Choosing the right trash can might not sound exciting. But it actually makes a big difference in your daily routine. Ever had an overflowing bin after a single dinner party? Or found yourself swapping out trash bags way too often?
Let’s start with the basics. If you’re using a big bin, you’ll need large garbage bags that won’t tear or fall into the can. It’s a small detail—but it matters. A good fit saves time and keeps things clean. And when it comes to smaller bins, picking the right garbage bags ensures they stay snug and don’t slip when full.
Picking the right size trash can means fewer messes, less stress, and better organization. Ready to find your perfect fit? This guide breaks it all down. Room by room. Bin by bin.
Why Trash Can Size Actually Matters
A too-small bin means frequent trips to the outside trash. Too big, and things get smelly fast, especially in warm kitchens.
The right size:
- Cuts down on smell
- Matches your household’s trash habits
- Makes cleanup faster
And here’s something else. The right size bin helps your garbage bags work better. A good fit means less slipping, tearing, or double-bagging.
First Things First, Measure Your Space
Before you think about gallons or capacity, pull out a tape measure.
Check:
- Height under cabinets
- The width between counters
- Door clearance if the bin goes under the sink
Trash cans look much smaller online than they are in real life. Double-check the space you plan to use.
Also, consider how easy it is to take out the trash. Will you bump into furniture? Can you open the lid without hitting anything?
Gallon Sizes: What Fits What
Let’s break it down simply:
- 3–5 gallons: Ideal for small bathrooms or bedrooms
- 7–10 gallons: Good for offices or tight kitchens
- 12–16 gallons: Great for medium-size households
- 20+ gallons: Works for big families or shared spaces
Quick tip? Always round up. You’ll never regret having a little extra space. Especially when cooking or hosting.
Kitchen Trash Cans: Finding the Sweet Spot
Kitchens see the most action. So your bin needs to keep up.
For one- to two-person homes, a 10-13 gallon bin usually works. If you cook often or have kids, go for 13–16 gallons.
Got a bigger household or love entertaining? Step it up to 20 gallons. Just make sure your large garbage bags match that capacity.
And if you compost? You might want a second, smaller bin just for food scraps.
Best Trash Can Sizes for Different Rooms
Every room has different needs. Let’s go room by room:
- Bathroom: Go small. 3–5 gallons is perfect. Slim bins or ones with a foot pedal work well in tight spaces.
- Bedroom: You’re tossing tissues, receipts, and snack wrappers. Not much bulk. Stick to 5–7 gallons.
- Office: Paper takes up space but not weight. A 7–10 gallon bin works great. Go lidless if you’re tossing paper all day.
- Garage: This is your heavy-duty zone. Think broken tools, packaging, and yard waste. Start at 20 gallons and go up from there. Consider bins with wheels.
- Laundry Room: Lint, packaging, dryer sheets. Go with a 10–13 gallon bin. Small enough to tuck in a corner but big enough to handle laundry waste.
Shared Living? Here’s What to Consider
Roommates? A full house? Trash builds up fast.
Go bigger. 15–20 gallon bins help avoid overflows. And if your kitchen sees a lot of use, consider a second bin just for recyclables.
Also, create a schedule. No one wants to be the only one taking out the trash.
Keep in mind that shared living spaces come with different habits. One person may toss out food scraps daily, while another might hoard packaging in their room. A larger central trash can makes it easier to keep everyone on the same page. Look for options that are easy to clean and have clear liners, so nobody has to guess when it’s full.
Lid or No Lid? Space-Saving vs. Odor Control
This one’s all about preference. And lifestyle.
Lids:
- Control odors
- Keep pets out
- Help with hygiene (especially in bathrooms)
No lids:
- Save space
- Easier to toss things quickly
- Work better in offices or laundry rooms
Have a small kitchen? A swing lid or slide top might save more space than a full flip-top.
Also, think about frequency. If you empty your bin daily, a lid may not be as essential. But if it sits for days, especially with food waste, a lid can really help with smell and cleanliness. Touchless lids are also a smart option for cooking zones, offering convenience without extra contact.
Trash Can Size by Lifestyle: Pick Your Match
Different homes. Different habits. Here’s how to match your lifestyle to your bin.
Meal Preppers
You’re chopping, cooking, and cleaning daily. Food scraps add up. Go for 13–16 gallons. Bonus points for a separate compost bin.
Also, consider a wide-mouth opening to make cleanup easier while you cook. If you prep in bulk, you might fill your bin fast, so make sure it’s something you won’t need to empty every single day.
Pet Owners
Pet hair. Pet food cans. Chewed-up toys. A 10–13 gallon bin with a lid is a smart choice. Keeps smells—and curious pets—in check.
You’ll also want a bin that’s durable. Look for models with heavy lids or locking mechanisms if your furry friend tends to knock things over or go bin-diving. A separate small bin for used pee pads or litter clumps? Also worth considering.
Minimalists
You probably toss less. But you still want something that doesn’t overflow. 7–10 gallons works well. Choose bins that blend into the decor.
Look for sleek, compact designs that don’t call attention to themselves. A wall-mounted or under-sink option may fit your minimalist setup better than a floor-standing model.
Composters
Use a 2–5 gallon countertop bin for food scraps. Easy to empty. Easy to clean. Look for one with a charcoal filter to keep smells away.
You might also want a bin with a handle or removable liner for quick dumping into your outdoor compost pile. Ventilated models help reduce moisture and mold, keeping things as fresh as possible indoors.
Don’t Overthink It—But Don’t Undersize Either
Choosing the right trash can isn’t rocket science. But it’s worth a few minutes of planning. Measure your space. Think about your lifestyle. And pick something that fits your day-to-day habits, not just your kitchen aesthetic.
Because the right size bin means fewer headaches, cleaner counters, and garbage bags that actually do their job. So take your pick—and toss with confidence.
