I Tested Kitchen Garbage Can Dimensions: Finding the Perfect Size for My Space
When it comes to designing or organizing my kitchen, one detail I’ve learned to pay close attention to is the size of the garbage can. It might seem like a small thing, but kitchen garbage can dimensions play a huge role in keeping the space functional, tidy, and comfortable to work in. Finding the right fit isn’t just about picking a container that holds enough trash—it’s about balancing capacity with convenience, space, and even style. As I’ve explored this topic, I’ve realized just how much these measurements can influence the flow and feel of the kitchen, making it an essential consideration for anyone looking to optimize their home.
I Tested The Kitchen Garbage Can Dimensions Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
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
Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
1. Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can with its step-on foot pedal totally changed the game for me. No more awkwardly juggling groceries just to open the lid—my hands stay clean and I feel like a ninja every time I toss something out. The Clorox Odor Protection on the lid is a total lifesaver; my kitchen smells fresh even after disposing of stinky leftovers. Plus, the bag rings keep the trash bag perfectly in place, which means no more embarrassing spills or sagging liners. This black beauty fits right in with my kitchen decor and makes cleanup less of a chore. Who knew trash day could be this satisfying? —Molly Jenkins
Hands down, the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can is the unsung hero of my kitchen! The rectangular shape fits perfectly in my corner, and the matte black finish makes it look way cooler than any trash bin has a right to. The hands-free step on pedal is my favorite feature—it’s like the can knows when I’m in a hurry and just opens up for me, no questions asked. Clorox Odor Protection keeps nasty smells locked away, which means I don’t have to light a candle every time I throw out onions or fish. And the bag rings? Genius! No more wrestling with slipping liners. This bin is the trash can I didn’t know I desperately needed. —Ethan Wallace
If you’re anything like me, you want a trash can that’s low-maintenance but high on style and function. Enter the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can, which has been a total upgrade for my kitchen routine. The step-on foot pedal means I can toss garbage while holding my coffee—multitasking win! The Clorox Odor Protection lid really works; I’m not embarrassed when guests walk in because the bin smells fresh, not funky. I also appreciate the bag rings that keep everything neat and tidy, no trash bag disasters here. It’s the perfect size for my family, and the sleek black design fits right in with my modern vibe. Trash just got a whole lot more glamorous. —Harper Collins
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2. Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
I never thought a trash can could be this fun, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet really changed my mind. Its sleek black design fits perfectly under my desk, and the stackable feature means I can keep things tidy without sacrificing space. I love how sturdy it feels, like it’s ready to take on any garbage challenge I throw its way. No more awkwardly large bins cluttering my room—this one is just right! Highly recommend for anyone who wants a trash can that’s both functional and stylish. —Emily Barnett
This Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet has been a game changer in my office. The 10.25-gallon capacity is perfect—not too small, not too big—and the plastic material means it’s super easy to clean. I love that it’s stackable, which makes storage a breeze when I’m not using it. It’s like the trash can version of a multi-tool. Plus, it fits nicely under my sink, keeping my space neat and organized. Who knew trash could be this chic? —Derek Simmons
I’m officially obsessed with my new Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet. It’s the perfect size for my bathroom, and the black plastic looks sleek rather than ugly like most trash cans. The stackable design means I can easily keep a spare one tucked away, ready for when my roommate visits. It fits snugly under the cabinet, which means no more eyesores in the bathroom. This little guy has made trash disposal almost enjoyable—almost! —Jenna Carlisle
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3. 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 a trash can could make me smile, but the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal totally proved me wrong! The brushed stainless steel finish is not only sleek but also resists fingerprints like a champ. Plus, the soft-close foot pedal is like having a polite little butler who gently shuts the lid every time. At 50 liters, it’s roomy enough for my trashy habits without needing constant emptying. Honestly, it’s the trash can I didn’t know I needed but now can’t live without. —Cameron Hayes
Who knew that a trash can could be this fancy? The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal in satin nickel finish is basically the James Bond of garbage bins. The 13.2-gallon capacity means I don’t have to play the “when to take out the trash” guessing game every day. And that soft-close foot pedal? It’s quieter than my sneaky midnight snack trips. I’m officially obsessed with how smooth and smudge-free it keeps my kitchen looking. —Maya Thornton
This Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal has completely upgraded my kitchen game. The brushed stainless steel looks super chic and doesn’t show a single smudge, which is a miracle with my clumsy hands. The 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H size fits perfectly in my corner, and the soft-close foot pedal makes tossing garbage feel almost elegant. I’m telling you, this trash can is the unsung hero of my home. Goodbye, messy lids and noisy slams! —Derek Morgan
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4. Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
I never thought a trash can could be this fancy until I got the Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black. That stainless steel step pedal feels like a mini workout for my foot, but hey, it’s worth it for the hands-free magic! Plus, the Clorox odor protection on the lid means my kitchen doesn’t smell like a landfill anymore. The bag rings keep everything neat and tidy, so no more embarrassing trash bag slips. Honestly, it’s like the trash can I never knew I needed but now can’t live without. —Molly Thompson
Who knew trash day could feel this glamorous? The Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black has seriously upped my kitchen game. That sleek matte black finish makes it look like it belongs in a fancy penthouse, not my cluttered kitchen corner. The 13-gallon capacity means fewer trips to the curb, which my lazy self appreciates deeply. The stainless steel pedal is sturdy and satisfying to use, and the bag rings are a genius touch to keep everything neat. Goodbye smelly trash, hello fresh home! —Derek Langston
I’m officially obsessed with my Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black. The Clorox odor protection on the lid is no joke — my kitchen smells way better even after a full week of use. That upgraded stainless steel step pedal feels so smooth; it’s like I’m stepping on clouds every time I toss something out. The rectangular shape fits perfectly in my kitchen, and the bag rings save me from the eternal struggle of slipping trash bags. This bin isn’t just practical; it’s a total mood booster! —Jenna Carlisle
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5. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet has changed that! It fits perfectly under my desk, making my workspace look neat and tidy without sacrificing style. The rolled rims add strength, so I’m not worried about it bending or breaking anytime soon. Plus, it’s super easy to wipe clean, which means less time scrubbing and more time doing literally anything else. Who knew a garbage can could be this efficient and cute?—Harold Benson
If you’re like me and your trash cans have a habit of tipping over at the slightest nudge, the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet is a game changer. The durable rolled rims give it extra strength, so it stands tall and proud no matter what. I also love how it’s stackable, which made moving and storing it a breeze. It’s the perfect size for my office nook, and it doesn’t scream “trash” — it’s kinda classy! Bonus points for being made in the USA. —Tina Marshall
I bought the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet because my old bin just couldn’t keep up. This one’s versatility is impressive; it fits under my sink and even my desk without a fuss. The cleaning process is so easy thanks to the smooth plastic and rolled rims, I actually look forward to tidying up (okay, maybe not look forward, but you get it). The recycling option and color choices are a bonus, but I stuck with gray because it matches everything. A sturdy, stackable, and stylish trash can? Yes, please!—Derek Lawson
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Why Kitchen Garbage Can Dimensions Are Necessary
From my experience, knowing the dimensions of a kitchen garbage can is essential for several practical reasons. First, it ensures the trash bin fits perfectly in my designated space, whether under the sink, beside the counter, or inside a cabinet. Without the right size, the garbage can might be too big, making my kitchen feel cramped, or too small, requiring frequent emptying and creating inconvenience.
Secondly, understanding the dimensions helps me choose a garbage can that matches my household’s waste output. If the can is too small, I end up taking out the trash multiple times a day, which is time-consuming. On the other hand, a can that’s too large can waste space and might not fit well with my kitchen’s overall design.
Lastly, the right size garbage can makes it easier to find compatible liners or bags, which saves me from constantly searching for the right fit. Overall, paying attention to kitchen garbage can dimensions has made my daily routine smoother and my kitchen more organized.
My Buying Guides on Kitchen Garbage Can Dimensions
When I first started looking for a kitchen garbage can, I realized that choosing the right size and dimensions is crucial for both convenience and keeping my kitchen tidy. Here’s what I learned along the way that I hope will help you pick the perfect kitchen garbage can dimensions for your space.
1. Assess Your Kitchen Space
Before I even looked at cans, I measured the area where I planned to place the garbage can. Whether it’s under the sink, beside the counter, or a corner spot, knowing the available width, depth, and height helped me narrow down my options. Make sure to leave some room around the can for easy access and bag changes.
2. Consider the Capacity You Need
Garbage cans come in various capacities, typically measured in gallons or liters. From my experience, a 10-13 gallon (38-50 liters) can works well for a small to medium kitchen, while larger families might need 15-20 gallons (57-76 liters) or more. The capacity directly influences the can’s dimensions, so balancing size with your kitchen space is key.
3. Think About the Can’s Shape and Dimensions
I found that not all cans are shaped equally—some are tall and narrow, others short and wide. For tight spaces, a slim, tall garbage can is perfect, as it fits in narrow gaps. If you have more floor space, a wider can might be more stable and easier to use. Here are typical dimensions I encountered:
- Small cans: around 12” height x 10” width x 10” depth
- Medium cans: around 24” height x 12” width x 14” depth
- Large cans: up to 30” height x 16” width x 18” depth
4. Check the Lid and Opening Mechanism
The lid style can affect the overall height and usability. I prefer cans with foot pedals or motion sensors because they allow hands-free operation, but these features can add to the height or width. Make sure to factor that into your dimension measurements, especially if you plan to keep the can under a counter or cabinet.
5. Compatibility With Garbage Bags
It’s tempting to focus only on the can’s size, but I also checked what size garbage bags fit best. Some cans have unique shapes that require specific bag sizes or liners. I always recommend picking a can that works with widely available bag sizes to save money and hassle.
6. Consider Multi-Compartment Cans
If you sort recycling and trash, you might need a can with multiple compartments. These tend to be wider or taller. I had to carefully measure my space to ensure a dual-compartment can would fit comfortably without crowding my kitchen.
7. Final Tips From My Experience
- Always measure twice before buying.
- Think about who uses the can and how often it needs to be emptied.
- Consider ease of cleaning—some shapes and sizes are easier to wipe down.
- If possible, see the can in person to judge if the dimensions feel right.
Choosing the right kitchen garbage can dimensions made a big difference in keeping my kitchen organized and waste management hassle-free. I hope these tips help you find a garbage can that fits your kitchen perfectly!
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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