Choose the Perfect Kitchen Trash Can Size: An Expert Guide

Is your kitchen trash can overflowing? Do trash bags not fit? You may have the wrong trash can size.

Choosing the right kitchen trash can size for your space and needs is crucial for clean and convenient waste management.

Typical Kitchen Trash Can Sizes

Kitchen trash cans come in a range of standard sizes to suit different requirements. The most common options are:

Standard 13 Gallon Cans

The typical kitchen trash can size is around 13 gallons. This is suitable for average single family homes generating 1-2 trash bags per week. 13 gallon cans fit standard 13 gallon trash bags easily.

Average dimensions are 18-22 inches high by 12-16 inches wide and deep. Pros are the convenient standard size, lower cost, and wide availability. Cons are less capacity for heavy waste producers.

Large 16-20+ Gallon Cans

Bigger families and heavy-waste kitchens may need larger cans in the 16-20+ gallon range. These jumbo cans allow more trash bag capacity before emptying.

Larger cans may be wider or taller to hold more. Pros are increased capacity and less frequent emptying. Cons are taking up more space and higher prices.

Small 10-12 Gallon Cans

For small kitchens or light waste loads, scaled down 10-12 gallon cans are an option. The compact size is good for tight spaces.

Smaller cans work well when recycling bins are also used to split trash. The lower capacity is better for 1-2 residents. But more frequent emptying may be needed.

Trash Bag Sizes for Kitchen Cans

Trash bag sizes are designed to fit standard can capacities. Look for small, medium and large sizing:

• Small bags (8-10 gallons) for 10-13 gallon cans.
• Medium bags (13 gallons) for 13 gallon cans.
• Large or extra-large bags (15-33 gallons) for 16-20+ gallon cans.

Make sure to size up your trash bags if stuffing and overflowing is an issue. And if bags are too large, size down to prevent sagging.

Factors That Determine Ideal Trash Can Size

Consider these key factors when choosing the best kitchen trash can size:

Household Size and Waste Output

How much trash do you produce? Large families and homes cook more meals generate more waste. Singles and couples likely need smaller cans.

Kitchen Size and Layout

Measure your kitchen's footprint and layout to ensure enough space for the can. Island and corner placements may need wider cans that don't stick out.

Recycling and Waste Sorting Approach

Homes recycling paper, plastic, aluminum can get by with smaller trash cans. Or consider multi-compartment recycling cans.

Food Waste and Cook Frequency

Frequent cooks doing meal prep produce lots of food scraps and packaging waste. Plan accordingly with bigger bins.

Budget

Larger heavy-duty cans often cost more. Make sure to balance size and durability with your budget.

Measuring Your Kitchen and Calculating Needs

Trash can shopping? Take these steps first:

• Measure your kitchen's floor plan dimensions.
• Calculate expected weekly waste volumes based on your household size.
• Map out placement areas and measure clearance space.

This data will give you an accurate recommended trash can size and help you evaluate options.

Key Features To Evaluate

Along with size, consider other can features:

• Durability: Thicker steel or plastic resists dents, cracks and leaks.
• Lid type: Flipping lids are more hygienic than lifting lids.
• Odor control: Antimicrobial materials and air filters reduce smells.
• Style: Color, finish, and design should match your kitchen decor.

Matching Kitchen Style and Placement

Picking the right spot for your trash can depends on your kitchen layout. Consider:

• Corner: Cans angled diagonally in corners save space.
• Under sink: Convenient but can limit cabinet storage.
• Island: Allows access from more spots but takes up leg room.

Also choose a style, color, and finish that coordinates with your cabinets and counters.

Recommended Kitchen Trash Can Sizes

• Standard kitchens: 13 gallon cans
• Large kitchens and households: 16-20+ gallon cans
• Small kitchens or with recycling: 10-12 gallon cans

Consider your space, needs, and options. And don't forget trash bags sized to match your can's capacity.

Choosing the right kitchen trash can size requires factoring in:

• Household waste volume.
• Available kitchen floor space.
• Budget for can costs.
• Placement spot and required clearance.

Carefully measure your kitchen space and expected trash loads. Then use this guide to pick the ideal sized can (and bags) for clean, headache-free kitchen waste management.