That's a great and very practical question! Many of us have stood in front of our outdoor bin with a roll of standard kitchen bags, wondering the same thing. The short answer is: often, yes, but with some important considerations.
Standard 13-gallon kitchen bags are designed for indoor step cans. When used in a larger, often cylindrical outdoor bin, they might not fit perfectly. The bag might not reach the top rim, leaving the can's interior exposed, or it might be too narrow, causing it to slip down inside.
For a good fit, check your can's capacity. A standard 30-35 gallon outdoor trash can might loosely accommodate two 13-gallon bags side-by-side or one larger bag. For a secure hold, look for bags labeled "Tall Kitchen" or "Large Drawstring" which are often longer. The key is to ensure the bag's lip can securely hook over the can's rim to prevent collapsing.
A major tip for outdoor use is to secure the bag tightly. Wind and heavier outdoor debris can cause a poorly-fitted bag to tear or get pulled into the can. Using a drawstring bag and tying it securely, or even using a bungee cord across the top of the can, can make all the difference.
While standard bags can work in a pinch, for optimal durability and fit, outdoor-specific trash bags are worth it. They are typically thicker to resist punctures from branches or sharp packaging and come in sizes that match common outdoor bin capacities.
So, go ahead and use that standard roll if needed, especially for lighter, dry waste. For heavy yard waste or wet kitchen scraps, sizing up or using a tougher bag will save you from messy clean-ups. Always prioritize a secure fit to keep your outdoor space neat.