Recycling Bin Capacity Calculator

Example data table

Capacity planning for weekly garden recycling

Garden projects generate steady packaging: seed packets, compost bags, trays, twine spools, and rinse bottles. This calculator converts your bin dimensions into liters and compares that volume against your pickup interval. When you set fill level and headspace, the estimate mirrors real lid-closing behavior rather than perfect geometry. A small headspace value helps prevent crushed cardboard from springing up and scattering on windy collection days.

Shape selection and measurement quality

Rectangular bins use length, width, and height. Round bins use diameter and height. Measure the inside of the bin when possible because thick walls reduce usable space. If the bin tapers, measure at mid-height and treat the result as a practical average. Consistent units matter; changing inches and centimeters without remeasuring introduces large errors.

Fill level, headspace, and compaction inputs

Fill level represents how full you normally load before stopping. Many households operate near 85–95%. Headspace protects lid closure and prevents jammed hinges. Compaction gain models how pressing down bottles or flattening cartons increases effective capacity. Use a lower compaction value for rigid containers and a higher value for flattenable cardboard.

Pickup interval, daily generation, and overflow risk

The pickup interval multiplies your daily recycling estimate to produce demand for each collection window. If demand exceeds total effective capacity, the calculator recommends more bins. A positive buffer indicates spare room, which reduces overflow when rain-soaked paper or bulky nursery pots appear. Track one week of output and update the daily liters to reflect seasonal surges.

Using results for garden operations

Capacity in liters supports quick comparisons across different bin styles and sizes. Use the material stream selector to label results when you split plastics, paper, and glass. Export CSV to share with family members, or save the PDF for pickup-day checklists. When coverage days exceed your pickup interval, you can store extras safely and avoid last-minute bagging. Review results monthly, especially after bulk soil deliveries, because packaging volume can spike during heavy planting weekends.

FAQs

1) Should I measure the bin inside or outside?

Measure the inside if you can. Wall thickness reduces usable volume, especially on smaller bins. If you only have outside dimensions, add 2–4% headspace to compensate for lost interior space.

2) What fill level is realistic for curbside pickup?

Most setups work best at 85–95% fill so lids close and contents stay contained. If your lid is rigid or locks, use 90–92%. If wind is common, reduce fill to create more headspace.

3) How do I estimate daily recycling liters?

Collect recycling for seven days, then roughly estimate volume by filling a known container, like a 10 L bucket, and counting how many bucket-loads you generated. Divide by seven for a practical daily rate.

4) When should I use compaction gain?

Use compaction gain when you consistently flatten cardboard, crush bottles, or nest trays. Start at 10–15% and adjust after one pickup cycle. Avoid high values for glass and rigid items that cannot compress safely.

5) Why does the calculator recommend more bins than I own?

The recommendation compares your pickup-window demand to effective per-bin capacity. If demand is higher, extra bins reduce overflow and sorting stress. You can also reduce daily inputs, shorten pickup days, or improve compaction.

6) Can I use this for compost or yard waste containers?

Yes, enter the container dimensions and adjust fill and headspace for moisture and weight. Yard waste often packs down, so a small compaction value may apply. Keep safety in mind for heavy wet material.