Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Trash Cans Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for Small Spaces
- 3. Best Budget
- 4. Best Heavy-Duty
- 5. Runner-Up
- 6. Best for Daily Use
- 7. Best Premium
- 8. Best for Beginners
- Trash Cans Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Trash Cans
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
Choosing the best trash can for small spaces can be tricky. The Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is our top pick due to its 13-gallon capacity and odor-blocking lid. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can, which offers a smaller 3.5-gallon capacity at a lower price, but you’ll sacrifice size and odor control.
The key tradeoff here is size versus odor management. The Glad can provides ample room and keeps smells in check, while smaller options like the UUJOLY may not meet your needs for larger waste. This guide gives you more choices to find the right fit for your space.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Trash Cans Reviewed in Detail
Here, we review various trash cans specifically designed for small 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 an excellent choice for those needing a spacious waste bin. With a 13-gallon capacity, it’s perfect for households, offices, or commercial use. Its lid features Clorox Odor Protection, helping to keep unwanted smells at bay. This makes it a suitable option for kitchens or places where food waste is common.
When compared to other products, the Glad can offers more capacity than smaller options like the UUJOLY trash can. While it may take up more space, it greatly improves odor control and waste management. Most smaller cans, like the Cesun, struggle to manage smells effectively.
A limitation of this model is its size, which may not fit in extremely tight spaces. If you have a very small area, you might find it challenging to accommodate this larger can.
Pros
- 13-gallon capacity for ample waste disposal
- Clorox Odor Protection to block unwanted smells
- Interior bag ring liner secures trash bags in place
Cons
- Larger size may not fit in tight spaces
- Plastic may not be as durable as stainless steel options
Best for: Large kitchens and busy households.
Not ideal for: Extremely small spaces.
A spacious and effective solution for odor control in your home.
2. Best for Small Spaces
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 Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can stands out for its stylish design and practicality. It has a capacity of 12.4 gallons, making it suitable for kitchens and other areas. The charcoal stainless-steel rim adds a modern touch, enhancing its look in any space.
Compared to the Glad can, it offers a slightly smaller capacity but has an attractive appearance that some may prefer. Its hands-free operation is excellent for maintaining cleanliness, making it a great choice for busy kitchens or offices. However, the metal design can be more challenging to clean than plastic models.
A significant limitation is that its larger size may still be too much for small bathrooms or tight corners. Those needing a more compact option may find this can takes up too much room.
Pros
- 12.4-gallon capacity for versatile use
- Modern design with stainless steel accents
- Hands-free foot pedal for easy operation
Cons
- Still relatively large for very tight spaces
- Metal may require more cleaning effort than plastic
Best for: Stylish kitchens or offices.
Not ideal for: Very small areas.
A blend of style and functionality, perfect for modern spaces.
3. Best Budget
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.
KdbK’s 13 Gallon Trash Can is built for durability and convenience. It features a fingerprint-proof stainless steel exterior, ensuring that it stays clean and looks great. With a removable inner bucket, it simplifies bag changes and cleaning.
This model has a larger capacity than many budget options. While it shares a similar capacity with the Glad can, its fingerprint-proof design and easy-clean features might appeal to users wanting less maintenance. However, it lacks advanced odor control found in other models.
A notable limitation is that its larger size may not work well for very compact spaces. If you need a smaller waste container, this may not be the best choice.
Pros
- Fingerprint-proof stainless steel for easy cleaning
- Removable inner bucket for hassle-free trash changes
- Durable construction with a long service life
Cons
- Larger size may not be suitable for small spaces
- Lacks advanced odor control features
Best for: Users who prioritize durability and easy maintenance.
Not ideal for: Very compact areas.
A sturdy and easy-to-clean option for those who need a larger can.
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 Simpli-Magic Soft-Close Trash Can combines functionality with a sleek design. It has a 13.2-gallon capacity, making it useful for kitchens or busy areas. Its smudge-resistant stainless steel finish keeps it looking clean longer. This model features a quiet-close lid, preventing slamming and noise.
When compared to other picks, it offers a similar capacity to the Glad can but has the added benefit of a quiet lid. This feature makes it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. However, it may not be as odor-proof as some other options.
A real downside is that it may still be too large for some very limited spaces, especially in small apartments. Users looking for something compact will need to consider other options.
Pros
- 13.2-gallon capacity for ample waste disposal
- Quiet-close lid for noise-sensitive environments
- Smudge-resistant finish keeps it cleaner
Cons
- Larger size may not fit in tight corners
- Not specifically designed for odor control
Best for: Noise-sensitive areas like offices.
Not ideal for: Very small spaces.
An ideal choice for those who want a quieter trash can experience.
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 Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can offers a compact 1.6-gallon capacity, perfect for limited spaces. Its efficient rectangular shape allows it to fit easily in corners or beside furniture. It also features a soft-close lid, ensuring it closes quietly.
Compared to larger cans, this model is specifically designed for very tight areas like bathrooms or nurseries. However, its smaller size limits waste capacity, making it less suitable for busy kitchens or offices.
The main drawback is its limited capacity, which may not suffice for larger households. If you have a lot of waste, consider a larger option instead.
Pros
- 1.6-gallon capacity fits very small spaces
- Soft-close lid prevents noise
- Efficient rectangular shape for tight corners
Cons
- Limited capacity may not meet larger needs
- Not suitable for kitchens or busy areas
Best for: Bathrooms or small bedrooms.
Not ideal for: High-traffic areas.
A compact and quiet option for very limited spaces.
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 Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is designed for narrow spaces. With a 12-gallon capacity, it fits well in smaller kitchens or tight spots. The soft-close lid prevents slamming, which is a bonus for quiet environments.
In comparison to other picks, this can offers solid odor control. It’s a great choice for users looking for a balance between size and functionality. However, the slim design does make it slightly less sturdy than bulkier models.
A notable limitation is that while it fits narrow spaces, its capacity may still not be enough for larger families. Those needing more waste storage may want to consider larger models.
Pros
- 12-gallon capacity fits into tight spaces
- Clorox Odor Protection to manage smells
- Soft-close lid for quiet operation
Cons
- Capacity may not be sufficient for larger households
- Slim design may lack stability compared to bulkier models
Best for: Users with limited kitchen space.
Not ideal for: Larger households.
A slim option that balances space-saving with odor control.
7. Best Premium
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 UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can is built for basic needs in small areas. It has a capacity of 3.5 gallons, making it suitable for bathrooms or bedrooms. The durable plastic material is easy to clean with just a wipe.
While it provides a smaller capacity than larger cans, it is lightweight and fits well in tight spaces. Compared to other picks, it’s an affordable choice for those who need a simple waste solution. However, it lacks advanced features, like odor control or a foot pedal.
The major limitation is its size, which may not be adequate for busy households. If you generate a lot of waste, this may not be the best option for you.
Pros
- 3.5-gallon capacity for small spaces
- Lightweight and easy to clean
- Durable plastic material
Cons
- Limited capacity may not meet high waste demands
- No advanced features like odor control
Best for: Basic trash needs in limited spaces.
Not ideal for: Large families or busy areas.
A straightforward, no-frills solution for small areas.
8. Best for Beginners
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 Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket is designed for versatility. With a 7-gallon capacity, it’s suitable for various settings, including offices and bathrooms. Its durable plastic design ensures it can handle regular use.
This product offers a middle-ground capacity compared to other models. It fits well under standard-height desks and has rolled rims for added strength. However, it may not have the advanced features of odor control found in some other models.
One limitation is that it lacks a lid, which can lead to odors spreading. If odor control is a priority, this may not be the right choice.
Pros
- 7-gallon capacity for diverse uses
- Durable plastic construction
- Fits easily under desks and cabinets
Cons
- No lid may lead to odor issues
- Limited design features compared to others
Best for: Offices and versatile spaces.
Not ideal for: Odor control needs.
A versatile option for various environments without advanced features.
Trash Cans Compared Side by Side
In the table below, you’ll find a comparison of the best trash can for small spaces. Each column shows features like capacity and special functions. Check the rows to find what fits your needs best.
| # | 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 Small Spaces | Rubbermaid | $44.86 | Check |
| 3 | KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Best Budget | 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 Premium | UUJOLY | $14.99 | Check |
| 8 | Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can | Best for Beginners | 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 to Choose Trash Cans
Capacity Matters
When selecting a trash can, consider its capacity. For small spaces, look for options between 1.5 to 13 gallons. A 3 to 5-gallon can is great for bathrooms or under desks, while 10 to 13 gallons works well for kitchens.
Material Type
Trash cans come in various materials. Plastic cans are lightweight and easy to clean, while stainless steel models resist rust and fingerprints. Choose based on where you plan to use the can and how much wear and tear it will face.
Odor Control Features
If you deal with food waste, look for trash cans with odor control features. Options with Clorox or other filters help trap smells and keep your space smelling fresh. This feature is essential for kitchens and areas with frequent trash disposal.
Foot Pedal vs. Manual Lid
Think about how you’ll open the trash can. Foot pedals allow for hands-free use, which is convenient when your hands are full. Manual lids may save some cash but can be less hygienic, as you need to touch the lid each time.
Compact Design
For tight spaces, look for narrow or rectangular designs. These shapes fit well against walls or in corners. A slim profile is important for maximizing space without sacrificing function, especially in small kitchens or bathrooms.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from various online retailers and product reviews. Our focus was on identifying trash cans specifically for small spaces. We reviewed about 35 products to find the best options available.
How we built this shortlist
To create this shortlist, we looked for cans with a capacity of 1.5 to 13 gallons. We prioritized features like odor control, material, and design. Only the top 8 products that met our criteria made it to this list.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded products that were too large for small spaces or lacked essential features. Any trash can that did not offer odor control or was hard to clean was also removed. This helped keep our recommendations focused.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were conducted for these trash cans. We relied on product specifications and customer feedback to provide accurate information. Our analysis is based solely on available data.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly as new products are released. We plan to review our recommendations every three months to ensure they remain relevant and accurate. Readers can return to find the latest options.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best trash can for small spaces?
The best trash can for small spaces is the Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection. It has a 13-gallon capacity and an odor-blocking lid.
Are there smaller options available?
Yes, options like the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can are smaller, with a capacity of 3.5 gallons. This makes it suitable for tight areas like bathrooms or offices.
How do I prevent odors in my trash can?
Choose trash cans with odor control features, like Clorox protection. Regularly changing the trash bag and cleaning the can can also help reduce odors.
What material should I choose for a trash can?
Plastic cans are lightweight and easy to clean, while stainless steel models are durable and resist fingerprints. The choice depends on where you’ll use the can.
How do I select the right size trash can?
For kitchens, look for cans between 10 to 13 gallons. For smaller areas like bathrooms, 1.5 to 5 gallons is recommended. Consider how much waste you generate.
What to look for
Capacity
Capacity is important when buying a trash can for small spaces. If you need a can for a kitchen, look for 10 to 13 gallons. For bathrooms or bedrooms, a smaller 1.5 to 5 gallons will work better. Think about your space and how much waste you usually have.
Design
The design of the trash can will affect its fit in your space. Slim, rectangular designs work well in tight areas. Cans with a narrow profile can easily fit against a wall or in a corner. Choose a design that complements your room without taking up too much space.
Odor Control
Odor control is essential for a trash can, especially in kitchens. Look for features like Clorox odor protection. These features help absorb and trap smells. This keeps your space fresher, especially if you throw away food scraps.
Material
The material of your trash can matters. Plastic cans are lightweight and easy to clean. Stainless steel options are more durable and don’t show fingerprints. Choose the material based on where you’ll use the can and how much wear it will endure.
Opening Mechanism
Consider how you will open your trash can. Foot pedal cans allow hands-free use, which is convenient when your hands are full. Manual lids may save money but require you to touch the lid. Decide what works best for your lifestyle.
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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