mountain breeze. Whether you’re a composting novice or expert, these bags make sustainable living easier while keeping those unpleasant smells locked away until collection day.
