That's a great question! Lining a uniquely shaped trash can in a city apartment can be a real puzzle. The best way usually involves a mix of measurement, flexibility, and sometimes a simple DIY hack.
First, get the exact dimensions. Measure the height, the top opening's length and width (or diameter), and the bottom. Don't forget the depth if it's a tapered shape. Armed with these numbers, you can search online for "custom trash bags" or "liner for irregular bin." Several companies make bags to order.
If a custom bag isn't an option, look for flexible and stretchy liners, like tall kitchen bags or drawstring bags made from thin, forgiving plastic. They often conform to odd shapes better than stiff bags. For a rectangular but narrow can, consider using two standard small bags side-by-side to cover the base and walls.
A clever DIY trick is to use a universal fit can liner bag. These are often oversized with gusseted sides. You can place it in, push it into the corners, and then fold or roll the excess material neatly over the rim. For very deep or tapered cans, sometimes simply using a much larger bag and gathering the excess at the top is the most effective solution.
Ultimately, the best way is to find a liner that minimizes gaps and overhang, contains leaks, and makes removal easy. A little time spent finding the right fit saves you from messes and frustration later. Happy lining