Rubbermaid trash cans are ubiquitous in homes, offices, and public spaces. Their durability, affordability, and variety of sizes make them a go-to choice for waste management. But when you’re trying to figure out the best trash can for your space, one of the most crucial factors to consider is its height. Knowing the exact dimensions will help you ensure it fits comfortably under a counter, in a designated space, or simply blends seamlessly into your surroundings. This article will delve into the heights of various Rubbermaid trash cans, helping you make an informed decision.
Understanding Trash Can Dimensions: More Than Just Height
Before diving into the specific heights of Rubbermaid trash cans, it’s essential to understand why knowing these dimensions is important. Beyond fitting into a specific space, dimensions impact the overall usability and aesthetics of the trash can.
Why Height Matters
The height of a trash can significantly affects its accessibility. A can that’s too short might require excessive bending, while one that’s too tall could be difficult for shorter individuals to use comfortably. Think about the primary users of the trash can and their reach. Consider how high your countertops are. A tall trash can might be ideal if you want to easily scrape food scraps into it without bending.
Furthermore, height contributes to the visual impact of the trash can. A taller can might appear more imposing, while a shorter one can blend more discreetly into the background. The placement of the trash can will determine whether you should hide or show off your purchase.
Beyond Height: Other Key Dimensions
While height is the focus of this article, it’s important to remember that other dimensions, such as width and depth, also play a crucial role. Width determines how much floor space the trash can occupies, while depth affects its overall capacity and stability. All dimensions must be considered.
Exploring Rubbermaid Trash Can Sizes And Heights
Rubbermaid offers a wide array of trash cans, each designed for specific purposes and spaces. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular types and their approximate heights. Note that measurements can vary slightly depending on the specific model and product line.
Standard Rectangular Trash Cans
These are the workhorses of the trash can world, often found in kitchens and garages. They typically range in size from smaller capacities suitable for bathrooms to larger capacities appropriate for high-traffic areas.
Standard rectangular trash cans often come in sizes ranging from 10 gallons to 50 gallons or more. Heights vary significantly based on capacity.
- 10-Gallon: These are typically around 20-25 inches tall.
- 20-Gallon: Expect a height in the range of 25-30 inches.
- 30-Gallon: These can range from 30-35 inches tall.
- 40-50 Gallon: These larger cans can be 35-40 inches or even taller.
Remember to always check the product specifications on the packaging or website before purchasing.
Round Trash Cans
Round trash cans are another common choice, often favored for their simple design and ease of use. They are often more suitable for tight spaces.
The height of a round trash can also depends on its capacity.
- 10-Gallon: Similar to rectangular cans, these are around 20-25 inches tall.
- 20-Gallon: Expect the height to be approximately 25-30 inches.
- 32-Gallon: These can be around 30-35 inches tall.
Always consider the diameter of a round trash can, as it can take up more floor space than a rectangular can of similar capacity.
Step-On Trash Cans
Step-on trash cans offer a hands-free operation, making them a hygienic choice for kitchens and bathrooms. The addition of the pedal mechanism often adds a few inches to the overall height.
The height of a step-on trash can depends on the mechanism and capacity.
- 13-Gallon: These are commonly found in kitchens and can be around 25-30 inches tall.
- Small Bathroom Step Cans (5-7 Gallons): Expect a height of around 15-20 inches.
The pedal mechanism can add a few inches to the overall height compared to cans of the same capacity without a pedal.
Slim Jim Trash Cans
Rubbermaid’s Slim Jim trash cans are designed for narrow spaces. Their rectangular, slim profile makes them ideal for fitting into tight corners or between appliances.
These cans are typically taller and narrower than standard rectangular cans.
- 23-Gallon: These are usually around 30 inches tall.
The Slim Jim design prioritizes efficient use of space, even if this means a slightly taller profile.
Untouchable Trash Cans
These are a line of Rubbermaid trash cans known for their durability and design. They often incorporate features like swing lids or open tops.
The height of Untouchable trash cans varies depending on the specific model and capacity.
- 23-Gallon: These are usually around 30 inches tall.
- 36-Gallon: Expect the height to be approximately 36 inches.
These cans are often designed for commercial or high-traffic use and therefore are bigger.
Specialty Trash Cans
Rubbermaid also offers specialty trash cans for specific purposes, such as recycling bins, compost containers, and medical waste receptacles. The dimensions of these cans vary greatly depending on their intended use. These trash cans are usually meant for specialized purposes like hazardous waste.
Finding The Right Height: Practical Considerations
Choosing the right height for your Rubbermaid trash can depends on several factors, including the available space, the intended use, and the preferences of the users.
Measuring Your Space
Before purchasing a trash can, carefully measure the space where you intend to place it. Consider both the height and the width and depth. If you plan to place the can under a counter or in a cabinet, make sure there is enough clearance for the lid to open fully.
Accurate measurements are crucial to avoid disappointment and ensure a proper fit.
Considering The User
Think about who will be using the trash can most often. If you have children or individuals with mobility issues, a shorter can might be more appropriate. If you want to minimize bending, a taller can might be a better choice.
Matching The Style
The height of the trash can should also complement the overall style of your space. A tall, imposing can might not be the best choice for a small, minimalist kitchen. A shorter, more discreet can might be better suited.
Tips For Maximizing Space With Your Trash Can
Even with careful planning, finding the perfect spot for your trash can can be challenging. Here are some tips for maximizing space and making the most of your chosen can.
Utilize Vertical Space
If floor space is limited, consider a taller, narrower trash can that utilizes vertical space more efficiently. The Slim Jim is a perfect example of a space-saving design.
Consider Wall Mounting
Some Rubbermaid trash cans can be wall-mounted, freeing up valuable floor space. This is a great option for bathrooms or other small areas.
Choose A Can With A Swing Lid
Swing lids can help reduce the overall height required to open the can, making it a good choice for tight spaces.
Rubbermaid Trash Can Height Chart (Estimates)
This chart provides estimated heights for common Rubbermaid trash can sizes. Always verify the exact dimensions on the product listing before purchasing.
| Capacity (Gallons) | Type | Estimated Height (Inches) |
|———————-|———————–|—————————-|
| 10 | Rectangular | 20-25 |
| 20 | Rectangular | 25-30 |
| 30 | Rectangular | 30-35 |
| 40-50 | Rectangular | 35-40+ |
| 10 | Round | 20-25 |
| 20 | Round | 25-30 |
| 32 | Round | 30-35 |
| 13 | Step-On | 25-30 |
| 5-7 | Step-On (Bathroom) | 15-20 |
| 23 | Slim Jim | 30 |
| 23 | Untouchable | 30 |
| 36 | Untouchable | 36 |
This chart is a general guide and variations may occur.
Conclusion: Finding The Perfect Fit
Choosing the right Rubbermaid trash can involves more than just picking a color or style. Understanding the dimensions, particularly the height, is crucial for ensuring a proper fit and optimal usability. By carefully measuring your space, considering the needs of the users, and matching the style of your surroundings, you can select a trash can that seamlessly integrates into your home or workplace. Remember to always verify the exact dimensions on the product listing before making a purchase to avoid any surprises. With a little planning, you can find the perfect Rubbermaid trash can to meet your waste management needs.
What Is The Typical Height Range For A Standard Rubbermaid Trash Can?
The height of a Rubbermaid trash can varies greatly depending on its capacity and intended use. Generally, you can expect standard residential Rubbermaid trash cans to range from around 20 inches tall for smaller, under-sink models up to approximately 32 inches tall for larger, wheeled containers used for curbside pickup. This range encompasses most of the common sizes found in homes and smaller commercial settings.
Beyond these standard sizes, Rubbermaid also manufactures much larger commercial-grade trash cans. These can easily exceed 36 inches in height, and some extra-large models intended for heavy-duty use in industrial or public spaces can even reach heights of 40 inches or more. It’s always best to check the specific product dimensions before purchasing if height is a critical factor for your needs.
How Does The Height Of A Rubbermaid Trash Can Relate To Its Capacity?
Generally speaking, there’s a direct correlation between the height of a Rubbermaid trash can and its overall capacity. Taller cans typically offer a greater volume for holding trash, measured in gallons or liters. This is because height contributes significantly to the overall internal space available within the container.
However, it’s not always a perfectly linear relationship. The diameter (or width and depth for rectangular models) of the trash can also plays a crucial role in determining its capacity. A shorter but wider can might hold the same volume as a taller, narrower one. Therefore, it’s best to consider both height and overall dimensions alongside the listed capacity when choosing a Rubbermaid trash can.
Are There Different Height Variations Within The Same Gallon Capacity Of Rubbermaid Trash Cans?
Yes, it’s certainly possible to find variations in height for Rubbermaid trash cans that have the same gallon capacity. This is due to differences in the overall design and shape of the container. For example, a slim, rectangular can designed to fit into tight spaces might be taller than a round can with the same capacity.
Manufacturers like Rubbermaid offer various shapes and styles to cater to diverse needs and spatial constraints. They may prioritize a smaller footprint for one model, leading to a taller, narrower design, while another model might prioritize stability and ease of use, resulting in a shorter, wider profile. Always check the dimensions to ensure a suitable fit.
How Does The Presence Of Wheels Affect The Overall Height Of A Rubbermaid Trash Can?
The addition of wheels to a Rubbermaid trash can will inevitably increase its overall height. This is because the wheels and their supporting structure add to the can’s base. The extra height provided by the wheels allows for easier mobility and prevents the bottom of the can from dragging on the ground.
The amount of additional height depends on the size of the wheels and the design of the axle and support structure. Generally, you can expect wheeled Rubbermaid trash cans to be several inches taller than their non-wheeled counterparts with similar capacity. This extra height should be factored in if space is a limiting consideration.
How Can I Determine The Exact Height Of A Specific Rubbermaid Trash Can Model Before Purchasing It?
The most reliable way to determine the exact height of a specific Rubbermaid trash can model before purchasing it is to consult the product specifications provided by the manufacturer. These specifications are usually available on the Rubbermaid website, retailer websites, or on the product packaging itself.
Look for a section labeled “Dimensions” or “Specifications,” which will typically list the height, width, depth, and weight of the product. This information is often displayed in inches and/or centimeters. Reviewing this information will prevent surprises after purchase and ensure the trash can fits your intended space.
Do Rubbermaid Trash Cans With Lids Have A Different Height Measurement Compared To Those Without Lids?
Yes, Rubbermaid trash cans with lids will typically have a different height measurement than similar cans without lids. The height measurement for a can with a lid usually includes the height of the lid itself when it is in the closed position. This is because the lid contributes to the overall vertical space the trash can occupies.
In contrast, the height of a trash can without a lid is measured only to the top of the container’s rim. Therefore, when comparing two Rubbermaid trash cans, be sure to note whether the listed height includes the lid or not to avoid any confusion. Always check the product description carefully.
Are There Any Rubbermaid Trash Can Height Variations Based On Commercial Vs. Residential Use?
There are definite height variations between Rubbermaid trash cans designed for commercial versus residential use. Commercial-grade trash cans often need to accommodate larger volumes of waste and withstand more frequent use and harsher conditions. As such, they tend to be larger overall, including in height, than residential models.
Residential Rubbermaid trash cans are typically designed to fit within the constraints of a home environment, such as under kitchen sinks or in garages. This often means they are shorter and more compact to maximize space efficiency. While some overlap in sizes exists, generally, commercial cans are taller and bulkier than their residential counterparts.