Trash Can Size Guide | iTouchless

Trash Can Size Guide: Find the Right Capacity

Choosing the correct size keeps odors down, prevents overflow, and reduces bag waste. Use this guide to select the best gallon (and liter) capacity for your kitchen, bathroom, office, or commercial space—and learn how to ensure a perfect fit under counters and in tight spots.

Quick Size Picker

Start with your household or room type:

Household / Room Recommended Capacity Typical Use
1–2 people (small kitchen) 10–13 gal (38–50 L) Daily cooking, light to moderate volume
3–4 people (family kitchen) 13–16 gal (50–60 L) Most popular size for households
4+ people / high volume 18–23 gal (68–87 L) Large households or frequent entertaining
Bathroom / bedroom 2–4 gal (8–15 L) Tissues and light waste
Office / shared space 13–21 gal (50–80 L) Paper, packaging, general waste

New to trash cans? Read the Ultimate Buying Guide

How to Measure Your Space (So the Lid Actually Opens)

Before you choose a size, verify the can will open fully in the intended spot.

  1. Measure floor area: Width (W) × Depth (D) where the base will sit.
  2. Measure height clearance: Floor to the lowest obstruction (counter/lip). For sensor/step lids, allow extra open-lid height.
  3. Leave breathing room: Add 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm) behind/above for hinges and lid swing.

Tip: For under-counter placement, a slim rectangular can often fits better than a round can of the same capacity.

Footprint & Shape: Fit Matters as Much as Capacity

  • Rectangular / Slim: Space-efficient against walls and islands; ideal for galley kitchens.
  • Round: Smooth look; easier around freestanding areas.
  • Semi-round / D-shape: Flat back saves space; curved front improves access.
  • Dual-compartment: Combine trash + recycling in one footprint; slightly reduces capacity per side.

Decide between touchless sensor and step-pedal models

Bag Size & Liner Fit

Use the right bag size to avoid slip-downs and wasted plastic. As a rule of thumb, a bag rated slightly larger than the can capacity ties off more easily.

Can Capacity Suggested Bag Size Notes
2–4 gal (8–15 L) Small wastebasket bags Bathrooms, bedrooms
10–13 gal (38–50 L) Standard kitchen bags Most common household fit
13–16 gal (50–60 L) Large kitchen bags Family kitchens, dual-compartment
18–23 gal (68–87 L) XL bags / 20–30 gal High-volume or commercial

Keep bags in place: Look for a bag retention ring or liner lock to prevent slippage and conceal the rim.

Shop replacement liners, filters & parts

Commercial & High-Traffic Sizes

For hospitality, multi-family, healthcare, and back-of-house areas, step up capacity:

Environment Recommended Capacity Notes
Breakrooms / cafeterias 18–23 gal (68–87 L) Fewer trips to empty; add carbon filters for food waste
Lobby / shared corridors 13–21 gal (50–80 L) Open-top or step for throughput
Housekeeping / utility 21–32 gal (80–120 L) Heavy-duty frames; easy bag changes

Control odors with sealed lids and carbon filters

Conversion Table: Gallons ↔ Liters

Gallons (US) Liters (approx.) Common Use
2 7.6 Bathroom / vanity
4 15.1 Bedroom / office
10 37.9 Small kitchen
13 49.2 Standard kitchen
16 60.6 Large kitchen
18 68.1 High-volume
21 79.5 Office / shared
23 87.1 Commercial / cafeteria

Summary

For most households, a 13–16 gal (50–60 L) rectangular can is the sweet spot. Smaller apartments do well with 10–13 gal, while bigger families or commercial spaces benefit from 18–23 gal. Always confirm footprint and open-lid height before you buy.

Compare sensor vs step cans · See how odor control works · Shop replacement parts · Warranty Information & Claims

Related Resources

Independent resources: The Spruce — Kitchen Trash Cans · NYT Wirecutter — Best Trash Can · EPA — VOCs & Indoor Odors