Garbage Bag Size
Find the perfect garbage bag size for any trash can. Enter your can shape, width, height, and diameter to get the ideal bag dimensions plus the closest standard size available.
About This Calculator
The Garbage Bag Size Calculator helps you find the perfect fitting garbage bag for any trash can — whether it's rectangular, square, or cylindrical. Simply measure your trash can's dimensions and this tool will compute the ideal bag width and height, plus recommend the closest standard size available in stores.
How It Works
The calculator uses the following formulas based on your trash can shape:
- Rectangle / Square: Bag Width = Can Length + Can Width. Bag Height = Can Height + Overhang + Bag Width ÷ 4 (the extra quarter-width ensures the bag covers the bottom).
- Circle: Bag Width = Diameter × π ÷ 2. Bag Height = Can Height + Overhang + Diameter ÷ 2.
The recommended overhang (typically 3-6 inches) allows the bag to be folded over the rim or tied securely. The bottom coverage component ensures the bag fully wraps under the can's base.
This calculator is useful for homeowners, office managers, janitorial staff, event planners, and anyone who needs to buy garbage bags but isn't sure what size fits their bins. Using the right bag size saves money, reduces plastic waste, and prevents messy overflows.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate what garbage bag size I need?
For a rectangular trash can, add the length and width to get the bag width. Add the can height to one quarter of the bag width plus 4 inches of overhang to get bag height. For a round can, multiply the diameter by pi/2 for bag width, and add the height to overhang plus half the diameter for bag height.
What garbage bag size do I need for a 13 gallon trash can?
A standard 13-gallon kitchen trash can (roughly 12" × 12" × 20") typically requires a garbage bag size of about 24" × 28" to 26" × 36". Use this calculator with your exact can dimensions to find the perfect fit.
What are standard garbage bag sizes?
Common standard garbage bag sizes include: Small (9" × 12" to 19" × 25"), Medium (20" × 22" to 35" × 47"), and Large (36" × 50" to 61" × 68"). This calculator recommends the closest standard size to your trash can dimensions.
How much overhang should a garbage bag have?
A garbage bag should ideally have 3 to 6 inches of overhang around the rim of your trash can. This allows you to tie the bag securely or fold it over the rim. This calculator uses a default of 4 inches and lets you adjust it.
Is this garbage bag size calculator free?
Yes, this garbage bag size calculator is completely free to use with no registration required. Your inputs are saved in the URL so you can bookmark or share your calculation.
Can I use this calculator for rectangular, square, and round trash cans?
Yes, this calculator supports rectangular, square, and round (cylindrical) trash cans. Simply select the shape of your can and enter the required dimensions to get the recommended bag size.
What happens if my garbage bag is too small or too large?
A bag that is too small may not cover the rim or fit around the can, while a bag that is too large may be wasteful and difficult to manage. Using the correct size ensures the bag fits securely, can be tied easily, and minimizes plastic waste.