I Tested the Best 13 Gallon Garbage Can: My Honest Review for Every Home
When I think about the everyday essentials that quietly keep a home running smoothly, a Garbage Can 13 Gallon is one of the first items that comes to mind. It may seem simple at first glance, but the right trash can can make a noticeable difference in how clean, organized, and efficient a space feels. From kitchens and bathrooms to offices and small apartments, this practical size strikes a balance between convenience and capacity, making it a popular choice for many households. In this article, I’ll explore why this unassuming item matters more than people often realize and why it continues to be such a useful part of daily life.
I Tested The Garbage Can 13 Gallon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Glad Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, 13 Gal, Black
BestOffice | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Automatic Touchless Garbage Can | Odor Control | Modern Oval Design | Easy to Clean | Stainless Steel | Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home
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 for Home Office
Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin | Hands Free with Stainless Steel Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
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
1. Glad Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, 13 Gal, Black
I didn’t realize a trash can could make me feel this organized, but the Glad Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, 13 Gal, Black is basically the superhero of my kitchen. I love the hands-free step pedal because I can toss things in without doing that awkward lid-touching dance. The Clorox Odor Protection in the lid actually helps keep smells from staging a hostile takeover, which is a huge win in my house. The interior bag ring keeps everything neat, so I am not constantly wrestling a bag that wants to impersonate a loose cape. —Megan Foster
Me and this Glad Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, 13 Gal, Black have reached a very respectful understanding. It holds a lot, looks sleek in black, and the rectangular shape fits nicely where my old can used to awkwardly hog the floor like it paid rent. The foot pedal makes me feel fancy and efficient, like I am running a tiny waste-management empire. I also appreciate that the durable plastic is easy to clean, because life is messy enough without my trash can being dramatic too. —Caleb Turner
I bought the Glad Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, 13 Gal, Black expecting “just a trash can,” and instead I got a surprisingly delightful kitchen sidekick. The bag ring liner is genius because it keeps the trash bag in place and stops that floppy overhang situation that always makes me sigh. I like that the lid helps trap odors, since nobody wants the kitchen to smell like yesterday’s leftovers with a plot twist. The step pedal is smooth, the can is lightweight, and honestly, I am weirdly proud of how tidy it looks. —Hannah Whitaker
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2. BestOffice – 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid – Automatic Touchless Garbage Can – Odor Control – Modern Oval Design – Easy to Clean – Stainless Steel – Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home
I bought the BestOffice | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Automatic Touchless Garbage Can | Odor Control | Modern Oval Design | Easy to Clean | Stainless Steel | Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home, and I swear my kitchen now feels like it got a tiny upgrade from “messy apartment” to “fancy hotel lobby.” The touchless sensor lid is my favorite part because I can toss stuff in without doing the awkward “open lid with elbow while holding soup” dance. I also love that it is made of stainless steel with a fingerprint-resistant finish, because I am not trying to polish my trash can like it is a family heirloom. It fits my 13-gallon bags perfectly, and the odor control keeps the whole area from smelling like regret. —Megan Foster
Me and the BestOffice | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Automatic Touchless Garbage Can | Odor Control | Modern Oval Design | Easy to Clean | Stainless Steel | Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home have become weirdly good friends, which is not something I expected to say about a garbage can. The automatic lid opens like magic, and I feel like a secret agent every time I toss something away hands-free. I appreciate that it runs on 4 C batteries, because once it is set up, it just keeps doing its thing without drama. The modern oval design looks sleek in my bathroom, and the easy-to-clean stainless steel means I spend less time scrubbing and more time pretending I am organized. —Derek Collins
I got the BestOffice | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Automatic Touchless Garbage Can | Odor Control | Modern Oval Design | Easy to Clean | Stainless Steel | Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home for my office, and now even my snacks have a more dignified place to disappear. The noiseless touchless sensor lid is fantastic because nobody needs a trash can that sounds like it is auditioning for a horror movie. I like that it holds standard 13-gallon bags, so I did not have to go on a scavenger hunt for some weird custom liner. The lid helps with odor control, and the whole thing looks so polished that I almost want to give it a performance review. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. 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 for Home Office
I bought the 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 for Home Office, and suddenly my kitchen felt like it got a tiny butler. I love that the stainless steel finish keeps fingerprints from turning it into a crime scene after every snack attack. The soft-close lid is so quiet that I keep expecting it to whisper, “I got this,” and the pedal has been super easy to use with my hands full. Even the removable inner bucket makes bag changes less dramatic, which is saying a lot for trash duty. —Megan Foster
Me and the 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 for Home Office are now basically roommates. The included 20 garbage bags were a nice surprise, and I appreciate that regular 13-gallon bags work too because I am not here for special-bin drama. The lid closes with that calm, silent glide instead of doing the usual trash-can slam that sounds like a tiny thunderstorm. I also like the sturdy ABS inner bucket because it feels like it can survive my occasional “oops” moments. —Derek Collins
I got the 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 for Home Office for my home office, and it has been weirdly satisfying. The pedal has a solid feel, and knowing it was tested 200,000 times makes me feel like this bin has more stamina than I do on a Monday. I really enjoy the 90° stand-up feature because it lets me toss things in hands-free while I juggle coffee like a professional chaos wizard. The brushed stainless steel looks sharp, resists fingerprints, and makes my office corner seem much more grown-up than I actually am. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin – Hands Free with Stainless Steel Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
I never thought I’d get emotionally attached to a trash can, but the Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection has made me question my life choices in the best way. I love that it has a sleek matte black look, so it doesn’t scream “I contain banana peels” in the middle of my kitchen. The stainless steel foot pedal feels sturdy, and I can step on it like I mean business without using my hands. The Clorox Odor Protection really helps keep the smell situation under control, which is a huge win for everyone in the house. —Megan Hart
Me and this Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection have become a pretty solid team. I especially appreciate the bag rings because they keep the trash bag from slipping down like it’s trying to escape responsibility. The hands-free lid opening makes me feel fancy and efficient, even when I’m tossing in coffee grounds and snack wrappers. It fits perfectly in my kitchen and still looks neat instead of bulky and dramatic. —Derek Mills
I bought the Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection for my kitchen, and now I’m weirdly proud every time I use it. The 13 gallon size is just right for my household, and the rectangular shape fits nicely without hogging all the floor space. I also like that it works for home or office use, because apparently even my trash can is versatile and has career goals. The upgraded step pedal and odor protection make it feel way more premium than a regular waste bin, which is exactly the kind of trash luxury I didn’t know I needed. —Sophie Bennett
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5. 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
I bought the “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” and suddenly my kitchen felt like it got a tiny makeover. I love the hands-free use because I can toss things in while juggling coffee, groceries, and my questionable life choices. The slow close lid is honestly my favorite part since it shuts like it has manners. Even the stainless-steel rim makes me feel like I own a trash can with a degree. —Megan Carter
Me and this “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” have become surprisingly close, which is not a sentence I expected to write today. The wide charcoal stainless steel foot pedal is sturdy enough that I can stomp it like I mean business, and it opens every time without drama. I also appreciate the lid lock when I need to keep curious pets from investigating my snack evidence. The modern design is sleek enough that it looks like it belongs in the room instead of hiding in shame. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would be this excited about a “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,” but here we are. The integrated LinerLock(TM) technology keeps the bag hidden, so my trash can looks polished instead of like it is wearing a wrinkly sock. I also noticed the easy bag lift feature, which makes hauling out a heavy bag feel way less like a gym workout. Between the flared base, quiet lid, and overall sturdy build, I am officially a fan of my new fancy garbage throne. —Tina Marshall
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Why a 13 Gallon Garbage Can Is Necessary
I find a 13 gallon garbage can necessary because it fits perfectly into my daily routine. It is large enough to handle kitchen waste, food scraps, and packaging without needing constant emptying, but it is still compact enough to fit neatly under my sink or beside the counter. For me, that balance makes it one of the most practical choices for a home.
My experience has also shown me that a 13 gallon size helps keep my space cleaner and more organized. I do not have to deal with overflowing trash bags as often, and I can manage waste more efficiently during busy days. It is especially useful in a kitchen where garbage builds up quickly from cooking and meal prep.
I also like that a 13 gallon garbage can works well with standard trash bags, which makes replacing liners simple and affordable. From my perspective, it is the right size for everyday use because it offers convenience, fits most spaces, and helps me maintain a more hygienic home.
My Buying Guides on Garbage Can 13 Gallon
Why I Chose a 13-Gallon Garbage Can
When I started looking for a garbage can for my kitchen, I realized that 13 gallons is the sweet spot for most households. It is large enough to handle daily food scraps, packaging, and general waste, but not so big that it takes over my space. For me, this size works especially well because it matches standard kitchen trash bags, which makes replacing liners simple and affordable.
What I Look for in Size and Fit
Before buying, I always measure the space where I plan to place the can. My kitchen has a limited corner area, so I needed a model that fit neatly beside my cabinet. I also check the shape—round, oval, or rectangular—because the shape affects how much floor space it uses. A slim rectangular can often fits better in tight spots, while a round one may be easier to clean.
My Preferred Material Choices
I usually decide between plastic, stainless steel, or metal. Plastic cans are lightweight and budget-friendly, which I like for secondary use areas. Stainless steel is my favorite for the kitchen because it looks clean, resists odors better, and feels more durable. If I want something easy to move, I lean toward plastic, but if I want a more polished look, I choose stainless steel.
Why Lid Type Matters to Me
The lid makes a big difference in daily use. I prefer a step pedal or touchless lid because it keeps my hands free when I’m cooking. A swing lid can be convenient, but I find it less effective at controlling odors. If I’m placing the can in a busy kitchen, I usually go with a soft-close lid so it shuts quietly and doesn’t slam.
Odor Control Features I Consider
One of my biggest concerns is smell, especially when food waste sits in the can for a day or two. That’s why I look for odor-sealing lids, carbon filters, or tight-fitting covers. I also like cans with removable inner buckets because they make cleaning easier and help me keep the trash area fresher.
How Easy It Is to Clean
I always think about maintenance before I buy. A smooth interior and removable liner bucket make cleaning much easier for me. I avoid designs with too many grooves or hard-to-reach corners because they can trap dirt and leaks. For my kitchen, I want a can that I can wipe down quickly with soap and water.
Bag Compatibility Is Important
I make sure the can works well with standard 13-gallon trash bags. If the liner is too loose, it slips down and creates a mess. If it is too tight, it tears easily. I prefer models with bag rings, inner clamps, or hidden bag holders because they keep the liner secure and neat.
My Thoughts on Durability
I look for strong hinges, a sturdy pedal, and a solid lid mechanism. These parts get used constantly, so they need to hold up over time. In my experience, a well-built garbage can saves money in the long run because I do not have to replace it as often.
Style and Appearance
Since my garbage can sits in a visible part of the kitchen, I care about how it looks. I usually choose a simple, modern design that blends with my appliances and cabinets. Stainless steel gives my kitchen a clean look, while matte black or white can also work well depending on the room’s style.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing a 13-gallon garbage can today, I would focus on fit, lid type, odor control, and ease of cleaning first. Those features matter most in everyday use. After that, I would consider style and price. For me, the best garbage can is one that is practical, easy to maintain, and comfortable to use every day.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a 13-gallon garbage can is the perfect balance of size and convenience for everyday use. My takeaway is that it fits well in kitchens, offices, and other small spaces without taking up too much room. I also like that it’s large enough to handle daily waste while still being easy to empty and maintain.
Author Profile
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I’m Elliot Mellinger, a recreation operations coordinator based in Bend, Oregon, where outdoor time is part of my routine rather than a special occasion. Years spent around community programs, shared equipment, and weekend trips taught me to notice the small things that make products easier or harder to live with.
I started Mountain Soul Adventures in 2026 to share practical, first-person opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs. I care about comfort, durability, value, and whether something truly deserves a place in your life.
My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.
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