Determining the Optimal Gallon Capacity for Your Kitchen Trash Can

When selecting a new kitchen trash can, one of the most important factors to consider is the gallon capacity. The right size trash can for your household will make trash management seamless while preventing accumulation and overflow between empties. But with so many options on the market, how do you determine what gallon capacity is best for your needs?

By evaluating your household's unique requirements, available space, and trash habits, you can ensure you pick the perfect gallon capacity to suit your kitchen.

The 13-Gallon Standard Kitchen Trash Can

For most average-sized households of 2 to 4 people, a 13-gallon kitchen trash can is the recommended standard size. This medium capacity is versatile enough for typical daily waste while allowing 1 to 2 days between emptying for most users.

With dimensions that easily fit regular under-sink kitchen cabinets, the 13-gallon trash can is a reliable option suitable for most kitchens. It provides sufficient capacity for food scraps, product packaging, and other routine household waste without taking up excessive floor space.

Factors That Determine Ideal Trash Can Capacity

While 13 gallons may be the popular default, your household's ideal kitchen trash can size depends on several factors:

Amount of Trash Generated

The more people living in your home, the more trash you'll produce on a daily basis. Large or busy households with frequent cooking may fill up cans quicker than a single occupant or someone who eats takeout often. Consider not just headcount but lifestyle factors that impact waste volume.

Frequency of Trash Collection

How often is trash disposed of via municipal pickup or private hauling services? For weekly pickup, a smaller can may suffice. But if you only get biweekly trash service, a larger capacity holds more between empties.

Available Space in Your Kitchen

Measure where you plan to place a new trash can to ensure it won't impede foot traffic or disrupt your kitchen workflow. Leave enough clearance for opening cabinets and drawers nearby. An oversized can in a tight space becomes an obstacle.

Dimensions of Your Kitchen Cabinets

If stashing your trash can out of sight in a cabinet, carefully measure inside dimensions. Oversized cans won't fit. Also consider cabinet-mounted pull-out or slide-out systems which require specific sizing.

Style and Materials of the Trash Can

From plastic to polished steel, trash cans come in all styles. The material affects durability and cost. Models like step cans, swing tops, or pull-out designs impact the user experience. Choose based on kitchen decor and ergonomics.

The Pros and Cons of Trash Can Gallon Capacities

Evaluating the benefits and tradeoffs of small, medium and large capacity trash cans can further guide your buying decision:

Smaller Cans (6-10 Gallons)

• Require frequent emptying
• Best for minimal waste
• Fit tight spaces

Medium Cans (12-15 Gallons)

• 1-2 day capacity
• Versatile standard size

Large Cans (20+ Gallons)

• Hold more but heavy to lift when full
• Good for large households
• Substantial floor footprint

Consulting Waste Management Experts

For further guidance selecting your ideal kitchen trash can size, ask questions of waste management professionals. They can explain local requirements and collection logistics. With insights into minimizing household waste, they can recommend the optimal gallon capacity to suit your family's routine.

Kitchen trash cans come in a range of gallon capacities, from compact sizes under 10 gallons to oversized options over 20. Consider how much waste your household generates, available space, collection frequency, and your cabinet dimensions. The standard 13-gallon trash can suits most kitchens well, but evaluate your needs to pick the perfect fit.

With the right size trash can, you can prevent overflows and avoid emptying an oversized receptacle. Get the gallon capacity ideal for your kitchen habits and say goodbye to trash can hassles.