The Best Size Garbage Can for Your Kitchen: A Practical Guide
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When it comes to kitchen organization, the humble garbage can often gets overlooked. However, choosing the right size garbage can for your kitchen can make a significant difference in your daily routine. A can that’s too small can lead to frequent trips to the outside bin, while one that’s too large may take up unnecessary space or emit odors if not emptied regularly. In this article, we’ll explore how to choose the best size garbage can for your kitchen, considering different kitchen sizes, lifestyles, and waste habits.
Some good options include
Standard Garbage Can Sizes: What’s Common?
Most kitchen garbage cans range from 10 to 20 gallons. Here's a breakdown of common sizes:
Small (7–10 gallons): Suitable for compact kitchens, apartments, or homes with minimal waste production.
Medium (12–16 gallons): A popular choice for average households with moderate cooking and trash output.
Large (18–20+ gallons): Ideal for larger families, avid cooks, or those who want to take out the trash less frequently.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Kitchen Garbage Can Size
1. Household Size
Single or Couple: A 10–13 gallon can is usually sufficient.
Family of 3–4: Consider a 13–16 gallon can to handle the increased waste.
Large families or shared homes: A 20+ gallon can may be necessary to keep up with the volume.
2. Cooking Frequency
If you cook frequently, you’ll generate more organic and packaging waste. A larger can (16–20 gallons) might be appropriate to avoid overflow.
3. Recycling and Composting Habits
Those who separate compostables and recyclables may need smaller garbage cans (around 10–13 gallons) because much of the waste volume goes elsewhere.
4. Kitchen Space
Measure your available space. A slim 13-gallon can with a rectangular design might fit snugly in a tight spot, while larger freestanding cans are better for spacious kitchens.
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5. Trash Bag Compatibility
Standard tall kitchen trash bags (13 gallons) are widely available. Choosing a can that fits these can save you the hassle of hunting for specialty liners.
Special Considerations
Built-in Cabinets: If your trash can will be stored inside a cabinet, measure the space carefully. Most under-sink pull-out cans are 7–10 gallons.
Dual Compartment Cans: Want to sort trash and recycling in one unit? Look for dual bins with 8–10 gallons per side.
Odor Control: Larger cans may hold more waste for longer. If you don’t empty them daily, look for models with tight-sealing lids or odor control features. These include:
Conclusion: What’s the Best Size Garbage Can for Your Kitchen?
For most households, a 13-gallon garbage can strikes the best balance between capacity and convenience. It fits standard kitchen trash bags, works well for families of 2–4, and is widely available in various styles. However, your best choice depends on your unique needs — including kitchen space, waste habits, and family size.
Taking the time to match your garbage can size to your lifestyle can lead to a cleaner, more efficient kitchen experience. After all, even the most mundane items deserve thoughtful consideration.