That's an excellent and practical question! For a commercial-grade trash can in an urban setting, you're not just looking for any plastic bag. You need a liner that can handle high volume, rough use, and public environments. Here’s what to prioritize:
First, focus on material and thickness. Look for heavy-duty or contractor-grade bags. Their thickness is measured in mils (thousandths of an inch). For a public bin, you'll want bags in the 3 to 6 mil range. They resist tears from sharp debris and heavy loads much better than flimsy retail bags.
Size is critical. The liner must fit snugly inside the can. A bag that's too small will slip down; one that's too large is wasteful and messy. Measure your can's internal dimensions (height, width, and depth) and check the manufacturer's gallon capacity for the liners. A proper fit prevents overfilling and makes removal easier for sanitation crews.
Given the variety of urban waste, leak and puncture resistance is non-negotiable. Choose bags with leak-proof technology or gusseted bottoms to contain liquids from food scraps or drinks. This protects the bin itself from stains and odors, a major maintenance win.
Finally, consider sustainability. Many cities now require or prefer recycled-content bags or those certified for compost collection (if you're separating organics). Using the right spec bag streamlines the entire waste handling process.
In short, your ideal urban commercial liner is a thick, correctly sized, leak-resistant bag designed for the specific waste stream it will collect. It’s a small investment that ensures cleanliness, efficiency, and easier maintenance for your public spaces.