That's a great and practical question! For a family of four living in an urban setting, the sweet spot for your main kitchen trash can is typically between 12 to 16 gallons (approximately 45 to 60 liters).
Here’s a more detailed breakdown to help you decide:
Why 12-16 Gallons?
This range usually handles about a week's worth of general kitchen waste for four people, assuming you have regular municipal collection (often weekly or bi-weekly in cities). A 13-gallon can is the most common standard size and often fits perfectly under a kitchen sink. It's large enough to avoid constant overflows but not so huge that bags sit for too long, which can lead to odors, especially in a compact urban kitchen.
Key Factors to Consider:
1. Collection Schedule: This is crucial. If your trash is collected twice a week, you can comfortably opt for a smaller can (10-12 gallons). If it's only once a week, lean toward the larger end (14-16 gallons) to prevent overflow.
2. Your Recycling & Composting Habits: Do you separate recyclables (plastics, glass, paper) and food scraps? The more you divert, the smaller your main trash can needs to be. Many urban families use a small kitchen caddy for compost and a dedicated bin for recycling, significantly reducing landfill-bound waste.
3. Kitchen Layout & Lifestyle: Measure your space! A sleek, tall 16-gallon can might work in a corner, while a pull-out bin under the sink is limited to specific dimensions. Also, consider if you cook at home most nights or order takeout frequently—more home cooking generally means more food packaging and prep waste.
Practical Recommendation:
Start with a 13-gallon trash can as your baseline. It's a versatile size. If you find it overflowing before collection day, you know you need to size up or increase recycling efforts. If it's rarely more than half full, you could downsize.
Don't Forget Other Bins!
Your overall waste system should include:
* A smaller bin (5-7 gallons) for the bathroom.
* A dedicated recycling bin (a 12-16 gallon container or multiple smaller ones is ideal for a family of four).
* A small countertop compost caddy if your city offers food scrap collection.
Ultimately, the best size is one that fits your space, matches your collection schedule, and doesn't create a nuisance. It's better to have a slightly larger can that never fills completely than a constantly overflowing one.