Does your kitchen trash can overflow before you even finish your morning coffee? You’re not alone! Many of us face the daily battle of a small trash can that just can’t keep up with our cooking and cleaning. It’s frustrating when you’re constantly taking out the trash or dealing with messy spills because your can isn’t big enough.
Choosing the right large kitchen trash can can feel like a chore in itself. You want something that holds a lot, looks good, and is easy to use. But with so many different sizes, styles, and features, where do you even start? It’s tough to know which one will actually make your life easier and keep your kitchen tidy.
But don’t worry! By the time you finish reading this post, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what makes a great large kitchen trash can. We’ll explore the key things to look for, from capacity and materials to smart features that can transform your kitchen cleanup routine. Get ready to find a trash can that finally fits your needs and makes your kitchen a happier place.
Our Top 5 Large Kitchen Trash Can Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Large Kitchen Trash Can Detailed Reviews
1. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of messy fingerprints and noisy trash can lids? The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is here to help! This sleek, brushed stainless steel bin offers a generous 50-liter (13.2-gallon) capacity, making it ideal for busy kitchens, offices, or any room that needs a reliable waste solution. Its satin nickel finish adds a touch of style to your space, while practical features make trash duty a breeze.
What We Like:
- The large 50-liter size is perfect for families or busy offices.
- The stay-open lid feature is super handy when you have a lot to throw away.
- A removable inner bucket makes cleaning and bag changes simple.
- The carry handle makes it easy to move the can around.
- The stainless steel exterior resists smudges, keeping it looking clean.
- The foot pedal is sturdy and the soft-close lid operates quietly, no more slamming!
- It’s built with durable materials for long-lasting use.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the dimensions are listed, some users might prefer a more compact option for smaller spaces.
- The satin nickel finish, while attractive, could show minor scratches over time with very rough handling.
This Amazon Basics trash can offers a great blend of style and functionality for your home or office. It makes managing your waste easier and quieter.
2. Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection
Rating: 9.3/10
This Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter is a fantastic addition to any kitchen or busy area. Its large size means fewer bag changes. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern. Plus, the Clorox odor protection helps keep your home smelling fresh. It’s designed for convenience and efficiency.
What We Like:
- The extra-large 20-gallon capacity is great for families or high-traffic areas.
- The stainless steel material is durable and easy to wipe clean.
- The step-on lid opens smoothly for hands-free operation.
- CloroxTM Odor Protection actively fights smells, keeping your kitchen fresher.
- The Pewter color is a stylish neutral that fits most decors.
- The quiet-close lid prevents loud slamming.
What Could Be Improved:
- The large size might be too big for very small kitchens.
- While durable, it is a bit heavy when empty.
- Replacement bags for this specific size might be harder to find than standard sizes.
This trash can offers a great blend of capacity, style, and odor control. It makes a noticeable difference in keeping your living space clean and fresh.
3. Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of unpleasant smells and messy trash bags? The Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can is here to help! This sleek, black kitchen waste bin offers a generous 20-gallon capacity, making it ideal for busy households. Its classic rectangular shape and matte finish add a touch of style to any room, while clever features work together to keep your space clean and fresh. From its odor-fighting lid to its sturdy step pedal, this trash can is designed for convenience and durability.
What We Like:
- The 20-gallon size holds a lot of trash, so you won’t be emptying it constantly.
- Clorox Odor Protection in the lid actively fights smells, keeping your kitchen smelling great.
- The upgraded stainless steel step pedal is strong and allows for hands-free operation, which is super hygienic.
- Bag rings hold your trash bag securely in place, preventing it from slipping down and hiding messy bag edges.
- It’s a good size for kitchens, but also works well in offices or other busy areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the plastic is durable, some users might prefer a metal bin for a more premium feel.
- The dimensions, while suitable for most spaces, might be a bit large for very compact kitchens.
This Glad trash can offers a practical solution for managing household waste. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen bin with features that truly make a difference.
4. EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of messy trash cans and sticky hands? The EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can is here to make your kitchen cleaner and your life easier. This large, touchless trash can uses smart technology to open and close its lid automatically. Its stylish stainless steel design looks great in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- The motion sensor works really well. It opens the lid smoothly and quickly when you wave your hand near it.
- The stainless steel finish looks super clean. It resists fingerprints, so it always looks shiny and new.
- You can choose to keep the lid open. Just press the button, and it stays open for 20 minutes. This is great when you have a lot to throw away.
- It’s built tough. The stainless steel makes it strong and good-looking.
- It holds a lot of trash! The clever design means you can fit 25% more garbage inside without needing a liner.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 80-liter capacity is very large, which might be too big for some smaller kitchens or apartments.
- While the fingerprint resistance is good, very oily hands might still leave faint marks.
This EKO trash can offers a fantastic blend of convenience and style for your kitchen. It makes dealing with trash a much more pleasant experience.
5. EKO Madison Matte Black 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of smudged trash cans and noisy lids? The EKO Madison Matte Black Step Trash Can is here to upgrade your waste disposal. This stylish can looks great in any room and makes tidying up a breeze.
What We Like:
- Fingerprint-Resistant Finish: The matte black surface stays clean, so you won’t see fingerprints. It’s made of strong steel for lasting good looks.
- Quiet Soft-Close Lid: The lid closes gently without loud banging. This makes using it much more pleasant.
- Stay-Open Lid Lock: Need to keep the lid open while you clean or cook? This trash can has a handy lock for that.
- Durable Step Pedal: The sturdy pedal is built to last for hundreds of thousands of uses. It works smoothly every time.
- Easy Bag Changes: The inner bucket lifts out easily with handles. Swapping out trash bags is quick and simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size: For smaller kitchens or bathrooms, 50 liters might be larger than needed.
- Matte Finish Maintenance: While fingerprint-resistant, very greasy marks might still require a wipe down.
This EKO Madison trash can brings elegance and quiet convenience to your home. It’s a smart choice for a cleaner, more stylish living space.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Large Kitchen Trash Can
A large kitchen trash can is a workhorse in any home. It handles all your kitchen scraps, food waste, and packaging. Choosing the right one makes a big difference. It can keep your kitchen smelling fresh and looking tidy. Let’s explore what makes a great large trash can.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a large kitchen trash can, keep these important features in mind.
- Capacity: How much trash does it hold? Large cans usually hold 13 gallons or more. Think about how much trash your family creates. A bigger family might need a larger can.
- Lid Type: Lids keep odors in and pests out.
- Step-on lids are easy to open with your foot. This keeps your hands clean.
- Motion-sensor lids open automatically when you get close. This is super convenient.
- Manual lids you lift by hand are simpler but less hygienic.
- Shape and Size: Does it fit your kitchen space? Measure the spot where you plan to put the trash can. Some cans are tall and slim. Others are wider.
- Removable Liner: A removable inner bucket makes emptying the trash easier. It also helps keep the outside of the can clean.
- Odor Control: Some cans have special filters or tight-fitting lids to trap smells. This is a big plus for kitchens.
- Fingerprint-Resistant Finish: Stainless steel cans can show fingerprints. A special finish keeps them looking cleaner.
Important Materials
The material of your trash can affects its durability and how it looks.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice. It looks modern and is very strong. Stainless steel cans are easy to wipe clean.
- Plastic: Plastic trash cans are usually lighter and cheaper. High-quality plastic can be durable. It won’t rust.
- Wood: Some decorative trash cans use wood. They can look nice but might not be as easy to clean as other materials. They also can be damaged by moisture.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a trash can better or worse.
What Makes a Trash Can Better?
- Sturdy Construction: A well-built trash can lasts longer. It won’t crack or bend easily.
- Smooth-Operating Lid: A lid that opens and closes easily without sticking is a joy to use.
- Non-Slip Base: This keeps the can from sliding around on the floor.
- Easy to Clean Interior: A smooth interior surface is simple to wipe down.
What Makes a Trash Can Worse?
- Flimsy Material: A thin plastic or cheap metal can break.
- Difficult Lid Mechanism: A lid that jams or is hard to open is frustrating.
- Poor Sealing Lid: If the lid doesn’t close tightly, odors will escape.
- Sharp Edges: These can be a safety hazard.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your trash can every day.
- Busy Families: Step-on or motion-sensor lids are great for keeping hands free when cooking or cleaning. A large capacity means fewer trips to take out the trash.
- Small Kitchens: A tall, slim can might be the best fit. Look for one that doesn’t stick out too far.
- Open Concept Homes: If your kitchen is part of your living area, an attractive trash can with good odor control is important. A stainless steel can with a fingerprint-resistant finish looks neat.
- Eco-Conscious Households: Some cans have separate compartments for recycling. This makes sorting waste easier.
Choosing a large kitchen trash can is an investment. By considering these features and materials, you can find a can that works well for your home. It will help keep your kitchen clean and smelling fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions about Large Kitchen Trash Cans
Q: What is the most common size for a large kitchen trash can?
A: The most common size for a large kitchen trash can is usually around 13 gallons. Some are even larger, holding 18 or 20 gallons.
Q: How do I clean a stainless steel trash can?
A: You can clean a stainless steel trash can with mild soap and water. Use a soft cloth to wipe it down. For tougher spots, a cleaner made for stainless steel works well. Always wipe in the direction of the grain.
Q: Are motion-sensor trash cans worth the extra cost?
A: Many people find motion-sensor trash cans very convenient. They help keep your hands clean, which is great when you’re cooking. They can be worth it if you value that extra touch of hygiene and ease.
Q: How can I prevent my trash can from smelling bad?
A: Look for trash cans with tight-fitting lids and odor filters. Taking out the trash regularly also helps a lot. You can also place baking soda at the bottom of the can to absorb smells.
Q: What is the best material for a trash can that will last a long time?
A: Stainless steel is generally the most durable material for a trash can. It’s strong and resistant to rust and damage.
Q: Do I need a trash can with a removable liner?
A: A removable liner makes it much easier to empty the trash and clean the inside of the can. It’s a very useful feature for most people.
Q: How much space do I need for a large trash can?
A: Measure the area where you want to place the trash can. A typical 13-gallon can needs about 15-20 inches of width and depth, and about 25-30 inches of height, but always check the product’s specific dimensions.
Q: Can I put a trash can outside?
A: Most large kitchen trash cans are designed for indoor use. Outdoor trash cans are usually made of thicker plastic and are built to withstand weather.
Q: How often should I replace my trash can?
A: A good quality trash can, especially one made of stainless steel, can last for many years. You might need to replace it if it breaks, becomes very difficult to clean, or the lid mechanism stops working.
Q: Are there trash cans designed for separating recycling?
A: Yes, many brands offer trash cans with multiple compartments. These allow you to easily separate your regular trash from recyclables, making waste sorting simpler.
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!