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Garbage Bag and Can Liner Sizer

Trash Bag Size Calculator

Find the right trash bag size for round, square, or rectangular cans. Measure the opening and height to calculate bag width, bag height, estimated gallons, and the closest common liner size.

Round, Square, and Rectangular Cans

Find the Right Trash Bag Size

Measure the can opening and height to calculate liner width, liner height, estimated gallons, and the closest common trash bag size.

Common Cans
in
Can Width slider
436 in
in
Can Depth slider
436 in
in
Can Height slider
660 in
Measurement tip: measure the can opening at the widest point. Add extra height if you want the liner to fold over the rim.

How to Measure for a Trash Bag

Start by measuring the can opening. For a round can, measure diameter. For a rectangular can, measure width and depth. Then measure the can height and add several inches of overhang so the liner can fold over the rim.

Trash Bag Size Chart

Bag Size
Common Dimensions
Typical Use
4 Gallon
17 x 18 in
Small bathroom, desk, or bedroom bin
8 Gallon
20 x 22 in
Bathroom, bedroom, or small office can
10 Gallon
24 x 24 in
Small kitchen or utility bin
13 Gallon
24 x 33 in
Standard tall kitchen trash can
20 Gallon
30 x 32 in
Medium utility or breakroom can
30-33 Gallon
30-33 x 36-39 in
Large indoor/outdoor trash can
39-45 Gallon
33-40 x 46-48 in
Tall outdoor or commercial can
55 Gallon
38 x 58 in
Contractor cleanup or drum liner

Round vs Rectangular Trash Can Formula

Round Can

Bag width = diameter x 3.14 / 2. Bag height = can height + overhang.

Square Can

Bag width = side x 2. Bag height = can height + overhang.

Rectangular Can

Bag width = width + depth. Bag height = can height + overhang.

What Size Trash Bag for a 13 Gallon Can?

A standard 13 gallon kitchen trash bag is commonly about 24 x 33 inches. That size fits many tall kitchen cans, but a wide rectangular can, thick rim, or loose-fit preference may need a larger liner.

Why Gallons Alone Can Be Misleading

Two trash cans can hold the same gallons but have different shapes. A tall narrow can and a short wide can may need different liner dimensions, so measuring width and height is more reliable than using capacity alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Calculate Garbage Bag Size?+

For a round can, bag width equals diameter x 3.14 / 2. For a rectangular can, bag width equals width + depth. Add overhang to height.

What Size Trash Bag Fits a 13 Gallon Can?+

Most 13 gallon kitchen trash cans use a 24 x 33 inch bag, but tall or wide cans may need a slightly larger liner.

What Size Trash Bag for a 27 Quart Can?+

A 27 quart can is about 6.75 gallons. Many 8 gallon bags fit, but measure the opening and height to confirm.

How Can I Tell What Size My Garbage Can Is?+

Measure width, depth, and height for rectangular cans, or diameter and height for round cans. Capacity in gallons is only a rough shortcut.