That's an excellent question that many facility managers and urban planners consider when maintaining public spaces. The answer isn't straightforward - it depends entirely on the specific trash cans in question.
Most standard public trash receptacles do use standardized liner sizes. Common dimensions you'll encounter include 30-35 gallon bags for larger standalone bins and 10-20 gallon bags for smaller pedestrian cans. Major manufacturers like Toter, Rubbermaid, and United Solutions typically design their products to accommodate readily available commercial-grade liners.
However, custom-sized liners become necessary for several scenarios. Unique or architecturally specific trash cans, specialized compartments in recycling stations, and proprietary designs from certain manufacturers often require custom-fitted liners. Many cities discover this when they invest in distinctive street furniture that matches their urban aesthetic but doesn't accommodate standard bags.
The material choice also varies significantly. While standard polyethylene bags work for general waste, many municipalities now opt for heavier-duty materials or compostable alternatives for specific waste streams. The thickness (measured in mils) typically ranges from 0.9 to 3.0 mil for different applications.
To determine your needs, start by measuring your bins' interior dimensions - width, depth, and height. Then compare these to commercial liner specifications. Don't forget to account for the overhang needed for easy tying and removal. Many suppliers offer sizing charts that make this comparison straightforward.
Whether you end up with standard or custom liners, the key considerations remain the same: secure fit, adequate capacity, durability for the specific waste type, and cost-effectiveness over time. Many urban operations use a mix of both - standard sizes for common receptacles and custom orders for specialized installations.