Black 80 Gauge Refuse Sacks

Features & Benefits

• 80 gauge Black refuse polythene sacks
• 80-gauge lightweight material
• Approximately 20 microns thick
• Gusseted construction expands to fit suitable bins
• Black material helps conceal the contents
• Open-top design allows quick and straightforward filling
• Flexible material adapts around lightweight, irregularly shaped refuse
• Helps contain dry general waste during storage and disposal
• Protects bins from dust, dirt and everyday waste residue
• Suitable for offices, washrooms, schools and commercial premises
• Stores flat and requires minimal storage space
• Suitable for use in compatible freestanding bins and sack holders
• Can be tied or secured after filling using a separate closure
• Supplied in boxes of 500 refuse sacks
• Clean, unused sacks may suit specialist flexible-plastic recycling collections

Common Uses

Our 80-gauge black refuse sacks are suitable for collecting and containing:

• Office paper waste
• Tissues and hand towels
• Lightweight packaging
• Empty wrappers
• Plastic film
• Disposable cups
• General washroom waste
• Classroom waste
• Retail counter waste
• Lightweight warehouse waste
• Dry cleaning waste
• Reception-area waste
• Hotel-room rubbish
• Staff-room waste
• Exhibition and event waste
• Empty food packaging
• Soft, non-sharp refuse
• General commercial waste
• Domestic household rubbish
• Lightweight non-hazardous waste

However, these lightweight sacks are not suitable for broken glass, sharp metal, rubble, liquids, hot waste or other heavy and abrasive materials.

80 Gauge Black Refuse Sacks

Our 80-gauge black refuse sacks provide an economical solution for collecting lightweight general waste in offices, schools, washrooms, retail premises, hotels and other commercial environments.

Each sack features gusseted polythene construction, which allows the bag to expand when fitted inside a suitable bin or sack holder. Consequently, the sacks accommodate a greater volume than a completely flat bag of the same face width.

The black material helps conceal the contents and creates a familiar appearance for general refuse collection. Meanwhile, the open top allows staff to insert waste quickly and gather or tie the bag after filling.

At approximately 20 microns thick, these sacks are designed for lightweight waste. Therefore, users should avoid filling them with sharp, dense, wet or excessively heavy materials.

Each box contains 500 sacks, providing a practical bulk quantity for businesses and organisations with regular waste-management requirements.

80 Gauge Black Refuse Sacks Size and Specification

These black refuse sacks are available in the following specification:

• 18 x 29 x 38 inches / approximately 457 x 737 x 965mm – 80 gauge, approximately 20 microns, and supplied in boxes of 500 sacks

We show the measurements as face width × open width × length.

The 18 inch / 457mm face width is measured across the front of the sack while it lies flat.

The 29 inch / 737mm open width includes the additional capacity created by the side gussets when the sack opens.

The 38 inch / 965mm length is measured from the sealed bottom to the open top.

The metric dimensions are approximate conversions from the original imperial specification. Therefore, please use the inch measurements when you require the closest match to the stated sack size.

Understanding the 457 x 737 x 965mm/ 18 x 29 x 38 Inch Measurements

The first two measurements do not represent two separate rigid dimensions. Instead, they describe the sack before and after the gussets expand.

When the sack lies flat, its main face measures approximately 18 inches wide. However, once the side gussets open, the available open width increases to approximately 29 inches.

The additional 11 inches of open width comes from the gusseted material. As a result, the sack can fit around a wider bin opening than the 18-inch face width might initially suggest.

The final 38-inch measurement represents the overall length of the sack from its sealed base to its open top.

Nevertheless, bin shape, rim design and tapering can affect the fit. Therefore, always test the sack in the intended bin before placing a larger or repeat order.

80 Gauge / 20 Micron Thickness

An 80-gauge polythene sack is approximately 20 microns thick.

This lightweight specification suits everyday refuse such as tissues, paper, empty wrappers and other soft, non-sharp waste. Furthermore, the thin construction allows large quantities of sacks to be stored compactly.

However, an 80-gauge sack does not provide the puncture resistance or load capacity of a medium-duty or heavy-duty refuse sack.

Sharp corners, broken items and dense waste can puncture or stretch the material. Similarly, liquids and wet waste can place additional strain on the seams and make the sack difficult to handle.

Therefore, choose a thicker sack where the waste contains sharp edges, heavy materials or significant moisture.

Gusseted Construction

The gusseted sides allow the sack to expand around the interior of a compatible bin.

Initially, the folds sit flat against the body of the sack. As staff fit the liner and add waste, the gussets gradually open to provide additional capacity.

This construction helps the sack conform to round, rectangular and tapered bins. However, the exact fit depends on the complete circumference, height and shape of the container.

For best results, open the gussets before fitting the sack. Then push the sealed bottom towards the base of the bin and fold the open end securely over the rim.

Avoid pulling sharply against the gussets, as excessive tension may stretch or split the lightweight material.

80 Gauge Black Refuse Sacks Suitable Lightweight Waste

These sacks work best with lightweight, non-sharp and predominantly dry general waste.

Suitable contents can include paper, tissues, soft packaging, empty wrappers and disposable items that do not contain sharp edges or significant liquid residue.

Additionally, businesses may use the sacks for routine waste from offices, classrooms, receptions, hotel rooms and washrooms.

However, even lightweight waste can become unsuitable if staff compact it excessively. For example, pressing down hard on a full sack can force hidden sharp objects against the polythene.

Therefore, staff should inspect the type of waste being collected and avoid compressing the contents by hand.

Waste These Sacks Should Not Contain

Do not use these 80-gauge sacks for:

• Broken glass
• Sharp metal
• Nails and screws
• Knives or blades
• Rubble and building waste
• Soil and stones
• Large quantities of liquid
• Hot ashes
• Hot food or cooking oil
• Chemicals
• Solvents
• Paint
• Clinical waste
• Infectious waste
• Hazardous materials
• Batteries
• Heavy industrial components
• Dense food waste
• Sharp-edged packaging
• Waste requiring specialist containment

Instead, choose an appropriate heavy-duty, hazardous-waste, clinical-waste or specialist sack for these materials.

How to Choose the Correct Refuse Sack Size

Measure the intended bin before selecting a refuse sack.

First, measure around the widest part of the bin opening. The sack must provide enough open width to fit around this circumference without stretching.

Next, measure the bin’s height. Additionally, allow enough material for the sack to reach the bottom and fold over the top rim.

Remember that the listed 29-inch open width includes the gusseted capacity. Therefore, do not compare the 18-inch flat face measurement directly with the full width of the bin opening.

Bin shapes also vary. For example, a tapered bin may require more material around the top than at the base. Similarly, handles, raised rims and internal fittings can affect how the sack sits.

If the measurements are close, request a sample and test the fit before ordering a complete box.

How to Fit a 80 Gauge Black Refuse Sack

Remove one sack and open the mouth carefully. Then separate the gusset folds without pulling sharply against the seams.

Place the sealed bottom inside the bin and push it gently towards the base. Next, smooth the material around the internal walls.

Fold the open end over the bin rim so the sack remains in place during use. Where necessary, use a suitable retaining band or compatible sack holder.

Avoid stretching the sack tightly across the rim. Instead, leave enough flexibility for the contents to settle naturally.

Once the sack is in position, add waste gradually. Furthermore, distribute the contents evenly to prevent excessive pressure on one section of the base or side seam.

Filling the Sack Safely

Before adding waste, check that the sack is undamaged and correctly fitted.

Place lightweight items inside without dropping them from excessive height. Moreover, avoid forcing oversized objects through the opening.

Do not use hands or feet to compact the waste. Hidden sharp items may puncture the sack or cause injury.

Additionally, do not overfill the bag. Leave sufficient material above the waste to gather and close the open end.

If the waste becomes heavier than expected, stop filling and use a second sack. Alternatively, choose a more appropriate sack thickness for future use.

Always follow your organisation’s manual-handling and waste-segregation procedures.

Closing and Removing the 80 Gauge Black Refuse Sacks

These sacks have an open top without a built-in drawstring, tie or adhesive closure.

After filling, staff can gather the open end and secure it with a suitable sack tie where required. Alternatively, they can form a knot if enough unused material remains above the contents.

Do not overfill the sack, as insufficient material may prevent a secure closure.

When removing the sack, release it carefully from the bin rim. Then lift it while supporting the body or base where necessary.

Do not drag the sack across rough floors or outdoor surfaces. Otherwise, friction may puncture or weaken the lightweight polythene.

Furthermore, do not carry the sack close to clothing or the body when the contents are unknown.

Black Finish for Discreet Waste Collection

The black material helps conceal ordinary refuse and creates a consistent appearance across general waste-collection areas.

Consequently, these sacks suit offices, retail premises, washrooms, hotels and other environments where visible rubbish may appear untidy.

However, the level of opacity can vary depending on lighting, stretching and the colour of the contents. Therefore, do not rely on the sack to provide complete confidentiality.

Confidential documents and sensitive information should enter an appropriate secure-destruction process rather than an ordinary refuse sack.

Similarly, businesses should not use black sacks where local rules require colour-coded waste segregation.

Commercial and Workplace Applications

These sacks provide a practical choice for everyday waste collection across a wide range of workplaces.

For example, offices can use them for paper, tissues and empty packaging. Meanwhile, retailers can use them for lightweight counter and stockroom waste.

Hotels and accommodation providers can use the sacks for appropriate room and communal-area refuse. In addition, schools and colleges can use them for suitable classroom and administrative waste.

Nevertheless, each organisation must separate recycling, food waste, clinical waste and hazardous materials according to the relevant procedures.

The black colour commonly indicates general waste, but local and organisational colour-coding systems may differ. Therefore, always check the applicable waste policy before use.

Boxes of 500 for Regular Use

Each box contains 500 black refuse sacks.

This bulk quantity suits organisations that regularly replace bin liners throughout offices, washrooms, classrooms, communal areas and commercial premises.

Moreover, storing the sacks in their original box helps keep them organised and protected from dust, heat and damage.

Place the box in a convenient cleaning cupboard or waste-management area. However, keep it away from sharp equipment, chemicals and direct sunlight.

Monitor stock levels so replacement sacks remain available without requiring excessive storage space at each waste point.

Why Choose Our 80 Gauge Black Refuse Sacks?

Our 80-gauge black refuse sacks combine lightweight polythene construction, practical gusseted capacity and discreet presentation.

The 18 × 29 × 38-inch format fits many compatible general-purpose bins. Meanwhile, the expandable gussets provide more room than a completely flat sack.

Furthermore, the black material helps conceal the contents, while the open top supports quick fitting and removal.

Boxes of 500 provide an economical quantity for offices, schools, retailers, hotels, washrooms and other premises with regular lightweight waste requirements.

However, because the sacks are approximately 20 microns thick, they remain best suited to soft, dry and non-sharp general refuse.

What Are 80 Gauge Black Refuse Sacks Also Known As?

People also commonly refer to these sacks as:

• Black refuse sacks
• Black bin bags
• Black rubbish bags
• General-waste sacks
• General refuse bags
• Black waste bags
• Polythene bin liners
• Plastic refuse sacks
• Gusseted bin bags
• Lightweight refuse sacks
• 80-gauge bin bags
• 20-micron refuse sacks
• Commercial bin bags
• Office bin sacks
• Cleaning sacks
• Waste-collection bags
• Dustbin liners
• Black refuse liners
• General-purpose bin bags
• Disposable waste sacks

Although people often use these terms interchangeably, refuse sacks can differ in dimensions, thickness, construction, recycled content, puncture resistance and carrying capacity. Therefore, always check the complete product specification before ordering.

Food Contact Information of 80 Gauge Black Refuse Sacks

These black refuse sacks are intended for waste collection and disposal.

Do not use them for storing, carrying or directly contacting food. Furthermore, do not reuse a refuse sack for food or product packaging.

Food-production businesses should use the sacks only within an appropriate waste-management process and keep them separate from food ingredients, food-contact packaging and clean production equipment.

If you require a food-grade liner or bag, please email sales@expresspackaging.co.uk so our team can recommend a more suitable product.

PPWR Compliance Information

Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on Packaging and Packaging Waste, commonly known as the PPWR, applies from 12 August 2026 to packaging placed on the EU market.

We can provide available product specifications and supporting information to help customers complete their compliance assessments.

However, polythene construction or potential recyclability alone does not confirm full PPWR compliance. Instead, the responsible economic operator must assess the finished packaging and its intended use against all applicable requirements, including packaging minimisation, substances of concern, recycled content, recyclability, labelling and technical documentation.

Consequently, customers intending to place these products on the EU market should email sales@expresspackaging.co.uk to request the latest available documentation and confirm suitability before making a PPWR compliance claim.

Material and Responsible Disposal of 80 Gauge Black Refuse Sacks

These sacks use flexible polythene construction.

Clean, unused sacks may suit specialist flexible-plastic or polythene-film recycling collections, depending on the facilities available in your area.

However, once used for refuse, the sacks and their contents will normally require disposal through the appropriate general-waste stream. Contamination can prevent flexible plastic from being accepted for recycling.

Do not place full refuse sacks into a recycling collection unless the collection provider specifically instructs you to do so.

Furthermore, separate recyclable materials before placing the remaining general waste inside the sack. This can help reduce unnecessary disposal and support your organisation’s waste-management targets.

Recycled-material content may vary according to the product specification and stock batch. Therefore, please contact our sales team if you require confirmation of the composition.

Always follow the instructions provided by your local authority, site manager or commercial waste contractor.

Important Safety Information

Keep unused and filled sacks away from babies and young children to reduce the risk of suffocation. Do not use the sacks as toys, protective clothing or bedding.

Store unused sacks away from direct heat, naked flames and prolonged sunlight. Polythene can melt or burn when exposed to high temperatures.

Do not place hot ashes, burning materials or hot liquids inside the sacks.

Additionally, do not overload the bags or use them for waste that exceeds the capabilities of 80-gauge material.

Protect the sacks from broken glass, sharp metal and pointed objects. If a sharp item enters the waste stream accidentally, do not press or compact the bag by hand.

Check the sack for splits or punctures before removing it from the bin. Moreover, wear suitable personal protective equipment where required by the waste and workplace risk assessment.

Follow safe lifting procedures and avoid carrying a sack that is too heavy or awkward to handle.

Sample Requests

To request a sample, please email sales@expresspackaging.co.uk or call 0121 622 2347. A small charge applies to sample bags wider than 600mm. Our sales team will confirm any applicable charge before sending the sample.

Illustration Only

Bins, waste, cleaning equipment and other accessories shown in our images demonstrate potential applications only and are not included with the refuse sacks.

Bins vary in width, circumference, height, rim design and capacity. Therefore, measure your bin carefully before ordering and allow enough material for the gussets to expand and the open end to fold securely over the rim.