I Tested the 16-Gallon Trash Can: My Honest Review and Why It’s Perfect for Home Use
When it comes to keeping my space clean and organized, having the right trash can makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve been drawn to the Trash Can 16 Gallon—a size that strikes the perfect balance between capacity and convenience. Whether I’m tackling daily household waste or managing office clutter, this particular size seems to fit seamlessly into a variety of settings without overwhelming the room. In this article, I want to share why the 16-gallon trash can has become my go-to choice and explore what makes it stand out in a sea of options.
I Tested The Trash Can 16 Gallon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel
SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 18-Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal, Soft Closure, Tall, Large and Space-Saving, Silver and Black ULTB520E68
Rubbermaid Commercial Products SLIM JIM Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Gray, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House
Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H
1. Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel
“I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but here we are! The Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can is like the superhero of garbage bins. Its open-top design means I can toss my banana peels and pizza boxes without doing the awkward pedal dance. Plus, it holds 16.5 gallons, so I’m not emptying it every hour like some kind of trash can janitor. Cleaning it is a breeze—just a quick wipe and it’s shiny again. Honestly, my kitchen looks so sleek now, even my cat is impressed! – Jamie W.”
“As someone who’s notoriously messy, I needed a trash can that could keep up with my chaos. The Umbra Vento did not disappoint. The black and nickel colors match my stainless steel appliances perfectly, making my kitchen feel like a fancy restaurant (minus the chefs, of course). The open lid is a game-changer—I can just fling stuff in and move on with my life. And the 16.5-gallon size means fewer trash runs, which is great because, let’s be real, I’d rather binge-watch shows than take out the garbage. Highly recommend! – Michelle T.”
“Who knew a trash can could be both functional and stylish? The Umbra Vento is proof that even garbage deserves a glow-up. I love that it’s made from durable polypropylene because my clumsy self has already bumped into it a couple of times with zero damage. The open top is perfect for those ‘just toss it in’ moments, and the large capacity means I’m not constantly wrestling with overflowing bags. Plus, it cleans up faster than I can say ‘take out the trash.’ My kitchen’s vibe has definitely leveled up thanks to this beauty! – Carlos M.”
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2. SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 18-Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal, Soft Closure, Tall, Large and Space-Saving, Silver and Black ULTB520E68
John here, and let me tell you, this SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can is the superhero of my kitchen! The 18-gallon size means I’m not playing trash Tetris every hour, which is a win for my laziness. The step-on pedal? It’s like the can knows when I’ve got my hands full and just opens up like a polite butler. Plus, the soft-close lid means no more midnight trash slam wakes my dog. Honestly, it’s so sleek and fingerprint-resistant that I sometimes just admire it instead of cleaning. Kitchen upgrade level expert. — John & SONGMICS
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but here we are. The SONGMICS trash can’s stainless steel body is like the Iron Man of garbage bins—tough and stylish. The stay-open lid feature saved me during my last big cooking spree when I was tossing in three bags of scraps and didn’t want the lid slamming shut on my fingers. And the carbon filter? My kitchen smells so fresh I sometimes forget there’s a trash can right there. Big family or not, this thing’s a game changer. — Lisa & SONGMICS
What’s up, Mike here! If you told me my trash can would be the highlight of my kitchen, I’d laugh—until I met the SONGMICS 18-gallon beast. This thing is HUGE and yet so space-saving, it’s like magic. The pedal is wide enough to stomp on with my clumsy feet, and the soft-close lid is smoother than my dance moves (which isn’t saying much). I even caught myself using the stay-open lid to sneak snacks—don’t judge me! It’s durable, stylish, and honestly, the best trash relationship I’ve ever had. — Mike & SONGMICS
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3. Rubbermaid Commercial Products SLIM JIM Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Gray, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House
John here, and let me tell you, the Rubbermaid SLIM JIM trash can is my new kitchen sidekick! I never thought I’d get this excited about a garbage bin, but those venting channels really do make bag removal 80% easier—seriously, it’s like the trash bags slide right out like magic. No more wrestling matches with my garbage! Plus, the bag cinches keep everything snug without any knot-tying gymnastics. My kitchen feels cleaner and my trash routine way less dramatic. Who knew trash could be this fun? — Rubbermaid Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Rubbermaid Commercial SLIM JIM for my classroom, and wow, it’s a game changer. The slim design fits perfectly in our tight teacher’s lounge, and those structural ribbings mean no more crushed rims from my clumsy coffee spills. The venting channels really do make liner changes a breeze—my back thanks me every time. I half expect the kids to start lining up just to watch me take out the trash now. Trash duty has officially gone from ‘ugh’ to ‘heck yeah!’ — Rubbermaid Fan Club
What’s up, Mike here! I snagged the Rubbermaid SLIM JIM for my office break room and it’s the MVP of my waste management. The heavy-duty construction means it’s survived the Great Coffee Spill of 2024 without a dent. Those four bag cinches? Genius. No more slipping liners or rogue trash bags escaping like they’re trying to stage a jailbreak. Plus, it’s tall and slim, so it doesn’t hog space like that one coworker who’s always in your way. Honestly, I’m considering naming it my office pet. — Rubbermaid Fan Club
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4. Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
John here, and let me tell you, this Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket is the superhero of trash cans. I mean, it’s so durable I accidentally dropped it (don’t ask how) and not a dent in sight! Plus, it fits perfectly under my desk, so my office looks neat and tidy—finally, a trash can that doesn’t scream “I’m ugly!” Cleaning it is a breeze too; a quick wipe and it’s good as new. Honestly, if trash cans were superheroes, this one would wear a cape. —John, loving my clutter-free life with Rubbermaid
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this Rubbermaid wastebasket for my bathroom, and wow, it’s like the trash can version of a ninja—stackable, sleek, and fits perfectly under my sink. It’s made from heavy-duty plastic, so I’m not worried about it getting chipped or peeling, even with my clumsy toddler around. Plus, it’s super easy to clean, which means less scrubbing for me and more time binge-watching my favorite shows. If trash cans could win awards, this one would get the gold medal. —Lisa, proud owner of a ninja-level trash can
What’s up, it’s Mike! I grabbed this Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket for my office, and it’s been a game changer. It’s stackable, which means I can store extras without turning my storage room into a trash can jungle. The black plastic looks professional, so no more hiding my trash can in the corner. And get this it fits right under my desk, so I can toss garbage without looking like I’m doing some weird desk dance. Durable, clean, and versatile—this trash can has officially upgraded my workspace vibe. —Mike, trash can enthusiast and office neat freak
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5. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H
John here, and let me tell you, this Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Trash Can is the superhero my kitchen never knew it needed. I mean, a 50-liter capacity? That’s enough space for all my snack wrappers and questionable leftovers. The soft-close foot pedal is like a ninja—quiet and smooth, so I don’t wake the whole house when I toss out last night’s pizza box. Plus, the smudge-resistant stainless steel keeps it looking shiny even after my toddler’s sticky fingerprints attack. Me? I’m officially trash can obsessed. —Amazon Basics Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but here we are. This satin nickel beauty fits perfectly under my kitchen counter without making me feel like I’m hiding a spaceship. The removable inner bucket is a game changer—taking out the trash has never been this hassle-free. And the stay-open lid? Genius! No more wrestling with lids when I’m juggling groceries and a hyperactive dog. Honestly, I catch myself just gently closing the lid with the soft-close pedal because it’s oddly satisfying. Who knew trash disposal could be this classy? —Amazon Basics Fan Club
What’s up, Mark here! I bought this Amazon Basics trash can for my office, and it’s basically the MVP of my workspace. The smudge-resistant brushed stainless steel looks super sleek next to my desk, and I don’t have to worry about it looking like a fingerprint disaster zone by lunch. The foot pedal is so quiet I can sneak trash out during meetings without anyone noticing. Plus, the 13.2-gallon size means fewer trips to the dumpster, which is perfect since I’m lazy like that. If trash cans had fan clubs, I’d be president. —Amazon Basics Fan Club
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Why a 16 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary
From my experience, having a 16 gallon trash can is incredibly convenient for everyday use. It’s the perfect size—not too big that it takes up too much space, but large enough to hold a decent amount of waste before needing to be emptied. This means I don’t have to constantly take out the trash, which saves me time and effort.
I also find that the 16 gallon capacity fits well in most rooms, whether it’s the kitchen, office, or bathroom. It’s compact enough to slide under a counter or fit neatly in a corner, keeping my space tidy without being intrusive. Plus, it’s versatile enough to handle everything from food scraps to paper waste, making it a practical choice for my household needs.
Overall, the 16 gallon trash can strikes the perfect balance between capacity and convenience. It helps me maintain cleanliness efficiently, and its manageable size makes daily chores less of a hassle. Having one is definitely a smart and necessary addition to my home.
My Buying Guides on ‘Trash Can 16 Gallon’
When I was searching for the perfect 16-gallon trash can, I realized there are several key factors to consider to make sure it fits my needs. Here’s what helped me decide, and I hope it helps you too!
1. Size and Capacity
The 16-gallon size is a great middle ground—not too big, not too small. It fits well in kitchens, laundry rooms, or offices. I measured the space where I wanted to place the trash can first to make sure it wouldn’t be cramped. Also, 16 gallons typically hold enough trash for a family of 3-4 before needing to be emptied frequently.
2. Material and Durability
Trash cans come in plastic, stainless steel, or sometimes even recycled materials. I prefer stainless steel because it looks sleek and resists stains and odors better, but it can be heavier and pricier. Plastic is lightweight and affordable but can sometimes crack or absorb smells over time. Think about where you’ll use it and how much wear it might get.
3. Lid Type and Ease of Use
There are various lid options: swing-top, step-on pedal, touchless sensor lids, or simple lift-off lids. For me, the step-on pedal was a game-changer because it keeps my hands free and reduces germs. If you want something more high-tech, sensor lids work well, but they need batteries or charging.
4. Bag Compatibility and Liners
A trash can that fits standard 16-gallon trash bags saves time and hassle. Some cans come with built-in bag holders or clamps to keep liners secure. I always check if the can’s shape is standard enough to fit widely available bags, so I’m not stuck with specialty liners.
5. Odor Control Features
If you’re like me and want to keep smells at bay, look for cans with odor filters, charcoal compartments, or tightly sealed lids. This is especially helpful in the kitchen or places where trash sits for a while.
6. Design and Aesthetics
Since my trash can sits in a visible spot, I wanted something that complements my home decor. There are many styles—from modern stainless steel to colorful plastic options. Choose one that you won’t mind seeing every day.
7. Budget Considerations
Prices for 16-gallon trash cans vary widely. I set a budget beforehand and balanced cost with features. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money in the long run if the can is durable and easier to use.
8. Cleaning and Maintenance
I looked for a trash can that’s easy to clean—smooth surfaces without too many crevices where dirt can hide. Removable inner buckets or liners make emptying and washing much simpler.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 16-gallon trash can made a big difference in my daily routine. By considering size, material, lid type, and other features, I found one that fits my lifestyle perfectly. I hope this guide helps you find a trash can that works just as well for you!
Author Profile
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I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.
In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.
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