That's an excellent and practical question! Living in an urban space means dealing with limited square footage and often shared disposal areas, making the right trash can liner a small but crucial detail for cleanliness and convenience. Here’s a breakdown of your options.
First, consider the classic: standard plastic bags. They are widely available, inexpensive, and effective at containing leaks. For a standard kitchen bin, a 13-gallon tall kitchen bag is the universal workhorse. If your building requires you to take trash to a chute or dumpster, a durable, leak-proof bag is essential to avoid messy spills in hallways or elevators.
However, many urban dwellers are now looking for more sustainable choices. If that's you, consider biodegradable or compostable bags. Important distinction: "Compostable" bags (certified ASTM D6400) are designed to break down in commercial composting facilities. If your city offers curbside compost collection, these are a fantastic choice for food waste. "Biodegradable" is a broader, less regulated term. For general trash headed to a landfill, the environmental benefit of biodegradable plastic is debated, as landfills lack the conditions needed for breakdown.
Another smart option is using reused bags, like the plastic bags from grocery shopping or packaging. This gives a second life to single-use plastic before disposal. Just ensure they aren't torn and are the right size for your can.
My top recommendation? Use a two-liner system if possible. Line your main kitchen bin with a standard or recycled bag for dry, non-recyclable waste. Then, use a small compostable liner in a countertop caddy for food scraps. This reduces odor in your apartment and aligns with urban sustainability programs.
Finally, always measure your trash can! A liner that's too small will slip in, and one that's too large is wasteful. The right liner should fit snugly over the rim. For urban living, prioritizing leak resistance, proper fit, and aligning with your local waste disposal rules will keep your space clean and your conscience clear.