a bag spreader for spreading a bag in a container lying on its side includes a connection portion arranged to interface with the upwardly facing outer surface of the container when the container is oriented on its side and includes a bag supporting portion arranged for insertion into the bag and the container . the bag supporting portion may be disposed adjacent the upper sidewall of the container in a manner that supports the bag in an open condition when the container is oriented on its side . a head portion connects the connection portion and the bag spreading portion with the connection portion and the bag supporting portion being spaced apart on the head portion a distance sufficient to receive an edge of the container .