Covering arid fields with common mulch or biodegradable film mulch can help soil retain more water and increase spring maize yield. Liquid film mulch did not show the same benefits. Over two years, fields with common mulch and biodegradable film mulch had higher yields and water use efficiency compared to traditional methods. Economic benefits were also higher with common mulch and biodegradable film mulch. Both types of mulch had similar positive effects on yield and water use efficiency. Biodegradable film mulch could be a good alternative to common mulch in agriculture.