For a busy city sidewalk, I'd generally suggest an outdoor trash bin with a capacity between 50 and 100 gallons (approximately 190-380 liters). This size range strikes the perfect balance for high-foot-traffic urban areas. Smaller bins would require constant emptying – sometimes hourly during peak periods – creating an unsustainable maintenance burden. Larger containers might seem efficient but can become eyesores and actually encourage improper disposal of oversized items.
The 50-100 gallon capacity allows for adequate waste collection between service cycles while preventing the common urban problem of overflow. When bins overflow, litter spreads across sidewalks, creating sanitation issues and attracting pests. In particularly dense urban corridors like those near transit hubs or tourist areas, multiple bins in this capacity range placed at regular intervals prove more effective than fewer, larger containers.
Consider durable, commercial-grade materials like powder-coated steel or heavy-duty plastic that withstand constant use and varying weather conditions. Look for designs with secure lids to minimize wind-scattered litter and openings that discourage rummaging. The right bin capacity, combined with an appropriate maintenance schedule, keeps city sidewalks clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone.