Garbage bag are a common item in our daily lives, but choosing the wrong size is frustrating. Bags that are too small can easily tear and spill garbage everywhere. Bags that are too large waste money and plastic. But how do you find What Size Garbage Bag Do I Need?
The perfect garbage bag fits your bin’s height, width, and shape while leaving 2-3 inches for tying. Measure your trash can’s dimensions and match them to standard bag sizes (like 13 gal for kitchen bins) to avoid leaks, tears, or unnecessary plastic waste.
Choosing the right garbage bag size might seem simple, but using the wrong size can lead to spills, wasted materials, or unnecessary costs. Whether you’re buying for your home, office, or a commercial setting, this guide will help you determine the best garbage bag size based on your trash can.
This guide will show you how to measure your trash can, choose the right garbage bag sizes, and avoid common mistakes. Let’s get started!
BPI certified custom compostable trash bags with logo printing
Why Garbage Bag Size Matters?
A too-small bag rips under pressure. A too-large one sags and wastes material. Both scenarios cost you time and money.
Correct sizing prevents leaks, optimizes space, and reduces plastic use by 22% (EPA data). For most households, using properly fitted 13-gallon bags saves $50/year versus mismatched sizes.
Key Problems with Wrong Sizes
| Issue | Small Bag | Large Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Waste | Frequent replacements | Excess plastic |
| Cost | Higher long-term spend | Unused capacity |
| Convenience | Overflows easily | Hard to tie |
Measure twice to buy once. Even compostable bags need precise sizGarbage Bag Size Calculatoring to maximize eco-benefits.
Standard Common Garbage Bag Sizes / Garbage Bag Sizes in Inches Chart ?
North American bags use gallons, but dimensions matter more than volume labels.
Most homes need 13-gallon (24″×27″) bags for kitchen bins. Commercial spaces require 30-33 gallon bags. Always check your measurements against this chart, garbage bag size chart as follows
| Trash Can Size (Gallons) | Can Dimensions (Approx.) | Recommended Bag Size (Inches) | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4–6 Gallon | 9” x 12” x 17” | 17” x 20” | Bathroom, Bedroom |
| 8–10 Gallon | 12” x 10” x 19” | 20” x 22” | Office, Laundry Room |
| 13 Gallon | 14” x 11” x 24” | 24” x 27” | Kitchen Standard Bin |
| 20 Gallon | 16” x 12” x 27” | 26” x 30” | Garage, Workshops |
| 33–39 Gallon | 20” x 16” x 34” | 33” x 39” | Outdoor, Commercial |
| 45–55 Gallon | 24” x 22” x 38” | 38” x 48” | Industrial, Warehouse |
Metric Conversion
- 1 gallon ≈ 3.78 liters
- 13 gal = 49 liters
- 30 gal = 114 liters
Garbage Bag Sizes in Gallons
| Bag Size (Inches) | Approx. Capacity (Gallons) | Common Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| 16 x 17 | 3 gallons ,4 gallons | Small countertop compost bins |
| 17 x 18 | 5 gallons | Small kitchen compost bins |
| 23 x 29 | 13 gallons | Standard kitchen trash cans |
| 24 x 33 | 13 – 15 gallons | Tall kitchen bins |
| 30 x 39 | 30 gallons | Medium-size outdoor/indoor bins |
| 33 x 48 | 45 gallons | Larger bins (commercial/industrial) |
1 gallon, 2 gallon,Suitable for small cars or caddy compostable bin liners
Trash Bag Dimensions Vs. Round/Rectangular Trash Can Dimensions
Selecting the correct trash bag size for your trash can is essential to ensure a proper fit and prevent issues like slipping or tearing. The method to determine the appropriate bag dimensions varies based on the shape of your trash can—round or rectangular. Here’s a guide to help you calculate the right size:
For Round Trash Cans:
- Measure the Diameter and Height:
- Diameter (D): Measure the distance across the top of the can.
- Height (H): Measure from the bottom to the top edge of the can.
- Calculate the Bag Width:
- Multiply the diameter by π (approximately 3.14) to find the circumference.
- Divide the circumference by 2 to get half the circumference.
- Add 4 inches for overhang.
- Calculate the Bag Length:
- Add the height of the can to half of the diameter.
- Add 4 inches for overhang.
Example Calculation:
- Trash Can Dimensions:
- Diameter: 18 inches
- Height: 24 inches
- Bag Width:
- (18 inches × 3.14) / 2 + 4 inches = 32.26 inches
- Bag Length:
- 24 inches + (18 inches / 2) + 4 inches = 37 inches
Recommended Bag Size: 32 x 37 inches
| Trash bin diameter*height (inches) | Trash bag width*height (inches) | Capacity (gallons) |
|---|---|---|
| 10*20 | 31.4*30 | 10-15 |
| 12*24 | 37.68*34 | 15-20 |
| 15*24 | 47.1*34 | 20-25 |
| 18*28 | 56.52*38 | 25-35 |
| 20*30 | 62.8*40 | 30-40 |
| 22*30 | 69.08*40 | 35-50 |
For Rectangular or Square Trash Cans:
- Measure the Length, Width, and Height:
- Length (L): Measure the longer side of the can’s opening.
- Width (W): Measure the shorter side of the can’s opening.
- Height (H): Measure from the bottom to the top edge of the can.
- Calculate the Bag Width:
- Add the length and width.
- Divide the sum by 2.
- Add 4 inches for overhang.
- Calculate the Bag Length:
- Add the height of the can to half of the smaller dimension (width or length).Add 4 inches for overhang.
| Trash bin widthlengthheight (inches) | Trash bag width*height (inches) | Capacity (gallons) |
|---|---|---|
| 10*14*18 | 75.36*28 | 20-25 |
| 12*18*24 | 94.2*34 | 25-30 |
| 15*24*28 | 122.52*38 | 30-40 |
| 20*30*28 | 157.0*38 | 40-50 |
| 24*36*36 | 188.4*46 | 50-60 |
How to Measure Your Trash Can for the Right Bag
Ever bought bags that slipped inside your bin? Accurate measurements solve this.
Measure your trash can’s height (include folded rim), width/diameter, and shape. For round bins: Bag width = 1.5 × can diameter. For square bins: Add 1 inch to length/width.
How to Measure Your Trash Can for the Right Bag
Step-by-Step Measuring Guide
- Height:
- Measure from base to rim
- Add 3″ if folding rim over
- Width:
- Circular bins: Measure diameter, multiply by 1.5
- Rectangular bins: Measure length + width
- Volume:
- Round: π × (radius)² × height
- Square: length × width × height
Pro tip: For compostable bags, add 5% to dimensions—they’re thicker than plastic.
A 24-inch tall round bin with a 16-inch diameter would require:
- Width: 16 × 3.14 = 50.24 ÷ 2 = ~25″ (half the circumference)
- Height: 24″ + 4″ = 28″
Recommended bag size: 25″ x 28″
Trash Bag Measurements Calculator
HOW Choosing Bags by Trash Can Type
Not all bins are created equal. A bathroom bag won’t suit a diaper pail.
Match bag features to your bin’s purpose. Kitchen bags need durability; compost bags need certifications. Consider these scenarios:
Home Use
- Kitchen: 13 gal, 1.5+ mil thickness
- Bathroom: 4-8 gal, scented options
- Diaper pails: Antimicrobial, tie-handle
Business Use
- Offices: 8 gal with drawstrings
- Restaurants: 30 gal, grease-resistant
Specialty bins like narrow mouth or square designs need custom-sized bags.
Eco-Friendly Bag Sizing Tips
Compostable bags are 15% thicker—choose slightly larger sizes. For ORIZON’s certified compostable bags, we recommend:
| Standard Size | Compostable Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 13 gal | 14 gal capacity |
| 8 gal | 8.5 gal |
Reduce waste by:
- Avoiding oversized bags
- Using kitchen scraps bins
- Choosing BPI-certified options
different size garbage bags
Where to Buy Garbage Bags
Online Marketplaces:
Amazon – A wide selection of garbage bags, including compostable, biodegradable, and regular options, with the convenience of customer reviews and fast delivery.
eBay – Another platform where you can find both bulk and smaller quantities of garbage bags, often at discounted prices.
Walmart – Offers both online and in-store shopping for garbage bags of all sizes and types, including compostable options.
Target – Provides eco-friendly and traditional garbage bags with a variety of sizes and features.
Home Depot – Known for offering a wide range of trash bags, including heavy-duty, compostable, and biodegradable bags.
Our garbage bags are also preferred by some power tool manufacturers.
Physical Stores:
Supermarkets – Most large grocery stores (like Walmart, Target, Kroger, or Costco) carry a variety of kitchen and garbage bags.
Home Improvement Stores – Stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot carry garbage bags for household or commercial use.
Eco-Friendly Stores – If you’re looking for compostable bags, you can find them at eco-focused stores like Whole Foods or local sustainable product shops.
B2B Suppliers (for Wholesale):
If you’re looking for bulk or customized garbage bags, you can also purchase them from B2B marketplaces such as:
- Alibaba
- Made-in-China.com
- IndiaMART
| Channel Type | Platform / Store | Features & Product Types | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Marketplaces | Amazon | Wide selection of garbage bags including compostable, biodegradable, and regular options; customer reviews and fast delivery | Convenient and diverse options |
| eBay | Offers bulk and smaller quantities of garbage bags, often at discounted prices | Good for deals and variety | |
| Walmart | Online and in-store shopping for all sizes and types, including compostable bags | Large retailer with broad coverage | |
| Target | Eco-friendly and traditional garbage bags in various sizes and features | Suitable for household use | |
| Home Depot | Known for heavy-duty, compostable, and biodegradable bags for home and commercial use | Home improvement specialty store | |
| Physical Stores | Supermarkets | Large grocery chains like Walmart, Target, Kroger, Costco carry a variety of kitchen and garbage bags | Convenient for everyday shopping |
| Home Improvement Stores | Lowe’s, Home Depot offer garbage bags for household and commercial use | Suitable for heavy-duty needs | |
| Eco-Friendly Stores | Stores like Whole Foods and local sustainable shops offer compostable bags | Focused on eco-friendly products | |
| B2B Suppliers (Wholesale) | Alibaba | Bulk and customized garbage bags, ideal for wholesale and OEM orders | International wholesale platform |
| Made-in-China.com | Chinese wholesale platform offering diverse garbage bag products and customization | Competitive pricing | |
| IndiaMART | Indian wholesale marketplace supporting bulk purchasing and customization | Emerging market wholesale channel |
How Much Is Trash Bags
1. Regular Trash Bags:
Small (4–8 gallon): Around $10–$20 for a pack of 100.
Medium (10–13 gallon): Typically $15–$30 for a pack of 50-100 bags.
Large (30–55 gallon): Around $25–$50 for a pack of 30-50 bags.
2. Compostable/Biodegradable Trash Bags:
Small (3–8 gallon): Around $15–$25 for a pack of 50-100 bags.
Medium (10–13 gallon): Typically $20–$40 for 50-100 bags.
Large (30–55 gallon): Around $30–$60 for 30-50 bags.
3. Heavy-Duty Trash Bags:
Medium to large sizes (13–55 gallon): Typically $30–$60 for a pack of 20-40 bags.
For the specific price of garbage bags, you need to consult the manufacturer or supplier of garbage bags, because the price of each manufacturer is different.
How to Avoid Common Mistakes
Mistake 1: Ignoring shape. A “13-gallon” bag might not fit your rectangular bin.
Mistake 2: Skipping thickness checks. Compare mil ratings:
- 0.9 mil: Light duty
- 1.5 mil: Daily use
- 2.0+ mil: Heavy debris
Mistake 3: Using outdoor bags indoors. They’re often oversized and noisy.
How to Save Money on the Right Size
Buy in bulk, but calculate first. A 200-count of mis-sized bags wastes more than a pricier perfect-fit pack. Try these tips:
- Wholesale clubs: Costco’s 13-gal packs cost 30% less per bag.
- Subscription: Amazon’s auto-delivery offers 15% discounts.
- Thinner bags: For low-weight trash like office paper.
amazon kitchen garbage bags
Conclusion
Measure your bin, match the chart, and consider usage needs. The right bag size saves money and reduces waste—especially with compostable options. Need custom sizes? Contact us for OEM solutions.
FAQ: Your Garbage Bag Sizing Questions Answered
What is the largest size of garbage bags?
The largest common garbage bags are extra-large heavy-duty bags with capacities up to around 158 liters (about 42 gallons), typically used for commercial or construction waste.
What is the smallest size garbage bag?
Small garbage bags usually range from 4 to 9 gallons, designed for bathroom or small office bins.
What size are tall kitchen garbage bags?
Tall kitchen garbage bags typically measure about 24 inches wide by 33 inches tall and hold around 13 gallons, suitable for most kitchen trash cans.
What size garbage bag for 32 gallon can?
For a 32-gallon trash can, bags sized around 30 to 33 gallons capacity are recommended to ensure a proper fit and overhang.
What size bag fits a 13-gallon kitchen bin?
Look for 24″×27″ dimensions. Most “13-gallon” labels match this.
Can I use a 13-gal bag in a 10-gal can?
Yes, but fold excess material under the rim to prevent slipping.
How do I stop bags from slipping into the can?
Choose bags with fitted edges or drawstrings. Measure your can’s outer rim.
Are drawstring bags better than flat ones?
Drawstrings seal odors but cost 20% more. Best for kitchens.
