A cubic yard of mulch equals 13.5 bags of 2 cubic feet each, or 9 bags of 3 cubic feet each. Bulk delivery is usually cheaper once you need more than about three cubic yards.
Bag counts by size
At 27 cubic feet per cubic yard, a 1 cubic foot bag means 27 bags, a 1.5 cubic foot bag means 18 bags, a 2 cubic foot bag means 13.5 bags, a 3 cubic foot bag means 9 bags, and a 0.5 cubic foot bag means 54 bags.
Check the bag label
Bag sizes vary by brand. Some mulch is sold by weight or in odd sizes, such as 2.5 cubic feet. Divide 27 by the labeled volume to get the number of bags per cubic yard.
Bags versus bulk
Bags are convenient for small jobs, since you can carry them in a car and place them where needed. Bulk mulch needs delivery and a place to dump it, but costs less per cubic yard when your project passes about 3 cubic yards.
Pricing check
Divide the price of one bag by its volume to get the cost per cubic foot, and multiply by 27 to compare with bulk prices per cubic yard.
Frequently asked questions
How many 2 cubic foot bags are in a yard?
13.5 bags, so plan on 14.
How many 3 cubic foot bags are in a yard?
Exactly 9 bags.
Is bulk mulch cheaper than bags?
Usually yes for larger jobs, but delivery fees apply.