Ever feel like your trash can is just… there? It’s a quiet workhorse in your home, but choosing the *right* one can be surprisingly tricky. Think about it: too small and it’s overflowing before you know it, too big and it hogs valuable kitchen space. Finding that perfect 13-gallon size that fits your needs and your style can feel like a treasure hunt, and not always a fun one.
That’s where we come in! This post is your secret weapon for navigating the world of 13-gallon trash cans. We’ll break down what really matters, from materials and features to how to make sure it actually *works* for your everyday life. You’ll learn how to avoid common mistakes and discover the best options that won’t just hold your trash, but also make your life a little easier and your space look a lot better.
So, get ready to ditch the guesswork. We’re about to dive deep into the 13-gallon trash can universe and equip you with the knowledge to make a smart choice. Let’s find the perfect fit for your home!
Our Top 5 13 Gallon Trash Can Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 13 Gallon Trash Can Detailed Reviews
1. Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of smelly kitchens and messy trash bags? The Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can in sleek black is here to help! This sturdy plastic bin tackles your kitchen waste with smart features designed to keep your home fresh and clean. Its classic rectangular shape fits perfectly in any kitchen, and the generous 13-gallon capacity means fewer trips to the curb.
What We Like:
- Keeps odors away with built-in Clorox Odor Protection in the lid.
- Hands-free operation thanks to a convenient step-on foot pedal.
- Bag rings keep your trash bag securely in place, no more slipping!
- Its 13-gallon size is great for busy households.
- The matte black finish looks good in any kitchen.
- Works well for both homes and offices.
What Could Be Improved:
- The lid might not seal completely if the trash bag is overfilled.
- Plastic construction, while common, might not appeal to everyone looking for a metal bin.
Overall, this Glad trash can is a practical solution for managing kitchen waste. It offers a good blend of odor control, user-friendliness, and a clean look for your home.
2. Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of flimsy trash cans that crack or dent easily? The Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container is a sturdy solution for keeping your spaces tidy. This black, 41-quart (10.25-gallon) plastic trash can is designed for durability and versatility, making it a great addition to any room in your home or office. Its smart design means it fits neatly under desks, sinks, or cabinets, helping you maintain a clean and organized environment.
What We Like:
- It’s very strong. Made from heavy-duty plastic, it won’t dent, chip, or peel. This means it always looks good.
- The rolled rims make it even stronger and simple to clean.
- It’s the right size to fit under most standard desks, making it super handy.
- You can get it in different colors, and there’s even a recycling option available.
- The smooth plastic is easy to wipe down and keep clean.
- It’s super useful! You can use it in bedrooms, bathrooms, offices, and even shops.
- You can stack them! This makes them easy to move around and store when not in use.
- It’s made right here in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it fits under standard desks, very low furniture might still be a problem.
- The black color, while classic, might show dust more easily than lighter options.
This Rubbermaid trash can is a reliable choice for anyone needing a durable and practical waste solution. Its thoughtful design and quality construction make it a smart buy for keeping any space neat.
3. Kitchen Trash Can with Lid
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of touching gross trash cans? This 13-gallon automatic garbage can is here to help! It’s made of brushed stainless steel and has a sleek, modern look. It’s perfect for your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or office. This big can holds a lot and keeps smells locked away.
What We Like:
- It opens and closes automatically, so you don’t have to touch it. This is super hygienic!
- The design is really nice. It looks good in any room.
- It holds 13 gallons, which is a lot of trash. It fits regular 13-gallon trash bags.
- It resists fingerprints and is easy to wipe clean. The sealed design keeps bad smells inside.
- You can use it almost anywhere – kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, office, or study.
What Could Be Improved:
- The automatic sensor might need a moment to react sometimes.
- While it’s great for most homes, some very small spaces might find its 13-gallon size a bit large.
This touch-free trash can makes tidying up easier and cleaner. It’s a stylish and practical addition to any home.
4. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of messy fingerprints and loud trash can lids? The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is here to help! This stylish brushed stainless steel can in a sleek satin nickel finish brings a touch of modern elegance to any room. Its generous 50-liter capacity makes it ideal for busy kitchens, garages, or even offices. You’ll love how easy it is to use, with a sturdy foot pedal that opens the lid smoothly and a soft-close feature that keeps things quiet.
What We Like:
- The 50-liter size is great for holding a lot of trash.
- The foot pedal makes it easy to open without touching the lid.
- The soft-close lid is super quiet, so no more loud bangs!
- The stainless steel exterior resists smudges, keeping it looking clean.
- The removable inner bucket makes emptying and cleaning a breeze.
- A handy carry handle makes moving the can simple.
- The lid has a stay-open feature for when you need to toss in more trash.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the stainless steel is smudge-resistant, heavy-duty cleaning might still be needed sometimes.
- The dimensions are quite large, so measure your space carefully before buying.
This trash can is a practical and quiet addition to any home or office. It makes managing trash much more convenient.
5. Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal
Rating: 9.3/10
Meet the Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can. This black waste bin is a stylish and practical addition to your kitchen, home, office, or garage. Its sleek design and useful features make trash disposal a breeze.
What We Like:
- The hands-free pedal is super convenient. It’s built to last and keeps your hands clean.
- The stainless steel pedal looks really nice. It makes the trash can look fancy and matches modern appliances.
- The LinerLock system is smart. It holds your trash bag firmly in place so it doesn’t fall inside.
- It’s made from strong resin. This makes it easy to wipe clean and it will last a long time.
- This trash can fits in any room. It looks good in the kitchen, laundry room, or even a bathroom.
- Rubbermaid is an American brand. It’s known for quality and has been around for a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the stainless steel accent is nice, some users might prefer a fully stainless steel exterior for a more premium feel.
- The overall design, while classic, might not appeal to those looking for a very modern or minimalist aesthetic.
This Rubbermaid trash can offers a great balance of style and function. It’s a reliable choice for keeping your space tidy.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your 13 Gallon Trash Can Companion
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in a 13-gallon trash can?
A: When you shop for a 13-gallon trash can, look for a few important things. A lid is a must. It keeps smells in and bugs out. Some lids swing open, others lift off. Some even have foot pedals so you don’t have to touch them. Handles are also helpful. They make it easy to carry the can, especially when it’s full. A smooth interior is good too. It makes cleaning the can much simpler. Finally, a stable base stops the can from tipping over easily.
Important Materials
Most 13-gallon trash cans are made of plastic. This is a good choice because plastic is tough and easy to clean. Look for sturdy plastic that won’t crack or break. Some cans have metal parts, like the foot pedal or handles. Metal can make the can last longer, but it might rust if it gets wet.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a trash can good?
A well-made trash can will have strong seams. These are the places where the plastic is joined together. If the seams are weak, the can might break. A good lid fits snugly. This stops smells from escaping. A heavy base makes the can more stable. This means it’s less likely to fall over.
What makes a trash can not so good?
Cheap plastic can become brittle and crack easily, especially in cold weather. A lid that doesn’t close properly lets out smells and can attract pests. A wobbly base makes the can hard to use. If the handles are flimsy, they might break when you try to lift a full can.
User Experience and Use Cases
A 13-gallon trash can is a great size for many places. It’s perfect for kitchens. It holds a good amount of trash before you need to empty it. You can also use it in a garage, a home office, or even a playroom. The size is just right for most households. It’s big enough for daily waste but not so big that it takes up too much space. Many people like trash cans that are easy to open and close. A foot pedal is a popular choice for kitchens because it keeps your hands clean. For a garage, a simple open-top can might be fine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 13 Gallon Trash Cans
Q: How often should I clean my 13-gallon trash can?
A: It’s a good idea to clean your trash can about once a month. This helps prevent bad smells and keeps it hygienic.
Q: Can I put wet trash in a 13-gallon trash can?
A: Yes, you can. However, it’s best to use a trash bag inside the can. This protects the can from moisture and makes cleanup easier.
Q: Are there different types of lids for 13-gallon trash cans?
A: Yes, there are. You’ll find swing lids, lift-off lids, and foot-pedal lids. Some have touch-bar openings too.
Q: What’s the best material for a kitchen trash can?
A: Sturdy plastic is usually the best for kitchens. It’s easy to clean and doesn’t rust.
Q: My trash can smells bad. What can I do?
A: Make sure you’re using a trash bag and tying it tightly. Cleaning the can regularly with soap and water can also help. You can also sprinkle baking soda in the bottom.
Q: How do I choose the right lid type?
A: Think about how you use your trash can. If you want to keep your hands clean, a foot pedal is great. If you want something simple, a swing lid works well.
Q: Can I use a 13-gallon trash can outdoors?
A: Some are made for outdoors, but most 13-gallon cans are better suited for indoor use. Check the product description to be sure.
Q: What if my trash can is too light and blows over?
A: Look for a trash can with a wider, heavier base. You can also place a heavier object, like a bag of sand, inside the bottom if it’s empty.
Q: How can I make my trash can last longer?
A: Avoid putting very hot items in the can. Clean it regularly. Don’t overfill it, and be gentle when opening and closing the lid.
Q: Are there 13-gallon trash cans with wheels?
A: While less common for indoor 13-gallon cans, some larger outdoor or heavy-duty models might have wheels. It’s worth checking product specifications if this is important to you.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!