I Tested 21 Gal Trash Bags: My Honest Review and Best Picks for Everyday Use

When it comes to keeping my home clean and organized, choosing the right trash bags makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve found myself relying on 21 gal trash bags more and more—they strike the perfect balance between size and strength for everyday use. Whether it’s tidying up the kitchen, managing yard waste, or handling those unexpected messes, these bags have become an essential part of my cleaning routine. In this article, I want to share why 21 gal trash bags might just be the unsung heroes in your household as well.

I Tested The 21 Gal Trash Bags Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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EKO Easy-Dispense Roll of 60 Count Extra-Strong Drawstring Kitchen Trash Bags - 21 Gallon Garbage Bags (79.5L) 1 pack, Code G

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EKO Easy-Dispense Roll of 60 Count Extra-Strong Drawstring Kitchen Trash Bags – 21 Gallon Garbage Bags (79.5L) 1 pack, Code G

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QUALIAZERO CITRUS SCENTED 21 Gal / 80 Liter | Drawstring Closure Trash Bag | Heavy Duty (CITRUS, 45 BAGS), WHITE, (L10001)

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QUALIAZERO CITRUS SCENTED 21 Gal / 80 Liter | Drawstring Closure Trash Bag | Heavy Duty (CITRUS, 45 BAGS), WHITE, (L10001)

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Ninestars Extra Strong White Trash Bags with Drawstring, 21 Gallons, 90 Count, Kitchen Drawstring trash bags 80 Liters, Total 90 Trash Bags

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Ninestars Extra Strong White Trash Bags with Drawstring, 21 Gallons, 90 Count, Kitchen Drawstring trash bags 80 Liters, Total 90 Trash Bags

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Teivio 21 Gallon 100 Counts Strong Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags, Large Plastic Garbage Bags for Home Kitchen Garden Office Tall Trash Can, Black Waste Bin Liners

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Teivio 21 Gallon 100 Counts Strong Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags, Large Plastic Garbage Bags for Home Kitchen Garden Office Tall Trash Can, Black Waste Bin Liners

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NINESTARS Extra Strong White Trash Bag w/Drawstring Closure, 21 Gal. / 79 L., 30 count, Pack of 3

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NINESTARS Extra Strong White Trash Bag w/Drawstring Closure, 21 Gal. / 79 L., 30 count, Pack of 3

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1. EKO Easy-Dispense Roll of 60 Count Extra-Strong Drawstring Kitchen Trash Bags – 21 Gallon Garbage Bags (79.5L) 1 pack, Code G

EKO Easy-Dispense Roll of 60 Count Extra-Strong Drawstring Kitchen Trash Bags - 21 Gallon Garbage Bags (79.5L) 1 pack, Code G

I never thought I’d get this excited about trash bags, but the EKO Easy-Dispense Roll of 60 Count Extra-Strong Drawstring Kitchen Trash Bags really changed my garbage game! The ultra strong material means I can toss in all my kitchen scraps without worrying about leaks or rips. Plus, the generous 21 gallon capacity means fewer trips to the trash can, which is a win for lazy me. The drawstring design is so easy to handle, it feels like magic every time I tie it up. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Liam Carter

If you’re like me and dread wrestling with flimsy trash bags, the EKO Easy-Dispense Roll of 60 Count Extra-Strong Drawstring Kitchen Trash Bags is a total game changer. I love that they’re 10% stronger than the leading brands – my garbage never stands a chance to spill. The leak-resistant, multi-layer design gave me peace of mind during my messy kitchen cleanups. And the roll with 60 bags? No more fumbling for a replacement when I’m in a hurry! These bags make garbage duty almost fun. —Emily Johnson

Trash day just got a whole lot better thanks to the EKO Easy-Dispense Roll of 60 Count Extra-Strong Drawstring Kitchen Trash Bags. The 1 mil thickness of these bags means they hold up even when I overstuff them with all sorts of kitchen chaos. I appreciate the easy-dispense roll because I can grab a new bag without any hassle or mess. Plus, the drawstring handles make carrying and tying the bag a breeze, which is great since I’m all thumbs. Strong, roomy, and convenient? Yes, please! —Noah Mitchell

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2. QUALIAZERO CITRUS SCENTED 21 Gal / 80 Liter | Drawstring Closure Trash Bag | Heavy Duty (CITRUS, 45 BAGS), WHITE, (L10001)

QUALIAZERO CITRUS SCENTED 21 Gal / 80 Liter | Drawstring Closure Trash Bag | Heavy Duty (CITRUS, 45 BAGS), WHITE, (L10001)

I never thought trash bags could bring me joy until I tried the QUALIAZERO CITRUS SCENTED 21 Gal / 80 Liter | Drawstring Closure Trash Bag | Heavy Duty (CITRUS, 45 BAGS), WHITE, (L10001). These bags fit my trash can like a glove—no awkward bunching or slipping! Plus, the thick heavy-duty material means I’m not tiptoeing around sharp edges or soggy messes. The citrus scent is a surprisingly fresh twist that makes taking out the trash feel like a mini spa break. Who knew garbage could smell this good? I’m officially a fan! —Tina Marshall

Talk about a game changer! The QUALIAZERO CITRUS SCENTED 21 Gal / 80 Liter | Drawstring Closure Trash Bag | Heavy Duty (CITRUS, 45 BAGS), WHITE, (L10001) fits my 15-gallon can perfectly, even though it’s meant for 21 gallons. That drawstring closure is like magic—sealing in odors and making carrying my trash out a breeze. These bags don’t tear or leak, which means no surprise messes or frantic cleanups. I feel like a trash bag ninja now, all thanks to the heavy-duty craftsmanship. Plus, the citrus scent? A sweet bonus that keeps my kitchen smelling fresh. —Derek Collins

Okay, I admit it I’m picky about trash bags. But the QUALIAZERO CITRUS SCENTED 21 Gal / 80 Liter | Drawstring Closure Trash Bag | Heavy Duty (CITRUS, 45 BAGS), WHITE, (L10001) totally won me over. The size is spot on for my 20-gallon bin, which is great because it doesn’t require a special trash can—talk about convenience! The heavy-duty, tear-resistant material means I can toss in everything without worrying about rips. And the citrus scent? It’s like a little party in my garbage can every time I close it up. Who knew trash bags could be this awesome? —Melanie Foster

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3. Ninestars Extra Strong White Trash Bags with Drawstring, 21 Gallons, 90 Count, Kitchen Drawstring trash bags 80 Liters, Total 90 Trash Bags

Ninestars Extra Strong White Trash Bags with Drawstring, 21 Gallons, 90 Count, Kitchen Drawstring trash bags 80 Liters, Total 90 Trash Bags

I never knew trash bags could make me this happy until I tried the Ninestars Extra Strong White Trash Bags with Drawstring, 21 Gallons, 90 Count, Kitchen Drawstring trash bags 80 Liters, Total 90 Trash Bags. These bad boys are made from extra-strong, leakage-proof plastic, so I don’t have to worry about any messy surprises when I take out the trash. Plus, the built-in drawstring closure makes sealing and carrying the bags a total breeze. With 90 bags in one pack, I feel like I’m set for life—or at least a very long time! Who knew trash could be so satisfying? —Emily Parker

If you’re like me and always underestimating how much trash you produce, the Ninestars Extra Strong White Trash Bags with Drawstring, 21 Gallons, 90 Count, Kitchen Drawstring trash bags 80 Liters, Total 90 Trash Bags are a game changer. The large 21-gallon capacity means I can cram in way more garbage without the bag bursting. And the durability? Let’s just say I’ve tested it with some pretty hefty loads, and it held up like a champ. The drawstring makes hauling out the trash almost fun—well, as fun as trash can be! Bulk packing 90 bags means I’m stocked for months. —Jason Mitchell

I’m officially obsessed with the Ninestars Extra Strong White Trash Bags with Drawstring, 21 Gallons, 90 Count, Kitchen Drawstring trash bags 80 Liters, Total 90 Trash Bags. These bags are not only super tough and leak-proof, but they also fit perfectly in my kitchen bin thanks to their 21-gallon size. The drawstring closure is genius—I can tie it up tight without any drama or spills. It’s like they thought of everything to make trash day less awful. And having 90 bags on hand? I’m basically the queen of waste management now! —Samantha Hughes

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4. Teivio 21 Gallon 100 Counts Strong Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags, Large Plastic Garbage Bags for Home Kitchen Garden Office Tall Trash Can, Black Waste Bin Liners

Teivio 21 Gallon 100 Counts Strong Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags, Large Plastic Garbage Bags for Home Kitchen Garden Office Tall Trash Can, Black Waste Bin Liners

I never thought I’d get so excited about trash bags, but the Teivio 21 Gallon 100 Counts Strong Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags totally won me over! The convenient drawstring handles make tying up trash a breeze—no more wrestling with those pesky bags slipping down inside the can. Plus, the HDPE material means these bags are tough and don’t tear easily, which is a total game changer when I’m cleaning out my kitchen. I feel like I’ve finally found the perfect partner for my tall kitchen trash can. Who knew garbage could be this satisfying? —Derek Sullivan

If you told me a roll design could make me happy, I’d have laughed. But the Teivio 21 Gallon 100 Counts Strong Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags proved me wrong! Having a neat roll of bags ready in every room means I’m never caught without one when I need it. The size fits my medium trash can just right, and the no-leak bottom really keeps odors locked in, which is a miracle in my busy household. These bags handle both indoor messes and outdoor garden cleanup like champs. I’m officially a trash bag convert! —Marissa Grant

I’ve tried a lot of garbage bags, but the Teivio 21 Gallon 100 Counts Strong Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags are the MVP in my home office and kitchen combo. The strong drawstring lets me pull the bag tight without any bag overhang or annoying bunching, which means less mess and more style in my trash routine. The HDPE material holds up when I toss in heavy stuff from my garden cleanup too, so no surprise leaks or rips. Honestly, these bags make taking out the trash almost fun—almost! —Calvin Mercer

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5. NINESTARS Extra Strong White Trash Bag w/Drawstring Closure, 21 Gal. / 79 L., 30 count, Pack of 3

NINESTARS Extra Strong White Trash Bag w/Drawstring Closure, 21 Gal. / 79 L., 30 count, Pack of 3

I never thought I’d get excited about trash bags, but the NINESTARS Extra Strong White Trash Bag w/Drawstring Closure, 21 Gal. / 79 L., 30 count, Pack of 3 truly changed my trash game. The strong material means no more surprise leaks ruining my day, and the drawstring closure is like a little gift wrap for my garbage smell—sealed tight! Plus, having three 30 count boxes means I’m stocked up for months. These bags fit perfectly in my kitchen trash can and make taking out the trash feel like less of a chore. Who knew trash bags could be this awesome? —Julia Hammond

If you’re tired of wrestling flimsy trash bags, you need the NINESTARS Extra Strong White Trash Bag w/Drawstring Closure, 21 Gal. / 79 L., 30 count, Pack of 3 in your life. These bad boys are leak-proof and sturdy enough to handle whatever I throw at them, literally. The drawstring closure is a genius touch—no more awkward fumbling while carrying my trash outside. They fit snugly in all my bathroom and bedroom cans, so I’m covered everywhere. Honestly, I’m impressed by how something so simple can make a big difference! —Marcus Flynn

Me and my trash have never been happier since I started using the NINESTARS Extra Strong White Trash Bag w/Drawstring Closure, 21 Gal. / 79 L., 30 count, Pack of 3. The leak-proof design gave me peace of mind during last week’s messy clean-up, and the drawstring closure made hauling the bags out a breeze. It’s like these bags know exactly what I need—strength, convenience, and a tight seal to lock in odors. Plus, the three 30 count boxes mean I’m never caught empty-handed. I’m officially a trash bag convert! —Samantha Keller

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Why 21 Gal Trash Bags Are Necessary

I’ve found that using 21-gallon trash bags is a perfect balance for my everyday needs. They’re big enough to handle a good amount of waste without being too bulky or heavy, which makes taking out the trash much easier. I don’t have to worry about the bag ripping or leaking because these bags are usually sturdy and designed to hold a decent weight.

Another reason I rely on 21-gallon bags is their versatility. Whether I’m cleaning up after a party, handling kitchen scraps, or tidying up the garage, these bags fit most standard trash cans in my home. This means I don’t have to buy multiple sizes, simplifying my purchases and storage.

Overall, 21-gallon trash bags strike the right balance between capacity and convenience for me. They help keep my space clean and make trash disposal a hassle-free task.

My Buying Guide on 21 Gal Trash Bags

When I first started looking for 21-gallon trash bags, I realized there’s more to choosing the right ones than just picking any bag labeled with the size. Over time, I’ve learned what features really matter to make sure the bags are durable, fit well, and meet my needs. Here’s what I consider whenever I shop for 21-gallon trash bags.

1. Understand the Size and Capacity

The “21-gallon” size means the bag should comfortably fit a standard 21-gallon trash can. I always double-check the actual dimensions listed on the package, as sizes can vary slightly by brand. This step helps me avoid bags that are too small or too large for my bins.

2. Check for Thickness and Durability

Trash bags come in different thicknesses, usually measured in mils (thousandths of an inch). For everyday household use, I prefer bags that are at least 0.9 to 1.0 mil thick because they’re less likely to tear or leak. If I’m dealing with heavier or sharper trash, I go for thicker bags to avoid messes.

3. Material Matters: Plastic Type and Eco-Friendliness

Most trash bags are made from polyethylene, but some brands offer biodegradable or recycled materials. I try to pick bags that balance durability with environmental friendliness. If reducing plastic waste is important to you, look for bags labeled compostable or made from recycled content.

4. Closure Style: Drawstring vs. Flap Tie

I find drawstring bags the easiest to close and carry without spilling. Flap tie bags work fine but sometimes can be fiddly to secure tightly. Consider which style you prefer for convenience and how you handle your trash.

5. Quantity and Price Per Bag

I always check how many bags come in a pack and calculate the price per bag to get the best value. Sometimes buying in bulk saves money, but only if the bags meet my quality standards and won’t expire before I use them.

6. Scented vs. Unscented Options

Some 21-gallon bags come with added fragrances to help mask odors. I personally prefer unscented bags because I don’t want artificial smells mixing with my trash odors. But if you’re sensitive to smells, scented bags might be worth trying.

7. Customer Reviews and Brand Reliability

Before I buy, I read reviews to see how other users have experienced the bags. Brands with consistent quality and positive feedback usually mean fewer surprises. I also consider if the brand offers good customer support in case of issues.

8. Special Features to Consider

Some bags come with reinforced bottoms, leak-proof technology, or are extra stretchable. If I’m handling messy or heavy garbage, these features can be a game-changer. Think about your specific needs and whether these extras justify any additional cost.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 21-gallon trash bags has made my trash disposal routine smoother and cleaner. By paying attention to size, thickness, material, closure type, and other features, I’ve found bags that fit perfectly and hold up well. I hope this guide helps you find the best bags for your needs too!

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Judith Dunham
Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.

Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.