Picking the right size of a trash can for the specific space in your home is important in maintaining cleanliness and organization. Despite the seeming insignificance, this decision deserves careful thought. One area where the correct sized trash can matter significantly is under the sink.
Importance of choosing the right size trash can for under the sink
The area under the sink is a hidden space that has compact size, requiring a particular kind of trash can that fits perfectly, accommodates enough waste, and is easily accessible.
Having the right sized trash can will contribute to a more organized, clean, and space-efficient kitchen while easing the worries about overflows or frequent emptying.
Factors to consider when selecting a trash can size for under the sink
When choosing the size of the trash can to fit under your sink, several factors come into play. Here are a few of them:
1- The number of household members
2- The average amount of waste generated
3- The available space under the sink
4- Your habits concerning composting, recycling, and trash disposal
Make sure to compute all these variables carefully, and you’ll find a suitable, efficient, and space-friendly trash can size under your sink. But remember, the comfort of using it is as crucial as its size and capacity.
Dimensions of Under-Sink Cabinets
The standard dimension of under-sink cabinets typically falls within 30 inches in height, about 36-42 inches in width, and 20-24 inches in depth. However, these dimensions can vary based on the overall kitchen design and specific users’ needs.
However, measuring your under-sink cabinet will confirm if it falls within this average or not. To ensure you acquire the right trash can size, the trash can must be shorter than the cabinet height to allow room for the lid.
The trash can’s size should also consider other variables like the room needed to remove and replace the trash can liner, and the space required to maneuver items stored under the sink.
Here’s a general guide:
| Under-Sink Cabinet Dimension | Recommended Trash Can Height |
|---|---|
| 30 inches | 27 – 29 inches |
Recommended sizes for under-sink trash cans
The size of under-sink trash cans largely depends on the cabinet space available. Typically, a 7–10 gallon trash can fits snugly under most sinks.
Fitting a 13-gallon trash can under the sink
A 13-gallon trash can is a standard size widely used in households, primarily due to the availability of matching trash bags.
However, fitting a 13-gallon trash can under the sink requires a generous-sized cabinet space and isn’t always feasible for smaller kitchens.
The dimensions of a 13-gallon trash can usually range between 13-15 inches wide x 17-20 inches tall.
Finally, consider the convenience of using pull-out trash cans, especially for under-sink purposes. These are easy to use and hide trash inconspicuously, while also saving floor space and maintaining aesthetic harmony in your kitchen decor.
Benefits of Under-Sink Trash Cans
Foremost, under-sink trash cans hold the benefit of space efficiency. As most under-sink cabinets have a height of roughly 30 inches, choosing trash cans that can fit under that leave room to discard waste without cluttering precious floor space – typically, a 7-10 gallon can works great.
Practicality doesn’t have to stifle style as these bins come in a range of sizes and designs to choose from, fitting various household needs.
Having the garbage can placed under the sink also prevents accidental messes by making the bin inaccessible to pets and small children.
It isn’t just safeguarding from messes, it’s also a beneficial way to maintain sanitation and ensure the kitchen retains an aesthetic appeal free from unsightly trash bins.
Selecting the appropriate trash bag size for under-sink trash cans
The size of your under-sink trash can determines the size of the trash bag you should use.
A 7–10 gallon trash can typically fits under a sink. Therefore, large trash bags would be most suitable for this size.
On the other hand, small trash bags may result in spills and messy situations as they may not accommodate all the waste.
Remember: Choosing a trash bag that's too big can also lead to inefficient space utilization, so always measure your trash can beforehand.
Apart from the right size, also consider the type of waste you dispose of. If you’re predominantly disposing of food waste, consider bags that are leak-resistant for fluid waste.
Tough, scented bags can also help manage odor if you don’t empty your trash daily.
For a family that generates a lot of waste, a 20-30 gallon trash can may be more suitable.
Pro tip: A trash bag size calculator can take the guesswork out of selecting the perfect trash bag. Just feed in your trash can’s measurements and it’ll do the rest!
Finding the right size and type of trash bag can help keep your under-sink area clean and ensure efficient waste management in your home.
Alternative Solutions
While size is a critical factor in selecting your under-the-sink trash bin, it’s not the only consideration. There are other essential points, such as the design of the bin, that can help you achieve efficient and manageable waste disposal.
Besides classic pull-out trash cans, homeowners can also consider swing-out bins for more straightforward accessibility. And if you have a small bin, simply placing it under the sink without any additional system can easily suffice.
However, for a more productive and tidy trash management system, the use of sliding or swing-out trash cans are highly recommended.
Small spaces often require more creative and efficient organization tactics.
One way is to utilize vertical drawers and tension rods for additional space optimization. Lazy Susan turntables and clear divided turntables can also make a significant difference by giving you quick and easy access to cleaning supplies and trash bags.
References
https://atonce.com/blog/what-size-is-a-kitchen-trash-can
https://www.thespruce.com/trash-can-sizes-6830748
https://tantrumsandtools.com/what-size-is-a-kitchen-trash-can-ultimate-size-guide/
https://storables.com/storage-ideas/which-trash-can-size-is-right-for-your-home-and-kitchen/
https://www.sterilite.com/product-page.html?product=10038006
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/organizing/g31940251/under-the-sink-storage-ideas/
