When it comes to keeping your kitchen clean and odor-free, one often overlooked factor is the choice of trash bags. Most people focus on the size and strength of the bag, such as whether 13 gallon trash bags will fit their kitchen can, but there’s another decision to make: scented or unscented trash bags? While both types serve the same essential purpose—holding and disposing of your household waste—their differences go beyond just the presence or absence of fragrance.
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both unscented trash bags and scented trash bags, helping you determine which type is best suited for your home. Whether you’re concerned about odors, allergies, or environmental impact, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
Overview of Scented Trash Bags
What Are Scented Trash Bags?
Scented trash bags are designed to mask unpleasant odors with added fragrances, such as lavender, citrus, or fresh linen. These bags are typically infused with odor-neutralizing agents or artificial scents that help combat the smell of decomposing food and other household waste. Many people find the added fragrance pleasant, especially if the trash can is located in a frequently used area like the kitchen.
Scented bags are available in various sizes, but 13 gallon trash bags are among the most popular for kitchen use. Their added scent can help reduce the frequency with which you need to take out the trash by masking odors for longer periods.
Benefits of Scented Trash Bags
- Odor Control: The primary advantage of scented trash bags is their ability to mask unpleasant smells. If you frequently dispose of food waste, especially items like onion skins, fish, or spoiled leftovers, these bags can help minimize the stench. This is especially useful in homes where the trash is not taken out daily.
- Improved Kitchen Atmosphere: For households with open-concept kitchens or smaller spaces, strong garbage odors can quickly permeate the air, making the kitchen an unpleasant place to be. Scented bags add a layer of fragrance that can help keep the space smelling fresh even when the trash isn’t emptied immediately.
- Longer Use Between Bag Changes: Scented bags can be beneficial for people who don’t generate enough waste to fill a 13 gallon trash bag quickly. The fragrance can mask odors for a few extra days, allowing you to maximize the bag’s capacity before taking it out.
Drawbacks of Scented Trash Bags
- Allergies and Sensitivities: One of the most significant downsides of scented trash bags is that the added fragrances can irritate people with allergies, asthma, or sensitivities to strong smells. Artificial scents, in particular, can cause headaches, sneezing, or respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.
- Chemical Additives: The fragrances in scented bags are often created with synthetic chemicals that can linger in the air or contribute to indoor air pollution. For those who are conscious of their environmental footprint, the use of these chemicals might be a point of concern.
- Overpowering Smells: Sometimes, the fragrance in scented bags can be overwhelming, especially in small spaces. Instead of creating a fresh-smelling environment, it can clash with other scents in the home or simply become too strong, causing discomfort.
Overview of Unscented Trash Bags
What Are Unscented Trash Bags?
Unscented trash bags are exactly what they sound like—trash bags without any added fragrances or odor-masking chemicals. These bags rely on the strength and design of the plastic itself to contain trash and minimize leaks and odors. For households that prefer a neutral scent or are sensitive to fragrances, unscented trash bags are a popular choice.
These bags are also available in various sizes, with 13 gallon trash bags being the standard size for kitchen trash cans. While they don’t have the added benefit of masking smells, they are often designed with features like reinforced seams or thicker materials to prevent leaks and help contain odors naturally.
Benefits of Unscented Trash Bags
- No Allergens or Irritants: Unscented trash bags are ideal for people with sensitivities to artificial fragrances or chemicals. Without any added scent, there’s no risk of triggering allergies or respiratory issues, making them a healthier option for households with young children, pets, or sensitive family members.
- Neutral Smell: Some people prefer the neutral smell of unscented bags, especially in homes where trash is regularly taken out. If you take out your kitchen trash daily or every other day, you may not need the extra odor-masking power of scented bags. In this case, unscented trash bags are a simple, effective solution.
- Fewer Chemicals: For those concerned about chemicals in everyday products, unscented bags offer a cleaner, more natural option. While the plastic used in both scented and unscented bags can still have environmental impacts, unscented bags at least avoid the use of artificial fragrances and unnecessary additives.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Unscented trash bags are more likely to be available in biodegradable or eco-friendly varieties, giving environmentally conscious consumers more options. By avoiding chemical fragrances, unscented bags may align more with sustainable choices.
Drawbacks of Unscented Trash Bags
- Less Effective Odor Control: The most obvious drawback of unscented trash bags is the lack of odor control. Without added fragrances or odor neutralizers, these bags do little to mask unpleasant smells from food waste, diapers, or other pungent items. This can be a problem in kitchens where trash is not taken out daily or in homes where the garbage can is located in a central or high-traffic area.
- Frequent Bag Changes: Because unscented trash bags don’t mask odors, you might need to change the trash more frequently to avoid unpleasant smells. If your household generates a lot of food waste, or if you don’t like the smell of trash lingering in your kitchen, unscented bags may require more frequent disposal, leading to more bag usage over time.
Key Considerations When Choosing Between Scented and Unscented Bags
1. Odor Management
If odor is a significant issue in your home—especially in kitchens where you regularly dispose of food waste—scented bags offer a convenient solution. However, if you are sensitive to strong smells or prefer a fragrance-free environment, unscented trash bags combined with proper trash management (like frequent bag changes) may be a better option.
2. Household Allergies and Sensitivities
If anyone in your home has allergies, asthma, or other sensitivities to fragrances, unscented trash bags are the safer and more comfortable choice. Even natural-sounding fragrances like “lavender” or “fresh linen” can cause irritation for sensitive individuals, so it’s essential to consider the needs of your household when making your decision.
3. Environmental Impact
While neither scented nor unscented bags are entirely eco-friendly (since they are both made from plastic), unscented trash bags tend to have fewer chemicals and are more often available in biodegradable varieties. If you’re aiming for a more sustainable home, unscented biodegradable bags can be an effective solution to reduce your plastic waste.
4. Frequency of Trash Disposal
If you take out the trash frequently, such as daily or every other day, unscented trash bags may be sufficient. However, if you prefer to change the trash less often—perhaps every few days—scented bags can help mask odors until the bag is full. In busy households with children or frequent cooking, scented bags may provide more convenience and odor control.
5. Cost
Scented trash bags tend to be slightly more expensive than their unscented counterparts, mainly due to the added fragrance and odor-neutralizing agents. While the difference in cost is often small, it’s something to consider, especially if you’re buying in bulk. 13 gallon trash bags, whether scented or unscented, are generally affordable, but unscented bags may offer a more budget-friendly option.
Conclusion
Choosing between scented and unscented trash bags ultimately comes down to your household’s specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for extra odor control and don’t mind the added fragrance, scented trash bags can help keep your kitchen smelling fresh, especially if you take out the trash less frequently. On the other hand, if you or your family members have allergies or prefer a neutral environment, unscented trash bags are a healthier, more natural choice.
Both types of bags are available in standard sizes like 13 gallon trash bags, making it easy to find one that fits your kitchen trash can. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize fragrance and odor control or prefer a simple, chemical-free option. With the right choice, you can manage your household waste effectively while keeping your kitchen clean and comfortable.
