Choosing the right kitchen garbage can size might seem like a small detail, but it can make a huge difference in your kitchen’s functionality and cleanliness. Whether you have a cozy apartment or a spacious family kitchen, knowing how big a kitchen garbage can should be helps you keep your space tidy without wasting room. Let’s explore the typical sizes, dimensions, and tips to pick the perfect kitchen trash can for your home.
Standard Kitchen Garbage Can Sizes
Kitchen garbage cans come in several common sizes, usually measured in gallons, which reflect their capacity. The most popular sizes for kitchen use fall into three broad categories:
– Small (7-10 gallons): Ideal for compact kitchens, small apartments, or as secondary bins. These cans are great for limited spaces like under the sink or in a corner.
– Medium (12-16 gallons): The most common size found in average kitchens. This size balances capacity and space, fitting most kitchen layouts comfortably.
– Large (20-30 gallons): Best suited for large families or households that generate a lot of waste. These cans reduce the frequency of emptying but require more space.
Most kitchen garbage cans are around 10 to 13 gallons, which fits the daily waste output of an average household without needing constant emptying.
Typical Dimensions of Kitchen Garbage Cans
Besides capacity, the physical size of the trash can matters for fitting it into your kitchen space. Kitchen garbage cans come in both rectangular and round shapes, and their dimensions vary accordingly.
– Rectangular cans: Usually about 14 to 24 inches wide, 19 to 26 inches deep, and 25 to 35 inches tall.
– Round cans: Typically have a diameter of 14 to 18 inches and similar height to rectangular cans.
For example, a standard 13-gallon kitchen trash can often measures around 15 to 17 inches tall and 15 to 16 inches wide.
How to Choose the Right Size for Your Kitchen
Consider Your Household Size and Waste Generation
– Small households or couples: A 7-10 gallon can is usually sufficient.
– Average families: A 12-16 gallon can fits well for daily kitchen waste.
– Large families or heavy cooks: A 20-30 gallon can helps accommodate more trash without frequent emptying.
Measure Your Available Space
Before buying a trash can, measure the area where you plan to place it-under the sink, in a cabinet, or freestanding. Make sure the height, width, and depth of the can fit comfortably without obstructing doors or drawers.
Shape Matters
– Rectangular cans tend to hold more waste and fit better in corners or cabinets.
– Round cans save floor space but usually have slightly less capacity.
Consider Trash Bag Compatibility
Most kitchen trash bags are designed to fit 13-gallon cans, making this size convenient for finding liners. Larger cans may require specialty bags.
Popular Kitchen Garbage Can Sizes and Their Dimensions
| Size Category | Capacity (Gallons) | Typical Dimensions (inches) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 7-10 | Height: 14-17, Width: 10-12, Depth: 7-10 | Small kitchens, secondary bins |
| Medium | 12-16 | Height: 18-23, Width: 12-16, Depth: 9-13 | Average kitchens, families |
| Large | 20-30 | Height: 24-35, Width: 14-20, Depth: 12-18 | Large kitchens, heavy waste |
Additional Tips for Choosing Your Kitchen Garbage Can
– Think about placement: If you want a pull-out trash bin inside a cabinet, check cabinet dimensions and door clearance.
– Consider lid type: Step-on lids, swing lids, or open bins each have pros and cons depending on your kitchen traffic.
– Material matters: Stainless steel cans are durable and stylish but may show fingerprints; plastic cans are lightweight and budget-friendly.
– Plan for recycling: You might want a separate bin for recyclables, which can be smaller or stackable.
Why Size Matters in Your Kitchen
Having a garbage can that’s too small means frequent trips to empty it, which is inconvenient and messy. On the other hand, a can that’s too big takes up valuable kitchen space and may encourage waste buildup. The right size keeps your kitchen efficient, clean, and pleasant to work in.
Choosing the right kitchen garbage can size is about balancing your household’s waste needs with your kitchen’s space. With sizes typically ranging from 7 to 30 gallons and dimensions that fit most kitchens, you can find the perfect can to keep your kitchen tidy and functional.