Contents
Choosing the best trash can outdoor can be tough. The Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is the best pick because it has a 13-gallon capacity and a lid that blocks smells. The Rubbermaid Premier Series III is a good value option, but it has a smaller size at 12.4 gallons. Many buyers face a choice between odor control and capacity.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Trash Cans Reviewed in Detail
Here are our top picks for outdoor trash cans, comparing their features.
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 a strong choice for outdoor use. It has a 13-gallon capacity, giving you ample space for waste. The unique feature is its lid, which helps block unwanted smells for the life of the can. This is essential for outdoor settings, especially in summer. Compared to other options, it offers larger capacity and superior odor control, making it well-suited for busy households. However, the plastic construction may not be as sturdy as some stainless steel options, which could affect longevity in harsh weather conditions.
Pros
- 13-gallon capacity for ample waste storage.
- Lid with Clorox Odor Protection to trap smells.
- Interior bag ring keeps trash bags secure.
Cons
- Made of plastic, which may wear over time.
- Limited aesthetic options compared to metal cans.
Best for: Families with high waste volume. Not ideal for: Those seeking a stainless steel option.
This trash can combines size and odor control for excellent outdoor use.
2. Most Versatile
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 is a versatile option for outdoor areas. With a 12.4-gallon capacity, it fits easily in kitchens, garages, or patios. Its stainless-steel accents add visual appeal and durability. The hands-free operation is a standout feature, allowing you to toss waste without using your hands. This can is slightly smaller than the Glad model but offers a modern look and solid performance. However, it may not have the same level of smell protection, which can be a drawback for outdoor settings.
Pros
- Stainless-steel rim adds a modern touch.
- Hands-free operation with step-on pedal.
- Suitable for various environments like kitchens and garages.
Cons
- Smaller capacity than the best overall pick.
- Less odor control compared to other models.
Best for: Those looking for a versatile, stylish can. Not ideal for: Users needing maximum odor protection.
This can balances style and function for a variety of settings.
3. Best Heavy-Duty
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 KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can is built for heavy-duty use. It features sturdy stainless steel that resists fingerprints and is easy to clean. The 13-gallon capacity provides plenty of space for waste. Compared to others, this model is designed to last with a strong construction, making it suitable for outdoor areas with high traffic. However, it lacks some odor control features found in competitors, which could be a concern for uses like barbecues or gatherings.
Pros
- 13-gallon capacity for ample storage.
- Durable stainless steel construction with fingerprint resistance.
- Tested pedal for over 200,000 uses.
Cons
- No special odor control features.
- Heavier than some plastic models.
Best for: Heavy usage in outdoor settings. Not ideal for: Those needing odor-blocking features.
This can withstand heavy use but lacks odor control.
4. Best Lightweight
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 is designed for ease of use. Its 13.2-gallon capacity is good for both indoor and outdoor spaces. The standout feature is the quiet-close lid, preventing loud slams. Compared to the KdbK model, it may be easier to use for families or individuals with children. However, its design is less sturdy and may not withstand harsh weather as well, which can limit its outdoor effectiveness.
Pros
- Quiet-close lid for gentle operation.
- Hands-free foot pedal for convenience.
- Sleek, modern design that fits various spaces.
Cons
- Less durable than stainless steel models.
- May struggle in extremely hot or cold weather.
Best for: Homes needing quiet operation. Not ideal for: Harsh outdoor environments.
A stylish option that closes quietly but may lack durability.
5. Best Premium
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 is a compact choice for limited spaces. With a capacity of 1.6 gallons, it is ideal for small rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Its soft-close lid prevents noise, making it suitable for quiet areas. This model is significantly smaller than others, making it less useful for outdoor gatherings. While it fits in tight spaces, it may not be practical for larger outdoor areas.
Pros
- Compact size fits in tight spaces.
- Soft-close lid for quiet operation.
- Matte black finish is visually appealing.
Cons
- Small capacity limits outdoor use.
- Not designed for larger waste loads.
Best for: Small rooms with limited space. Not ideal for: Outdoor events or large waste needs.
A stylish, compact can that fits small spaces but lacks capacity.
6. Best Design
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. Its 12-gallon capacity makes it versatile for small kitchens and tight areas. The floor-saving design features a soft-close lid and step-on foot pedal for hands-free use. Compared to the Glad Trash Can, it is better for smaller locations. However, the slim profile may limit its waste capacity at gatherings, which could be a drawback for outdoor events.
Pros
- Slim design fits in tight spots.
- 12-gallon capacity provides decent storage.
- Soft-close lid offers convenience.
Cons
- Narrow design limits capacity for large gatherings.
- Plastic material may wear more quickly.
Best for: Tight spaces and small kitchens. Not ideal for: Large outdoor events needing a bigger can.
Great for small spaces but may not hold enough for bigger clean-ups.
7. Best for Beginners
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 designed for everyday use. With a 3.5-gallon capacity, it is suitable for bathrooms or small kitchens. Its lightweight plastic makes it easy to move around. Compared to other options, it is less durable and designed mainly for indoor use. While it could work outdoors, it may not hold up well against the elements, making it less ideal for outdoor settings.
Pros
- Lightweight design is easy to move.
- 3.5-gallon capacity for small waste.
- Easy to clean with a damp cloth.
Cons
- Small capacity limits outdoor use.
- Not as durable as metal options.
Best for: Small indoor spaces. Not ideal for: Heavy outdoor use or larger waste needs.
A basic can that works for small spaces but lacks durability.
8. Best for Daily Use
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 a practical choice for everyday use. With a 7-gallon capacity, it fits easily under desks or sinks. Its durable plastic construction holds up well in various environments. Compared to the other models, this one is more basic in design but very functional. It may not be very appealing visually, and it lacks features like odor control, making it less suitable for outdoor gatherings.
Pros
- Durable plastic construction is easy to clean.
- 7-gallon capacity fits under standard desks.
- Versatile for various rooms and settings.
Cons
- Basic design may not appeal to everyone.
- No special features for odor control.
Best for: Everyday use in homes and offices. Not ideal for: Outdoor events needing odor protection.
Functional but basic, this can suits everyday needs without extra features.
Trash Cans Compared Side by Side
The table below shows key features of each trash can. It helps you see which one fits your needs best. Look at the capacity and special features when you consider the best trash can outdoor.
| # | 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… | Most Versatile | Rubbermaid | $44.86 | Check |
| 3 | KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Best Heavy-Duty | KdbK | $39.3 | Check |
| 4 | SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close | Best Lightweight | Simpli-Magic | $99.99 | Check |
| 5 | Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid | Best Premium | Cesun | $26.97 | Check |
| 6 | Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Best Design | Volume Distributors, Inc. | $67.47 | Check |
| 7 | UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket | Best for Beginners | UUJOLY | $14.99 | Check |
| 8 | Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can | Best for Daily Use | 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
When choosing a trash can, capacity matters. A 13-gallon can holds more waste than a smaller one. If you have a busy outdoor space, choose a larger size. A can with at least 10 gallons is good for homes with more trash.
Material
Select a trash can made of sturdy material. Stainless steel is strong and looks good. Plastic is lighter but may wear out faster. If you want durability, go for a stainless steel option.
Odor Control
Odor control features can make a big difference. Look for a can with a lid that seals tightly. Some cans, like the Glad model, have special technology to block smells. This is important for outdoor use.
Foot Pedal vs. Manual Open
Think about how you want to open the trash can. A foot pedal allows for hands-free use. This can be better when your hands are full. If you don’t mind lifting the lid, a manual can will save money.
Design and Aesthetics
The design of the trash can matters if it’s visible in your yard. Choose a can that blends with your outdoor decor. Some models have modern designs, while others are basic. Pick one that looks nice in your space.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from verified customer reviews and manufacturer specifications. This helped us understand the best features of each model. We looked at around 30 different trash cans to get a full picture.
How we built this shortlist
This shortlist includes cans with good reviews and strong features. We focused on capacity, material, and odor control. Only those with high ratings and useful specs made it to our final list.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out trash cans that had poor reviews or weak construction. Any can with a low capacity or no odor control features was also removed. This narrowed our list to just the best options.
What we did not do
We did not test any products by hand or perform lab measurements. All data comes from existing reviews and specs. No scores or ratings were invented; we rely on real customer feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly to reflect new models and customer feedback. We check for changes in features and reviews every few months. This ensures you see the best trash cans on the market.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best trash can outdoor?
The best trash can outdoor is the Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection. It has a 13-gallon capacity and blocks unwanted smells.
How do I clean my outdoor trash can?
Use warm soapy water to clean the outside of your trash can. Rinse with clean water and let it dry completely.
Can I use a plastic trash can outdoors?
Yes, but make sure it is designed for outdoor use. Plastic cans can wear out faster in sun and rain.
What size trash can is best for outdoor use?
A trash can with at least 10 gallons is good for outdoor use. Larger sizes are better for busy areas.
Are foot pedal trash cans better for outdoor use?
Foot pedal trash cans are convenient for outdoor use. They allow for hands-free operation, which is useful when your hands are full.
What to look for
Odor Protection
Odor protection is key for outdoor trash cans. Look for features that seal the lid tightly. Some models, like the Glad Trash Can, use special technology to block smells. This makes them ideal for gardens or patios.
Durability
Durability is important for outdoor trash cans. Stainless steel options are usually more sturdy than plastic. A sturdy can can withstand weather changes and heavy use. Check the material to ensure it will last longer outdoors.
Ease of Use
Ease of use affects how often you will take out the trash. Foot pedals allow for hands-free access, which is great when you have waste to toss. Cans with a removable inner bucket also make liner changes easier.
Capacity
The size of the trash can affects how often you will need to empty it. A 13-gallon can is often a good choice for family gatherings or outdoor events. Smaller cans might need more frequent emptying.
Aesthetic Appeal
Select a trash can that fits your outdoor design. Modern designs can enhance your yard’s look. It’s worth choosing one that complements your space while serving its purpose.
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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