Contents
Finding the best trash can for car can be tough. The Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is the top choice. It has a 13-gallon capacity and Clorox Odor Protection to block smells. For a budget option, consider the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can. It holds 3.5 gallons but lacks advanced odor protection.
A key tradeoff here is size versus odor control. The Glad can offers more space and odor protection, while the UUJOLY is smaller and easier to store. This page will guide you through the best options available.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Trash Cans Reviewed in Detail
Here’s a closer look at our top picks for car trash cans. Each one has unique features that make it suitable for your needs.
1. Best Overall
Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gal, Black
- 13-gallon capacity rectangular waste bin provides ample room for household, office, or commercial trash disposal
- Lid formulated with Clorox Odor Protection helps block and trap unwanted smells for the life of the can
- Interior bag ring liner secures trash bags in place while preventing bag overhang for a neat appearance
- Step pedal design allows for hands-free operation, making it easy to dispose of waste without touching the lid
- Durable plastic construction is lightweight, easy to clean, and built for long-lasting daily use
The Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is an excellent choice for your vehicle. It has a 13-gallon capacity, providing ample space for your trash. The Clorox Odor Protection feature helps trap unwanted smells, ensuring your car stays fresh. Compared to other picks, this one excels in odor control and size, making it easy to manage waste on the go.
In contrast to the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can, the Glad offers a larger capacity, which is important for families or long trips. The UUJOLY can only hold 3.5 gallons, better for occasional use. The larger size of the Glad allows you to store more without frequent emptying.
A limitation to consider is the size of the Glad trash can. It may not fit in smaller vehicles or tight spaces as well as smaller models. Overall, this trash can stands out for anyone needing both size and odor protection.
Pros
- 13-gallon capacity for ample waste storage
- Clorox Odor Protection blocks unwanted smells
- Secure bag ring keeps trash bags in place
- Durable plastic construction for long-lasting use
Cons
- May be too large for compact cars
- Odor protection may wear off over time
Best for: Families or road trips. Not ideal for: Small cars with limited space.
A solid choice for keeping your car clean and fresh.
2. Best for Car
Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office
- STAINLESS-STEEL ACCENTS: Charcoal stainless-steel rim and pedal upgrade the aesthetics of the container to complement your space
- PREMIUM, MODERN DESIGN: Designed with clean, modern lines and a flared base to elevate the aesthetic of the container while increasing stability
- HANDS-FREE USE: Wide, charcoal stainless steel foot pedal provides easy access and is designed to last
- SLOW CLOSE LID: Quiet, controlled lid closure is designed to reduce unwanted noise and ease down gently
- LID LOCK: Discrete lid lock keeps the container lid locked open for longer tasks, or closed to keep out pets and children
- METAL RIM HIDES BAG: Integrated LinerLock(TM) technology hides liner bags from view to maintain a sleek look and secures the bag to the container to prevent slipping
- EASY BAG LIFT: Interior venting channels thoughtfully designed to make removing heavy trash bags effortless
- SUPERIOR CRAFTSMANSHIP: Thoughtfully designed in Huntersville, NC and manufactured in Winfield, KS, the container is engineered with strong, high-quality materials for long-lasting, dependable use
The UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can is a practical option for car owners. This 3.5-gallon trash can is lightweight and easy to handle. Its dimensions make it a good fit for most car interiors. This model is designed to be versatile and suitable for various settings, including bathrooms and kitchens.
Compared to the Glad Trash Can, the UUJOLY is significantly smaller. While the Glad can hold 13 gallons, the UUJOLY is best for minor waste needs. Its compact size makes it a good choice for those who want to save space in their vehicle.
One limitation of the UUJOLY is its smaller capacity, which might require more frequent emptying. If you generate a lot of trash during travels, this one might not be the best choice. Overall, it’s a budget-friendly option for light use.
Pros
- Compact size fits well in limited spaces
- Made from durable, long-lasting plastic
- Easy to clean with just a damp cloth
- Lightweight design for easy handling
Cons
- 3.5-gallon capacity requires frequent emptying
- Not suitable for larger waste loads
Best for: Occasional use and compact vehicles. Not ideal for: Frequent travelers with more waste.
Great for casual use but may fall short for larger families.
3. Most Versatile
KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin…
- 【High Quality Construction】KdbK 13 Gallon Garbage can made of sturdy stainless steel with brushed surface, anti-fingerprints and easy to clean. ABS handle and base, anti-slip design.Pedal tested 200,000 times, service life over 25 years.
- 【Comes with 20 garbage bags】Garbage bags suitable for 13 Gallon trash can included.Even if the garbage fills the entire garbage bag, our high-quality garbage bags can withstand it.The regular 13-gallon garbage bag in the supermarket can be used in our stainless steel trash can.
- 【Silent Soft Closure】The built-in bi-force damper enables both automatic and manual closing for ultimate convenience: it gently pulls the lid shut at a controlled slow pace (avoids pinching hands with its anti-slamming design), while the 90° stand-up feature lets it stay open hands-free for kitchen chores. Need to close it manually? Just press down—the damper ensures a smooth, silent glide every time, eliminating noisy bangs that disturb family. Perfect for safe, quiet use in any household.
- 【Sturdy Removable Inner bucket】ABS Inner bucket very strong and can withstand impact. Even if it is accidentally hit, it will be difficult to break.There is a small hole in the inner bucket to fix the garbage bag.
- 【Our commitment】If you have any quality problems with the trash can, we will give you a 100% satisfactory reply, and the customer service team is at your service at any time.
The Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can combines style and function. It features a 12.4-gallon capacity, making it suitable for various locations, including your car. The stainless-steel accents provide a modern look. This can blend well with both home and vehicle aesthetics.
When compared to the Glad model, the Rubbermaid offers a slightly smaller capacity. While both are high-quality options, the Rubbermaid stands out with its hands-free operation feature. The step-on design allows you to open the lid without using your hands, which is a plus when you have garbage in one hand.
However, the premium design and materials might make it heavier than other options. This can be a disadvantage if you prefer lightweight products. Overall, it’s a versatile trash can that can easily transition from car to home use.
Pros
- 12.4-gallon capacity for versatile use
- Stylish stainless-steel accents
- Hands-free step-on operation
- Modern design complements various spaces
Cons
- Heavier than plastic models
- May not fit in all car designs
Best for: Users wanting a stylish option. Not ideal for: Those needing a lightweight design.
A stylish and functional choice for home and car.
4. Best Heavy-Duty
SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish
- Quiet-Close Lid: Lid closes quietly and gently without slamming. Hands Free and Fingerprint Proof: Hands-free operation with a durable metal foot pedal and fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish keeps your trash can cleaner longer. Designed in California
- Dorm Room Essentials: Keep your student’s space clean while in college with Simpli-Magic step cans that are sleek and easy to match all dorm decor, great for girls and guys. No catridge included.
- 13 Gallon Step Trash Can: Ideal for kitchen use, this can fits most brands of trash bags. Compatible with ours CODE B – SIMPLI-MAGIC 8 Gallon Drawstring Trash Bags! Trash bags sold separately.
- Easy to Use with Built-in Odor Filter Holder: Removable plastic liner and stay open lid lock make bag changes and cleaning easy. Odor filter helps reduce unpleasant smells.
The KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can is a strong choice for heavy-duty use. Made from sturdy stainless steel, it features a fingerprint-proof design. This ensures it stays clean and looks great. The 13-gallon capacity means you’ll have plenty of space for trash on long trips.
Compared to lighter options like the UUJOLY, this model is more durable and can withstand rough handling. The pedal mechanism has been tested for over 200,000 uses, ensuring longevity. Such features make it suitable for families or busy individuals needing a reliable trash solution.
One downside is its weight, as it may be cumbersome to move around. If you’re looking for a lightweight alternative, this might not be the best fit. However, its durability makes it a worthy option for frequent travelers.
Pros
- Durable stainless steel construction
- 13-gallon capacity for heavy-duty needs
- Fingerprint-proof surface for easy cleaning
- Tested pedal mechanism for lasting use
Cons
- Heavier than plastic options
- May require more effort to carry
Best for: Families needing durability. Not ideal for: Those wanting a lightweight can.
Perfect for heavy-duty use but may be too heavy for some.
5. Runner-Up
Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid, 1.6 Gal, Soft Close, Matte Black
- Perfect For Limited Spaces – 1.6 Gallon Capacity, 11.2″ H x 11.2″ L x 5.9″ W. The efficient rectangular shape waste bin can be located in tight spaces and corners like bathroom, nursery room, dorm room, small kitchen, office or wherever space is small
- Soft Close Lid & Lid Stay-Open Feature – The lid closes silently and softly every time. You can rest assured that you can use, do not worry about disturbing the rest of your family. Stay-open lid feature, the lid stays open for as long as you need, perfect for longer chores
- Anti-Rust & Anti-Fingerprint – Elegant metal black, the smooth surfaces to keep trash can shiny and stays cleaner longer. The color is great and matches perfectly with the room
- Hygienic & Hands-Free – The lid opens and closes smoothly and quietly with a push of the pedal
- Removable Inner Bucket – Can be easily removed for convenient waste disposal. 100% Risk Free Purchase – If the trash can arrived dented or have any other problems, feel free to contact us and we’ll provide you with satisfactory after-sales service
- Fits Standard Small Bags – Compatible with regular 1.5–1.6 gallon trash bags—no special bags required. For the best fit and a cleaner look, choose our custom-fit Code A trash bags.
The Simpli-Magic 50 Liter Trash Can offers a blend of functionality and style. Its soft-close lid prevents slamming, making it user-friendly. This model also features a stainless-steel finish that is fingerprint-resistant, keeping it cleaner longer. With a 13.2-gallon capacity, it can accommodate larger amounts of waste.
In comparison to smaller models, this can handle more trash, making it suitable for families or road trips. Its sleek design allows it to fit smooth into modern car interiors and homes.
However, its size may be cumbersome in smaller vehicles. If you drive a compact car, the Simpli-Magic may take up too much space. Still, it’s a great option for those needing a larger trash can with style.
Pros
- 50-liter capacity for efficient waste storage
- Soft-close lid for quiet operation
- Fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it clean
- Sleek design fits modern interiors
Cons
- May be too large for small cars
- Can take up significant space
Best for: Stylish larger needs. Not ideal for: Compact vehicles with limited space.
A stylish choice for those needing more space.
6. Best for Daily Use
Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Narrow Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Step On Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, Stainless…
- NARROW TRASH CAN SAVES SPACE – The Glad 12 Gallon Slim Trash Can easily fits into tight spaces and small kitchens with its slender profile. The space-saving design makes this skinny metal trash can great for any household or office.
- 45 LITER TRASH CAN WITH BAG RINGS – Narrow trash can features a heavy duty, rectangular stainless steel body and fingerprint-resistant finish. Its bag rings neatly tuck away slack, secure the trash bag in place, and prevent fall-through.
- CLOROX PROTECTION TRAPS ODORS – Formulated with Clorox Protection to block unwanted odors for an airtight seal that keeps your home smelling fresh and clean.
- STAY OPEN LID – Stainless steel trash can is made with a stay open option that keeps the lid upright. Great for tasks that require frequent opening like cooking, cleaning, and meal prepping.
- STEP TRASH CAN WITH SOFT CLOSE LID – Lidded kitchen trash can is built with an easy step foot pedal for hands-free use. Garbage can lid is specially designed for a quiet, controlled open and close every time.
The Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can is a compact option suitable for tight spaces. With a capacity of 1.6 gallons, it’s perfect for limited areas. This can work well in cars, bathrooms, and small kitchens. Its soft-close feature ensures the lid closes quietly, which is a nice touch for shared spaces.
Compared to other options, the Cesun offers a smaller size, which may be ideal for individuals or couples. Its rectangular shape allows for easy storage in various locations, including vehicles. However, the small capacity means it may require frequent emptying.
A limitation is that the small size may not accommodate families or larger waste loads. If you tend to generate a lot of trash, consider a larger option. Overall, this can be a good pick for minimal waste generation.
Pros
- Compact size fits in tight spaces
- Soft-close lid minimizes noise
- Versatile for various locations
- Affordable option for light use
Cons
- 1.6-gallon capacity requires frequent emptying
- Not suitable for larger waste needs
Best for: Minimal waste generation. Not ideal for: Families needing larger capacity.
Great for light use but may not suit larger needs.
7. Best Budget
UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black
- 【Premium Material】UUJOLY trash can made from long-lasting plastic that won’t chip, rust, or dent. Easy to clean just need wipe clean with a damp cloth.
- 【Specification】 Dimensions Measure: 10.5-Inches x 7.8-Inches x 11.1-Inches Tall and with a capacity of 3.5-Gallon, our wastebasket is suitable for your needs. Use it for small trash, recycling cans, paper waste and junk mail for the office, or cotton, cleansing pads, cotton swabs and more in the bathroom.
- 【Application】Great for bathroom, kitchen, office, condos, dorm rooms, cabins, campers, RVs and apartments.
- 【User-friendly Design】The rectangular design makes it ideal for small spaces. Perfect for under cabinets, sinks, toilet, desks, and other odd spaces or narrow openings like between the bathroom vanity. The bottom is heightened to reduce wear and prolong service life.
- 【Multiple Colors】You can choose from multiple colors, find your own style in different colors (because the trash can is a single color, so the color may have a color difference, please understand)
The Glad Slim Trash Can is designed for narrow spaces. Its slim profile allows it to fit into tight areas, making it suitable for cars. It features a 12-gallon capacity, which is spacious enough for daily waste. The soft-close lid ensures quiet operation, reducing noise in your car.
When stacked against larger models, this pick excels in space-saving design. While it may not hold as much as the Glad Trash Can with Clorox, it offers similar odor protection features. This makes it a good option for those needing a balance of size and functionality.
One drawback is that the narrow design may limit its waste capacity compared to round or wider designs. If you generate high volumes of trash, consider larger options. Overall, this is a practical choice for those needing a compact can.
Pros
- Slim design fits narrow spaces
- 12-gallon capacity for daily use
- Soft-close lid for quiet operation
- Odor protection helps keep car fresh
Cons
- Narrow design may limit waste capacity
- Not ideal for very high waste volumes
Best for: Tight spaces and daily use. Not ideal for: Families with larger waste needs.
A practical choice for compact areas but may lack capacity.
8. Best Premium
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Black, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet, Pack of 4
- DURABLE: Rolled rims add strength and are easy to clean
- EFFICIENT: Fits under standard-height desk
- OPTIONS: Recycling option and numerous color options available
- CLEAN: Easy to wipe clean
- VERSATILE: Perfect for homes, bedrooms, bathrooms, offices, conference rooms, registers, admissions, display rooms, gift shops and more
- MEASURES: 14.5″ x 10.5″ x 15″
- ORGANIZATION: Stackable design enables nesting for easy transport and storage
- MADE IN THE USA
The UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can is a great budget option. It has a 3.5-gallon capacity, making it suitable for small spaces. This model is lightweight and easy to clean, which is perfect for car use. Its affordable price makes it attractive for users on a budget.
In comparison to larger models, this can is designed for occasional use. While the Glad Trash Can offers more space, the UUJOLY is easier to manage and store. It’s an excellent choice for short trips or minimal waste.
However, the smaller size requires more frequent emptying, which can be inconvenient. If you often have a lot of trash, you may want a larger option. Overall, this is a good pick for users looking for simplicity and convenience.
Pros
- Affordable and budget-friendly option
- Compact size for convenient storage
- Lightweight design for easy handling
- Easy to clean with damp cloth
Cons
- 3.5-gallon capacity requires frequent emptying
- Limited space for larger waste loads
Best for: Budget-conscious users. Not ideal for: Heavy users with larger trash needs.
A simple, budget-friendly choice for light use.
Trash Cans Compared Side by Side
The table below compares the best trash cans for car. The columns show capacity, material, and other important features. Check the row that matches your needs for the best trash can for car.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin | Best Overall | Volume Distributors, Inc. | $37.99 | Check |
| 2 | Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home… | Best for Car | Rubbermaid | $44.86 | Check |
| 3 | KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Most Versatile | KdbK | $39.3 | Check |
| 4 | SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close | Best Heavy-Duty | Simpli-Magic | $99.99 | Check |
| 5 | Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid | Runner-Up | Cesun | $26.97 | Check |
| 6 | Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Best for Daily Use | Volume Distributors, Inc. | $67.47 | Check |
| 7 | UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket | Best Budget | UUJOLY | $14.99 | Check |
| 8 | Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can | Best Premium | Rubbermaid Commercial Products | $39.45 | Check |
| 9 | SONGMICS Trash Can | — | SONGMICS | $79.99 | Check |
| 10 | SONGMICS 13 Gallon | — | SONGMICS | $67.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from trusted online retailers and product reviews. This included details on design, capacity, and user feedback. We looked at over 30 different trash cans to find the right picks.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist was created based on user ratings and product features. We focused on trash cans that specifically fit in vehicles. Features like size, odor control, and ease of use were prioritized.
What we ruled out and why
We removed products that had poor user feedback or unreliable features. Trash cans without odor protection or those too bulky for cars were excluded. We also avoided options lacking essential information.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were performed. Our analysis is based solely on product details and user reviews. We did not create scores or personal experiences.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect new products and reviews. We aim to refresh it every few months or as significant changes occur in the product line.
What to look for
Capacity matters
When selecting a trash can for your car, consider the capacity. Most car trash cans range from 1.5 to 13 gallons. Larger cans hold more waste but take up more space. For smaller vehicles, look for cans that fit snugly between seats or in door pockets.
Odor protection
Odor control is important for any trash can, especially in a car. Some models come with special features like Clorox Odor Protection. This helps keep your car smelling fresh even with food waste inside. Check if the trash can has a lid that seals tightly to contain smells.
Material and durability
The material of the trash can affects its durability. Plastic is lightweight and easy to clean, while stainless steel can resist stains and odors. Choose a material that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use in your car.
Ease of use
Consider how easy it is to use the trash can. Look for features like foot pedals for hands-free operation. A removable liner can also make it easier to dispose of trash and clean the can. Simple designs often work best in tight car spaces.
Size and shape
The size and shape of the trash can are important for fitting in your car. Slim designs work better in tight spaces, while rectangular shapes can fit between seats. Measure your available space before buying to ensure the right fit.
How to Choose Trash Cans
Select the right size
Choose a trash can based on how much waste you expect to generate. For small trips, a 1.5 to 3-gallon can may be enough. Longer journeys might require a larger 10 to 13-gallon can to avoid frequent emptying.
Check for a lid
A good lid helps contain smells and prevents trash from spilling. Look for cans with tight-sealing lids or built-in odor filters. This feature is especially helpful if you leave food wrappers in the car.
Consider the material
Material affects both durability and ease of cleaning. Stainless steel can resist stains and odors better than plastic. If you prefer plastic, choose high-quality versions that won’t crack or chip easily.
Evaluate storage options
Check how you plan to store the trash can. Some models can fit in cup holders or under seats. Others may need to be secured in the trunk. Make sure it won’t slide around while driving.
Look for easy disposal
Choose a trash can that allows easy disposal of waste. A removable liner is handy for lifting out trash bags. Also, consider cans with a foot pedal for hands-free operation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best trash can for car?
The best trash can for car is the Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection. It offers a large size and odor control.
Can I use a kitchen trash can in my car?
Using a kitchen trash can in your car is not ideal. They are usually too large and may not fit well in a vehicle.
How do I clean a car trash can?
To clean a car trash can, remove the liner and wash it with soapy water. Wipe the can’s interior with a damp cloth.
Do I need a lid on my car trash can?
Having a lid is beneficial. It keeps smells contained and prevents trash from spilling while you drive.
What capacity should a car trash can have?
A trash can with a capacity of at least 3 gallons is recommended for a car. Larger options are better for longer trips.
Shopping around? We have 28 more trash can guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR clothes dryers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- EPA Safer Choice U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
About the author
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