Trash can sizes, explained
Capacity, footprint, shape, and the space you have.
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Capacity
A can's capacity is how much it holds. Makers list it in gallons, liters, or both. NIST, the federal measurement agency, gives the approximate conversion as 1 gallon to 3.79 liters.
Footprint and shape
Footprint is the floor space a can takes up. Round, rectangular, semi-round, and slim cans of the same capacity use floor space in different ways. A slim can trades width for depth or height.
Measure your space
Measure the floor space, the height under any counter or shelf, and the room a lid needs to open. A lid that lifts needs clearance above the can. A cabinet can needs the cabinet's inside measurements.
Emptying
A larger can holds more between trips outside. EPA says to remove garbage regularly from your home, and to keep a tight lid on trash and empty it often.
No size chart
We do not recommend a capacity for any household. Bag fit matters too; our bag fit guide explains why.
Sources: NIST, Approximate Conversions from U.S. Customary Measures to Metric; EPA, Do's and Don'ts of Pest Control; EPA, Do you really need to use a pesticide?.
FAQ
General information only. Keep a trash can that holds spoiled food, sharp objects, or batteries behind a lid a child cannot open, or out of a child's reach. Knot plastic bags before you throw them away, and keep button and coin batteries out of reach of children. Keep cleaning products in their original packaging, out of sight and reach of children and pets, and never mix cleaning or disinfecting products. Read and follow the label on every cleaner and the maker's manual for your can, including how to change or remove its batteries. A swallowed button or coin battery needs medical help right away; do not delay. If you think a child swallowed something harmful, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222; if the child is unconscious, not breathing, or having convulsions or seizures, call 911. If a pet did, call your veterinarian or a pet poison control center right away. In an emergency, call 911.
Next: bag fit
Match the bag to the can.
