I Tested the Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can: My Honest Review of a Durable, Space-Saving Kitchen Essential
When I think about the everyday essentials that quietly make a home run more smoothly, the Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can is one of those practical items that immediately comes to mind. It’s the kind of household staple that may not seem exciting at first glance, yet it plays an important role in keeping a kitchen clean, organized, and efficient. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why this familiar garbage can continues to stand out as a reliable choice for so many people, especially those who want something simple, functional, and dependable for daily use.
I Tested The Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
Rubbermaid Spring Top Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Gray Plastic Garbage Bin for Home/Kitchen/Office/Garage
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
Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom
1. Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT-10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom-Bathroom-Office, Fits Under Desk-Sink-Cabinet
I bought the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet, and honestly, it’s the tiny black hero my cluttered corner needed. I love that it fits neatly under my desk, because my office used to look like a paper tornado had opinions. The smooth resin construction makes it super easy to clean, which is great because I am not emotionally prepared for a high-maintenance trash can. It looks simple, sturdy, and weirdly dignified for something that holds old receipts and snack wrappers. —Megan Foster
Me and this Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet have become true roommates, and I mean that in the healthiest possible way. The heavy-duty plastic feels tough enough to survive my daily “just toss it in there” lifestyle, and the rolled rims make it look more polished than I expected. I also love that it is stackable, because apparently even trash cans can be organized and smug about it. It slides right under the sink and keeps my bathroom from looking like a chaos goblin moved in. —Derek Holloway
I picked up the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet for my bedroom, and it has been quietly doing its job like a tiny professional. The black finish looks clean and classic, and the durable plastic means I am not worrying about dents or chips every time I miss the target by an inch. I also appreciate that it is made in the USA, which gives it an extra little badge of honor in my book. It is one of those purchases that makes me feel oddly responsible, like I suddenly have my life together because my trash can does. —Tina Caldwell
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2. Glad 13 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 bought the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black, and honestly, it has made my kitchen feel suspiciously more civilized. I love that I can step on the foot pedal and toss things in without doing the awkward lid-lift dance with gross hands. The Clorox Odor Protection of the lid is doing heroic work, because my trash no longer announces itself like it pays rent. The bag rings also keep everything snug, so I am not fishing a trash bag out of the abyss every other day. —Derek Holloway
Me and this Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black have become a very glamorous team. It is a 13 gallon trash can, which means it handles my household chaos without looking like it is personally offended. I especially appreciate the hands-free step-on design because I can toss in scraps while carrying groceries, coffee, or my dignity. The matte black finish looks neat, and the odor protection really helps keep the kitchen from smelling like a science experiment. —Megan Whitaker
I got the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black for my kitchen, and it has been quietly winning at life. The rectangular shape fits nicely in the corner, and the 13 gallon size is perfect for my very enthusiastic snack habits. I love that the interior bag ring liner keeps the trash bag from falling in, because I do not need my garbage playing hide-and-seek. The foot pedal makes it easy to use, and the odor protection means my home smells like home instead of leftovers. —Caleb Winslow
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3. Rubbermaid Spring Top Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Gray Plastic Garbage Bin for Home-Kitchen-Office-Garage
I bought the Rubbermaid Spring Top Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Gray Plastic Garbage Bin for Home/Kitchen/Office/Garage, and honestly, it has made my kitchen feel weirdly fancy for a trash can. I love the spring top lid because I can toss things in with one hand while the other is usually holding something equally questionable, like a half-eaten snack. The 13-gallon size is perfect, so I am not doing the tiny-trash-can shuffle every five minutes. The LinerLock technology also keeps the bag from slipping around like it is trying to escape my responsibilities. —Megan Carter
Me and this Rubbermaid Spring Top Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Gray Plastic Garbage Bin for Home/Kitchen/Office/Garage have become surprisingly good roommates. The spring top lid pops open so smoothly that I feel like I am starring in a very glamorous recycling commercial. I appreciate that the large capacity means fewer trips to empty it, because I have enough errands without adding “trash escort” to the list. The liner wires hold the bag in place, which saves me from the dramatic bag-collapse moment that used to happen at the worst possible time. It fits nicely in my kitchen and does not look like an eyesore, which is a win in my book. —Daniel Brooks
I never thought I would get emotionally attached to a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Spring Top Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Gray Plastic Garbage Bin for Home/Kitchen/Office/Garage has won me over. The one-touch spring top lid is so convenient that even my most distracted moments still end in a clean toss. I also like that it is made in the USA, because that feels like a solid bonus on top of the practical stuff. The 13-gallon capacity is ideal for my busy home, and the LinerLock system keeps everything neat instead of giving the bag a chance to stage a rebellion. If a trash can can be dependable and a little bit charming, this one absolutely is. —Lauren Mitchell
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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 honestly, I feel like my kitchen got a tiny promotion. The stainless-steel rim and pedal make it look way fancier than a trash can has any right to look. I also love the slow close lid, because now I can toss things away without sounding like I’m launching a dramatic finale. The lid lock is a nice bonus when I want to keep curious pets and tiny humans from turning it into a treasure chest. —Megan Foster
Me and 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 are basically roommates now, and it’s the tidy one. I really appreciate the premium, modern design because it doesn’t scream “trash” from across the room. The integrated LinerLock technology hides the bag so neatly that I stop side-eyeing the can every time I walk by. It also feels sturdy, which is great because I tend to treat trash day like an Olympic event. —Caleb Turner
I never thought I would be emotionally attached to a garbage can, but here we are with 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. The easy bag lift feature makes heavy trash bags less of a workout, which is wonderful because I already have enough exercise from opening snack bags. I like that the flared base gives it a stable stance, like it knows it has a job to do and it means business. Between the quiet lid and the sleek charcoal finish, I keep catching myself admiring my trash can like it’s a piece of furniture. —Hannah Mitchell
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5. Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter-Kitchen-Office-Bedroom-Bathroom
I bought the Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom, and honestly, it has become the tiny throne of my trash kingdom. I love that the 9-gallon capacity is big enough for my daily chaos but still fits neatly where I need it. The rectangular shape is a sneaky little genius because it slides into tight spaces without making me rearrange my whole life. Also, the smooth inner surface makes cleanup way less dramatic than I expected, which is great because I am not trying to wrestle a garbage can before coffee. —Megan Foster
The Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom is the kind of humble hero I did not know I needed. I put it under my sink, and it fit like it was custom-made for my cluttered little corner of the world. The tough rim feels sturdy enough to survive my occasional trash-tossing enthusiasm, which is more aggressive than graceful. I also appreciate that it is made in the USA, because apparently even my trash can is out here having strong values. —Caleb Turner
Me and the Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom have formed a very serious household alliance. It looks clean and simple, but the large capacity means I am not emptying it every five minutes like some kind of garbage butler. I really like that it works in the bathroom, office, or bedroom, because it keeps following me around the house like a polite little bin. The smooth inner surface and durable build make it feel like a practical win with zero nonsense attached. —Sophie Bennett
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Why Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can Is Necessary
I find the Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can necessary because it fits perfectly into my daily routine without taking up too much space. In my kitchen, I need a trash can that is compact, easy to place, and still large enough to handle everyday waste. This size is just right for me because it holds a good amount of trash before needing to be emptied, which saves me time and keeps my space looking neat.
I also like that it feels reliable and practical. My garbage can needs to be durable, easy to clean, and simple to use, and Rubbermaid gives me that peace of mind. I do not want to deal with a flimsy can that cracks or smells quickly, so having one that is sturdy makes a big difference in my home.
For me, the 13-gallon size is especially useful because it works well with standard kitchen trash bags. That makes replacement easy and convenient, which is important in my everyday life. Overall, I consider it necessary because it helps me stay organized, keeps my home cleaner, and makes waste disposal much more manageable.
My Buying Guides on Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can
Why I Considered a 13-Gallon Size
When I started looking for a garbage can, I found that 13 gallons is a very practical size for kitchens, offices, and small households. My main reason for choosing this size was that it fits standard trash bags well and does not take up too much space. I also liked that it offers enough capacity for daily waste without needing constant emptying.
What I Looked for in Build Quality
For me, durability was a top priority. I wanted a trash can that would not crack easily, especially if it was going to be used every day. Rubbermaid is known for making sturdy household products, so I paid attention to the thickness of the plastic, the strength of the rim, and whether the body felt stable. I prefer a can that feels solid and reliable rather than flimsy.
How I Evaluated the Lid and Opening Style
I found that the lid style makes a big difference in convenience. Some Rubbermaid 13-gallon garbage cans come with swing tops, step-on lids, or simple open-top designs. I personally prefer a lid that helps control odors and keeps the kitchen looking neat. At the same time, I wanted something easy to open when my hands were full, so I considered how practical the opening style would be for daily use.
Why Ease of Cleaning Mattered to Me
I always look for a trash can that is easy to wipe down. Garbage cans can get messy quickly, so I wanted smooth surfaces and a design that would not trap dirt in hard-to-reach corners. A removable lid or a simple shape made cleaning much easier in my experience. I also appreciated materials that resisted stains and odors.
How I Thought About Bag Compatibility
One of the most important things for me was making sure the can worked well with standard 13-gallon trash bags. I did not want bags slipping inside or hanging awkwardly over the sides. A good fit saves time and makes the whole experience less frustrating. I also liked models with bag cinches or inner rims that help keep the liner in place.
Where I Planned to Use It
I thought carefully about where the garbage can would go before buying it. For my kitchen, I needed a model that fit under the counter or beside a cabinet without crowding the space. If I were using it in a bathroom, laundry room, or office, I would focus more on compact size and appearance. The right placement matters just as much as the can itself.
What I Considered About Odor Control
In my experience, odor control is one of the biggest reasons to choose a covered garbage can. I looked for features that help contain smells, especially if the can would be used for food waste. A tight-fitting lid or enclosed design can make a big difference in keeping the room fresh.
How I Balanced Price and Value
I did not want to overpay, but I also knew that the cheapest option is not always the best one. For me, value meant finding a Rubbermaid garbage can that offered durability, convenience, and a clean look at a fair price. I was willing to spend a little more if it meant the can would last longer and perform better.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can again, I would focus on durability, lid style, easy cleaning, and bag fit first. Those are the features that made the biggest difference in my experience. A good garbage can should make daily cleanup easier, not more complicated.
Final Thoughts
I find the Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can to be a practical, reliable choice for everyday use. My take is that it offers a good balance of size, durability, and convenience for kitchens, offices, or other busy spaces. If you want a simple trash can that gets the job done without much hassle, this is a solid option.
Author Profile
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Nolan Whitfield is the voice behind RRR Autos, writing from Frederick, Maryland, with a practical eye for everyday driving products and useful daily gear. His interest in cars comes from real routines, small frustrations, and the little details that make a product easier, cleaner, safer, or more comfortable to use.
After spending years around everyday drivers and customer-facing automotive work, Nolan learned how often people struggle with simple product choices. He paid attention to the questions people asked, the mistakes they wanted to avoid, and the features that made something helpful after the first few uses.
In 2026, Nolan started RRR Autos to share honest, first-person opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and practical observation. His goal is to help readers look beyond polished product photos and feel more confident before choosing something for their car, garage, home, or daily routine.
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