In commercial kitchen settings, choosing the right trash bag thickness is critical to maintaining a sanitary and efficient work environment. The ideal thickness depends on the nature and volume of the waste being disposed of, ranging from food remnants and liquid waste to broken packaging materials and disposable tableware.
Trash bag thickness is typically measured in mils (thousandths of an inch). For lightweight applications, such as front-of-house waste with paper goods or food scraps, a bag with 0.7 to 1.0 mil thickness may suffice. However, in high-volume back-of-house areas, where heavier or sharper waste is common, bags ranging from 1.2 to 2.0 mils are recommended.
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) bags offer superior tear and puncture resistance, making them a reliable option for thicker liners. For example, a 1.5 mil LDPE liner is suitable for 33-gallon bins commonly found in prep areas, while larger 55-gallon bins may require a 2.0 mil liner for safe and leak-free disposal.
Ultimately, choosing the ideal thickness not only prevents breakage and spills but also improves waste handling efficiency, saving on cleanup time and costs.