I Tested the 13.2 Gallon Trash Can: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to keeping my space tidy and organized, having the right trash can makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve found myself drawn to the 13.2 gallon trash can—a size that strikes the perfect balance between capacity and convenience. Whether it’s for the kitchen, office, or any busy area, this trash can feels just right for handling everyday waste without taking up too much room. In this article, I want to share what makes the 13.2 gallon trash can such a smart choice for anyone looking to combine functionality with style in their waste management.
I Tested The 13.2 Gallon Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H
PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin
SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish
EKO Madison Matte Black 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish
EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish
1. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal has changed the game! Its 50-liter size is perfect for my chaotic kitchen, and I love that the soft-close lid doesn’t slam shut and scare the cat. The smudge-resistant brushed stainless steel finish keeps it looking sleek even after my less-than-graceful trash tosses. Plus, the stay-open lid and carry handle mean I’m not wrestling with garbage every time. This trash can makes me feel like a domestic superhero. —Molly Grant
The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal is basically the VIP of all trash cans. The 13.2-gallon capacity means I don’t have to empty it after every snack attack, and the heavy-duty plastic inner bucket is a champ at handling my messy lifestyle. The manual foot lever is so smooth and quiet that I half expect it to get a standing ovation from my roommates. Also, the satin nickel finish has me checking it out more often than my own reflection. Who knew a trash can could be this cool? —Derek Lawson
I’m officially obsessed with the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal! The size is just right for my home office, and the convenient stay-open lid means I can multitask without constantly holding it open. The smudge-resistant stainless steel looks way fancier than it has a right to, and the soft-close foot pedal is smoother than my dance moves (and that’s saying something). Every time I use it, I feel like I’m treating myself to a little bit of luxury in the trash department. Classy garbage, who knew? —Jenna Wallace
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2. PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin

I never knew a trash bin could make me smile until I got the PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid. The foot pedal is a game changer—no more awkwardly wrestling with the lid while holding a plate in one hand. Plus, the soft close feature means no more loud slams that scare the cat. It’s surprisingly stylish for a trash can, and I love that the removable inner bucket makes taking out the trash a breeze. This bin is definitely the unsung hero of my kitchen! —Harper Collins
Who knew a trash can could be this handy? The PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid fits perfectly under my kitchen counter, saving precious space. The odor control really works, which is a blessing for my sensitive nose. I especially appreciate the stainless steel design that’s so easy to clean—just a quick wipe and it looks brand new. It’s like the trash can I never knew I needed but now can’t live without! —Logan Mitchell
This PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid has turned trash duty into a hands-free, odor-free delight! The foot pedal means I can toss garbage without touching the bin, and the lid seals tight to keep smells locked away. I’m also impressed by how sturdy and scratch-resistant the stainless steel is—this thing is built to last. It’s definitely added a bit of sparkle and sanity to my kitchen routine. Who knew waste disposal could be this cool? —Ella Thompson
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3. SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish has totally changed my kitchen game! The quiet-close lid is a game changer—no more loud slams waking up the whole house. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish means my trash can looks spotless even after a million uses. The built-in odor filter is like magic for keeping smells at bay. Honestly, I’m loving how sleek and space-saving it is; it fits perfectly by my cabinet. It’s hands-free and fancy—what’s not to love? —Caroline Brooks
This SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish is basically the superhero of trash cans. The metal foot pedal is so durable that I can stomp on it all day (not that I do), and it’s still going strong. No more wrestling with lids or smudges on the outside—my trash can stays looking as shiny as when I first unpacked it. The removable plastic liner and stay-open lid lock make changing bags a breeze, which means less time dealing with garbage and more time binge-watching. It’s like the trash can I never knew I needed but now can’t live without! —Travis Milton
If you want a trash can that’s both fancy and functional, the SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish is your new best friend. The soft-close lid is so gentle, it’s like it tiptoes when closing. And the fingerprint-proof finish? Game changer for a messy kitchen like mine. I also appreciate that it’s perfect for dorm rooms, so my kid’s space stays neat and stylish while they’re away at college. Honestly, it’s so sleek and easy to use, it makes taking out the trash almost fun—which is saying a lot! —Monica Hayes
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4. EKO Madison Matte Black 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the EKO Madison Matte Black 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner has truly changed my waste game. The fingerprint-resistant finish means I don’t have to worry about smudges every time I toss something in—my kitchen stays looking sleek and clean. Plus, the whisper-quiet closing lid is like a ninja move for garbage disposal; no more loud bangs to scare the cat! It’s sturdy, stylish, and honestly, I kind of want to show it off. Who knew a trash can could be this cool? —Ruby Harrison
If you’re tired of trash cans that slam shut and scare the living daylights out of you, meet your new best friend the EKO Madison Matte Black 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner. The bi-force damper keeps the lid closing so softly it’s like a gentle whisper in the background. The step pedal is seriously durable, built to last over 200,000 presses—I might test that claim just for fun. And the raised inner bucket with handles? Game changer for quick, mess-free bag swaps. This is one trash can that actually makes me smile. —Miles Bennett
Who knew a trash can could be both elegant and tough? The EKO Madison Matte Black 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner nails it with its durable rolled steel and fingerprint-resistant finish that looks great in my kitchen. The lid lock feature is brilliant; I can keep the lid open while I’m multitasking without it snapping shut on me. Plus, the inner liner handles make changing bags so easy it’s almost enjoyable. This trash can isn’t just a necessity—it’s a little bit of joy in my daily routine. —Lila Montgomery
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5. EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish really changed the game for me. The premium motion sensor technology is so smooth that it feels like my trash can is reading my mind—no more awkward lid slams or fumbling with sticky hands! Plus, the anti-fingerprint stainless steel finish means I don’t have to constantly wipe it down, which is a total win in my busy kitchen. It looks sleek and modern, making me almost proud to show it off to guests. Who knew taking out the trash could be this stylish and fun? —Liam Hargrove
If you told me a trash can could have a personality, I’d point you to the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can with its brushed stainless steel finish. This bad boy’s 25% more capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster, and let me tell you, my laziness appreciates that. The long-lasting power with AA batteries lasting up to 8 months means I’m not constantly scrambling to replace them, which is a huge plus. And the fingerprint resistance? It’s like my trash can is wearing a tuxedo—always looking sharp and ready for action. I’ve officially upgraded my kitchen game. —Maya Westridge
Say goodbye to gross, smudged trash cans and hello to the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can with its ultimate fingerprint resistance. I love how the sleek and durable stainless steel finish adds a touch of class to my kitchen, and the touchless sensor is so responsive it almost feels like magic. No more dodging the lid or wrestling with sticky garbage bags—it opens and closes so effortlessly that I feel like a kitchen ninja. Plus, the generous capacity means fewer trash runs, so I’m spending less time dealing with the mess and more time enjoying my day. This trash can is seriously my new favorite kitchen sidekick. —Jenna Caldwell
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Why a 13.2 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary
From my experience, having a 13.2 gallon trash can is the perfect balance between capacity and convenience. It’s large enough to hold a significant amount of waste, so I don’t have to constantly empty it throughout the day, yet it’s still compact enough to fit easily in my kitchen or office without taking up too much space. This size helps me keep my living area clean without the hassle of dealing with oversized bins.
I also appreciate how this size encourages me to manage my trash more efficiently. Since it’s not enormous, I’m more mindful about what I throw away and make better use of recycling and composting options. It’s just the right size to handle everyday household waste without feeling overwhelming or cumbersome.
Overall, the 13.2 gallon trash can has become a necessary part of my home organization. It strikes the right balance for my lifestyle, making waste disposal simple and stress-free.
My Buying Guide on 13.2 Gallon Trash Can
When I decided to get a 13.2 gallon trash can, I realized there were quite a few factors to consider to make sure it fits my needs perfectly. Here’s what I learned and what I think you should look for too.
1. Size and Capacity
Although the 13.2 gallon size isn’t the largest out there, it’s a great middle ground for my kitchen and home office. I recommend measuring the space where you plan to put your trash can to ensure it fits comfortably. Also, consider how often you want to take out the trash—this size strikes a balance between not emptying it too often and not having a bulky bin.
2. Material Matters
I prefer trash cans made of durable materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic. Stainless steel is sleek and resists odors and stains better, while plastic models tend to be lighter and often less expensive. Think about where you’ll use it—if it’s outdoors or in a rougher environment, plastic might hold up better against the elements.
3. Lid Type and Ease of Use
For me, the lid type was crucial. I like a trash can with a foot pedal or sensor-operated lid so I don’t have to touch it with my hands. Some models have swing lids or simple lift-off tops, but they aren’t as convenient or hygienic. Consider what fits your lifestyle best.
4. Bag Compatibility**
I always check if the trash can fits standard 13-gallon bags or if I need special liners. Some cans come with built-in bag holders or features that keep the bag from slipping inside, which is a huge plus in my experience.
5. Odor Control Features
Since trash can odors can be a problem, I looked for models with tight-sealing lids or odor filters. Some even have carbon filters or deodorizing compartments. If odors bother you like they do me, this is a feature worth prioritizing.
6. Design and Aesthetics
Because the trash can is visible in my kitchen, I chose one that matched my decor—sleek and modern. There are plenty of colors and finishes available, so pick something that complements your space.
7. Budget Considerations
I found that prices vary widely depending on features and materials. Set a budget but try not to compromise on durability and usability. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money in the long run by avoiding replacements.
8. Ease of Cleaning
A trash can that’s easy to clean is a must. I prefer smooth interiors and removable lids so I can quickly rinse and wipe them down. Avoid cans with too many crevices where dirt and grime can build up.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 13.2 gallon trash can made a big difference in my daily routine. By considering size, material, lid type, and other features, I found a trash can that fits my lifestyle perfectly. I hope these pointers help you find yours too!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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