Trash Can Sizes: Kitchen Gallons, Dimensions & Fit Guide

Many U.S. kitchen trash cans are designed around a 13-U.S.-gallon tall kitchen bag, but trash cans do not have one universal standard size. Rubbermaid lists several 13-gallon home models with different outside dimensions; another Rubbermaid under-counter example holds 6.4 gallons, and smaller room wastebaskets hold around 3.5 to 5.25 gallons.

Choose by capacity and physical fit. A can's gallon rating describes volume, while width, depth, height, lid motion, and the bag rim determine whether it fits your cabinet and liner. Always check the exact model dimensions.

These are specific Rubbermaid product examples, not standard dimensions for every can in a capacity category. Confirm the listing's dimension order and the current specification for the exact model before buying.

A U.S. liquid gallon equals 4 quarts and 3.785 liters. So 13 gallons is about 49.2 liters, while 12 liters is about 3.17 U.S. gallons. Do not confuse U.S. gallons with Imperial gallons.

“13-gallon trash can” usually describes nominal capacity, not a guarantee that every 13-gallon liner fits every rim. Rubbermaid's under-counter model, for instance, is listed at 6.4 gallons while also fitting standard 13-gallon bags. Bag compatibility and bin capacity are different specifications.

Measure the cabinet or floor space at the narrowest point, then check the can's full outside width, depth, and height. Include the lid in its open position, foot pedal, handles, and any cabinet door or plumbing trap that reduces clearance. For under-sink use, measure below the lowest pipe and account for the door opening.

If you already own a can, look for a capacity label on its base or inside the lid. Otherwise, measure the interior dimensions and estimate volume; a tapered shape means a simple width × depth × height calculation will overstate usable capacity. Match the liner to the rim dimensions and fit rather than relying on gallons alone.

A 13-gallon can can be tall and narrow, short with a wide lid, or designed to sit under a counter. The same stated capacity can therefore take up different floor space. Lid shape, pedal, body taper, and the way a manufacturer measures nominal capacity also affect product dimensions.

When comparing a kitchen trash can size chart, use capacity to compare approximate volume and the exact model dimensions to plan fit. Product dimensions are more useful than a claimed “standard garbage can size” when checking a cabinet, pantry, or narrow kitchen space.