That's a great question! Figuring out the right size outdoor trash can for a family of four is all about balancing capacity with practicality. You don't want one so small you're taking out the trash every day, or so large it's awkward to handle and sits half-empty for weeks.
A good starting point is the general rule of thumb: allocate about 12-15 gallons of capacity per person in your household. For a family of four, this points you toward a can in the 64 to 96-gallon range. This is typically the standard size provided by many municipal waste services.
However, consider these key factors to fine-tune your choice:
1. Your Collection Schedule: How often is your trash picked up? Weekly pickup often works well with a 64-gallon can. If you have bi-weekly (every other week) pickup, you'll likely need the larger 96-gallon capacity to avoid overflow.
2. Your Household's Habits: Do you cook at home most nights, generating more food packaging and scraps? Do you use a lot of bulky packaging from online shopping? A larger family with active cooking and shopping habits will need more space.
3. Recycling & Composting: Do you recycle and compost diligently? Diverting recyclables (plastics, glass, cardboard) and food waste into separate bins significantly reduces the volume going into your main trash can. If you're proactive here, you might manage perfectly well with a 32 or 48-gallon can.
4. Physical Considerations: Can the person who usually handles the trash easily wheel a full 96-gallon can to the curb? Larger cans are heavier and require more space for storage.
My practical advice? If you're unsure, lean toward the slightly larger size (e.g., 96 gallons for weekly pickup) to prevent overflow, especially before holidays or if you occasionally miss a collection day. It offers a buffer. The most common and versatile choice for a family of four is a 64 or 96-gallon rollout cart, which is compatible with most automated truck systems.
Finally, check if your local waste management company has specific size requirements or offers cans directly—they often know what works best for your area's schedule and regulations.