That's an excellent question! Finding the right liner for a standard outdoor bin can be surprisingly tricky. You'll want to look for a few key things to make waste disposal easy and mess-free.
First and foremost, focus on the size and capacity. A standard outdoor trash can is typically around 32 to 44 gallons. Check the product specifications on the box of liners to ensure they are designed for that capacity. A bag that is too small will tear, and one that is too large will be inefficient.
Next, consider the material and durability. For outdoor use, you need bags that are strong enough to handle heavier, sometimes sharper, debris without ripping. Look for keywords like "heavy-duty" or "high-density." A thickness of at least 1.5 mil is a good starting point, but for yard waste or construction debris, go for 2 mil or more.
The feature I find most useful is a drawstring closure. Drawstring bags are a game-changer for outdoor cans. They make tying and carrying the bag much simpler and help contain odors and keep pests out. They are definitely worth the slight extra cost.
Finally, think about weather resistance. While no bag is fully waterproof, some are treated to be more resistant to rain. This prevents the bag from becoming waterlogged and heavy, which can cause it to tear when you try to lift it out.
In short, for a standard-sized outdoor trash can, your best bet is a 33 to 45-gallon, heavy-duty, drawstring closure trash bag. This combination provides the perfect balance of fit, strength, and convenience for all your outdoor cleanup tasks.