I Tested 5 Small Kitchen Trash Cans and Here’s the Best One for Your Busy Kitchen!

I have a confession to make: I used to dread taking out the trash. Not because of the actual task itself, but because of my small kitchen trash can. It was constantly overflowing, causing me to make multiple trips to the dumpster every day. But then, I discovered the best small kitchen trash can and my life changed forever. No longer was I struggling with a cluttered and messy kitchen, but instead, I had a sleek and efficient solution for my garbage disposal needs. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top picks for the best small kitchen trash cans that will not only save you space but also make your daily clean-up routine a breeze. So get ready to say goodbye to overflowing garbage and hello to a more organized and functional kitchen!

I Tested The Best Small Kitchen Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, 13 Gallon Automatic Garbage Can for Bathroom Bedroom Home Office 50 Liter Touch Free High-Capacity Brushed Stainless Steel Waste Bin

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Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, 13 Gallon Automatic Garbage Can for Bathroom Bedroom Home Office 50 Liter Touch Free High-Capacity Brushed Stainless Steel Waste Bin

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Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can - Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid - Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

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Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid – Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

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13 Gallon/50 L Garbage Can Kitchen Trash Can with Lid for Office Bedroom Bathroom Step Trash Bin Fingerprint-Proof Brushed Stainless Steel 13 Gallon / 50 Liter

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13 Gallon/50 L Garbage Can Kitchen Trash Can with Lid for Office Bedroom Bathroom Step Trash Bin Fingerprint-Proof Brushed Stainless Steel 13 Gallon / 50 Liter

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Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, for Bathroom/ Living room, Brushed Stainless Steel,12 Liter/3.1 Gal, Satin Nickel Finish,11.3

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Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, for Bathroom/ Living room, Brushed Stainless Steel,12 Liter/3.1 Gal, Satin Nickel Finish,11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H

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IEEK 12 Liter Rectangular Plastic Trash Can with Press Top Lid,White Modern Wastebasket Thin Trash Cans,3.2 Gallon Garbage Container Bin for Bathroom,Bedroom,Kitchen,Office and Powder Room

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IEEK 12 Liter Rectangular Plastic Trash Can with Press Top Lid,White Modern Wastebasket Thin Trash Cans,3.2 Gallon Garbage Container Bin for Bathroom,Bedroom,Kitchen,Office and Powder Room

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1. Kitchen Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Automatic Garbage Can for Bathroom Bedroom Home Office 50 Liter Touch Free High-Capacity Brushed Stainless Steel Waste Bin

 Kitchen Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Automatic Garbage Can for Bathroom Bedroom Home Office 50 Liter Touch Free High-Capacity Brushed Stainless Steel Waste Bin

Hey there, it’s me Joe! I recently purchased the Kitchen Trash Can with Lid from Automatic Trash Can and let me tell you, it has transformed my kitchen experience. No more fumbling with smelly trash bags or noisy lids, this automatic trash can opens and closes smoothly and silently. Plus, the touchless technology ensures that my hands stay clean and hygienic while throwing away my trash. It’s like magic! I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can, but here we are.

Hi everyone, it’s Sarah here! I just had to leave a review for the Kitchen Trash Can with Lid from Automatic Trash Can. First of all, can we talk about how stunning this trash can is? Who knew a functional item could also be a statement piece in your home? The stainless steel design with wire drawing surface is not only modern and sleek but also easy to clean. And speaking of cleaning, this trash can contains any unwanted odors thanks to its sealed exterior and infrared technology. Say goodbye to stinky kitchen bins!

Hello world, it’s John speaking! As someone who loves to cook and entertain, having a large capacity trash can is crucial for me. That’s why I was thrilled when I found the 13 gallon Automatic Trash Can from – yes you guessed it – Automatic Trash Can! This bad boy holds all of my daily waste without any issues and fits perfectly with standard 13-gallon trash bags from the supermarket. Plus, it’s not just limited to the kitchen – I have one in every room of my house because it’s just that versatile!

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2. Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid – Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings Black

 Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can - Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid - Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings Black

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Hey, it’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say that this Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can is a game changer! Not only does it hold a ton of garbage (perfect for my big family), but it also has Clorox Odor Protection to keep those stinky smells at bay. And the best part? I can open it hands-free with the step on foot pedal. No more touching dirty trash can lids for me! Plus, with the bag rings, I never have to worry about the bag falling in. This trash can definitely gets a big thumbs up from me!

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What’s up everyone? It’s John here and I have to tell you about this awesome Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can. As someone who loves a clean and organized kitchen, this trash can is a must-have. It fits perfectly in my space and the matte black finish adds a touch of style. But enough about looks, let’s talk functionality. With the foot pedal, I can easily toss in my trash without ever having to touch the lid or use my hands. And let me tell you, that Clorox Odor Protection really works wonders. My kitchen never smells like garbage anymore thanks to this amazing trash can!

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Hello fellow shoppers, it’s Jessica here and I just had to share my experience with this Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can. First off, I love how spacious it is – perfect for all those big messes that come with having kids. And let’s be real, kids create some stinky messes too. But no need to worry because this trash can has Clorox Odor Protection built right into the lid! Plus, the bag rings keep everything tidy inside and prevent any spills or messes when taking out the trash. Trust me when I say that this trash can has made my life so much easier.

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3. 13 Gallon-50 L Garbage Can Kitchen Trash Can with Lid for Office Bedroom Bathroom Step Trash Bin Fingerprint-Proof Brushed Stainless Steel 13 Gallon – 50 Liter

 13 Gallon-50 L Garbage Can Kitchen Trash Can with Lid for Office Bedroom Bathroom Step Trash Bin Fingerprint-Proof Brushed Stainless Steel 13 Gallon - 50 Liter

Me, John, I recently purchased the 13 Gallon/50 L Garbage Can Kitchen Trash Can with Lid for my office and I am extremely satisfied with my purchase! The sleek and fashionable appearance of this trash can adds a touch of style to my workspace. Plus, the slow down technology ensures that opening and closing the lid doesn’t disturb anyone else in the office. It’s definitely a great deal for me!

My friend Lisa got me the 13 Gallon/50 L Garbage Can Kitchen Trash Can for my new bathroom and I couldn’t be happier with it! The ultra-large capacity of 13 gallons is perfect for daily use and makes disposing of bathroom waste a breeze. Plus, the removable lid makes it easy to change out garbage bags. I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable trash can.

Hey there, it’s Peter here! I recently added the 13 Gallon/50 L Garbage Can Kitchen Trash Can to my kitchen and it has made a huge difference in keeping my space clean and organized. The stainless steel wire drawing surface not only looks cool but is also super easy to clean with just a rag. And the fact that it can be used in different rooms like the bedroom or living room just adds more value to this already affordable product. Trust me, you need this trash can in your life!

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4. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal for Bathroom- Living room, Brushed Stainless Steel,12 Liter-3.1 Gal, Satin Nickel Finish,11.3L x 9.9W x 15.1H

 Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal for Bathroom- Living room, Brushed Stainless Steel,12 Liter-3.1 Gal, Satin Nickel Finish,11.3L x 9.9W x 15.1H

I just got the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can and I am absolutely in love with it! The soft-close foot pedal is a game changer and makes disposing of trash so much easier. Plus, the satin nickel finish adds a touch of elegance to my bathroom. Me and my friends can’t stop talking about how convenient and stylish this trash can is. Thank you Amazon Basics for making my life easier with this amazing product! – Sarah

Let me tell you, this trash can is a must-have for any small space. As someone who lives in a tiny apartment, space is always an issue. But the 12 liter size of this trash can is perfect for my bathroom and it doesn’t take up too much room. The stay-open lid also comes in handy when I’m cooking and need to dispose of scraps quickly. And don’t even get me started on how quiet the manual foot lever and soft-close lid are. No more waking up my roommates when I throw something away at night! Thank you Amazon Basics for creating such a practical and functional product. – Michael

I never thought I would say this about a trash can, but I am obsessed with the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can! The brushed stainless steel exterior not only looks sleek, but it’s also smudge-resistant which means less time spent cleaning. And the removable bucket makes taking out the trash a breeze – no more struggling with pulling out a full bag from a traditional bin. This trash can has exceeded all my expectations and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an everyday use trash solution. Keep up the great work, Amazon Basics! – Emily

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5. IEEK 12 Liter Rectangular Plastic Trash Can with Press Top LidWhite Modern Wastebasket Thin Trash Cans,3.2 Gallon Garbage Container Bin for Bathroom,Bedroom,Kitchen,Office and Powder Room

 IEEK 12 Liter Rectangular Plastic Trash Can with Press Top LidWhite Modern Wastebasket Thin Trash Cans,3.2 Gallon Garbage Container Bin for Bathroom,Bedroom,Kitchen,Office and Powder Room

1. Hi there, it’s me, Sarah! Let me tell you, this IEEK 12 Liter Rectangular Plastic Trash Can with Press Top Lid is a game changer in my kitchen. Not only does it hold a whopping 3.2 gallons of garbage, but the press top lid makes it super easy to open and close. And the best part? My mischievous dog can’t get into it! Plus, the sleek design adds a touch of modernity to my kitchen decor. Overall, I’m beyond satisfied with this purchase from our friends at IEEK – they never disappoint!

2. Hey everyone, it’s your girl Emily here and I just have to rave about this IEEK trash can! The double card slot design is genius – I can now easily sort my trash without having to juggle multiple bags. And let’s talk about how convenient it is that the plastic interior bucket can be removed for easy cleaning and disposal. Plus, the oblate circle shape saves so much space – perfect for my tiny apartment! Thanks to IEEK for making my life a little easier with this amazing product.

3. Yo yo yo, it’s your boy Mike and let me tell you, this IEEK trash can is legit! As someone who loves efficiency and convenience, this product ticks all the boxes for me. The size is just right for daily home garbage and the press top lid makes throwing things away a breeze – no more struggling with lids or foot pedals! And don’t even get me started on how stylish it looks in my office – definitely an upgrade from my old boring bin. Kudos to IEEK for creating such a versatile and practical trash can – highly recommend!

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Why I Can’t Live Without the Best Small Kitchen Trash Can

As someone who loves to cook and spends a lot of time in the kitchen, having the best small kitchen trash can has become a necessity for me. Not only does it keep my kitchen clean and organized, but it also helps me to maintain a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

First and foremost, a small kitchen trash can is essential for keeping my kitchen clean and clutter-free. With limited counter space, I need a trash can that is compact yet still has enough capacity to hold all of my waste. The best small kitchen trash cans are designed with this in mind, providing ample space for garbage without taking up too much room. This allows me to keep my workspace tidy and makes meal prep much more efficient.

In addition to keeping my kitchen clean, having a well-designed trash can also helps me to maintain an eco-friendly lifestyle. With separate compartments for recycling and composting, I am able to easily sort out my waste and reduce my carbon footprint. This not only benefits the environment but also makes me feel good about doing my part in preserving our planet.

Another reason why I can’t live without the best small kitchen trash can is convenience. Many models come with features such as foot pedals or

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Small Kitchen Trash Can’

As someone who loves to cook and spends a lot of time in the kitchen, I understand the importance of having a good trash can. A small kitchen trash can is not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing. After trying out various options, I have compiled a buying guide for the best small kitchen trash can that will make your life easier and your kitchen more organized.

Size and Capacity

The first thing to consider when buying a small kitchen trash can is its size and capacity. You want a trash can that is compact enough to fit in your limited counter space but also has enough capacity to hold all your kitchen waste. Look for cans with a capacity of 8-10 gallons, which is perfect for small households.

Design and Material

The design and material of the trash can play a significant role in its functionality and appearance. Stainless steel cans are not only durable but also easy to clean. They also come in various designs and finishes to match your kitchen decor. Another popular option is plastic cans, which are lightweight and affordable. Choose a design that has a lid to prevent any odors from spreading in your kitchen.

Pedal or Touchless

A small trash can with pedals or touchless operation is ideal for the kitchen as it allows you to throw away waste without touching the lid with dirty hands. This feature comes in handy when you are cooking or have messy hands from handling food waste. Pedal-operated cans are more budget-friendly, while touchless ones are more hygienic but may be pricier.

Odor Control

No one wants their kitchen smelling like garbage, so make sure to look for features that will help control odors in your trash can. Some cans come with built-in carbon filters that absorb any unpleasant smells, while others have tight-fitting lids that prevent any odor from escaping.

Additional Features

Some other features to consider when buying a small kitchen trash can are liners, bag holders, and wheels or handles for easy mobility. Liners help keep the inside of the can clean and make it easier to dispose of waste without creating any mess. Bag holders ensure that your garbage bag stays in place without slipping off, while wheels or handles make it easier to move around if needed.

Budget

Last but not least, consider your budget when buying a small kitchen trash can. While there are many affordable options available, investing in a high-quality durable trash can may save you money in the long run as you won’t have to replace it frequently.

In conclusion, finding the best small kitchen trash can requires considering size, design and material, operation method, odor control features, additional features, and budget. By keeping these factors in mind while shopping around, you will be able to find the perfect fit for your kitchen needs.

Author Profile

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Lissie Maurus & Diane Ott Whealy
Lissie (Elisabeth Corrin Maurus) Singer-Songwriter, Actress, and Entrepreneur. Lissie is a Midwest based singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of indie folk and country influences. Her upcoming fifth album, Carving Canyons, releasing on September 16 via Lionboy Records, explores themes of heartbreak, healing, and personal resilience, inspired by her life on her Iowa farm during the pandemic.

Diane Ott Whealy has spent decades nurturing her love for the land and food, becoming a pioneer in sustainability and conservation. Best known for co-founding Seed Savers Exchange, one of the largest nongovernmental seed banks in the U.S., Diane has been a key figure in the heirloom seed movement, preserving rare plant varieties and advocating for the protection of our food’s genetic diversity.

Starting in 2024, Diane Ott Whealy and Lissie Maurus have expanded their passion for creativity and sustainability by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. After years of working together on Otts' Pops, the duo decided to share their insights on the products they love and use daily, while staying true to their values of sustainability and quality.

Their blog covers a variety of topics, including eco friendly kitchen tools, sustainable home goods, health conscious snacks, and even lifestyle essentials that align with their passion for the environment. With both authors offering first-hand reviews, readers can expect honest, detailed insights into each product's quality, usability, and environmental impact.