In today's column about where to find compostable leaf bags at the end of the season, I left out an excellent local source, Plastic Bag Mart in Minnetonka sells four sizes of compostable bags at prices that are lower than most retailers except Sam's or Costco.
One common complaint about the new compostable bags is that people want a larger size than 33 gallons. Plastic Bag Mart sells four sizes--13 gallon, 33 gallon, 39 gallon and 55 gallon. Most of the black plastic bags that were formerly used, were 39 gallon. The 45 gallon bags are also a popular size, but they can get too heavy filled with leaves. Some haulers won't take the larger bags. Also, the new compostable bags aren't as thick and sturdy as many black plastic bags, so the larger size may tear easily when dragged to the pickup area.
Another complaint is that the new bags rarely have drawstrings or flaps. I found compostable bags with drawstrings at Wal-Mart (AL-Pack brand for $5.36 for five bags). At more than $1 per bag, that's getting expensive, even for Wal-Mart.
Plastic Bag Mart charges $8.50 for a roll of 25 13-gallon bags (no flaps or drawstrings), $11.50 for a roll of 25 33-gallon bags, $15 for a roll of 20 39-gallon bags and $20 for a roll of 20 55-gallon compostable bags. To order, go to the website, call 952-933-2366, or go to 12201 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays.
Will compostable bags with flaps or drawstrings be more readily available next year? I'll let you know when I hear back from my manufacturing source. I'll also ask if prices are expected to come down.
