Ever feel like your kitchen trash can is a black hole, constantly overflowing and taking up way too much precious space? Let’s be honest, a small kitchen means a big challenge when it comes to managing trash. Finding the perfect small kitchen trash can can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. It’s a daily battle against clutter, smells, and awkward maneuvering just to toss away a banana peel!
Choosing the wrong trash can means wasted space, a messy kitchen, and maybe even a few unwanted odors. You might waste money on something that doesn’t fit your needs. That’s why picking the right small kitchen trash can is super important. You need something that’s the right size, looks good, and is easy to use.
In this post, we’ll help you find the best small kitchen trash can for your space. We will cover different types, sizes, and features. You’ll learn how to measure your space, compare different options, and make the best choice. Get ready to say goodbye to trash troubles and hello to a cleaner, happier kitchen! Let’s dive in and find the perfect trash can for your small kitchen!
Our Top 5 Small Kitchen Trash Can Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Kitchen Trash Can Detailed Reviews
1. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can
Rating: 9.0/10
The Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket is a simple and useful trash can. It holds 7 gallons of trash and comes in gray. This plastic trash can is great for your bedroom, bathroom, or office. It fits under desks, sinks, and cabinets. This can is a practical choice for any space.
What We Like:
- The rolled rims make it strong and easy to clean.
- It fits under desks.
- You can choose a recycling option and different colors.
- It is easy to wipe clean.
- It works well in many places like homes, offices, and stores.
- It is stackable. You can store them easily.
- It is made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description doesn’t note any possible cons.
This Rubbermaid wastebasket is a reliable and versatile trash can. It is a great choice for keeping your spaces tidy. You can’t go wrong with this simple product.
2. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal
Rating: 8.6/10
The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can is a great choice for small spaces! This 12-liter (3.1-gallon) trash can is perfect for bathrooms or offices. It has a stylish satin nickel finish. It also features a soft-close foot pedal. This trash can is designed for convenience and durability. It is easy to clean and use. This product is a practical addition to any home or office.
What We Like:
- The size is perfect for small spaces.
- The smudge-resistant stainless steel looks good.
- The soft-close lid is quiet.
- The foot pedal makes it easy to open.
- The removable bucket is easy to clean.
- It has a carry handle for easy moving.
What Could Be Improved:
- The trash can is small. It might fill up quickly.
- It may not be the best choice for big families.
Overall, this Amazon Basics trash can is a good buy. It is stylish, functional, and easy to use. It’s a good choice if you need a small, reliable trash can.
3. Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can
Rating: 8.6/10
The Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can is a great choice for your home. This 9-gallon waste basket is perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, offices, and bedrooms. The white color makes it blend in well with most decor. It can fit under a counter or in a tight space. Rubbermaid made this trash can to be tough and easy to clean.
What We Like:
- Large Capacity: This trash can holds 9 gallons. It is perfect for daily use.
- Durable Design: The reinforced rim is strong. It can handle everyday use.
- Easy to Clean: The inside is smooth. You can easily wipe up any mess.
- Space-Saving Shape: The rectangular shape fits well in small areas. It can go next to a toilet or in a cabinet.
- Made in the USA: This trash can is made in Winfield, Kansas.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a trash can with a lid to hide trash.
- The white color might show dirt more easily than other colors.
Overall, the Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can is a practical and useful product. It is a good option for keeping your space clean and tidy.
4. simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock
Rating: 8.6/10
The simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can is a smart choice for your kitchen. This black plastic trash can is slim and fits well in small spaces. It has a step pedal for easy opening. The lid closes quietly. It also has a slide lock to keep pets and kids out. This trash can helps make your kitchen cleaner and more organized.
What We Like:
- The lid closes silently because of the special lid shox technology.
- A slide lock keeps the lid closed. This is great for homes with pets or kids.
- The slim shape saves space.
- The lid stays open when you need it to.
- Built-in wheels make it easy to move.
- Custom fit liners prevent messes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The plastic material may scratch over time.
The simplehuman trash can is a great option for your kitchen. It offers smart features and a space-saving design. It is a good buy for many homes.
5. Nipogear 3 Gallons Efficient Trash Can Wastebasket
Rating: 8.7/10
The Nipogear 3 Gallons Efficient Trash Can Wastebasket is a handy waste solution. This black trash can fits well under desks, in kitchens, and other tight spaces. It’s great for offices, homes, and shops. The open-top design makes it easy to throw things away.
What We Like:
- The rectangular shape is perfect for small spaces.
- It’s made of strong plastic that won’t break easily.
- Cleaning is simple. Just wipe it down with a damp cloth.
- It’s a good size for under a desk or in a small kitchen.
- The 3.5-gallon capacity holds a decent amount of trash.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description mentions “chromatic aberration” due to light. This might cause some confusion for buyers.
This Nipogear trash can is a practical choice for many areas. You can place it in your home or office to keep your space tidy.
Small Kitchen Trash Can: Your Guide to a Cleaner Kitchen
Choosing the right small kitchen trash can can make a big difference. It can keep your kitchen clean and tidy. This guide helps you find the best one for you.
Key Features to Look For
You should know what to look for. Here are some important features:
- Size: Think about how much trash you make. Small trash cans are usually between 4 and 13 gallons. Measure your space to make sure the can fits.
- Lid: Lids help hide trash and keep smells in. You can find trash cans with different lids:
- Step-on: You use your foot to open it. These are hands-free!
- Swing-top: The lid swings open.
- Touch-top: You push the lid to open it.
- Open-top: These have no lid.
- Shape: Choose a shape that fits your kitchen. Round, square, and rectangular are common.
- Inner Bucket: Some trash cans have a removable inner bucket. This makes taking out the trash easier.
- Material: Different materials have different pros and cons.
Important Materials
The material of the trash can matters. Here are some common materials:
- Plastic: Plastic trash cans are usually cheaper. They are also lightweight. They can crack or break easily.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel trash cans look nice. They are strong and don’t rust. They can cost more. They can also show fingerprints.
- Metal (other): Other metals are used. They can be strong and durable.
- Bamboo: Bamboo trash cans are a great eco-friendly choice. They are often stylish.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a trash can better or worse.
- Durability: A good trash can should last a long time. Look for sturdy materials and strong construction.
- Ease of Cleaning: Choose a trash can that is easy to clean. A removable inner bucket helps.
- Airtight Seal: A good seal keeps smells in. This is important!
- Design: Some people want a trash can that looks nice. Consider the style and color.
- Price: How much are you willing to spend? Prices vary depending on the features and materials.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the trash can.
- Placement: Where will you put the trash can? Under the sink? In the corner?
- Trash Bags: Make sure the trash can fits standard trash bag sizes.
- Ease of Use: Is it easy to open and close? Is it easy to empty?
- Who Uses It?: Consider who will be using the trash can. Will kids use it? Do you have pets?
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about small kitchen trash cans:
Q: What size trash can do I need?
A: It depends on how much trash you make. A 7-13 gallon trash can is usually good for a small kitchen.
Q: What is the best type of lid?
A: It depends on your needs. Step-on lids are hands-free. Swing-top lids are easy to use. Open-top lids are simplest but don’t hide trash or smells.
Q: Is stainless steel a good choice?
A: Yes, stainless steel is a good choice. It looks nice and is durable. It can show fingerprints, though.
Q: How do I clean my trash can?
A: You can clean the outside with a damp cloth. If it has an inner bucket, take it out and wash it. You can also use soap and water.
Q: Can I use any trash bags?
A: No, you should use the right size trash bags. Check the trash can’s description for the correct bag size.
Q: What if I have pets?
A: A step-on or swing-top lid can help keep pets out of the trash. Make sure the lid closes securely.
Q: What if my trash can smells?
A: Empty the trash can regularly. Clean it often. You can also use trash bags with odor control.
Q: Is a removable inner bucket important?
A: Yes, it makes taking out the trash easier. It also makes cleaning the trash can easier.
Q: What’s the best material for a trash can?
A: It depends on your needs. Stainless steel is durable and looks nice. Plastic is cheaper. Bamboo is a good eco-friendly choice.
Q: Where can I buy a small kitchen trash can?
A: You can buy them at most stores that sell home goods. You can also buy them online.
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!