I'm sure you've all experienced the same thing: buying tall kitchen garbage bags that are the wrong size—either too big or too small, leading to numerous inconveniences. Are you still struggling to find the right kitchen waste bags?
This article will explain how to choose the right kitchen garbage can liners, how to measure the size of tall kitchen bags, and including formulas for round and rectangular trash cans.In this article I made a simple tool to measure the size of garbage bags，Hopefully, this will help you save time and money.
What Are the Sizes of Tall Kitchen Garbage Bags?
Tall kitchen garbage bags are typically 13 gallons, the most common size for most household kitchen trash cans. These bags typically fit trash cans approximately 27 to 30 inches tall and 12 to 16 inches wide.
A standard 13 gallon tall kitchen garbage bag measures approximately 24 inches wide and 27 to 31 inches tall.
Tall kitchen trash bags have a capacity range of approximately 10 to 18 gallons:
- 13 gallons is the standard for most residential kitchen trash cans.
- 15- to 18-gallon bags are suitable for larger or high-traffic areas like break rooms or conference rooms.
- Extra tall kitchen trash bags, with a capacity of up to 30 gallons, are suitable for larger kitchen or office trash cans and are not suitable for home use.
Common Tall Kitchen Trash Bag Sizes and Their Uses
| Bag Size (Width × Height in inches) | Capacity (Gallons) | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 24 × 27 to 30 × 38 | 13 | Standard kitchen trash cans |
| 28 × 40 to 35 × 47 | 15 | Larger kitchen bins |
| 36 × 50 to 40 × 50 | 33 | Large or outdoor bins |
| 50 × 60 and above | 55+ | Industrial or heavy-duty use |
Choosing a bag size slightly larger than your calculated dimensions allows for easier handling and prevents tearing
Kitchen Trash Can Sizes and Shapes
Kitchen trash cans typically come in two main shapes:
- Round trash cans: Key dimensions are diameter and height.
- Rectangular or square bins: Require length, width, and height measurements.
Common tall kitchen trash can sizes range from 13 to 33 gallons, with heights typically between 27 and 39 inches and widths or diameters from 12 to 24 inches
| Capacity (Gallons) | Typical Height (inches) | Diameter/Width (inches) | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | 27-30 | 12-16 | Standard kitchen bins |
| 15 | 28-32 | 14-18 | Larger kitchen bins |
| 33 | 33-39 | 20-24 | Large or outdoor bins |
How to Measure Your Tall Kitchen Trash Bag Dimensions
For Round Trash Cans
- Measure the diameter across the widest part.
- Measure the height from base to rim.
- Decide on an overhang length (usually 4 to 10 inches) for the bag to drape over the bin edge.
For Rectangular or Square Bins
- Measure the length, width, and height.
- Choose an overhang length similarly.
You can use this tool to determine the exact gallon bag size to use:
Trash Bag Size Calculator
Result:
Hopefully this garbage bag size measurement tool can help you choose the right bag.
How Do I Measure a Sensor-Activated Trash Can (With an Automatic Lid Opening)?
No special bag is usually needed; standard trash bags will work. SimpleHuman offers custom sizes, which may look more comfortable but cost more.
Measure the width (or diameter) and height of the can.
- Add at least 3-5 cm (1.5-2.5 in) for extra height to ensure the bag doesn't interfere with the automatic lid opening.
- Make sure the bag is securely fastened so it doesn't block the sensor or interfere with the lid opening and closing.
How Do I Measure a Narrow (Slim) Trash Can?
This type of trash can is ideal for small apartments, apartments, bathrooms, bedrooms, and other spaces with limited space. Typical trash bag dimensions are: 1724 inches (4361 cm) wide and 2030 inches (5176 cm) high.
Trash bag dimensions: Generally, 4- to 8-gallon bags are used. Choose a bag labeled "slim fit" or "compact" for a better fit.
Measurement method:
- Width + Depth × 2 ÷ 2 ≈ Recommended bag width.
- Add 10-15 cm (0.6-1.8 in) to allow for height (for the bag's folded edge).
Brute Round Outdoor Trash Can
Applications: Large trash cans commonly used outdoors, in industrial areas, warehouses, and garages.
Common Capacities: 32 gallons, 44 gallons, and 55 gallons
Measurement Method
Measure diameter and height.
- Bag width = diameter × 1.57 (approximately half the circumference of the can)
- Bag height = can height + 10-15cm allowance.
| Trash Can Capacity | Recommended Bag Size (inches) | Approximate Gallon Range |
|---|---|---|
| 32 Gallons | 33" W × 44" H | 32–33 Gallons |
| 44 Gallons | 37" W × 50" H | 44–45 Gallons |
| 55 Gallons | 40" W × 56" H | 55–60 Gallons |
Food Waste Can / Under-Sink Waste Can Dimensions
Compact, designed for food scraps or household organic waste, perfect for under the sink.
Recommended Size:
Capacity typically ranges from 2 to 6 gallons.
Approximate bag dimensions: 1620 inches wide by 1822 inches high (4050 cm by 4555 cm).
How to measure?
- Measure the width and depth of the can opening and the height of the can.
- Select a size that fits snugly to prevent the bag from slipping.
For composting or food waste, choose compostable bags that are certified by BPI or OK Compost.
Calculating Tall Kitchen Trash Bag Dimensions
Formulas for Bag Width and Height
- Round cans:Bag Width=π×Diameter2Bag Width=2π×DiameterBag Height=Height+Overhang+Diameter2Bag Height=Height+Overhang+2Diameter
- Rectangular bins:Bag Width=Length+WidthBag Width=Length+WidthBag Height=Height+Overhang+Bag Width4Bag Height=Height+Overhang+4Bag Width
These formulas ensure the bag covers the bin fully, including the bottom, and provides enough overhang for easy closure
How to Choose a Tall Kitchen Trash Bag
Material Thickness: Kitchen trash bags are typically between 0.5 and 0.9 mils thick. Heavier or sharp trash requires thicker bags (up to 3 mils thick).
Drawstring vs. Non-Drawstring Bags: Drawstring bags are easier to seal and handle.
Odor Control: Some bags have odor-blocking technology or added kitchen-specific fragrances.
Eco-Friendly Options: We offer biodegradable or compostable bags for environmentally conscious consumers.
Bag Size: Make sure the bag fits snugly in your tall trash can and won't slip or tear.
Are You Still Experiencing These Issues?
1.What if the trash bag is too big?
Fold the excess bag over the rim of the trash can: This will help secure the bag and prevent it from sliding.
Twist and tuck: After folding the excess bag over the rim of the trash can, twist the corners of the bag and tuck it under the trash can or secure it with a clip (if your trash can has loops or slots).
Use a rubber band or bag cinch: Oversized bags can be secured to the rim of the trash can with a large rubber band or bag cinch.
If the bag is too big, use it as a liner for yard waste, storage, or moving items.
2.What if the trash bag is too small?
Put it in a smaller trash can: Repurpose a trash bag in the bathroom, bedroom, or under the sink.
Double it up: Place two smaller trash bags side by side in the same trash can—this method works best in wider trash cans.
Use only for dry/light trash: Small trash bags can still hold recyclables, paper, or other lightweight trash.
Keep it as a backup: Use it as an emergency liner or for quick cleanups around the house.
3.Are my trash bags always tearing?
Causes of tearing and tearing:
Trash bags are too thin (low mil rating): Trash bags with a thickness of less than 0.5 mils are often too thin to hold heavy or sharp trash.
Poor-quality materials: Some bags are made of fragile or low-quality plastic and tear easily.
Overfilling: Excessive filling or sharp corners (such as pizza boxes or broken glass) can cause bags to be fragile and easily break.
High temperatures: Some compostable bags soften in hot or humid environments and may break down prematurely.
Solution
Choose thicker bags: Household bags should be at least 0.9 to 1.2 mils thick, and bags for industrial use should be thicker.
Use bags made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for puncture resistance or low-density polyethylene (LDPE) for stretch and strength.
Consider using reinforced or multi-layered bags: Some brands offer tear-resistant liners with reinforced bottoms.
Where to Buy Tall Kitchen Trash Bags Size
1. Retail Stores
- Available at Walmart, Target, Costco, and local grocery stores.
- Popular brands: Glad, Hefty, Kirkland, Simplehuman
2. Online Platforms
- Amazon offers a wide variety with customer reviews and multi-pack deals.
- Specialty compostable brands like BioBag and UNNI are also available.
3. B2B Wholesale Suppliers
- Ideal for businesses, cleaning services, or institutions.
- Options for custom logos, private labeling, and eco-certifications.
4. Eco-Friendly Shops
- Look for biodegradable and compostable options at zero-waste stores or green product websites.
Pro Tip: Buy in bulk for better pricing, especially for commercial or large family use.
FAQs：
What is the standard size of kitchen trash bags?
A 13 gallon trash bag fits trash cans that are approximately 24-28 inches tall and 12-16 inches wide, depending on the shape of the can.
How many gallons is a tall kitchen trash bag?
A tall kitchen trash bag typically holds:13 gallons (or about 49 liters)
It’s designed to fit narrow and tall bins, usually placed under the counter or in a pull-out cabinet.
High-Density Vs Low-Density Trash Bags
| Feature | High-Density (HDPE) | Low-Density (LDPE) |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | Puncture-resistant | Tear-resistant and stretchy |
| Feel | Thinner, crinkly | Thicker, soft, and flexible |
| Best for | Office waste, paper, light trash | Heavy or sharp trash, food, kitchen use |
| Mil thickness range | 0.3–0.7 mil | 0.9–6 mil |
| Cost | Usually cheaper | Usually more expensive |
What does "mil" mean in trash bags?
“Mil” is a unit of measurement for thickness, where:1 mil = 0.001 inch (or 25.4 microns)
Examples:
- 0.7 mil = thin bag for light trash
- 1.2 mil = common for kitchen bags
- 3–6 mil = heavy-duty, contractor-grade
- The higher the mil, the thicker and stronger the bag.
Conclusion
Learn about tall kitchen trash bag sizes and how to accurately measure your trash can to ensure you choose the right trash bag size, whether you're searching for tall kitchen trash bag sizes, tall kitchen trash can bag sizes, or tall kitchen trash can liner sizes.
Using formulas for round and rectangular trash cans, and taking into account material and design features, can help you find trash bags that are the right size, durable, and will keep your kitchen clean and odor-free. Combine these tips and measurements to find the best kitchen trash bag for your tall trash can and enjoy a hassle-free trash disposal experience.
