50L Garbage Can Canada: Bags, Sizes & Store Comparison

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50L garbage can Canada buying helper

Find a 50L Garbage Can That Fits Your Kitchen, Bags and Daily Routine

A 50L garbage can equals about 13.2 US gallons and is a practical middle size for many Canadian kitchens. Use this guide to compare Canadian Tire, Walmart and Costco options, choose a compatible 50L garbage bag, compare 40L and 60L sizes, measure lid clearance and avoid buying the wrong pedal, sensor or stainless steel bin.

📏 Exact measuring steps 🛒 Clickable Canada retailers 🧺 Bag-fit troubleshooting 🦶 Pedal vs sensor 🏠 Kitchen-size decisions 🚛 Curbside warning

Quick Answer: Is a 50L Kitchen Garbage Can the Right Size?

A 50L kitchen garbage can is usually a good choice when you want more capacity than a compact 40L bin but do not want the larger footprint or heavier full bag of a 60L can. It works best when food scraps, recycling and refundable containers are separated.

50L Capacity
13.2 gal Approx. US size
2–4 people Common starting point
40L Better for tight space
60L Better for high volume
50L liner Verify dimensions
Choose 50L

You want a balanced kitchen size

Good for an average kitchen, common tall liners and regular household garbage.

Choose 40L

Your floor space is limited

Better for one or two people, condos and homes that empty waste frequently.

Choose 60L

Your household creates more waste

Only when you have enough room and can safely lift the heavier full bag.

Most useful buying rule

Buy the smallest can that comfortably lasts until your normal bag-change day. A larger can is not automatically better because food waste can sit longer and full bags become heavier.

How to Buy a 50L Garbage Can at Canadian Tire

Canadian Tire carries several 45L–50L kitchen-bin styles. One audited type A slim 50L step can is plastic with a stainless-look finish, soft-close pedal and dimensions of approximately 38.8 × 29.4 × 71.7 cm.

Open the kitchen garbage-can category Use the category page rather than relying on a general web-search result.
Select your preferred Canadian Tire store Inventory, aisle information, pickup time and same-day delivery depend on location.
Search “50L” or filter around 45L–50L Retailers may label a similar kitchen size as 45L, 49L, 50L or 13 gallons.
Open the specifications section Confirm material, shape, closed dimensions, opening style and warranty.
Check whether “stainless” describes material or appearance The audited slim type A model has a plastic body with a stainless steel-looking finish.
Confirm stock before travelling Save the product number and recheck your selected store immediately before leaving home.
Audited example type A Slim Silver Plastic Rectangular Step Garbage Can, 50-L
Useful specifications 50L, step pedal, soft close, plastic body, approximately 38.8 × 29.4 × 71.7 cm.
Best for Narrow floor spaces and shoppers who want pedal operation without sensor batteries.
View the Canadian Tire 50L example
Price and availability note

The audited page displayed C$89.99, but the current price, promotion and inventory can change by date and store. Confirm the live page before purchasing.

How to Buy a 50L Garbage Can at Walmart Canada

Walmart Canada lists both Walmart-sold products and third-party marketplace products. The seller and return route can be as important as the capacity.

Search both “50L garbage can” and “13 gallon trash can” Different sellers may use litres, gallons or both.
Check “Sold and shipped by” Identify whether Walmart or a marketplace company is responsible for the order.
Open product specifications Confirm 50L capacity, opening style, material and dimensions instead of trusting the photo.
For a sensor bin, confirm the battery type The audited Mainstays model uses four AA alkaline batteries, which are not included.
Look for a bag-fixing ring and air vent These features can keep the liner in place and make a full bag easier to remove.
Check pickup, delivery and return details Delivery dates and pickup availability depend on your postal code and selected store.
Audited example Mainstays 50L Plastic Kitchen Automatic Trash Can
Useful specifications Motion sensor, four AA batteries, soft close, manual buttons, bag fixer and rear air vent.
Best for Shoppers wanting a lower-cost touchless kitchen can that accepts standard kitchen bags.
View the Walmart Mainstays 50L can
Marketplace warning

Two products with similar photos can have different sellers, warranties and return locations. Check the seller name before adding the item to your cart.

How to Check a 50L Garbage Can at Costco Canada

Costco Canada has listed Nine Stars 50L stainless steel sensor bins, but online and warehouse availability may differ. Some prices appear only after selecting a warehouse or signing in.

Select or change your Costco warehouse Do this before assuming the item is available locally.
Check online delivery separately A product may be deliverable even when your selected warehouse does not show stock.
Read the battery requirement The audited Nine Stars stainless steel model uses three C-size batteries, not included.
Measure the listed footprint The audited model is approximately 29.3 × 42 × 72.2 cm.
Check the liner system The model includes a ring designed to hold and conceal a standard 50L kitchen bag.
Review the current return conditions Some merchandise can have return limitations, so check the live conditions before purchase.
Audited example Nine Stars Stainless-steel 50L Sensor Bin
Useful specifications Stainless steel, motion sensor, three C batteries, ring liner, non-skid base and 50L capacity.
Best for Shoppers who want a stainless steel touchless can and do not mind maintaining batteries.
View the Costco Nine Stars 50L can

40L vs 50L vs 60L Garbage Can Size Helper

Use this as a planning shortcut. The correct size also depends on food-waste separation, how often you empty the bag and the available kitchen footprint.

Starting point: 50L. It usually provides a useful balance for two or three people who separate food scraps.
40L • about 10.6 gal

Choose 40L for compact kitchens

  • One or two residents.
  • Condo or apartment kitchen.
  • Frequent bag changes.
  • Strong recycling and organics habits.
50L • about 13.2 gal

Choose 50L for balance

  • Average kitchen footprint.
  • Two to four residents.
  • Common tall-kitchen liners.
  • Moderate garbage volume.
60L • about 15.9 gal

Choose 60L for higher volume

  • Larger household.
  • Frequent entertaining.
  • Enough lid and floor clearance.
  • Full bags remain safe to lift.

What 50L Garbage Bag Fits a 50L Garbage Can?

Start with a tall 50L or approximately 13-gallon kitchen liner, but do not rely on the litre number alone. A slim rectangular can and a wide oval can can both be labelled 50L while requiring different bag dimensions.

Bag-fit test

The liner should do all four

  • Reach the bottom without stretching.
  • Fold securely over the rim.
  • Allow the lid to close fully.
  • Lift out without tearing or vacuum lock.
Canadian example

50L liner dimensions are not universal

A Hefty tall 50L kitchen liner listed by Canadian Tire is approximately 61 × 64 cm. Use this as an example, not a guarantee for every 50L can.

View the Canadian Tire 50L bag example

How to Measure for a Garbage Bag

Measure the inner-bin height The bag should reach the bottom instead of hanging from the rim.
Measure the top width and depth Add enough material for the liner to wrap over the rim.
Check the lid mechanism Make sure excess liner does not catch in the hinge, sensor or soft-close mechanism.
Test removal with a partly full bag The liner should slide out without creating strong suction inside the bucket.

50L Bag Troubleshooting

ProblemBag does not reach the bottom.
Likely reasonThe liner is too short or too small.
FixChoose a taller liner instead of stretching the current bag.
ProblemBag slips inside the can.
Likely reasonNot enough overhang or no liner ring.
FixUse a wider bag, liner band, bag fixer or drawstring around the rim.
ProblemLid will not close.
Likely reasonExcess liner is blocking the lid or hinge.
FixTuck the liner under the retaining ring and keep it away from moving parts.
ProblemFull bag is difficult to remove.
Likely reasonVacuum lock or overfilling.
FixUse a can with a rear air vent, remove the bag earlier or choose a slightly larger liner.
ProblemBag tears at the rim.
Likely reasonSharp edge, heavy waste or an undersized liner.
FixInspect the rim, reduce bag weight and use a stronger correctly sized liner.

Which 50L Kitchen Garbage Can Should You Choose?

Choose by the problem you want to solve, not by the largest feature list.

Pedal

Best for reliability

No batteries. Check pedal strength, base stability and soft-close action.

Sensor

Best for touchless use

Useful with messy hands. Check battery type, manual controls and sensor range.

Swing lid

Best for lower cost

Simple, but the swinging flap can touch waste and may release more odour.

Open top

Best for dry waste

Fast in an office or break room, but less suitable for food-heavy kitchens.

Choose a feature when you need it

  • Pets: locking or difficult-to-lift lid.
  • Children: controlled pedal or lock.
  • Odour: tight lid and removable bucket.
  • Limited mobility: easy pedal or reliable sensor.
  • Narrow kitchen: slim rectangular body.
  • Frequent leaks: washable inner bucket.

Features that may create extra work

  • Uncommon battery size.
  • Sensor without manual controls.
  • Deep grooves around the lid.
  • Brand-only replacement liners.
  • Glossy finish that shows every mark.
  • Non-removable inner container.

How to Measure Before Buying a 50L Garbage Can

Use painter’s tape or masking tape to mark the product footprint on the floor. Then complete every step below before ordering.

Measure floor width Include side handles, a wide pedal and a small gap for cleaning.
Measure depth Make sure the can will not project into a busy walkway.
Measure the closed height Check whether the body fits under a counter, shelf or window ledge.
Measure the lid-open height Product dimensions often show the can closed, not fully open.
Open nearby doors and drawers Test the dishwasher, pantry, cabinet and refrigerator paths.
Check pedal space Leave enough room in front for your foot without moving the can.
Check the full-bag removal path You need vertical space to lift the liner without scraping it against a counter.
Save the product dimensions Take a screenshot before buying so you can compare the delivered product.

Stainless Steel Garbage Can 50 Liter vs Plastic

Stainless steel

Choose it for rigidity and appearance

  • Usually more stable and substantial.
  • Fingerprint-resistant finishes can reduce smudges.
  • May dent if the shell is thin.
  • Best with a removable plastic inner bucket.
Plastic

Choose it for lower weight and easy cleaning

  • Usually less expensive.
  • Will not dent like thin metal.
  • Easier to move for floor cleaning.
  • May be sold with a stainless-look finish.
Read the material field

“Silver,” “metallic” or “stainless look” describes appearance, not necessarily construction. Check whether the primary material is stainless steel, coated metal or plastic.

New Sensor and Smart 50L Garbage Cans: What Matters

New devices may add motion sensors, countdown lights, rechargeable lids, voice controls, automatic sealing or bag-changing systems. These features are useful only when the basic can remains easy to clean and operate manually.

Power

Check batteries or charging

Confirm the battery size, expected life, charging cable and whether the can works when power is unavailable.

Controls

Look for manual open and close

A sensor can should still work when you need to hold the lid open for cleaning or food preparation.

Parts

Check replacement-lid support

The electronic lid is often the first expensive part to fail. Check warranty and replacement availability.

Future-device test

Before paying for a new feature, ask: Does it reduce touching, control odour, secure the liner or make cleaning easier? If not, it may be decoration rather than a useful improvement.

Common 50L Garbage Can Buying Mistakes

Avoid these mistakes
  • Buying by litres without checking dimensions.
  • Ignoring the fully opened lid height.
  • Assuming stainless-look plastic is metal.
  • Ignoring the Walmart marketplace seller.
  • Forgetting sensor batteries.
  • Assuming every 50L liner fits every 50L can.
  • Ignoring the return route for an oversized product.
  • Using an indoor kitchen can as a municipal cart.
Before checkout
  • Save closed and open dimensions.
  • Confirm material and lid type.
  • Check liner compatibility.
  • Check battery type or pedal construction.
  • Confirm inner bucket or liner ring.
  • Read warranty and return terms.
  • Confirm live stock at your location.
  • Keep the packaging until fit is confirmed.

Can a Store-Bought 50L Garbage Can Be Used for Curbside Pickup?

Sometimes, but not automatically. Many Canadian municipalities require city-issued wheeled carts, approved garbage bags, bag tags, item limits, secure handles or maximum filled weights. A 50L kitchen can is designed primarily for indoor use.

Official-cart city

Use the municipal cart

An automated truck arm may not be able to lift a personal 50L kitchen bin.

Manual collection

Check size, lid and weight

Where personal cans are accepted, handles, safe weight and a secure lid may be required.

Extra garbage

Tags or approved bags may be needed

A second 50L can may be rejected when the local program counts bags, items or official carts.

Check your local system

Use the Toronto garbage schedule guide, Calgary garbage schedule guide or Ottawa garbage schedule guide when you need city-specific container and pickup information.

How to Clean and Control Odour in a 50L Kitchen Bin

Every bag change

Wipe contact areas

Clean the lid rim, pedal, sensor window and liner ring before fitting the new bag.

After a leak

Wash and dry fully

Remove the inner bucket where possible. Use mild soap and dry it before inserting another liner.

Prevent odour

Remove wet waste sooner

Separate organics where available and do not wait for a 50L liner to become completely full.

Cleaner safety

Do not mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar or other cleaners. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for coated stainless steel and electronic lids.

50L Garbage Can Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 50L garbage can big enough for a kitchen?
Yes, for many households. It is a practical middle size when recycling and food scraps are separated. Larger households may need a 60L can or more frequent bag changes.
What size garbage bag fits a 50L garbage can?
Start with a tall 50L or approximately 13-gallon kitchen liner. Check the liner’s width and height against the inner bin because different 50L shapes do not always accept the same bag.
Is 50 litres the same as 13 gallons?
Fifty litres equals approximately 13.2 US gallons. Retailers commonly describe this kitchen-bin category as either 50L or 13 gallons.
Should I buy a 40L or 50L garbage can?
Choose 40L for a small household or tight kitchen. Choose 50L when you need more capacity while keeping a manageable kitchen footprint and bag weight.
Should I buy a 50L or 60L garbage can?
Choose 50L for easier bag handling and a smaller footprint. Choose 60L when your household produces more waste, you have enough space and a full bag will remain safe to lift.
Does Canadian Tire sell a 50L garbage can?
Yes. Canadian Tire lists several approximately 50L kitchen bins, including plastic step, swing-lid and sensor styles. Select your store before relying on price or stock information.
Does Walmart Canada sell a 50L garbage can?
Yes. Walmart Canada lists 50L plastic and stainless steel bins with pedal and motion-sensor openings. Check whether Walmart or a marketplace seller sells and ships the product.
Does Costco Canada sell a 50L garbage can?
Costco Canada has listed Nine Stars 50L stainless steel sensor bins. Online and warehouse availability can differ, so select your warehouse and confirm the current listing.
Is a stainless steel 50L garbage can better than plastic?
Stainless steel is usually heavier and more rigid, while plastic is lighter, less likely to dent and often less expensive. Cleanability, lid quality and the inner bucket matter more than appearance alone.
Can I use a 50L kitchen garbage can for curbside pickup?
Only when your local collection program permits resident-owned cans. Many Canadian municipalities require official carts, approved bags, tags, item limits or maximum weights.

Final Buying Decision

Choose a 50L garbage can only after checking the floor footprint, fully opened lid height, liner fit, opening mechanism, material, cleaning access and return conditions. Canadian Tire is useful for local-store comparison, Walmart offers broad price and seller choices, and Costco may suit shoppers looking for selected stainless sensor models. Always confirm live stock and specifications before purchasing.