If you are asking “how many gallons is a 13 gallon trash can,” the simple answer is right in the name: a 13-gallon trash can holds 13 gallons of trash. This size is very common for kitchens because it’s a good balance between holding a decent amount of waste and not taking up too much space. Figuring out the right size trash can, or trash can capacity gallons, is important for keeping your kitchen tidy and buying the correct trash bags. Let’s look at why 13 gallons is popular and what other sizes mean for your home.
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What Trash Can Size Means
When we talk about trash can size, we usually mean its volume. This is the total space inside the can where you put trash. This space is most often measured in gallons in the United States. So, trash can volume in gallons tells you how much the can can hold.
Knowing the gallon capacity of your trash can helps you pick the right one for your home. It also helps you buy the correct size trash bags. Too small a can means you empty it often. Too big a can can waste space and make your kitchen smell if trash sits too long.
Popular Kitchen Trash Can Sizes
Kitchen trash cans come in many sizes. But some sizes are seen more often than others in homes. These are known as standard kitchen trash can sizes.
Here are some common sizes:
- Under 10 Gallons: These are small. People might use them for specific things, like under a desk or in a small bathroom. They are not common for all kitchen trash in a home.
- 10 to 13 Gallons: This range is very popular for kitchens. The 13-gallon size is perhaps the most typical kitchen trash can capacity for many families.
- 15 to 20 Gallons: These are bigger cans. They are good for larger families or kitchens with more trash.
- Over 20 Gallons: These are quite large. You might see them in commercial places or very big homes.
The average kitchen trash can size for a family of four is often considered to be in the 13-gallon range. This size usually holds enough trash for a few days before needing to be taken out.
Focusing on the 13-Gallon Size
The 13-gallon trash can is a favorite for many homes. Why is this size so common?
- Good Capacity: It holds a fair amount of trash. For many families, it means emptying the can maybe once or twice a week.
- Fits Well: This size usually fits well in standard kitchen spaces. It can go next to a cabinet or in a corner without getting in the way.
- Bag Availability: Trash bags for 13-gallon cans are easy to find. They are sold in almost every store that sells trash bags. Gallon capacity tall kitchen bags are specifically made for cans around this size.
Let’s look closer at what 13 gallons means in terms of how much trash it holds. Imagine 13 milk jugs, each holding one gallon. A 13-gallon trash can holds the same amount of space as those 13 milk jugs.
Gallon Capacity and What It Feels Like
When you hear “13 gallons,” it’s a measure of volume. It tells you the total space. It doesn’t tell you how much weight the can can hold, which depends on what you throw away. But it gives you a good idea of how often you’ll need to take the trash out.
- A smaller family (1-2 people) might find a 10-gallon or even a 7-gallon can works well.
- A family of 3-5 people often finds 13 gallons is just right.
- Larger families or those who cook a lot might prefer a 15 or 20-gallon can.
Typical kitchen trash can capacity is chosen based on how much trash a household makes and how often they want to deal with taking it out.
Matching Trash Bag Size to Can
This is where knowing the trash can capacity gallons is super helpful. Trash bags are also sold by their capacity in gallons. To avoid bags that are too small or too big, you need to match the bag size to the can size.
- For a 13-gallon trash can, you need 13-gallon trash bags. These are often sold as “tall kitchen bags.” Gallon capacity tall kitchen bags are made to fit cans that are taller and narrower, like many kitchen cans are.
- If your can is 10 gallons, look for 10-gallon bags.
- If your can is 20 gallons, get 20-gallon bags.
Using the wrong size bag can cause problems. A bag that is too small won’t fit over the rim and will fall in. A bag that is too big is wasteful and might not hold the trash properly when you lift it out. Matching trash bag size to can capacity is key to a clean and easy trash routine.
Grasping Trash Can Dimensions
While capacity is measured in gallons, trash cans also have physical dimensions: height, width, and depth (or diameter for round cans). Common trash can dimensions are related to their gallon capacity, but cans with the same capacity can have slightly different shapes.
- A 13-gallon can is often tall and somewhat slim. This shape helps it fit in tight kitchen spots.
- A 10-gallon can might be shorter or narrower than a 13-gallon one.
- A 20-gallon can will likely be taller and wider than a 13-gallon one.
Knowing the dimensions is important if you have a specific spot for the trash can, like inside a cabinet or next to an appliance. Always check the height, width, and depth listed by the maker to be sure it fits.
Here’s a simple look at how dimensions might relate to common sizes:
Typical Dimensions for Common Kitchen Trash Can Sizes
| Capacity (Gallons) | Common Shape | Typical Height (Inches) | Typical Width/Depth (Inches) | Fits For (Example) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7-8 | Often short/wide | 12-15 | 10-12 | Small office, small kitchen |
| 10 | Various | 14-18 | 10-13 | Small to medium kitchen |
| 13 | Tall & Slim | 17-25 | 10-14 | Standard kitchen |
| 15-16 | Tall/Wider | 20-28 | 12-15 | Larger kitchen |
| 20 | Taller/Wider | 25-30 | 14-18 | Very active kitchen, garage |
Note: These are just typical sizes. Actual dimensions can change a lot based on the can’s design and maker.
How to Figure Out Your Trash Can Capacity
Sometimes, the gallon capacity is not clearly marked on your trash can. How can you find out the trash can volume in gallons?
You can try a few ways:
- Look for Markings: Check the bottom of the can or the inside rim. Makers often stamp the size there.
- Check the Label or Website: If you bought it recently, look at the tag it came with or search for the model online. The store website or maker’s site will list the capacity.
- Measure It: You can estimate the volume by measuring the inside of the can. This is a bit more work, but it can give you a good idea.
Estimating Gallon Capacity by Measuring
You can estimate the trash can gallon equivalents using a few simple measurements. You will need a tape measure.
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For a Round Can:
- Measure the inside diameter across the widest part.
- Measure the inside height.
- Use a volume calculator online. Search for “cylinder volume calculator” and enter the measurements in inches. The result will be in cubic inches.
- To convert cubic inches to gallons, divide the total cubic inches by 231 (because 1 gallon equals 231 cubic inches). The number you get is the approximate gallon capacity.
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For a Square or Rectangle Can:
- Measure the inside length.
- Measure the inside width.
- Measure the inside height.
- Multiply Length x Width x Height. This gives you the volume in cubic inches.
- Divide the total cubic inches by 231 to get the approximate gallon capacity.
For example, if your tall kitchen trash can is roughly 13 inches wide, 9 inches deep, and 22 inches tall (these are rough common trash can dimensions for a 13-gallon can), the volume is 13 * 9 * 22 = 2574 cubic inches.
2574 cubic inches / 231 cubic inches per gallon = about 11.1 gallons. This calculation is an estimate. Makers often round sizes. A can with these measurements might be sold as a 10 or 11 gallon can.
A typical 13-gallon can might have dimensions closer to something like 10 inches wide, 14 inches deep, and 25 inches tall, giving a volume of 10 * 14 * 25 = 3500 cubic inches.
3500 cubic inches / 231 cubic inches per gallon = about 15.15 gallons. Again, this shows cans are often rounded or measured slightly differently by makers. A can labeled 13 gallons might hold a bit more or less depending on its exact shape and how the maker measures. The most common 13-gallon cans are often slightly taller and narrower than the first example, to better fit kitchen spaces.
Don’t worry about being exact to the decimal point. Getting close helps you pick the right bag size. If your measurement is close to 13 gallons, a 13-gallon bag will likely fit well.
Deciphering Trash Can Labels
When you buy a trash can, the label usually tells you the capacity in gallons. Look for this number. It makes choosing easy. The label might also give you common trash can dimensions. This is good info if you need the can to fit in a tight spot.
For example, a label might say:
“Capacity: 13 Gallons (49 Liters)”
“Dimensions: 10.5 inches W x 14 inches D x 24 inches H”
This tells you the trash can capacity in gallons is 13. It also shows trash can gallon equivalents in liters, which is another way volume is measured in some places. The dimensions confirm it’s a tall, slim can suitable for many kitchens.
Why the Right Capacity Matters
Choosing the correct trash can capacity gallons for your kitchen is more important than you might think.
- Less Frequent Emptying: A can that’s big enough means fewer trips outside to the trash bins. This saves time and effort.
- No Overflow: A can that is too small fills up too fast. This leads to trash piled high or spilling over. This is messy and unhygienic.
- Better Odor Control: If your can is too big for the amount of trash you make, trash sits in the can for a long time. This can cause bad smells. A can that matches your needs means trash is taken out before it starts to really stink.
- Fits Your Space: Standard kitchen trash can sizes are designed to fit in common kitchen areas. Checking common trash can dimensions helps you make sure it fits where you want it.
- Bag Cost: Using bags that are too big for your can wastes money. You are paying for bag material you don’t use. Matching trash bag size to can saves money on bags.
For most families, the typical kitchen trash can capacity of 13 gallons hits a sweet spot for these reasons. It’s big enough for daily trash but not so big that trash sits for weeks.
Different Shapes, Same Gallons
Trash cans come in different shapes:
- Rectangle: Very common for kitchen cans. They fit well against walls or cabinets. A 13-gallon can is often a tall rectangle.
- Round: Also used, but less common for main kitchen cans unless it’s a larger capacity placed in an open area.
- Half-Round: These have a flat back to sit against a wall and a rounded front. They save a little space while still offering good capacity.
Even though shapes are different, the gallon capacity tells you the total volume. A tall, slim 13-gallon can holds the same amount as a shorter, wider 13-gallon can (if one existed), but their dimensions would be different. Common trash can dimensions are tied to both capacity and shape.
Trash Can Features and Capacity
Beyond just the basic can, modern kitchen trash cans have features. These features don’t change the trash can capacity gallons, but they can affect how you use the space inside or where you put the can.
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Lids:
- Open Top: Easiest to throw trash in. No touching. But smells can escape easily.
- Swing Lid: Lid swings open easily but seals somewhat. Can be hard to push larger items through.
- Step Pedal Lid: You step on a pedal to open the lid. This keeps your hands clean. The lid closes tightly, helping with smells. Many tall kitchen trash cans have this feature.
- Sensor Lid: Lid opens when your hand is near. Very hygienic.
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Inner Buckets: Some cans have a removable plastic bucket inside. You put the trash bag in this bucket. It makes cleaning easier if a bag leaks. The inner bucket might slightly reduce the actual usable volume compared to the stated trash can capacity gallons, but usually, it’s a minimal difference.
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Bag Liners/Holders: Some cans have rings or clips to help hold the trash bag in place. This stops the bag from slipping down into the can, ensuring you use the full trash can volume in gallons.
These features make the can easier to use, but the primary measure of how much trash it holds remains its gallon capacity.
Other Trash Can Gallon Equivalents
While gallons are standard in the US for home trash cans, other countries use liters. Trash can labels often show both measurements.
- 1 Gallon is about 3.785 Liters.
- So, a 13-gallon trash can is roughly 13 * 3.785 = about 49.2 liters.
Knowing the trash can gallon equivalents in liters is helpful if you’re looking at products from different regions or traveling. For daily use in the US, focusing on gallons is usually enough.
Planning for Different Waste Types
Some homes use more than one can in the kitchen. For example, a trash can for landfill waste and another bin for recyclables.
- Recycling Bins: These also have sizes, often listed in gallons or quarts. They don’t always need lids, as recycling is often cleaner. The size needed for a recycling bin depends on how much recycling your household makes. It might be similar in size to your trash can (like a 13-gallon recycling bin) or sometimes larger or smaller.
- Compost Bins: Smaller bins, usually 1-2 gallons, are used on countertops for food scraps. These are emptied into a larger outdoor compost pile or green bin often.
Thinking about all the waste streams you manage helps you choose the right size and number of bins. The trash can capacity gallons needed for each type of waste will vary.
Maintaining Your Trash Can
Keeping your trash can clean is important for hygiene and controlling smells. The size of the can affects how easy it is to clean.
- A standard 13-gallon trash can is usually easy to handle for cleaning. You can often take it outside and rinse it with a hose, or wash it in a large utility sink.
- Larger cans (15+ gallons) might be harder to move and wash.
Regular cleaning helps prevent bacteria and keeps your kitchen smelling fresh, no matter the trash can volume in gallons.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Capacity
Choosing the right size kitchen trash can comes down to matching the trash can capacity gallons to your household’s needs.
- How many people live in your home? More people usually mean more trash.
- How often do you want to take out the trash? If you hate taking out trash, get a bigger can. If you prefer to empty it often for freshness, a smaller can might work.
- How much space do you have? Check common trash can dimensions and make sure the can fits comfortably in its spot.
- Are you using the correct bag size? Make sure you can easily find and use gallon capacity tall kitchen bags that fit your can.
For many, the 13-gallon tall kitchen trash can is the answer. It provides a good balance of capacity, size, and bag availability. It’s the typical kitchen trash can capacity for good reason. Whether you have a 10-gallon, 13-gallon, or 20-gallon can, knowing its trash can capacity gallons helps you manage your household waste effectively.
Understanding trash can gallon equivalents and matching trash bag size to can are simple steps that make a big difference in your kitchen routine. Take a moment to check your current can’s size or measure a new one to find the perfect fit for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about trash can sizes and gallons.
h4 What does “tall kitchen” mean for a trash can?
“Tall kitchen” is a common description for trash cans that are shaped to fit in standard kitchen spaces. They are typically taller than they are wide or deep. This shape helps them fit next to cabinets or appliances. These cans are usually in the 10 to 13-gallon range, with 13 gallons being very common.
h4 Can I use a larger bag in a smaller can?
Yes, you can put a larger trash bag in a smaller can. For example, you could put a 13-gallon bag in a 10-gallon can. However, this is not ideal. The extra bag material will be folded over the rim, which can look messy and waste bag material. It’s better to use a bag that is made for your can’s specific trash can capacity gallons. Matching trash bag size to can capacity is most efficient.
h4 How full should I fill my trash can?
You should fill your trash can up to the top, but avoid cramming trash so much that it’s hard to remove the bag or close the lid. Overstuffing can rip the bag or make it too heavy to lift. Aim to fill it so the bag is full but still manageable to take out.
h4 My trash can doesn’t have the size on it. How do I know what size bags to buy?
If your can isn’t marked, you can estimate its capacity. Try the measurement method described earlier (Length x Width x Height in inches, then divide by 231). Once you have an approximate gallon number, buy bags that size. If it measures around 11-12 gallons, try 13-gallon tall kitchen bags. If it’s closer to 9-10 gallons, try 10-gallon bags.
h4 Are all 13-gallon trash cans the same size?
No, not exactly. While they all hold the same volume (13 gallons), their common trash can dimensions can vary slightly between makers and designs. One 13-gallon can might be a bit taller and narrower, while another might be slightly shorter and wider. Always check the height, width, and depth if you have a specific space for the can.
h4 What is the difference between a trash can and a waste basket?
Waste basket usually means a smaller bin, like one used in an office or bathroom. Trash can or garbage can usually means a larger container, like the main one in the kitchen or the big bins used outside. Kitchen trash can capacity gallons are much higher than waste basket capacity.
h4 Does the shape of the can affect its capacity?
No, the shape does not change the trash can capacity gallons. A round can and a square can that both hold 13 gallons take up the same volume of space inside. However, the shape does affect the external common trash can dimensions and how well the can fits in certain places.
h4 Can trash can capacity gallons change over time?
No, the volume a trash can holds is fixed when it’s made. Its trash can capacity gallons won’t change. However, damage (like dents) could slightly reduce the usable space.
h4 Why are tall kitchen trash cans so common?
They are common because their shape (tall and slim) fits well in the layouts of most kitchens, taking up minimal floor space while still offering a good amount of trash can capacity gallons, like 13 gallons, which suits typical household trash needs.
h4 Is a 12-gallon can very different from a 13-gallon can?
No, they are very similar. A 12-gallon can is just slightly smaller in volume than a 13-gallon can. You would likely use 13-gallon bags in a 12-gallon can as well, as they would fit closely enough. Both fall into the category of typical kitchen trash can capacity.
h4 What does trash can gallon equivalents mean?
This means showing the capacity in other units besides gallons, most often liters. It shows what the gallon measurement is equal to in a different unit of volume measurement. For example, a 13-gallon can has a trash can gallon equivalent of about 49 liters.
h4 How do I know if a trash bag is “tall kitchen”?
Tall kitchen bags are made to fit the shape and size of common kitchen cans, especially those around 10-13 gallons. The bag packaging will usually say “tall kitchen” or list the corresponding gallon capacity (like 13 gallon). They are designed to be taller to fit the height of these cans. Look for gallon capacity tall kitchen bags specifically.
h4 What is the biggest size kitchen trash can commonly used indoors?
Indoor kitchen trash cans in homes usually go up to about 20 gallons. Cans larger than this are often used in garages, patios, or for commercial use. A 15 or 20-gallon can is used in kitchens that make a lot of trash.
h4 Does the color or material of the trash can affect its capacity?
No, the color (like black, white, stainless steel) or the material (plastic, metal) does not change the trash can capacity gallons. These are features of the can’s design, not its inner volume.
h4 If I have a small kitchen, what capacity should I look for?
For a small kitchen, you might want a can with a smaller capacity to save space. A 7, 8, or 10-gallon can might be a better fit in terms of common trash can dimensions. This reduces the trash can volume in gallons but helps the can fit better. You would just need to empty it more often.
h4 How does trash compacting relate to capacity?
Some kitchen trash cans have features to help you push down or compact the trash. This allows you to fit more trash into the can before you have to take it out. While the trash can capacity gallons remains the same, compacting lets you use that volume more fully. It does not change the stated capacity, but it can make it feel like the can holds more before needing emptying.
h4 Are there specific bags for recycling bins?
Yes, you can buy bags made for recycling bins. These are often clear or blue so you can see what is inside. They also come in different sizes based on the recycling bin’s capacity in gallons. Using bags can keep the recycling bin cleaner, but some recycling centers prefer loose items without bags. Check your local rules.
h4 Can I use outdoor trash cans in the kitchen?
Outdoor trash cans are usually much larger and made from tougher material. Their common trash can dimensions and trash can capacity gallons (often 30+ gallons) make them too big for most indoor kitchen spaces. Stick to indoor-designed kitchen cans for your kitchen needs.