HIPPOBAG vs Skip: Weighing Up Your Waste Disposal Options

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Posted by HIPPO
Lady filling a wheelbarrow and HIPPOBAG in a garden

At first glance the main difference between a HIPPOBAG and a skip would be that one is a flexible, tough bag and the other is a metal container, but each has unique advantages and disadvantages as you will come to discover.

Managing waste disposal while completing home renovations, building projects, or intensive spring cleaning can be challenging. In light of the innovative HIPPOBAG's growing popularity as a viable alternative to conventional skips, it's good to gain an understanding well before starting any projects.

This decision can significantly impact your project, your budget, and the overall ease of managing your waste. You can both streamline your waste disposal process and help promote a more environmentally friendly method of waste management by carefully weighing each option and how it fits with your unique needs. 

The HIPPOBAG Revolution: Shaking Up the Industry

Skips are no longer the only option for waste removal; HIPPOBAGs, with their distinctive design and practical features, have upended the market. These strong, resilient bags come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different waste disposal requirements and are ideal for people looking for an adaptable and cost-effective solution.

What is a HIPPOBAG?

A HIPPOBAG is an alternative to a skip, designed for domestic and commercial use for removing waste. It is essentially a large, heavy-duty, 100% recyclable polypropylene bag that is used to collect and dispose of waste materials during various projects like home renovations, landscaping, or construction work. HIPPOBAGs come in three sizes and are designed to hold different types of waste, including soil, rubble, or garden waste. Unlike many skip bags, a HIPPOBAG is able to hold between 1 to 1.5 tonnes!

Pros of HIPPOBAGs:

  • Flexibility: Easily placed on your property, even within the property boundary with a fence up to 6ft between the vehicle at pickup. Learn more in our FAQ.
  • Effortless storage: Collapsible design for easy storage until needed.
  • Accessibility: Can be maneuvered into tight spaces and lifted with ease.

Cons of HIPPOBAGs:

  • Limited capacity: May not provide enough space for large-scale waste disposal needs - but our largest bag, the HIPPOSKIP, will handle all the waste from a kitchen renovation.

Skips: The Traditional Waste Disposal Choice

Skips have long been the preferred method of disposing of trash. They come in a variety of sizes and provide enough room for large amounts of waste. But skips can be heavy, difficult to manoeuvre through confined spaces, and require permits when positioned on public property. So, what's the pros and cons of this alternative to a HIPPOBAG?

Pros of skips:

  • Capacity: Can handle large amounts of waste, suitable for bigger projects.
  • Variety: Available in multiple large sizes for diverse waste disposal requirements.

Cons of skips:

  • Permit requirements: May need a permit if placed on public land.
  • Space constraints: Difficult to place in tight spaces or manoeuvre through narrow access routes.
  • Driveway damage: Due to their weight and metal base, they can potentially leave marks or damage to driveways and lawns.

Man putting soil into a wheelbarrow to put in a skip

Comparing HIPPOBAGs and Skips

Flexibility: HIPPOBAGs can easily be placed on your property without a permit. Because of their foldable design, they are easy to store and can be used in small spaces. Skips, in contrast, may require a permit and can be difficult to place.

Cost: HIPPOBAGs are typically less expensive, especially for smaller projects. The cost disparity, however, becomes less significant for larger projects that demand multiple HIPPOBAGs and extensive waste disposal - so a skip could well be cheaper than a HIPPOBAG for large amounts of waste.

Sizes: Skips have the highest capacity and are ideal for larger projects with a lot of waste. HIPPOBAGs come in a variety of sizes, but they might not have enough room for large-scale waste disposal requirements.

Convenience: We can deliver your HIPPOBAG via a courier and collect it directly from your property, using them is hassle-free. Additional planning may be necessary for skips, such as securing permits and arranging delivery. Also, a HIPPOBAG can stay on your property until you have completely filled it at no extra charge. Just remember, if you pay for your HIPPOBAG and collection upfront, you have 6 months from date of purchase to arrange your collection.

Environmental Impact: If waste is disposed of properly, both options can be environmentally friendly. The lighter weight of HIPPOBAGs, however, gives them a slight advantage and lowers transportation emissions.

HIPPOBAG being collected from driveway by vehicle

Additional Tips for Choosing Between a HIPPOBAG and a Skip

You may want to also consider these tips to help you decide:

Project size: Evaluate the volume of waste your project will generate. A HIPPOBAG may suffice for smaller projects, while a skip could be more appropriate for larger ones.

Space constraints: Note the available space for waste disposal on your property. If limited, a HIPPOB AG might be more suitable due to its compact design.

Local regulations: Research waste disposal regulations, permits, and parking restrictions in your area. This information will help you determine if a permit is required for a skip and if a HIPPOBAG is a more convenient option.

Loading and accessibility: Consider the ease of loading waste into the disposal solution. HIPPOBAGs are more accessible for manual loading due to their lower height, achieved by simply rolling down the bag, like a cuff. Skips may require more effort to load bulky or heavy items, especially if the skip has high sides.

Environmental impact: If reducing your environmental footprint is important to you, consider the lighter weight and lower transportation emissions associated with HIPPOBAGs.

Which Option Should You Choose?

The decision between a HIPPOBAG and a skip ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs for waste disposal. A HIPPOBAG is unquestionably the best option for smaller projects with constrained space because it provides convenience, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility for your rubbish removal needs.

In contrast, despite the need for permits and added logistical difficulties, a skip might be the better option for large-scale projects involving significant amounts of waste.

You can choose the best option for your rubbish removal needs by carefully weighing the pros and cons of both options and your needs for waste disposal. HIPPO is dedicated to offering first-rate waste disposal services and making sure that your waste is responsibly handled, regardless of whether you select a HIPPOBAG or decide to hire a skip.