The standard kitchen trash can holds 13 gallons (about 49 L). It stands roughly 25–27 inches (63–68 cm) tall.
Sizes shift by brand, shape, and lid style. This guide gives kitchen trash can dimensions in inches and cm, plus quart and liter sizes, bag fit, and a simple way to pick the right can.
Table of Contents
Standard Kitchen Trash Can Size in Inches and CM
What is the standard size of a kitchen trash can? It is 13 gallons. Hefty states that the standard size for kitchen trash cans is 13 gal. It lists a typical tall kitchen can at 24–28 in (61–71 cm) high and 12–16 in (30–41 cm) wide, with a 10–16 gallon capacity.
What is the normal size for a kitchen bin? Most homes use a 10–13 gallon bin, according to Hefty’s kitchen bag guide. The 13-gallon can is the most common pick.
Here are real 13 gallon trash can dimensions from popular brands:
| Model | Height | Width | Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| simplehuman rectangular step can | 25.7 in / 65 cm | 19.8 in / 50 cm | 12.8 in / 33 cm |
| simplehuman semi-round step can | 26.6 in / 68 cm | 18.9 in / 48 cm | 14 in / 36 cm |
| Kohler step can | 26.4 in / 67 cm | 16.8 in / 43 cm | 13 in / 33 cm |
| Glad stainless step can | 25 in / 64 cm | 17.75 in / 45 cm | 17.25 in / 44 cm |
The range is clear. A 13-gallon kitchen can is 25–27 in tall, 17–20 in wide, and 13–17 in deep.
Kitchen Trash Can Sizes by Gallon, Quart and Liter
What are the different sizes of kitchen trash cans? Kitchen cans run from about 4 to 20 gallons. Small bins suit bathrooms and tiny kitchens. The 10–13 gallon range suits most homes. Larger cans suit families that cook daily.
Understanding the dimensions of everyday containers makes it easier to compare their sizes and choose the right fit for different spaces. For another useful size guide, explore the Celsius can measurements in inches and centimeters to learn about its height, diameter, and slim design.
One gallon equals 4 quarts or 3.79 liters. Use this chart to convert:
| Gallons | Quarts | Liters |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 16 | 15 |
| 8 | 32 | 30 |
| 10 | 40 | 38 |
| 12 | 48 | 45 |
| 13 | 52 | 49 |
| 16 | 64 | 61 |
| 20 | 80 | 76 |
Brands round their numbers. A “50 L” can is often listed as 13.2 gallons.
How tall is a 40 qt trash can? A 40 qt can is 10 gallons. Height depends on the style:
| 40 qt style | Height | Width | Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open plastic wastebasket (41 qt) | 20 in / 51 cm | 15.75 in / 40 cm | 11.25 in / 29 cm |
| Slim open steel can (40 L) | 25 in / 64 cm | 17 in / 43 cm | 10 in / 25 cm |
| Step-on can with lid (10.5 gal) | 24–26 in / 61–66 cm | 14–16 in / 36–41 cm | 11.6–14 in / 29–35 cm |
Watch the units. 40 liters is not 40 quarts. A 40 L can holds about 10.6 gallons, or 42 quarts.
Round, Rectangular and Slim Kitchen Trash Can Dimensions
Rectangular cans hug the wall and fit tight corners. Slim cans keep the depth near 10–13 in. Semi-round cans have a flat back, so they sit flush against cabinets.
Do not skip the lid. A step can needs room above it. The simplehuman 50 L can is 25.7 in tall, but 35.1 in with the lid open. A 10.5 gallon step can adds about 10 in, going from 24 in to 33.8 in. Check the space under your counter or shelf.
For under-sink spots, measure the cabinet opening first. Pipes often cut the usable height.
How to Choose the Right Kitchen Trash Can Size
Follow these steps:
- Measure the spot. Check width, depth, and height. Add the open-lid height.
- Match the household. Hefty points small households toward 10–13 gallons. Larger homes can go up to 16 gallons or more.
- Match the bag. A 13-gallon bag is about 23–24 in wide and 24–27 in tall (58–61 by 61–69 cm).
Bags do not always match can gallons. simplehuman says standard 13-gallon bags may fit its 13-gallon can a bit tight. It recommends its own 13–17 gallon liner. Hefty advises leaving 1–2 inches of overhang.
Brands matter here. Rubbermaid, Sterilite, iTouchless, and Glad each cut their cans a little differently. Always read the spec sheet.
FAQs
What is the standard size of a kitchen trash can?
13 gallons (49 L). It stands about 25–27 inches (63–68 cm) tall.
What are the different sizes of kitchen trash cans?
They range from about 4 to 20 gallons (15–76 L). Most homes use 10–13 gallons.
What is the normal size for a kitchen bin?
A 10–13 gallon bin is normal. The 13-gallon can is the most common.
How tall is a 40 qt trash can?
An open 40 qt wastebasket is about 20 inches (51 cm) tall. A step can with a lid runs 24–26 inches (61–66 cm).
Conclusion
A standard kitchen trash can is 13 gallons and about 25–27 inches tall. Measure your space, add the lid height, and match your bags before you buy.
Rehmaan Khan is a Measurement Content Researcher Specializing in MLmeasurement, Size Guides, Charts, and Simple Educational Measurement Content.