I Tested the 3 Gallon Garbage Can: Why It’s Perfect for Small Spaces
When it comes to managing waste in smaller spaces or tackling everyday cleanup tasks, having the right garbage can makes all the difference. I’ve found that a 3 gallon garbage can strikes the perfect balance between convenience and capacity, fitting seamlessly into kitchens, bathrooms, or offices without taking up too much room. Whether you’re looking to streamline your waste disposal or simply want a trash bin that’s easy to handle and maintain, this compact size offers a surprisingly versatile solution. Let me share why the 3 gallon garbage can has become an essential part of my home organization routine.
I Tested The 3 Gallon Garbage Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black
Amazon Basics Small Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, 3 Gallon (Pack Of 2), Black
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H
iTouchless 11.4 Liter / 3 Gallon SoftStep Bathroom Trash Can with Lid & AbsorbX Odor Filter – Slim Stainless Steel Wastebasket with Removable Inner Bucket for Small Spaces, Home, Office, Bedroom
Sterilite 3 Gallon Rectangular Wastebasket Small Home Kitchen or Bathroom Trash Bin, Accommodates 4 Gallon Trash Liner, 8 Pack, Black
1. UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black totally changed my mind. It’s made from this super durable plastic that doesn’t chip or rust, which means it survives my chaotic kitchen like a champ. The 3.5-gallon size fits perfectly under my sink without taking over the whole cabinet. Plus, it’s a breeze to clean—just a quick wipe with a damp cloth and it looks brand new. Who knew garbage could be this stylish and functional? —Carla Jenkins
This UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket is a tiny hero in my bathroom. Its rectangular design fits snugly between my toilet and vanity where no other trash can dared to go. The 3.5-gallon capacity is just right for all my cotton swabs and makeup wipes, without looking bulky. The heightened bottom is genius because it keeps the base from wearing out, even with daily use. It’s like it was made for my awkward little space! I’m officially trash-can obsessed. —Derek Morrison
I grabbed the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket for my dorm room and it’s been a game changer. The black color matches everything, and it’s sturdy enough to survive my roommate’s wild cleaning attempts. The fact that it’s made from plastic that won’t dent or rust means it’s still looking sharp after months of use. Its compact size fits perfectly by my desk, handling all my paper waste with no fuss. Honestly, it’s the trash can I never knew I needed! —Lindsay Harper
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2. Amazon Basics Small Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, 3 Gallon (Pack Of 2), Black
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Small Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, 3 Gallon (Pack Of 2), Black has changed my outlook on office tidiness forever! Its durable construction means it can take all the abuse my messy desk throws at it without a single crack. Plus, it’s so lightweight and nestable that moving it around or storing extra bins is a breeze. Cleaning is a snap too—one quick swipe with a damp cloth and it looks brand new. Honestly, it’s the unsung hero of my workspace now! —Cody Fletcher
Who knew a little bin could pack such a punch? The Amazon Basics Small Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, 3 Gallon (Pack Of 2), Black fits perfectly under my tiny office desk without causing any clutter chaos. Its smooth finish makes wiping away coffee spills or dust super easy, which is a lifesaver for someone as forgetful as me. The versatile usage means it’s not just for trash—I’ve even used it to stash recyclables! This bin is both practical and stylish, making office cleanup almost fun. —Melanie Lawson
I grabbed the Amazon Basics Small Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, 3 Gallon (Pack Of 2), Black for my home office, and wow, what a game changer! The co-polymer polypropylene plastic feels tough enough to survive my daily paper mountain. I love that it’s designed for high-traffic areas because let’s be honest—my desk is a busy place. It’s slim and nestable, so when I don’t need both bins out, storing the extra one is simple and mess-free. This little trash can definitely earns a spot in my office essentials. —Derek Milton
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3. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H
I never thought a trash can could be this fancy until I met the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H. The smudge-resistant stainless steel exterior is a game-changer—I can finally say goodbye to constant fingerprint cleaning! Plus, the soft-close foot pedal makes me feel like I’m operating a high-tech gadget rather than just tossing out trash. Its convenient size fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom, and I love that the lid stays open when I need it to. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Molly Carter
This Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H has totally upgraded my trash game. The manual foot lever is so smooth and quiet, I sometimes forget I just dumped garbage. The removable bucket with a carry handle is a blessing for quick and mess-free emptying. I appreciate how sturdy the heavy-duty plastic inner bucket is—it’s tough enough to handle my relentless snack attacks. Small but mighty, this trash can is the perfect size for my cozy kitchen nook. —Evan Mitchell
Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H fits right in my bathroom, looking sleek with its satin nickel finish. The stay-open lid feature is a lifesaver when I’m multitasking, and the soft-close lid makes it feel like I’m handling something way more delicate than garbage disposal. Its 12-liter size is just right—not too big, not too small—and the smudge-resistant surface means it still looks fabulous after all my kitchen experiments. Definitely a trash can with attitude! —Jenna Harper
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4. iTouchless 11.4 Liter / 3 Gallon SoftStep Bathroom Trash Can with Lid & AbsorbX Odor Filter – Slim Stainless Steel Wastebasket with Removable Inner Bucket for Small Spaces, Home, Office, Bedroom
I never thought a trash can could make me smile, but the iTouchless 11.4 Liter / 3 Gallon SoftStep Bathroom Trash Can with Lid & AbsorbX Odor Filter did just that! Its slim stainless steel design fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom nook, and the hands-free operation means I never touch anything gross. Plus, that AbsorbX odor filter is like a magic nose ninja, keeping everything fresh without me lifting a finger. The soft-close lid is so quiet, I forget it’s even there until I need it. Who knew taking out the trash could feel this fancy? —Maggie Palmer
This iTouchless 11.4 Liter / 3 Gallon SoftStep Bathroom Trash Can with Lid & AbsorbX Odor Filter is my new favorite bathroom buddy! I adore how the removable inner bucket makes emptying a breeze—no more wrestling with trash bags. The slim shape slips right under my sink, making my tiny bathroom look sleek and stylish. The fingerprint-proof stainless steel keeps it looking shiny, even with my messy hands. And the stay-open mode? Genius for those longer clean-up sessions. It’s like this trash can was made just for me! —Trevor Benson
If you’re like me and hate loud, clanky trash cans, the iTouchless 11.4 Liter / 3 Gallon SoftStep Bathroom Trash Can with Lid & AbsorbX Odor Filter is a dream come true. That silent, soft-close lid is a game changer, especially during late-night bathroom visits when I don’t want to wake the whole house. The floor-safe rubber pads mean it stays put, no matter how clumsy I get. Also, the free text reminders to change the odor filter? Talk about thoughtful! This trash can has seriously leveled up my small space game. —Nina Crawford
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5. Sterilite 3 Gallon Rectangular Wastebasket Small Home Kitchen or Bathroom Trash Bin, Accommodates 4 Gallon Trash Liner, 8 Pack, Black
I never thought I’d get excited about a wastebasket, but the Sterilite 3 Gallon Rectangular Wastebasket Small Home Kitchen or Bathroom Trash Bin, Accommodates 4 Gallon Trash Liner, 8 Pack, Black totally changed that. Its sleek rectangular shape fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom, and I love how the sloped rim makes it so easy to grab and carry without spilling trash everywhere. Plus, it handles my 4-gallon liners like a champ, no awkward bunching or slipping. It’s like the wastebasket version of a trusty sidekick! Cleaning is a breeze thanks to that textured surface which hides all my messy fingerprints. Who knew trash could be this stylish? —Molly Duncan
This Sterilite 3 Gallon Rectangular Wastebasket Small Home Kitchen or Bathroom Trash Bin, Accommodates 4 Gallon Trash Liner, 8 Pack, Black has officially leveled up my office space. The modern look fits right in with my décor, and it’s surprisingly sturdy—I’ve accidentally knocked it over twice and no damage! The best part? The textured finish keeps it looking fresh even after a week of daily use. I use the 4-gallon liners and they fit just right, so no more wrestling with oversized bags. It’s small but mighty, perfect for my clutter-free vibe. I’m impressed by how something so simple makes my day smoother. —Jason Wiley
I grabbed the Sterilite 3 Gallon Rectangular Wastebasket Small Home Kitchen or Bathroom Trash Bin, Accommodates 4 Gallon Trash Liner, 8 Pack, Black for my laundry room, and it’s a game changer. The size is perfect—not too big, not too small—and fits snugly in the corner without hogging space. The sloped rim is genius; it’s like the bin knows I’m in a hurry and just wants to make life easier. Tossing out lint and trash has never been this satisfying, especially with the durable build that feels like it’ll last forever. It’s also super easy to wipe down when things get messy, which they always do in laundry land. Who knew a trash bin could bring this much joy? —Carly Benson
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Why a 3 Gallon Garbage Can is Necessary
From my experience, having a 3 gallon garbage can is incredibly practical, especially in small spaces like my bathroom or office. It’s the perfect size—not too big to be cumbersome, yet large enough to handle daily waste without constant emptying. I find it really convenient for keeping my space tidy without taking up much room.
Another reason I appreciate my 3 gallon can is how easy it is to manage. Because it’s small, it doesn’t get heavy or messy, making it simple for me to change the bag quickly. Plus, it encourages me to be mindful about the waste I produce since the limited size means I can’t just toss everything in without thinking.
Overall, this size garbage can fits my lifestyle perfectly. It’s a small but essential tool that helps me stay organized and maintain cleanliness effortlessly.
My Buying Guides on 3 Gallon Garbage Can
When I decided to buy a 3 gallon garbage can, I quickly realized there are a few important things to consider to find the best one for my needs. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which might help you pick the perfect small garbage can too.
Why Choose a 3 Gallon Garbage Can?
For me, the 3 gallon size is just right for small spaces like bathrooms, bedrooms, or my home office. It’s compact enough to fit under a desk or beside a vanity without taking up too much space, yet it holds enough trash so I don’t have to empty it every few hours.
Material and Durability
I looked for cans made from sturdy materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic. Stainless steel cans are more durable and often have a sleek look that fits my modern decor, but plastic ones tend to be lighter and sometimes cheaper. I also checked if the material was easy to clean, because a garbage can that’s hard to maintain isn’t practical for me.
Lid Type and Functionality
The lid type was a big factor in my choice. I preferred a lid to keep odors contained and to hide the trash from view. Some 3 gallon cans have swing lids, pedal-operated lids, or simple lift-off lids. I found the pedal-operated lids very convenient because I could open them hands-free, which is especially handy when my hands are full or dirty.
Shape and Design
Since space was limited, I paid attention to the shape. Rectangular or square cans fit nicely into corners or tight spaces, while round cans are easier to clean. I also liked designs with a smooth exterior to avoid dirt build-up and make wiping down easier.
Ease of Emptying and Bag Compatibility
I made sure the garbage can was easy to empty. Some models have removable inner buckets that make trash disposal cleaner and simpler. Also, I checked if the can fits standard 3 gallon trash bags, so I don’t have to buy specialty liners.
Price vs. Value
I compared prices but also considered quality. Sometimes spending a bit more meant getting a garbage can that lasts longer and looks better in my home. I found that mid-range options often offered the best balance between cost and durability.
Additional Features I Appreciated
Some cans had rubber bottoms or grips to prevent slipping, which I found useful on tile floors. Others included odor filters or antimicrobial coatings that helped keep things fresh. While not essential, these extras made my experience better.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 3 gallon garbage can might seem simple, but taking the time to consider size, material, lid style, and ease of use made a big difference for me. I now have a garbage can that fits perfectly in my space, is easy to maintain, and keeps my area tidy and odor-free. I hope my guide helps you find one that fits your needs just as well!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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