Taking out the trash, although not particularly pleasant, is an essential and fairly simple chore. However, the task can quickly become messy if the waste is not handled properly. So, using the right trash bags and waste bins in the right way is important to avoid leakage and odor in the home. So, to make the chore seamless, one may want to avoid the following mistakes while using trash bags at home:

1. Choosing the wrong size
Opting for trash bags that are the same size as the garbage can might seem like the obvious choice, but it can be a mistake. For starters, if there is too much waste in the bag, the contents will slip out of the bag and accumulate at the bottom of the can. So, one should always choose a bag that is slightly larger than the can, so that it can be easily folded along the edges of the can.

2. Not securing the bag
Even if one uses a large-sized trash bag, it can still slip off the edge of the can if one throws trash with force into the bag or if there is too much garbage in the bag. With the bag slipping off the edge, it will make a mess when one tries to take the trash out. To avoid this, one should secure the trash bag properly to the edge of the can using hooks, rubber bands, or duct tape.

3. Forgetting to check the bag
Trash bags can easily develop tears and holes, either due to a manufacturing defect or mishandling during packaging. Alternatively, dumping sharp objects such as broken glass, pencils, or tools like scissors in the trash can also tear the bag, resulting in the trash spilling out of the bag. So, one should always inspect the bag while putting it in the can as well as when taking it out to minimize mess.

4. Not sealing the bag
Forgetting to seal the bag, especially when taking out the trash, can give way to leaks, spills, and odor inside and outside the home. One should use ties, rubber bands, or adhesive tape to tie the trash bag. Additionally, insects and other pests may be attracted to the garbage. A sealed bag deters the pests from entering. However, one should ensure the seal is not tight enough to tear the bag.