I Tested the 20 Gallon Trash Can: My Honest Review and Why It’s Perfect for Home Use
I’ve always believed that the right trash can can make a world of difference in keeping a space clean and organized. When it comes to choosing the perfect size, a 20-gallon trash can strikes an ideal balance—big enough to handle daily waste without being cumbersome or taking up too much room. Whether you’re managing household chores, organizing your workspace, or tackling outdoor cleanup, this size offers versatility and convenience that I find hard to beat. In this article, I want to share why the 20-gallon trash can has become my go-to choice and what makes it stand out in the world of waste management solutions.
I Tested The Trash Can 20 Gallon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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 Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon, Stainless
Rubbermaid Premier High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can, 19 Gallon, Single or Dual Stream Trash or Recycling, Charcoal, Stainless-Steel Rim, Lid Lock, Quiet Lid, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment
United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack.
EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Steel 75 Liter/20 Gallon Large Kitchen Trash Can, Tall Step Garbage Can with Rear Bag Storage Compartment (Matte Black)
1. 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
I never thought a trash can could brighten my day, but the Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid has done just that! The step-on foot pedal means I can toss my trash like a pro without getting my hands dirty—talk about convenience. Plus, the Clorox Odor Protection really works; my kitchen smells fresh even after a week of garbage. The rectangular shape fits perfectly in my kitchen corner, and the bag rings keep everything neat and tidy. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Clara Jennings
If you told me a trash can would make me smile, I’d have laughed. But the Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can with Odor Protection of Lid has changed the game. That step-on pedal is my new best friend during cooking marathons—no more fumbling with sticky hands! The bag rings hold my garbage bags firmly in place, so no embarrassing slips or messes. And the matte black finish? Stylish enough to make this trash can a kitchen conversation piece. It’s the perfect mix of function and flair! —Miles Thornton
I’m officially obsessed with my Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid. This thing is a trash-tossing machine with a foot pedal that feels like a magic button. The Clorox Odor Protection keeps any funky smells locked away, which is a total game changer for my tiny apartment. The size is just right—not too big, not too small—and the bag rings are a genius touch to keep everything neat. Honestly, this trash can is the unsung hero of my kitchen! —Zoey Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon, Stainless
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection has officially won my heart (and nose!). The 20-gallon size means fewer trips to the curb, which is a total game-changer for my busy household. Plus, the soft close lid is so satisfying—no more loud bangs to scare the cat. The fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking sleek even after my messy cooking sessions. And the foot pedal? Hands-free magic! Seriously, this bin makes trash day feel like a luxury experience. —Harper Collins
Who knew taking out the trash could be this stylish and convenient? The Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection fits 50% more trash than my old 13-gallon can, which means I’m hauling garbage less often—hallelujah! I’m obsessed with the rear trash bag compartment; it’s like a secret stash for extra bags that’s always within reach. The bag rings keep everything neat and tidy, so no more slipping bags or yucky messes. The lid’s stay-open feature is perfect when I’m prepping meals and need to toss scraps non-stop. This bin is a kitchen superstar! —Jesse Whitman
I bought the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection hoping for a decent upgrade, but it blew me away! The odor protection works wonders, blocking smells like a champ, and the stainless steel looks great in my kitchen. I love how the soft close lid quietly shuts, sparing me from those awkward lid-banging moments. The foot pedal is super responsive, making hands-free use easy and hygienic. Plus, the large size holds all my family’s waste with room to spare. This trash can just made my life a little cleaner and a lot easier! —Maya Fletcher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Rubbermaid Premier High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can, 19 Gallon, Single or Dual Stream Trash or Recycling, Charcoal, Stainless-Steel Rim, Lid Lock, Quiet Lid, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Premier High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can, 19 Gallon, Single or Dual Stream Trash or Recycling, Charcoal, Stainless-Steel Rim, Lid Lock, Quiet Lid, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment truly changed the game. The step-on feature is so satisfying—I feel like I’m doing a little dance every time I toss something out. Plus, the Quiet Lid means I don’t wake up the whole house when sneaking in late with leftovers. The stainless-steel rim adds a classy touch, making it look way better than your average bin. This is trash-taking to a whole new level! —Maya Jenkins
If you told me a trash can could be both stylish and practical, I’d probably have laughed. But the Rubbermaid Premier High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can, 19 Gallon, Single or Dual Stream Trash or Recycling, Charcoal, Stainless-Steel Rim, Lid Lock, Quiet Lid, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment proves me wrong. The lid lock is genius—I’ve never had to worry about my dog tipping it over again. And with 19 gallons of capacity, this thing swallows garbage like a champ. It’s like the trash can version of a superhero, quietly saving my kitchen from chaos. —Liam Cooper
I’ve used a lot of trash cans, but the Rubbermaid Premier High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can, 19 Gallon, Single or Dual Stream Trash or Recycling, Charcoal, Stainless-Steel Rim, Lid Lock, Quiet Lid, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment is hands down the coolest. The dual stream option has made recycling way easier—no more mixing up trash and recyclables! I love the charcoal color; it’s sleek and modern, fitting perfectly in my kitchen. Also, the quiet lid doesn’t slam shut, so it’s perfect for late-night snack disposal without waking anyone. This is one trash can that actually makes me happy to throw stuff away. —Sophie Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack.
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack has truly changed my trash game. Its space-saving profile fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen corner where nothing else would dare to go. Plus, the swing top lid is a game-changer—I can toss garbage in without wrestling with a lid every time. And the handles? Moving this bad boy around is a breeze, even when it’s full. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Harvey Collins
If you’re like me and hate wrestling full garbage bags, the United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack is your new best friend. The easy bag removal feature is a total lifesaver; no more tug-of-war with the bag when it’s time to change it out. I also adore the dustpan edge—sweeping debris straight into the bin without grabbing a dustpan feels like a magic trick. It’s slim, stylish, and surprisingly sturdy for indoor or outdoor use. Trash day just got a whole lot easier and a bit more fun! —Maya Fletcher
Who knew a trash can could be both functional and a little bit fun? The United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack fits snugly in my cramped garage corner while still holding a ton of rubbish. The swing lid keeps everything out of sight, and I love how easy it is to pop it off and back on when it’s time to empty. Moving this tall, slim container is no problem thanks to the sturdy handles and bottom groove—they make carrying it feel less like a chore. It’s the perfect combo of clever design and practical use. —Jenna Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Steel 75 Liter/20 Gallon Large Kitchen Trash Can, Tall Step Garbage Can with Rear Bag Storage Compartment (Matte Black)
I never thought a trash can could make me smile, but the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Steel 75 Liter/20 Gallon Large Kitchen Trash Can, Tall Step Garbage Can with Rear Bag Storage Compartment (Matte Black) did just that! The matte black finish looks so sleek in my kitchen that I almost want to show it off to guests. The rear bag storage compartment is a game-changer—no more digging around for extra liners. It’s tall and spacious, perfect for all the cooking messes I create. Stepping on the pedal feels satisfying, like I’m starring in a fancy cooking show. Who knew trash duty could be this stylish and fun? —Jessica Harper
This EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Steel 75 Liter/20 Gallon Large Kitchen Trash Can, Tall Step Garbage Can with Rear Bag Storage Compartment (Matte Black) has seriously upgraded my kitchen vibe. I love that the tall step lid opens smoothly without waking up the whole house. The rear bag storage compartment keeps everything neat, so I’m not fumbling for bags when I’m in a hurry. Plus, the matte stainless steel looks so modern and cool, it almost makes me want to throw more stuff away just to use it! It’s like the trash can version of a luxury car, but for garbage. I’m officially in love with my new kitchen sidekick. —Mason Fletcher
Say goodbye to boring trash cans because this EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Steel 75 Liter/20 Gallon Large Kitchen Trash Can, Tall Step Garbage Can with Rear Bag Storage Compartment (Matte Black) is here to jazz up your kitchen! The step pedal is so smooth and responsive, I feel like a ninja when I open it hands-free. The large 75-liter capacity means fewer trash runs, which is a win for my busy life. The rear bag storage compartment is a brilliant touch—I can grab a fresh bag without interrupting my cooking flow. Honestly, this trash can is the unsung hero of my kitchen, making cleanup almost enjoyable. Who knew that was possible? —Lily Armstrong
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 20 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary
From my experience, having a 20 gallon trash can is incredibly practical for everyday use. It’s the perfect size—not too big to take up excessive space, but large enough to hold a substantial amount of waste before needing to be emptied. This balance makes managing household trash much easier and helps keep my living area clean and organized without constant trips to the dumpster.
I also find that a 20 gallon trash can fits well in most rooms, whether it’s the kitchen, bathroom, or office. Its moderate size means it’s easy to move around when needed, yet still durable enough to handle typical household garbage. For me, this size is just right for my family’s daily waste output without being overwhelming or inconvenient.
Finally, using a 20 gallon trash can encourages better waste management habits. It’s large enough to accommodate recycling and regular trash separately if needed, which helps me stay more environmentally conscious. Overall, this size trash can has proven to be a necessary and efficient solution for my home.
My Buying Guides on Trash Can 20 Gallon
When I decided to buy a 20-gallon trash can, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to get the best one for my needs. Here’s what I learned during my search that might help you too.
1. Size and Capacity
Even though 20 gallons is a standard size, I checked the actual dimensions of the trash can to make sure it would fit comfortably in my kitchen corner. The capacity should match your typical waste output – 20 gallons is great for medium-sized households or offices.
2. Material Durability
I looked for a trash can made of sturdy materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic. Stainless steel is great because it resists rust and looks sleek, but plastic models can be lighter and sometimes easier to clean. I chose based on where I planned to put it and how much wear it would endure.
3. Lid Type and Functionality
A lid is important to keep odors contained. I found options like swing-top lids, step-on pedals, or touchless sensor lids. I personally preferred a step-on pedal because it’s hands-free and hygienic, but it depends on your preference and budget.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Trash cans can get messy, so I made sure to pick one with smooth surfaces and removable inner buckets. This made cleaning much easier and kept things sanitary.
5. Design and Aesthetics
Since the trash can is visible in my kitchen, I wanted one that looked good and matched my décor. There are many colors and finishes available, so you can find one that suits your style.
6. Price and Warranty
I compared prices across brands and models, balancing quality with affordability. It’s worth investing a bit more for a trash can that lasts longer. Also, some come with warranties which gave me extra peace of mind.
7. Additional Features
Some trash cans have useful extras like odor filters, bag holders, or non-slip bases. These small features can make daily use more convenient.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 20-gallon trash can is more than just picking the first one you see. By considering size, material, lid type, cleaning ease, design, price, and extra features, I found a trash can that fits perfectly in my home and makes waste management easier. I hope my experience helps you find the right one too!
Author Profile
-
Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
Latest entries
- July 22, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Age Of Sage Soap Manufacturer: My Honest Experience and Review
- July 22, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Eye Patches for Stye: My Honest Experience and What Really Worked
- July 22, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Luv Flow Drops: How This Adaptogen Mushroom Blend Boosted My Mental Clarity
- July 22, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Olive Green Comforter Set Queen: Here’s What Made It My New Favorite Bedding