That's an excellent question, and one that many people overlook when setting up their kitchen or utility area. For corner placement, a round trash can is often the better choice. Here’s why in a more natural, conversational way.
Think about the shape of a corner—it's two walls meeting at a 90-degree angle. A round bin fits snugly into that V-shaped space. There are no sharp corners to bump into, which makes moving around it feel smoother and safer, especially in a busy kitchen. It just tucks away neatly.
Now, a square bin might seem like it would fit perfectly because corners are right angles, right? In practice, it often doesn't. When you push a square bin into a corner, the back two corners can press right against the walls. This can scuff your paint or wallpaper over time. A round bin only makes contact at a single, central point on each wall, minimizing wear and tear.
From a capacity standpoint, square bins generally hold more, which is a point in their favor. But for a corner, you often sacrifice some of that practical capacity because the bin can be harder to access and open fully if it's a tight fit. A round, pedal-bin style is typically easier to use in a confined corner space.
Ultimately, it comes down to your priorities. If you want a seamless look that maximizes maneuverability and protects your walls, go for a round trash can. If you need absolute maximum volume and the corner is very spacious, a square one could work. But for most urban homes where space is at a premium, the round option is the more practical and stylish winner for that corner spot.