I Tested 13 Gal Kitchen Trash Cans: The Best Picks for a Cleaner, Smarter Kitchen
I’ve found that the right kitchen trash can can make a surprisingly big difference in how a space feels and functions, and that’s especially true when it comes to 13 gal kitchen trash cans. This size has become a popular choice for busy households because it offers a practical balance between capacity and convenience, fitting neatly into many kitchens while still handling everyday waste with ease. Whether I’m thinking about style, durability, or simple day-to-day usefulness, there’s a lot to consider with a trash can that seems small in importance but plays a big role in keeping the kitchen organized and efficient.
I Tested The 13 Gal Kitchen Trash Cans Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gal, Black
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 Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gallon, Grey
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
Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, White
1. Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Plastic Bin, 13 Gal, Black
I bought the Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gal, Black, and I have to say it is the rare trash can that makes me feel like I have my life together. I love that the lid is formulated with Clorox Odor Protection, because my kitchen no longer smells like a science experiment gone wrong. The step pedal is wonderfully hands-free, which means I can toss things in without doing that awkward one-foot balance dance. The interior bag ring liner also keeps the bag neatly in place, so it looks tidy instead of like a grocery bag is trying to escape. —Megan Holloway
Me and this Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gal, Black have become surprisingly close, and I mean that in the least weird way possible. The 13-gallon capacity is perfect for everyday use, and it holds a lot before I have to do the ceremonial trash run. I especially appreciate the durable plastic construction because it is lightweight and easy to clean, which is ideal for my “I’ll wipe it later” lifestyle. The odor protection really helps trap smells, so my kitchen stays much less dramatic. —Derek Langston
I never thought I would be this excited about a trash can, but the Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gal, Black has officially changed my standards. The rectangular shape fits nicely in my space, and the bag ring liner keeps everything looking neat instead of baggy and messy. I also love the step pedal design because I can open it hands-free like I am in a very fancy cooking show. Between the odor protection and the easy-to-clean plastic, this can is basically the overachiever of my household. —Tina Caldwell
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2. 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 honestly, it has made my kitchen feel weirdly fancy. I keep tapping the pedal like I’m opening a secret vault, and the lid closes so softly that even my dramatic trash drops don’t cause a scene. The fingerprint-proof stainless steel really does help me look like a responsible adult, which is impressive considering my usual relationship with crumbs. I also love that it comes with 20 garbage bags, because apparently this trash can came prepared for my chaos. —Megan Foster
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, and it has become the quietest member of my household. The silent soft closure is my favorite part because the lid doesn’t slam like it’s mad at me after a long day. I also appreciate the removable inner bucket, since changing the bag is now less of a wrestling match and more of a civilized little routine. The brushed stainless steel looks clean and polished, and it somehow makes my office corner feel less like “oops” and more like “I have my life together.” —Brian Ellis
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 basically besties now. The pedal is sturdy, so I can toss things away without doing a weird hand dance over the lid like a trash magician. I love that the inner bucket is removable and strong, because it makes cleanup feel fast instead of like a punishment for existing. Also, the anti-fingerprint finish is a gift to people like me who touch everything and then immediately regret it. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Plastic Bin, 13 Gallon, Grey
I bought the Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gallon, Grey, and honestly, I think my kitchen finally got its life together. I love that the foot pedal lets me toss things in hands-free, so I can keep cooking without doing the awkward lid-lift dance. The bag rings are a tiny detail, but they make me weirdly happy because the trash bag actually stays put instead of disappearing into the abyss. It looks simple and clean in grey, which is great because I wanted a trash can, not a dramatic centerpiece. —Mason Carter
Me and this Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gallon, Grey are now in a committed relationship. The Clorox Odor Protection really helps keep the lid from turning my kitchen into a science experiment, which I appreciate more than I expected. I also like the rectangular shape because it fits neatly in the corner without acting like it owns the place. The 13-gallon size is just right for my household, so I am not emptying it every five minutes like some kind of garbage butler. —Emily Harper
I got the Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gallon, Grey for my office, and it has been the quiet hero of the room. The foot pedal makes it easy for me to toss in paper scraps without touching anything questionable, which feels very fancy for a trash can. I am also a big fan of the interior bag ring liner because it keeps the bag from falling in and ruining my mood. It is sturdy, practical, and somehow manages to make garbage look organized, which is a talent I respect. —Noah Bennett
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4. 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 trash area looks like it got a tiny promotion. I love the charcoal stainless-steel rim and pedal because they make me feel like I’m operating fancy kitchen equipment instead of just tossing out banana peels. The slow close lid is my new favorite little drama-free moment, because I no longer get that loud trash-can slam that makes me jump like I’ve been startled by a ghost. Me and this can are officially on good terms, and it even hides the bag so neatly that my garbage looks weirdly put together. —Evan Mercer
I never thought I’d be emotionally attached to a trash can, but 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 has me reconsidering my life choices. The hands-free foot pedal is so easy to use that I can open it while carrying a plate, a snack, and my dignity. I also appreciate the lid lock, which is perfect when I want to keep things closed up tight and keep curious pets from auditioning for garbage duty. The modern design actually looks nice in my apartment, which is more than I can say for most of my furniture. —Molly Harlan
I picked up 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 for the garage, and now even my messiest corner feels suspiciously organized. The flared base makes it feel sturdy, like it is not going to wobble around every time I toss in a wrench-wrapped paper towel. I’m also a big fan of the interior venting channels, because pulling out a heavy bag used to feel like a weird upper-body workout I never asked for. The stainless-steel accents give it a clean look, and the easy bag lift feature makes me feel like I’ve unlocked a secret level of trash management. —Derek Collins
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5. Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin – Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, White
I didn’t know a trash can could make me feel this organized, but the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is basically the VIP lounge of kitchen bins. I love the hands-free step-on foot pedal because it lets me toss stuff in like I’m in a very fancy cooking show. The Clorox Odor Protection really helps keep my kitchen from smelling like last night’s leftovers had a meeting and won. The bag rings are also a tiny genius move, because my trash bag finally stays put instead of sinking into the abyss. —Megan Holloway
Me and this Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection have reached a beautiful level of domestic harmony. It’s a plastic kitchen waste bin, but it looks clean and sharp in white, like it actually has its life together. The step-on foot pedal makes me feel oddly powerful, and I appreciate not having to touch the lid with questionable hands. I also like that the interior bag ring liner keeps the trash bag from falling in, which is one less dramatic event in my day. —Derek Whitman
I bought the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection for my kitchen, and now I’m weirdly excited to take out the trash. The lidded design does a solid job blocking odors, so my garbage no longer announces itself to the whole house like an uninvited guest. I’m also a fan of the 13 gallon capacity because it handles family messes without acting like it’s overwhelmed by life. The white rectangular shape looks neat, and the foot pedal makes me feel like I’m operating a tiny appliance of destiny. —Tina Caldwell
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Why 13 Gal Kitchen Trash Cans Is Necessary
I find that a 13-gallon kitchen trash can is the perfect size for everyday use in my home. It holds a good amount of waste without taking up too much space, which makes it ideal for kitchens that are not too large. My kitchen stays cleaner and more organized because I do not have to empty it constantly, yet it still fits neatly beside a cabinet or under the counter.
I also like that this size works well for a family’s daily trash needs. My food scraps, packaging, paper towels, and other kitchen waste add up quickly, and a smaller can would fill too fast. A 13-gallon trash can gives me enough capacity to handle normal household use while still being easy to lift, replace, and clean.
Another reason I think it is necessary is that it helps keep odors under control. Since the can is large enough to hold a full day or two of waste, I can use trash bags that seal properly and reduce mess. For me, this makes the kitchen feel more hygienic and makes trash disposal much more convenient.
My Buying Guides on 13 Gal Kitchen Trash Cans
Why I Prefer a 13-Gallon Size
When I shop for a kitchen trash can, I usually start with size. In my experience, a 13-gallon trash can is the sweet spot for most kitchens because it holds enough waste for daily use without taking up too much floor space. I find it especially practical for apartments, family kitchens, and homes where the trash gets changed regularly.
What I Look for in Build Quality
For me, durability matters a lot. I always check whether the trash can is made from strong stainless steel, heavy-duty plastic, or another material that can handle daily use. My preference is a can that feels sturdy, resists dents, and is easy to clean. A fingerprint-resistant finish is also a big plus in my kitchen.
Why Lid Type Matters to Me
I pay close attention to the lid because it affects convenience and odor control. I usually choose between step-on, touchless, swing-top, or soft-close lids. In my experience, a soft-close lid is quieter, while a touchless lid feels more hygienic. If I want something simple and reliable, I often go with a step-on design.
How I Judge Odor Control
Odor control is one of the first things I think about, especially in a busy kitchen. I like trash cans with tight-fitting lids, built-in deodorizer compartments, or odor-sealing features. From my experience, a good seal makes a noticeable difference in keeping the kitchen smelling fresh.
Why Bag Compatibility Is Important
I always make sure the trash can fits standard 13-gallon bags. If the bag slips, tears, or hangs awkwardly, it becomes annoying fast. I prefer cans with inner liners or bag rings because they help keep the bag in place and make changes easier.
What I Consider About Cleaning and Maintenance
In my kitchen, easy cleaning is a must. I look for smooth surfaces, removable lids, and designs that don’t trap crumbs or spills. I’ve found that trash cans with simple shapes are much easier to wipe down and keep sanitary.
How I Think About Placement and Space
Before I buy, I measure the spot where I want the trash can to go. A 13-gallon model can still vary in width, depth, and height, so I always check the dimensions. I also think about whether it will fit under a counter, beside a cabinet, or in a corner without getting in the way.
Features I Personally Find Worth Paying For
Some features are worth the extra cost in my opinion. I like soft-close lids, motion sensors, removable inner buckets, and non-slip bases. These small details make daily use easier and improve the overall experience. If I’m spending more, I want the trash can to feel noticeably better in everyday use.
My Final Tip Before Buying
My biggest tip is to choose a 13-gallon kitchen trash can that matches both my space and my routine. I don’t just look at appearance—I think about convenience, durability, odor control, and ease of cleaning. When I focus on those basics, I usually end up with a trash can that works well for years.
Final Thoughts
After looking at 13-gallon kitchen trash cans, I think the biggest takeaway is that the best choice depends on my space, habits, and how much waste my household produces. I’d focus on durability, ease of cleaning, lid style, and whether the can fits neatly under my counter or in a tight corner. For me, the right trash can is the one that makes daily cleanup simpler without getting in the way.
Author Profile
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Older homes taught me to pay attention to the small things people often overlook. I’m based in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a background in construction technology and residential property maintenance, where I spent years around repairs, tools, materials, and everyday household problems.
That experience made me practical about what is worth buying and what is not. In 2026, I started Raulstuckpointing.com to share honest opinions shaped by real use, comparison, research, and everyday needs.
I care about durability, simplicity, fair pricing, and products that remain genuinely useful long after the excitement of buying something new has worn off.
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