The Only Trash Can Size Guide You'll Ever Need for Any Kitchen

Finding the perfect trash can for your kitchen isn't always straightforward. With so many sizes, styles, and features to consider, it can be downright confusing trying to determine what works best for your space and needs.

But having the right trash receptacle is essential for keeping your kitchen clean and organized. An undersized trash container will fill up fast and need frequent emptying. Oversized cans hog precious floor space. And ill-fitting shapes leave awkward gaps in corners.

This guide covers everything you need to know to find your ideal kitchen garbage can. We'll go over measurements, dimensions, capacities, and other key factors. Read on to learn how to choose a trash can tailored to your kitchen's size and your household's habits.

How Size Impacts Trash Can Function

Let's start by looking at the three main size considerations - capacity, dimensions, and shape - and how they affect performance.

Capacity

The capacity of a trash can, measured in gallons, determines how much waste it can hold. Standard kitchen trash cans range from 10-13 gallons on the smaller side up to 20-30 gallons for larger models. Some extra-high capacity cans hold 40 gallons or more.

Higher capacity means less frequent emptying. A 10-gallon basket likely needs dumping every couple of days for a family. A 30-gallon version may only need weekly emptying. But huge cans hog space without much benefit for homes generating normal amounts of trash.

Make sure to account for any recyclables going into a separate bin when estimating needed capacity. And consider a compost pail if disposing of food waste separately.

Dimensions

The height and width of a trash receptacle also impact function. Standard heights range from 12-20 inches. Width is commonly 10-15 inches across.

Height sets the ease of opening, closing, and inserting trash. Squat 12-15 inch models are great for quick disposal but require more stooping. Tall 20+ inch cans allow upright access but could be tough for kids to open.

Meanwhile, thin cans maximize precious floor space in cramped kitchens. But wider models around 15 inches provide ample room for trash.

Ideally choose a height and width tuned for your kitchen's layout and who will use it.

Shape

Trash cans come in round and rectangular shapes. Round models work well in corners. Square or rectangular versions maximize space efficiency against walls.

Durability tends to be similar for both. So shape comes down to visual appeal and fit. Just make sure any square basket clears nearby lower cabinet doors and drawers when opened.

Determining the Right Size for Your Kitchen

With those functional factors covered, let's turn to choosing the ideal trash can dimensions for your particular kitchen.

Measure Available Space

First, examine possible locations where you could place a wastebasket. Under a prep or cleaning counter is common. In a corner out of the way works too. You might also spot room next to your pantry or appliances.

Make sure to avoid high foot traffic zones. And don't block cabinets or drawers from fully opening.

Note the height, depth, and width of each viable spot. This sets the maximum dimensions your new garbage can should have for an optimal fit.

Consider Kitchen Size

Next, factor in the size of your overall kitchen. Is it a snug galley layout or sprawling chef's paradise? How many family members or occupants use it?

In standard 10 x 10 to 15 x 15 foot kitchens, a 15-20 gallon can with slimmer dimensions tends to work well. Tiny kitchens under 8 x 10 feet likely only have space for compact 10-13 gallon cans. Expansive kitchens over 200 square feet can accommodate 30-50 gallon giants.

Also think about your household's trash output. More people and more cooking equals more waste.

Select Capacity

Combine your space measurements with kitchen size and trash volume considerations to pick an appropriate capacity.

Estimate how much waste you generate daily or between regular trash pickups/emptying. Then add 20-30% as a buffer so the can doesn't overflow.

Just make sure not to overbuy on capacity. Oversized cans occupy more space without much added benefit.

Pick Dimensions

Choose height and width dimensions based on the spaces measured earlier. Look for the largest size that will still fit without blocking access.

Allow a couple inches of clearance around the trash receptacle when opened. You don't want doors or drawers hitting an extended lid or swinging side panel.

When in doubt, opt for narrower dimensions to maximize valuable real estate in your kitchen.

Small Kitchen Trash Can Sizes

Tiny kitchens and tight spaces call for more petite trash cans. Here's an overview of ideal small kitchen garbage can sizes.

Typical Dimensions

Compact trash receptacles designed for small kitchens are generally:

• 12-15 inches tall
• 10-13 inches wide
• 10-13 gallons in capacity

Benefits

The benefits of slim sizing for cramped kitchens include:

• Fit in narrow spots between appliances or below counters
• Easy to open and close thanks to shorter height
• Don't hog precious floor space

Recommended Models

Some top-rated trash cans tailored for tiny kitchens include:

• simplehuman 4.5-Liter Mini Round Step Can
• Umbra Slim Trash Can
• Rubbermaid 13-Gallon Slim Jim

Standard Kitchen Trash Can Sizes

The majority of kitchens are best suited for standard sized wastebaskets. Here are those commonly ideal dimensions.

Typical Dimensions

Standard kitchen trash cans are typically:

• 15-20 inches high
• 10-15 inches wide
• 15-30 gallons in capacity

Benefits

Key perks of standard mid-range sizing include:

• Balance of capacity and footprint
• Less stooping than smaller cans
• Work well for most kitchen layouts

Recommended Models

Some best-selling standard kitchen garbage cans include:

• simplehuman Rectangular Step Trash Can
• Hefty Touch Lid 13.3 Gallon Trash Can
• iTouchless Deodorizer Trash Can

Large Kitchen Trash Can Sizes

For big kitchens and busy families who generate lots of waste, oversized trash receptacles get the job done.

Typical Dimensions

Large kitchen garbage cans are typically:

• 20+ inches tall
• 15+ inches wide
• 30-50+ gallons in capacity

Benefits

Key advantages of jumbo trash can dimensions include:

• Highest waste capacity
• Less frequent emptying needed
• Stand upright access

Recommended Models

Some of the top oversized kitchen trash receptacles are:

• simplehuman 50-Liter / 13-Gallon Stainless Steel
• Rubbermaid Brute Rollout Wastebasket
• Rev-A-Shelf Pull Out Waste Container

Other Considerations for Optimal Trash Cans

Beyond just size, keep these other factors in mind when picking the perfect kitchen garbage can.

Shape and Design

As mentioned earlier, shape impacts placement flexibility. Materials like plastic and stainless steel affect aesthetics. Special design features can improve experience.

Odor Control

Lid types that seal tightly contain smelly trash odors. Replaceable carbon filters also help absorb and neutralize smells.

Durability

Durable stainless steel resists dents, scratches, rust, and cracks. Some plastic cans also have reinforced bases and dent-proof sides.

Ease of Use

Convenient features like step pedals for hands-free opening, wheels to roll out for emptying, and silent close lids enhance user experience.

Price Range

Kitchen wastebaskets vary widely in price from $20 basic models up to $200 for commercial-grade cans. Set a budget and aim for maximum value.

Finding that "just right" kitchen trash can ultimately comes down to measuring your space, factoring in needs and usage, and selecting dimensions tuned to your kitchen's size.

Keep capacity, height, width, and shape in mind. And don't forget about special features to enhance durability, odor control, and ease of use.

Follow this guide and you're sure to end up with a wastebasket tailored to your kitchen's unique requirements. No more overflowing bags or ugly unused corners. Just simple, effective trash management designed for real life.