That's an excellent and practical question! The short answer is: maybe, but it's not always that straightforward. While your local hardware store is a fantastic resource for many home and garden supplies, finding the correct liners for public or commercial trash bins can be a bit hit-or-miss.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown. Many hardware stores do carry a selection of trash can liners. You'll likely find standard kitchen-sized bags and possibly some larger, heavy-duty options. However, public trash receptacles, especially those in parks, on city streets, or in office buildings, often require specific sizes and durability. These bins can be much larger and see heavier use than a typical home kitchen bin.
Therefore, while you might get lucky and find a compatible size, a hardware store's selection may be limited for these specialized needs. A more reliable approach is to check the bin itself for any manufacturer labels or model numbers. You can then search online for that specific liner. Alternatively, consider janitorial supply stores or online retailers that specialize in commercial-grade cleaning and waste disposal products. They are more likely to stock the heavy-duty, large-volume bags that these public bins are designed to use. So, a hardware store is a good first stop, but don't be surprised if you need to look further to find the perfect fit.