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Are you frustrated with your garbage bag because it splits and punctures easily? Need help to choose the perfect bag from the dismaying array at the supermarket? Here are some pointers:
Carefully read box labels. Those facts and figures aren't throwaway lines since they tell much about bag quality and value.
While prices for similar sized bags vary widely, often you're paying for the difference in thickness. Thickness is measured in "mils" or thousandths of an inch and generally the thicker the bag the better its puncture resistance, though not always. A .65 mil bag is very thin, while a 3 mil bag is heavy duty.
Thick doesn't always do the trick. An exception are the modern high-strength or linear plastics. In this case, thin is in, since these lighter materials are as strong as older, thicker plastics.
Since flaws in plastic sheeting often cause splits, look for two or three-ply bags. An imperfection in one ply or layer will be covered or contained by another.
Look for store-brand generic products. Since your market wants you to associate its name with quality, bags bearing the supermarket chain's name are often of high quality at a low price.
Don't buy too much or too little bag. Determine your needs first. While some straight generic bags are flimsy and inadequate, some pricey brand-name products are of tougher stuff and higher price than your rubbish requires. Trash, after all, isn't picky. Both extremes should be refused for your refuse.
