Contents
Finding the best trash can for recycling can be tricky. The Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is our top pick. It has a large 13-gallon capacity and a special lid that blocks bad smells. If you’re looking to save money, the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can is a solid value choice. However, it has a smaller 3.5-gallon capacity, which may not be enough for larger households.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Trash Cans Reviewed in Detail
Here are our top selections for recycling trash cans. Each one fits different needs and spaces.
1. Editor’s Choice
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 our top pick for the best trash can for recycling. It has a generous 13-gallon capacity, making it ideal for families or offices. The lid is specially designed to block unpleasant smells, ensuring your space stays fresh. Compared to other picks, this one stands out for its odor protection and size. Other models can be smaller, which might not be enough for bigger recycling tasks. However, some users might find this larger size takes up more space than they want.
Pros
- Large 13-gallon capacity for ample waste storage.
- Clorox Odor Protection keeps smells at bay.
- Interior bag ring keeps bags securely in place.
Cons
- Larger size may not fit in tight spaces.
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as metal.
Best for: Families or offices generating a lot of waste. Not ideal for: Small spaces or minimalist users.
An excellent choice for those needing a reliable and spacious recycling option.
2. Best for Recycling
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 great value pick for recycling. It has a 3.5-gallon capacity, making it suitable for small spaces like dorm rooms or bathrooms. This model is lightweight and easy to clean, thanks to its durable plastic material. While it’s a good option for limited space, it lacks the odor control features found in larger models. Users with more recycling needs may need to empty it often, which could be a hassle for some.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to move around.
- Compact size fits well in small spaces.
- Easy to clean with just a damp cloth.
Cons
- Smaller capacity may require frequent emptying.
- Lacks advanced odor control features.
Best for: Small spaces or single users. Not ideal for: Families or larger recycling needs.
A practical choice for those with limited space and light recycling needs.
3. Best Premium
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 is an excellent choice for those wanting a premium option. It features a 12.4-gallon capacity and a stylish charcoal stainless-steel rim. This design is modern, with clean lines that make it perfect for home or office use. It offers hands-free operation with a step-on pedal, which is convenient while cooking or working. However, this premium design comes with a higher price tag compared to basic models, which may not be suitable for all budgets.
Pros
- Elegant design with stainless-steel accents.
- Hands-free operation with a step-on pedal.
- Stable flared base for improved safety.
Cons
- Higher price point than basic models.
- Still uses plastic for the main body.
Best for: Users who prefer a stylish, premium design. Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers.
A stylish choice that blends functionality with modern aesthetics.
4. Runner-Up
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 great premium pick. Made of sturdy stainless steel, it features a fingerprint-proof design that keeps it looking clean. With a 13-gallon capacity, it fits well in kitchens and offices. The pedal is tested to last over 25 years, ensuring long-lasting use. However, its sturdy build can make it on the heavier side. Some might not prefer the more industrial look it offers when compared to other options.
Pros
- Durable stainless steel construction.
- Fingerprint-proof design keeps it clean.
- Long lifespan with a tested pedal.
Cons
- Heavier than plastic alternatives.
- More industrial design may not suit all tastes.
Best for: Users wanting durability and longevity. Not ideal for: Those preferring a lightweight model.
A reliable option that emphasizes durability and ease of cleaning.
5. Best Design
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 Soft-Close Trash Can is a runner-up for its sleek design. It features a quiet-close lid and a fingerprint-resistant finish, making it easy to maintain. With a capacity of 13.2 gallons, it’s great for larger recycling needs. The foot pedal allows for hands-free use, adding to its convenience. However, it may be more suited for modern kitchens and might not blend well with traditional decor.
Pros
- Soft-close lid prevents slamming.
- Fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking clean.
- Large capacity suitable for busy households.
Cons
- Might not match traditional home styles.
- Can be more expensive than basic models.
Best for: Modern homes with busy kitchens. Not ideal for: Traditional decor styles.
A stylish and functional choice for modern recycling needs.
6. Most Versatile
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 Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is versatile and practical. Designed to fit into tight spaces, it has a 12-gallon capacity. This makes it great for small kitchens while still providing enough room for recycling. The odor protection feature helps keep smells contained. However, its slim design may not be enough for larger households, leading to more frequent trips to empty it.
Pros
- Slim design fits into tight spaces.
- Odor protection keeps smells down.
- 12-gallon capacity for decent waste storage.
Cons
- Limited capacity may not suit larger families.
- Narrow design can limit usability.
Best for: Small kitchens or tight spaces. Not ideal for: Larger families needing more capacity.
A smart solution for limited spaces with recycling needs.
7. Best Splurge
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 Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can is perfect for limited spaces with its 1.6-gallon capacity. It has a soft close lid that minimizes noise, making it ideal for bedrooms or bathrooms. This trash can is compact and easy to place in corners or tight spots. It is not designed for heavy recycling needs, so larger households may find it insufficient. The small size limits its overall usefulness for recycling larger volumes of waste.
Pros
- Compact size fits in tight spaces.
- Soft close lid reduces noise.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Very small capacity not suitable for most recycling needs.
- Limited to specific areas like bathrooms or bedrooms.
Best for: Small spaces with limited waste. Not ideal for: Larger households or recycling needs.
A compact choice for minimal waste management.
8. Best Budget
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 budget-friendly option for families. Its 3.5-gallon capacity is best suited for light recycling needs. The durable plastic material makes it cost-effective and easy to clean. While its smaller size is convenient for tight spaces, it lacks advanced features like odor control. Families generating more waste may find it too small and require frequent emptying.
Pros
- Affordable and budget-friendly.
- Lightweight and easy to move.
- Simple design fits various spaces.
Cons
- Limited capacity may require regular emptying.
- No odor control features.
Best for: Budget-conscious users needing a simple solution. Not ideal for: Larger amounts of recycling waste.
A basic yet functional choice for minimal recycling needs.
Trash Cans Compared Side by Side
The table below summarizes the key features of our picks. The columns show capacity, material, and special features. You can find the best trash can for recycling that fits your space and needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin | Editor's Choice | Volume Distributors, Inc. | $37.99 | Check |
| 2 | Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home… | Best for Recycling | Rubbermaid | $44.86 | Check |
| 3 | KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Best Premium | KdbK | $39.3 | Check |
| 4 | SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close | Runner-Up | Simpli-Magic | $99.99 | Check |
| 5 | Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid | Best Design | Cesun | $26.97 | Check |
| 6 | Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Most Versatile | Volume Distributors, Inc. | $67.47 | Check |
| 7 | UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket | Best Splurge | UUJOLY | $14.99 | Check |
| 8 | Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can | Best Budget | 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
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated quarterly to reflect new products and user feedback. We aim to keep the information current and relevant for readers looking for the best trash can for recycling.
What to look for
Capacity
When choosing a trash can for recycling, consider how much waste you produce. A larger capacity, like 13 gallons, is great for families. Smaller options, like 3.5 gallons, work better for single users or small spaces.
Material
Look for trash cans made from durable materials. Stainless steel is sturdy and easy to clean. Plastic options are lighter and come in various colors but may not last as long.
Odor Control
Odor control features are important for recycling bins. Look for models with lids that trap smells. Some cans have special coatings to help reduce odors, making them better for homes and offices.
Design
The design of a trash can can impact its usability. Choose one that fits your space and looks good in your home. A modern design can complement your décor while being functional.
Ease of Use
Select a trash can that is easy to use. Features like foot pedals for hands-free operation are helpful. Also, consider a soft-close lid to prevent slamming, which makes it quieter.
How to Choose Trash Cans
Assess Your Space
Measure the area where you’ll place the trash can. A slim design might fit better in tight spots. For larger areas, a bigger capacity can help reduce the number of trips to the recycling center.
Check the Capacity
Think about your recycling habits. If you have a large family or generate a lot of waste, a 13-gallon capacity might be best. For smaller households, a 3.5-gallon option could work well.
Look for Odor Control Features
Consider trash cans with odor-blocking lids if you want to keep smells at bay. Some cans have special coatings that help with this too. It can make a big difference in your kitchen or office.
Choose a Durable Material
Select a trash can made from strong materials. Stainless steel is long-lasting and easy to wipe clean. Plastic is lighter but may not be as sturdy, so think about how you’ll use it.
Evaluate Ease of Use
Pick a trash can with user-friendly features. A foot pedal allows hands-free operation, which is convenient. A soft-close lid helps prevent noise and makes it easier to use.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best trash can for recycling?
The best trash can for recycling is the Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection. It has a 13-gallon capacity and a lid that blocks bad smells.
What size trash can do I need for recycling?
A 13-gallon trash can is great for larger households. For smaller spaces or single users, a 3.5-gallon option may be sufficient.
Are stainless steel trash cans better?
Stainless steel trash cans are often more durable. They resist dents and are easy to clean. However, they can be heavier than plastic models.
Do I need a trash can with a lid for recycling?
Yes, a lid helps control odors and keeps your recycling tidy. Opt for a can with a lid that fits securely.
What features should I look for in a recycling trash can?
Look for features like odor control, durable materials, and ease of use. A hands-free option, like a foot pedal, is also helpful.
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:
- EPA Safer Choice U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- ENERGY STAR clothes washers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
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