FAQs
Looking for answers? We’ve got them!
HOW TO USE
Can I use HoldOn bags for trash?
Yes! Use HoldOn bags just like you would a normal waste bag: fill, tie, and toss.
Do I need to compost HoldOn bags?
You can, but you don't need to. HoldOn bags are designed to reduce plastic waste, no matter how you take out your trash. If you want to compost your HoldOn bags, you can compost them commercially using a compost service, or compost at home. HoldOn bags will break down cleanly in a matter of weeks.
Can HoldOn bags be used for recycling?
In short: it depends!
Many recycling programs require items to be picked up from special bins loose, meaning a HoldOn bag full of recyclables would not be accepted.
If your program allows recyclable waste to be placed in trash bags, a HoldOn trash bag would be a more sustainable alternative to plastic trash bags.
We recommend following your recycling program instructions to ensure that your items are approved and recycled properly. If you are currently using plastic bags for trash, HoldOn compostable bags will be a positive step in the right direction, as they break down into nontoxic, plant-based elements, without producing microplastics or greenhouse gases.
Can I compost HoldOn bags at home? What about a commercial/industrial pick up service?
HoldOn bags are BPI Certified Industrially Compostable and with the exception of our Tall Kitchen bag, they are also TUV Certified Home Compostable. That means you can use a commercial or industrial service or compost at home (with the exception of our Tall Kitchen bag). Learn more about how to compost HoldOn Bags.
How do I compost HoldOn zipseal bags?
Our zipseal bags are carefully crafted to be home compostable. Once you’re finished using your bag, remove any inorganic elements. To compost more efficiently, trim off the zip-seal top, then throw both sections into the compost. Your bags will break down in a matter of weeks and become integrated with your rich, fertile compost matter. Learn more about how to compost HoldOn storage bags.
Can I throw my zipseal bags in the compost if they contain food?
If your bag contains organic material that is compostable (produce, grains, or anything else derived from the earth), then yes! Do not throw your zipseal bag in the compost if it contains plastic or other inorganic material as it won't break down, or animal products (meat, dairy, eggs,) as they will attract pests to your compost. If you're unsure, check out our composting guide to learn more about what can be composted.
CAN I REUSE MY COMPOSTABLE STORAGE BAGS?
HoldOn bags are durable enough to rinse and reuse again as long as they don't contain potential contaminants (i.e., we wouldn't recommend reusing a bag you've used to store meat products). That being said, if your bag has been used to hold dry materials, reusing is a great option.
To reuse, simply empty the bag and turn inside out to rinse off any additional residue, if needed. Allow bag to fully air dry inside out before using again. Don't put HoldOn bags in the dishwasher to clean - this will destroy the plant-based material.
While HoldOn bags can certainly be reused, you can also use HoldOn bags once and toss, without single-use guilt. HoldOn bags are completely compostable and will break down cleanly in a matter of weeks, without causing environmental harm.
Materials
What does TUV certified compostable mean? What does BPI certified compostable mean?
TUV Austria is the most intensive certifying body for compostable goods. HoldOn bags are TUV Certified home compostable, with the exception of our Tall Kitchen bag. This means that they have passed the most stringent tests for at-home composting and have been proven to break down effectively in a home compost in a timely manner.
BPI Certification signifies that our products can be effectively composted in a commercial composting facility. This rigorous testing ensures that HoldOn bags biodegrade without leaving behind synthetic residue.
In a nutshell, HoldOn bags have been rigorously tested and can be composted right in an industrial facility or right in your own backyard (with the exception of our Tall Kitchen bag).
What are HoldOn bags made from?
We use nontoxic, plant-based materials to create our strong and sustainable bags. Here’s a look at what’s inside:
-PBAT
-PLA
-Cornstarch
-Calcium Carbonate
Are HoldOn kitchen bags nontoxic?
We’re proud to use nontoxic, plant-based materials for all of our products. That means HoldOn kitchen and storage bags are food-safe - so you can conveniently prepare and store food without worrying about toxic chemicals!
*As a precaution, if you have specific health concerns related to the use of compostable bags or are auto-immune compromised, please consult a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance based on your health conditions, as circumstances may vary by individual.
What is HoldOn Packaging Made Of?
We use minimal packaging to reduce the impact of single-use waste on the planet. Our packaging is all recyclable and FSC-certified.
PRODUCT FEATURES
What size trash bag should I buy for my bathroom trash bin?
Our Compostable Small Space Trash Bag is ideal for bathroom trash bins, office wastebaskets, and countertop compost bins.
Shop the Compostable Small Space Trash Bag
Do HoldOn compostable trash bags have drawstring tops?
Our Compostable Tall Kitchen Trash Bags feature a strong and durable drawstring top to tote heavy loads with ease. Our Compostable Small Space Trash Bags feature a strong tie-top closure.
Shop Trash Bags
How big is the tall kitchen trash bag?
The Compostable Tall Kitchen Trash Bag has a 13 gallon capacity and fits most kitchen trash cans.
Shop the Compostable Tall Kitchen Trash Bag
Can I use my zipseal storage bags for food prep? What about for wet materials like marinades?
Yes! HoldOn zipseal bags are great for food prep and storage, as they contain only nontoxic, food-safe material. If you're using liquid like a marinade, we recommend placing a plate underneath the bag to capture any excess moisture or condensation.
Shop Kitchen & Storage Bags
Do HoldOn Compostable storage bags have zipseals?
Yes! Our kitchen and storage bags feature a secure zip seal to prevent leaks and spills and help keep food fresher, longer.
Shop Kitchen & Storage Bags
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Does my order qualify for free shipping?
We offer free shipping on all orders over $35, and flat-rate shipping of $7 on all orders under $35.
Do you ship internationally?
We currently do not offer international shipping. To be the first to know about international shipping and other updates, subscribe to our email list!
How can I track my order?
If you have an account, visit your account page and select the order you're interested in tracking. The tracking number will be listed next to your order.
We’ll also email you when your order ships with tracking information so you can follow the journey of your HoldOn happy mail.
What's your return policy?
We want you to love your HoldOn products and offer a hassle-free return policy on any product that doesn’t live up to your expectations. We’re happy to accept returns within 60 days from the delivery date for a full refund to your original form of payment, and will cover the cost of your return shipment.
If for any reason you aren’t satisfied with your purchase, send us an email to hello@holdonbags.com or chat with us using our chat bubble, and we’ll get the return process started.
How can I contact customer service?
We want to get in touch with you! Drop us a line at hello@holdonbags.com and we’ll respond within 24 business hours.
Where are you located? Where are HoldOn bags manufactured?
Our team is headquartered in Los Angeles, California and our products are manufactured in China.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
HOW DO I ACCESS MY HOLDON ACCOUNT?
To manage your subscription(s), log into your account portal here.
If you do not have an account but have placed a subscription order, you can complete your account setup here. Once completed, you can log into your account portal to view and manage your upcoming shipments and subscriptions.
CAN I BUILD MY OWN BUNDLE WITH ANY PRODUCT?
The Build Your Own Bundle subscription is currently available for the Compostable Tall Kitchen Trash Bags, Compostable Small Space Trash Bags, Compostable Zipseal Sandwich Bags and Compostable Zipseal Gallon Bags.
CAN I CHANGE THE PRODUCTS WITHIN MY SUBSCRIPTION OR DO I NEED TO KEEP IT THE SAME FOR EVERY ORDER?
Good news! You can change the products in your subscription anytime before your next order ships!
To change items on your next order only - log into your account portal to manage your subscription. If you have placed a subscription order but don't have an account, you can create one here using the email address that was used to place the order.
At the top of your Account page, you'll see your active subscriptions. Select the "Next Order" tab, click on "manage next order" and then click "Edit" on the Build Your Own Bundle product. At that time, you can remove any items you do not need and swap in other HoldOn items, or add more items to your next order only.
To change your subscription on all future orders, log into your account portal to manage your subscription. At the top of your Account page, select the "Subscriptions" tab, click on "manage subscription", and then click "edit" on the Build Your Own Bundle product. At that time, you can change the products for your subscription and this will apply to all future shipments. You can also manage your delivery frequency, next order date, edit your payment, skip or cancel your subscription as well.
HOW DO I EDIT MY PAYMENT METHOD FOR MY SUBSCRIPTION?
You can manage all aspects of your subscription in your account portal - including editing your payment method. If you have placed a subscription order but don't have an account, you can create one here using the email address that was used to place the order.
At the top of your account page, you'll see your active subscriptions. Select the "Subscriptions" tab, click on "manage subscription" and then click the "edit payment" icon. After this is selected, you will receive an email with instructions on how to edit your payment details.
HOW DO I EDIT MY ADDRESS FOR MY SUBSCRIPTION?
You can manage all aspects of your subscription in your account portal- including editing your address. If you have placed a subscription order but don't have an account, you can create one here using the email address that was used to place the order.
At the top navigation of your Account page, click on "Settings". Once selected, you'll be brought to the Settings section of your account where your address will be displayed on the left side. Next, click on the "Change Address" button to change, add, or delete an address.
HOW DO I SEE MY UPCOMING ORDERS, CHANGE DELIVERY FREQUENCY OR SKIP A SHIPMENT?
You can manage all aspects of your subscription in your account portal. If you have placed a subscription order but don't have an account, you can create one here using the email address that was used to place the order.
Your next shipment will be listed at the top left of your account page where you'll see what products are included in the order and when it is scheduled to ship.
For more options on your next shipment, click on the "manage subscription" button and from there, you will be able to select from a variety of options including the ability to ship your order immediately or change it to a later date, update your delivery frequency, skip your next order, or send the order as a gift to someone else.
HOW DO I PAUSE OR CANCEL MY SUBSCRIPTION?
You can pause or cancel your subscription in your account portal.
If you have placed a subscription order but don't have an account, you can create one here using the email address that was used to place the order.
At the top of your Account page, you'll see your active subscriptions. Select the "Subscriptions" tab, click on "manage subscription" and then click the "pause" icon. After this is selected, you will be able to confirm that your subscription is paused. If you would like to cancel your subscription instead, click the "cancel" icon to confirm the cancellation of your subscription.
MISCELLANEOUS
Can I wash my HoldOn bags in the dishwasher?
HoldOn bags should not be placed in the dishwasher or submerged in hot water, as this could break down the plant-based material.
Can I use my HoldOn bags in the microwave? What about the oven?
HoldOn bags should not be used in or around any heat source like an oven, microwave, or open flame, as this will damage the plant-based material.
How should I store my HoldOn bags?
We recommend storing your bags in a cool, dry area to keep them in tip-top shape.
Can I use my HoldOn storage zipseal bags in the freezer?
Yes! Our bags are food and freezer safe to keep food fresher, longer.
What happens to HoldOn bags if they end up in a landfill?
In an ideal world, all compostable products will end up in an industrial or home composting environment, and single-use plastic will be out of sight with the switch to compostable products. Unfortunately, that is not the case and we understand that our bags may end up in a landfill along with everything else. For optimal results, our bags are designed to break down cleanly without creating microplastics or toxic residue in a composting environment. In an anaerobic environment such as a landfill, the decomposition process will be impacted and significantly delayed due to the lack of oxygen. Furthermore, methane, the natural byproduct of the breakdown process in an anaerobic environment of all organic material, is inevitable. That is why here at HoldOn, we are not only passionate about our mission to reduce single-use plastic, but also to build awareness of composting and how it could redirect food waste from ending up in landfills.
