Trash Bag Size Calculator
Find the right trash bag size for your bin.
Enter your bin dimensions to get the recommended bag size in gallons or liters.
Trash bag sizing matches bag dimensions to bin volume, ensuring the bag fits properly with enough overhang to fold over the rim without slipping in or bunching at the bottom.
Bin volume formula (rectangular bins): Volume (cubic inches) = Height × Width × Depth (all in inches) Volume (gallons) = Cubic Inches ÷ 231
For cylindrical bins: Volume (gallons) = π × radius² × height ÷ 231
Bag sizing rules:
- Bag height should be approximately equal to the bin height plus 4–6 inches for the fold-over lip
- Bag circumference should be ≥ bin circumference (measure around the widest point of the opening)
- 1 gallon = 231 cubic inches = 3.785 liters
Standard bin sizes and recommended bags:
| Bin Type | Bin Size | Bag Size |
|---|---|---|
| Bathroom wastebasket | 1.5–3 gal | 4–6 gallon bags |
| Office trash can | 3–7 gal | 7–10 gallon bags |
| Standard kitchen bin | 12–15 gal | 13 gallon bags |
| Tall kitchen bin | 13–16 gal | 13–16 gallon bags |
| Large indoor bin | 20–25 gal | 20–30 gallon bags |
| Outdoor wheelie bin | 32–45 gal | 33–45 gallon bags |
| Contractor/yard waste | 55–65 gal | 55–65 gallon bags |
Bag thickness (mil) guide:
- 0.7–0.9 mil: Light duty (office paper, bathroom waste)
- 1.0–1.2 mil: Standard duty (household kitchen waste)
- 1.5–2.0 mil: Heavy duty (wet waste, sharp objects)
- 3.0+ mil: Contractor bags (construction debris, yard waste)
Worked example: A kitchen bin measures 12 in × 12 in × 24 in tall. Volume = 12 × 12 × 24 ÷ 231 = 3,456 ÷ 231 = 14.96 gallons Best fit: 13–16 gallon bags with drawstring closures.
How we build and check this calculator
This calculator runs entirely in your browser, so the numbers you enter stay on your device. The math behind it is written by hand and tested against worked examples and standard references before the page goes live.
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