What Size Trash Can for a Kitchen: A Complete Guide to Choosing

Have you ever found yourself wrestling with an overflowing trash bin, playing a frustrating game of garbage Jenga, or constantly making trips to the dumpster? It is a common kitchen woe. Choosing the right trash can size can significantly impact your kitchen’s cleanliness, organization, and overall functionality.

The ideal size trash can for most kitchens is between 12 and 16 gallons, with 13 gallons being the most common and widely used size that accommodates standard trash bags. This size strikes a balance between capacity and space efficiency, ensuring you’re not constantly emptying it while preventing unpleasant odors from lingering.

In my decade of experience working as a kitchen design consultant, I’ve helped countless clients optimize their kitchen spaces for both functionality and aesthetics. One of the most overlooked yet crucial aspects of kitchen design is selecting the right trash can. It might seem like a mundane detail, but trust me, it can make a world of difference in your daily routine. You’ll discover how to choose the perfect size trash can based on your household size, cooking habits, and kitchen layout. We’ll also explore the different types of trash cans and clever ways to optimize your kitchen waste management system.

Key Facts

• The most common kitchen trash can size is 13 gallons, fitting standard-size trash bags.
• Kitchen trash cans typically range from 12-16 gallons, but smaller 7-10 gallon options are suitable for under-sink placement.
• For households of two to three people who cook frequently, a 10-14 gallon trash can is often sufficient.
• Larger households or those who produce more waste may need a 15-20 gallon trash can.
• When choosing a trash can size, consider both your household’s waste production and the available space in your kitchen.

What Size Trash Can for Kitchen?

For most kitchens, a trash can size between 12 and 16 gallons is ideal, with 13 gallons being the most common choice. This size accommodates standard trash bags and strikes a good balance between holding a significant amount of waste and fitting comfortably in most kitchen spaces. It is large enough to handle the daily trash generated by cooking and other kitchen activities without requiring constant emptying, yet compact enough to not overwhelm the space.

Why Is Choosing the Right Trash Can Size Important for Your Kitchen?

Choosing the right trash can size is crucial because it directly impacts your kitchen’s cleanliness, efficiency, and overall organization. A properly sized trash can ensures that waste is adequately contained, reducing the frequency of emptying and minimizing the risk of unpleasant odors.

How Does Household Size Affect Trash Can Size Selection?

Larger households naturally generate more waste, thus requiring a larger trash can to accommodate their needs. A family of four or more will likely need a trash can at the higher end of the 12-16 gallon range, or even a larger 20-gallon option, to avoid constant trips to the outside bin. Conversely, a single person or a couple might find a 10-12 gallon can sufficient.

What Role Do Cooking Habits Play in Determining Trash Can Size?

If you frequently cook from scratch, you’ll likely produce more organic waste, such as vegetable peels and food scraps, necessitating a larger trash can. Those who rely more on pre-packaged meals or takeout might generate less waste and find that a smaller can suffices.

How Does Kitchen Layout and Space Availability Influence Trash Can Size Choice?

In smaller kitchens, a large trash can may take up too much valuable floor space, making a compact 10-12 gallon can or an under-sink option more practical. Larger kitchens can accommodate bigger trash cans, potentially even a dual-compartment model for trash and recycling.

What Are the Common Types of Kitchen Trash Cans Based on Size?

Common types of kitchen trash cans include 7-10 gallon under-sink models, standard 12-16 gallon freestanding units, and larger 20+ gallon options for high-waste households. Some models also feature separate compartments for recycling, further influencing the overall size and design.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Standard 13-Gallon Trash Can?

A standard 13-gallon trash can offers a balance of capacity and convenience, fitting most standard-size trash bags and accommodating the average household’s waste without needing frequent emptying. This size is large enough to handle the typical amount of kitchen trash generated daily while remaining manageable and not overly bulky.

How to Choose a Pull-Out or Under-Sink Trash Can?

When selecting a pull-out or under-sink trash can, accurately measure the available cabinet space, considering both width and depth, to ensure a proper fit. A 7-10 gallon size is common for under-sink models, but it’s crucial to choose a model that maximizes the available space without obstructing plumbing or other under-sink fixtures. Remember, you can learn more about what are economical and durable kitchen cabinets.

How Can You Optimize Trash Can Placement for Maximum Efficiency?

Place your trash can near the primary food preparation area for easy disposal of waste while cooking. This placement minimizes steps and helps contain messes to a specific zone, streamlining the cleanup process. Ideally, the trash can should be within arm’s reach of the main prep counter but not obstruct foot traffic or cabinet doors.

What Are the Best Practices for Managing Kitchen Waste with the Right Trash Can Size?

Empty your trash can regularly, even if it’s not completely full, to prevent odors and pest infestations. Use a well-fitted lid to contain smells and deter insects. In my experience, a step-operated lid is the most hygienic and convenient option. Utilizing a dual-compartment trash can for trash and recycling can also help streamline waste management, making it easy to sort recyclables at the source. You can also check out our guide on how to add texture to your kitchen for additional ideas.

What Are Some Innovative Trash Can Solutions for Modern Kitchens?

Modern kitchens often incorporate innovative trash can solutions, such as touchless sensor-operated models for improved hygiene, or built-in trash compactors to reduce waste volume. Some advanced trash cans even feature odor-absorbing filters or UV sterilization to minimize unpleasant smells.

How to Determine the Dimensions of a 13-Gallon Trash Can?

A typical 13-gallon trash can usually measures around 16 inches wide, 12 inches deep, and 26 inches high, but dimensions can vary slightly depending on the specific model and shape. For example, a rectangular trash can might have a narrower width but greater depth compared to a round one. Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for exact dimensions.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Using a Larger 20-Gallon Trash Can?

Pros:

• Larger Capacity: Holds more waste, reducing the frequency of emptying.
• Ideal for Large Households: Suitable for families or those who generate a lot of trash.
• Less Frequent Bag Changes: You won’t have to change the bag as often.

Cons:

• Space Requirement: Takes up more floor space in the kitchen.
• Odor Potential: If not emptied regularly, can lead to stronger odors.
• Heavier When Full: Can be heavy and difficult to move when full.

How to Maintain and Clean Different Sizes of Kitchen Trash Cans?

Regularly wipe down the exterior and interior of your trash can with a disinfectant cleaner, regardless of its size. For smaller cans, a quick daily wipe may suffice, while larger cans might only need a thorough cleaning once a week. To minimize odors, sprinkle baking soda at the bottom of the can before inserting a new bag.

What Are the Most Durable Materials for Kitchen Trash Cans?

Stainless steel and heavy-duty plastic are the most durable materials for kitchen trash cans, offering resistance to rust, dents, and odors. Stainless steel trash cans are often favored for their sleek, modern appearance and easy-to-clean surface. Plastic trash cans, especially those made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), are lightweight, affordable, and resistant to impact.

What Features Should You Look for in a High-Quality Kitchen Trash Can?

Look for features like a sturdy foot pedal, a tight-fitting lid to contain odors, a fingerprint-resistant finish (for stainless steel models), and a removable inner bucket for easy cleaning. A high-quality trash can should also have a stable base to prevent tipping and a durable construction that can withstand daily use.

How to Choose the Right Trash Bag Size for Your Kitchen Trash Can?

To find the right trash bag size, check the capacity of your trash can (usually printed on the bottom) and choose a bag that’s slightly larger to ensure a proper fit. For example, a 13-gallon trash can typically requires 13-gallon or slightly larger trash bags. The bag should be large enough to fold over the rim of the can without slipping down when filled with trash.

What Are Some Tips for Preventing Odors in Kitchen Trash Cans?

Empty the trash can regularly, use a lid, and consider using odor-absorbing materials like baking soda or activated charcoal at the bottom of the can. Regularly cleaning the trash can with a disinfectant solution also helps prevent odors. For persistent smells, try placing a dryer sheet or a cotton ball soaked in essential oil at the bottom of the can.

What Size Trash Can Is Best for a Small Kitchen?

In a small kitchen, a 7-10 gallon trash can is often the best choice, as it provides sufficient capacity without taking up too much space. Under-sink or pull-out models are particularly well-suited for compact kitchens, as they utilize otherwise unused space within cabinets.

How to Choose a Trash Can That Fits Your Kitchen Decor?

Select a trash can that complements your kitchen’s color scheme and overall aesthetic, whether it’s modern, traditional, or rustic. Stainless steel trash cans are a popular choice for contemporary kitchens due to their sleek and versatile design. For a more traditional look, consider a trash can with a decorative finish or a hidden trash can cabinet that blends seamlessly with your cabinetry.

What Is the Best Way to Manage Recycling in the Kitchen?

Use a dual-compartment trash can with separate sections for trash and recycling, or use separate bins for each. Clearly label each bin to ensure proper sorting. Place the recycling bin in a convenient location, ideally near the trash can, to encourage consistent use.

Tip: Place your recycling bin next to your trash can. This simple setup encourages consistent use and makes sorting recyclables a breeze.

How to Choose a Trash Can with a Lid That Contains Odors?

Choose a trash can with a tight-fitting lid that overlaps the rim of the can, creating a seal to prevent odors from escaping. Step-operated lids are generally more effective at containing odors than swing-top or open-top models, as they remain closed when not in use. According to a study by The Spruce, a tight-fitting lid is essential for minimizing odors in the kitchen.

What Are Some Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Traditional Trash Cans?

Consider using a compost bin for organic waste, which can significantly reduce the amount of trash sent to landfills. Some eco-conscious households opt for smaller trash cans to encourage waste reduction or even try “zero-waste” practices, minimizing disposable items and packaging.

How to Choose a Trash Can That Is Easy to Clean and Maintain?

Look for trash cans with smooth surfaces, minimal crevices, and removable inner buckets for easy cleaning. Stainless steel and plastic trash cans are generally easier to clean than those made of porous materials. Models with fingerprint-resistant coatings can also reduce the frequency of cleaning.

What Are the Best Trash Can Options for Households with Pets or Children?

Choose a trash can with a secure, locking lid to prevent pets or children from accessing the contents. Step-operated or touchless models can also be more difficult for pets and young children to open. As noted by PlasticPlace, a locking lid is crucial for households with curious pets or toddlers.

FAQs About What Size Trash Can for Kitchen

What is the standard kitchen trash can size?

The standard kitchen trash can size is typically between 12 and 16 gallons, with 13 gallons being the most common size.

How many gallons is a tall kitchen trash can?

A tall kitchen trash can is usually around 13 gallons, which is the standard size that fits most regular trash bags.

What size trash bags fit a 13-gallon trash can?

13-gallon trash bags are designed to fit 13-gallon trash cans perfectly. They are the most common size and readily available in most stores.

Is a 7-gallon trash can big enough for a kitchen?

A 7-gallon trash can is generally too small for most kitchens unless you have a very small household or limited space. It’s more suitable for a bathroom or under a desk.

What size trash can is best for under the sink?

For under-sink placement, a 7-10 gallon trash can is usually the best fit. These smaller sizes can fit in the limited space under most kitchen sinks.

How do I measure my kitchen for a trash can?

Measure the height, width, and depth of the space where you plan to place the trash can. Consider any doors, drawers, or other obstacles that might affect the placement.

What are the dimensions of a standard 13-gallon trash can?

The dimensions of a standard 13-gallon trash can vary by manufacturer but are typically around 16 inches wide, 11 inches deep, and 24 inches high.

Can I use a larger trash bag in a smaller trash can?

Yes, you can use a larger trash bag in a smaller can, but it might be wasteful and could slip off more easily. It’s best to use the correct size bag for your trash can.

What is the best material for a kitchen trash can?

Stainless steel and heavy-duty plastic are popular choices for kitchen trash cans. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, while plastic is lightweight and often more affordable.

How often should I empty my kitchen trash can?

It’s best to empty your kitchen trash can daily or every other day to prevent odors and bacteria buildup, even if it’s not completely full.

Summary

Choosing the right size trash can for your kitchen is essential for maintaining a clean, organized, and functional space. A 13-gallon trash can is the most common and versatile choice, fitting standard trash bags and accommodating the needs of most households. However, factors such as household size, cooking habits, and kitchen layout should all be considered when making your decision. Remember to prioritize features like a tight-fitting lid, durable materials, and ease of cleaning. By selecting the perfect trash can, you’ll not only enhance your kitchen’s aesthetics but also streamline your daily routine and make waste management a breeze.