Garbage Bag Size Calculator

How to Find the Right Garbage Bag Size

Choosing the right garbage bag size for your trash can can be surprisingly tricky. A bag that is too small will not fit properly and may tear, while a bag that is too large wastes material and can bunch up awkwardly. Our garbage bag size calculator takes the guesswork out by matching your bin dimensions to the ideal bag size.

The calculator works with three common trash can shapes: round (cylindrical), square, and rectangular. For each shape, it uses a specific formula to compute the minimum bag width and height needed to comfortably fit your bin with enough overhang for tying. It also suggests the nearest standard bag size so you know exactly what to look for at the store.

How the Calculations Work

For round trash cans, the bag width is calculated as the diameter times pi divided by 2, which gives the flat width needed to wrap around a cylinder. The bag height is the can height plus overhang plus half the diameter (to ensure the bag reaches the bottom). For square and rectangular bins, the bag width equals the sum of the length and width, and the height is the can height plus overhang plus one quarter of the bag width.

Standard garbage bag sizes range from small 9x12-inch bags for desk-side bins to large 50x60-inch bags for industrial containers. Most kitchen trash cans use bags around 24x24 or 26x36 inches, while tall slim cans often need 20x22 or 22x20 inch bags.