That's an excellent and practical question. Getting the capacity right is crucial for keeping a busy sidewalk clean and functional. For a typical busy urban sidewalk, you should generally look for a trash can with a capacity between 30 and 55 gallons (approximately 110 to 210 liters).
The most common and often ideal choice is a 40 to 45-gallon bin. This size strikes a balance, holding a substantial amount of waste without becoming too heavy or cumbersome for collection crews to empty. A bin this size can typically service a high-foot-traffic area for a full business day without overflowing, assuming regular collection.
Here are the key factors to consider when deciding within that range:
1. Foot Traffic Volume: Is this a moderately busy corner or a jam-packed transit hub? More people generate more waste (cups, wrappers, takeout containers). For extremely heavy traffic, lean toward 50-55 gallons. For steady but manageable flow, 35-40 gallons may suffice.
2. Collection Frequency: How often will it be emptied? If collections are scheduled twice daily, you can potentially use a smaller bin (30-35 gal). If collection is only once per day, especially in the evening, a larger bin (45-55 gal) is essential to prevent midday overflows.
3. Bin Design and Opening Size: Capacity isn't just about volume. A bin with a small or inconvenient opening will fill up *functionally* long before it's *physically* full, as people won't bother to properly dispose of bulky items. Look for a wide opening or a design that guides waste in easily.
4. Liner Compatibility: Ensure the bin uses standard, heavy-duty liners for the chosen capacity. This makes sanitation staff's job faster and cleaner.
5. Local Wildlife & Security: In many cities, secure lids are necessary to deter pests. A locking lid or a narrow, weighted flap can reduce capacity slightly but is often a worthwhile trade-off for cleanliness.
Final Recommendation: Start with a 45-gallon commercial-grade litter bin with a wide mouth and a secure, user-friendly lid. Monitor it for a week. If it overflows daily before collection, upgrade to a 55-gallon model. If it's rarely more than half-full, a smaller 35-gallon model might be more cost-effective and space-efficient. The goal is a bin that contains the waste between collections, maintaining a tidy and welcoming streetscape.