That's an excellent and very practical question. For a high-traffic urban area—think a busy downtown sidewalk, a popular park, or a public transit hub—capacity is the most critical factor to prevent overflow and maintain cleanliness. I generally don't recommend anything smaller than 50 gallons (about 190 liters). For most standard high-footfall locations, a bin in the 65 to 100-gallon range (250-380 liters) is often the ideal starting point.
The key isn't just picking the largest bin available, but matching it to your specific logistics. Here’s a simple way to think about it:
1. Estimate Daily Volume: Observe how much waste accumulates in a day. If a current 30-gallon bin is overflowing by noon, you likely need at least triple that capacity.
2. Factor in Collection Frequency: How often can it be emptied? If collections are only once daily, you need a bin that can hold *all* the day's waste without overflowing. For areas with 24/7 traffic, a very high capacity or multiple bins are essential.
3. Consider Bin Features: For such demanding environments, look for commercial-grade bins. Features like a large, wide opening for easy use, a secure lid to deter pests, and durable, weather-resistant materials (like powder-coated steel or heavy-duty plastic) are non-negotiable. In some cases, a solar-powered compactor bin can be a game-changer, as it crushes waste to hold 5-8 times more, reducing collection trips dramatically.
Ultimately, for a generic high-traffic spot, a 95-gallon (360-liter) wheeled cart or a sturdy 65-gallon stationary bin is a safe and common recommendation. It provides a significant buffer and pairs well with a daily collection schedule. If the area is exceptionally busy or produces lots of bulky items, consider installing two or more bins side-by-side. The goal is consistent, clean capacity.