That's a great and very practical question! We've all been there, nervously lifting a bulging trash bag, hoping it doesn't split. The key isn't just about how *full* you fill it, but how *smartly* you pack it.
A good rule of thumb is to stop when the bag is about 3/4 full or feels moderately heavy. Most standard 13-gallon kitchen bags are designed to hold 20-25 pounds. Exceeding this significantly increases the risk of tears, especially when lifting.
Here’s how to fill safely:
1. Distribute Weight Evenly: Don't put all heavy items (like glass jars or wet food waste) in one spot. Place them at the bottom and surround them with lighter stuff.
2. Avoid Sharp Objects: Always box or wrap broken glass, metal lids, or any sharp debris. These are the number one cause of rips.
3. Flatten Bulky Items: Crush plastic bottles and cardboard boxes to save space and prevent them from creating pointy pressure points inside the bag.
4. Don't Compact Too Hard: Pressing down forcefully can weaken the bag's seams. Let the bag fill naturally.
5. Tie It Off Securely: Once full, twist the top and tie it tightly. This creates a "handle" and contains the contents, making it more stable to carry.
Finally, choose the right bag. For general kitchen use, look for bags labeled "high-density" or "drawstring" for extra strength. For heavier or sharper waste, consider contractor bags.
By following these simple steps, you can avoid the dreaded mess of a broken bag and make taking out the trash a stress-free task.