When walking through any city, you'll notice various public trash cans lining the streets, parks, and public spaces. The most commonly encountered size for standard public urban trash cans typically ranges between 20 to 35 gallons (approximately 75 to 130 liters). This capacity has become something of an industry standard for several practical reasons.
A 20-35 gallon trash can strikes the perfect balance between capacity and practicality. It's large enough to hold a substantial amount of waste from pedestrians and visitors throughout the day without becoming overwhelmingly heavy for sanitation workers to empty. These containers are usually emptied daily or multiple times per day in high-traffic areas, making this size manageable for collection crews.
You'll find these standard-sized bins made from durable materials like powder-coated steel, recycled plastic, or galvanized metal, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and potential vandalism. Many feature iconic dome tops or side-opening designs that help contain odors and prevent litter from being scattered by wind or animals.
Municipalities often choose this size range because it fits well within urban landscapes without obstructing sidewalks or becoming eyesores. Larger containers might require less frequent emptying but could dominate public spaces, while smaller ones would need constant attention from maintenance crews. The 20-35 gallon sweet spot allows for efficient waste management while maintaining aesthetic considerations that cities prioritize.
In high-density areas like downtown districts, transit stations, or popular tourist spots, you might encounter slightly larger containers up to 50 gallons, but the 20-35 gallon range remains the workhorse of urban waste management systems across most cities worldwide.