Skip to Content

Garbage Bag Selection Guide — HD vs. LD & Choosing the Right Size

Choosing the wrong garbage liner leads to ripping, mess, and wasted money. This guide simplifies the process so you always select the correct bag.

1. High-Density (HD) vs. Low-Density (LD)

High-Density (HD) Bags

Best for:

  • Office waste
  • Light paper waste
  • Washrooms
  • Restaurants for food waste (non-sharp)

Pros: lightweight, cheaper, strong puncture resistance.

Low-Density (LD) Bags

Best for:

  • Warehouses
  • Sharp or irregular trash
  • Heavy waste
  • Industrial buildings

Pros: very strong, stretchable, tear-resistant.

2. Choosing the Right Size

Common bin sizes:

  • 20–30 gal: offices
  • 35–42 gal: kitchens
  • 55+ gal: warehouses

Use published liner sizing charts for perfect fits.

3. Choosing the Right Thickness

Measured in:

  • Microns (HD bags)
  • MIL thickness (LD bags)

Higher = stronger.

4. Colour Matters

  • Black → general waste
  • Clear → recycling or security
  • White → washrooms
  • Blue → recycling programs

5. Save Costs by Matching Bag to Waste Type

Using LD bags in light waste areas = wasted money.

Using HD bags in sharp-waste areas = ripped bags.