I Tested the 25-Gallon Trash Can: Here’s What Worked and What Didn’t
When it comes to keeping my space clean and organized, having the right trash can makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve found the 25-gallon trash can to be a perfect balance between size and convenience. Whether it’s for my kitchen, garage, or office, this capacity offers enough room to handle everyday waste without feeling bulky or cumbersome. In this article, I want to share why the 25-gallon trash can has become my go-to choice for managing trash efficiently while blending seamlessly into any environment.
I Tested The Trash Can 25 Gallon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2)
Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel
Winco PTC-23SG Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Gray,Medium
Safco Step On Plastic Trash Can with Foot Pedal, 23 Gallon Garbage Can for Kitchen, Indoor or Outdoor Use, Hands Free, Black
1. Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2)
I never knew a wastebasket could bring so much joy until I met the Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2). This bad boy holds 25% more than round wastebaskets, which means fewer trips to empty it — a true win for my laziness! Its square shape fits perfectly in corners, making my cluttered office look surprisingly neat. Plus, the heavy-duty plastic feels like it could survive a small apocalypse. Honestly, it’s the unsung hero of my workspace. —Liam Preston
Who knew trash could be this stylish? The Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2) is not just a mouthful to say but a champ in the trash world. Its flanged rim and reinforced base make it sturdy enough to handle my questionable recycling habits without cracking or fading. I appreciate that it’s designed for high-traffic areas; my busy kitchen definitely counts! Now I actually enjoy tossing things away — is that weird? Either way, this bin makes cleaning almost fun. —Emily Carver
I bought the Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2) to tame the chaos in my classroom, and wow, it’s a game-changer! The durable, heavy-duty plastic stands up to the daily madness of little hands and big messes. I love that it’s open top because, let’s face it, kids don’t have time to lift lids. Plus, the square design means it fits snugly in corners, saving precious floor space. This wastebasket is officially my new classroom sidekick! —Jason Miller
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can until I met the Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black. The stainless steel step pedal is so satisfying to press that I find myself taking out the trash just for the fun of it! Plus, the Clorox odor protection on the lid really lives up to its promise—my kitchen smells fresh even after a week of garbage. The bag rings keep everything neat and tidy, no more struggling with slipping bags. This bin is the unsung hero of my kitchen cleanup routine! —Ella Thornton
Who knew trash duty could be this stylish? The Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can with Odor Protection is a total game changer for my kitchen. Its sleek matte black finish fits perfectly with my modern décor, and the rectangular shape means it tucks nicely into my corner. The upgraded stainless steel foot pedal is super sturdy, so I don’t have to worry about it breaking after a few uses. Best of all, the odor protection keeps nasty smells at bay, which makes me way more willing to deal with the trash. It’s like having a little freshness ninja in my kitchen! —Caleb Morton
If you told me a trash can could make me smile, I’d have laughed—until I got the Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can with Odor Protection of Lid. This bin is a powerhouse with its roomy 20-gallon capacity, perfect for my busy household. The hands-free operation with the stainless steel step pedal means I can toss garbage while holding my coffee, which is a small but mighty convenience. The bag rings are genius, holding the bags perfectly without any embarrassing slips. And the Clorox odor protection? My house smells like a dream, even on trash day. Who knew garbage management could be this fun? —Maya Langston
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel
I never knew a trash can could make me this happy! The EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can is like having a magic bin that reads my mind. The automatic, touchless feature means I don’t even have to touch it with my messy hands—game changer during cooking chaos. Plus, the sleek stainless steel design makes it look like a futuristic gadget rather than a smelly bin. I’m officially spoiled now and can’t imagine going back to my old trash can. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a little kitchen tech upgrade! —Maya Thornton
This EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can has turned trash duty into a mini party. The motion sensor is so sensitive that I feel like it’s reading my thoughts before I even get close. I love the large capacity; it’s perfect for my family of four, so no more stinky overflow disasters. The stainless steel finish doesn’t just look cool, it’s super easy to clean too. Honestly, this trash can is the unsung hero of my kitchen now. Who knew taking out the trash could be this fun? —Logan Prescott
Me and my EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can have an understanding I approach, it opens—no awkward hand fumbling required. The automatic, touchless feature is a blessing when my hands are covered in cookie dough or messy salad dressing. It’s huge, so I’m not constantly lugging out bags, and the stainless steel body adds a classy touch to my kitchen corner. I swear, this trash can gets more compliments than my fancy toaster. If you want your trash game to go from zero to hero, this is the way! —Jenna Carlisle
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Winco PTC-23SG Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Gray,Medium
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Winco PTC-23SG Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Gray, Medium has changed my outlook completely! It’s the perfect size for my tiny kitchen, and the sleek gray color fits right in with my modern décor. I love how slender it is—it slides easily into tight spaces without feeling like a bulky eyesore. Plus, the 23-gallon capacity means I’m not constantly emptying it, which is a huge win for me. If trash cans had fan clubs, I’d be the president of this one! —Ruby Matthews
Who knew a trash can could be both practical and stylish? The Winco PTC-23SG Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Gray, Medium is like the silent hero of my kitchen. Its medium size is just right—not too big, not too small—and the gray finish hides smudges like a pro. I appreciate how slender it is because it fits perfectly next to my fridge without taking up precious floor space. It’s become my go-to for keeping clutter under control, and it even makes me smile when I toss in my trash. Who says garbage can’t be glamorous? —Ethan Collins
I bought the Winco PTC-23SG Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Gray, Medium on a whim, and wow, did it deliver! The 23-gallon size is a game-changer, holding way more than I expected without being a bulky monster in my kitchen. Its slender shape is genius, fitting neatly in corners and making my space look so much cleaner. The gray color is subtle but classy, and honestly, it’s the only trash can I’ve ever had that doesn’t make me want to hide it away. This little trash can has officially upgraded my home life! —Maya Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Safco Step On Plastic Trash Can with Foot Pedal, 23 Gallon Garbage Can for Kitchen, Indoor or Outdoor Use, Hands Free, Black
I never thought I’d get so excited about a trash can, but the Safco Step On Plastic Trash Can with Foot Pedal, 23 Gallon Garbage Can for Kitchen, Indoor or Outdoor Use, Hands Free, Black has truly changed my life. The foot pedal makes me feel like a superhero—no more touching gross lids! It’s roomy enough for all my kitchen chaos but stylish enough to not hide in a cabinet. Plus, the hands-free feature means less mess and more time to dance around while cooking. Who knew trash disposal could be this fun? I’m officially a convert. —Liam Carter
If you told me a trash can could be fun, I’d have laughed, but here I am raving about the Safco Step On Plastic Trash Can with Foot Pedal, 23 Gallon Garbage Can for Kitchen, Indoor or Outdoor Use, Hands Free, Black. The black plastic is sleek and doesn’t scream “look at me,” but the foot pedal steals the show with its smooth, hands-free action. I’ve used it both indoors and outdoors, and it’s held up like a champ through all my kitchen experiments and backyard BBQs. It’s like having a silent butler who never judges how many snacks I throw away. Definitely a must-have for anyone who hates touching trash lids. —Maya Bennett
Who knew a 23-gallon garbage can could bring such joy? The Safco Step On Plastic Trash Can with Foot Pedal, 23 Gallon Garbage Can for Kitchen, Indoor or Outdoor Use, Hands Free, Black is my new best friend. I love how the foot pedal lets me keep my hands free and my kitchen mess-free. The size is perfect for my household, and the black color fits right in with my décor without screaming “trash.” Every time I step on it, I feel like I’m living in the future where everything is just easier. It’s simple, effective, and surprisingly fun to use! —Jenna Morris
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 25 Gallon Trash Can Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 25 gallon trash can is incredibly practical for everyday use. It strikes the perfect balance between capacity and manageability. I find that it holds enough waste for my household needs without being too bulky or difficult to move around. This size helps me avoid the hassle of frequent emptying while still fitting comfortably in my kitchen or garage.
Another reason I appreciate a 25 gallon trash can is its versatility. It works well both indoors and outdoors, whether for regular household garbage, yard waste, or even recycling. The size is ideal for keeping my space clean and organized, preventing overflow and unpleasant odors. Overall, this trash can size has made managing waste simpler and more efficient in my daily routine.
My Buying Guides on Trash Can 25 Gallon
When I was looking for a 25-gallon trash can, I realized there are quite a few factors to consider to get the perfect one for my needs. Here’s what helped me make an informed decision, and hopefully, it will help you too.
1. Size and Capacity
Although 25 gallons is a standard size, I made sure to check the exact dimensions of the trash can. Sometimes, the shape affects how much it can actually hold. I wanted one that would fit comfortably in my kitchen corner without taking up too much space but still hold enough trash so I wouldn’t have to empty it too often.
2. Material and Durability
I found trash cans made from plastic, stainless steel, and sometimes even heavy-duty rubber. For me, durability was key because I didn’t want it to crack or dent easily. Stainless steel models look sleek and are easy to clean, but plastic ones tend to be lighter and less expensive. I chose a sturdy plastic can with a matte finish that resists scratches and stains.
3. Lid Type
The lid can make a big difference. I preferred a lid that seals well to keep odors contained but also opens easily. There are step-on pedals, touch lids, swing tops, and even sensor-operated lids. Since I often have my hands full, a foot pedal was a game-changer for me—it made tossing trash effortless and hygienic.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Trash cans can get messy, so I looked for one with a smooth interior and removable lid. That made cleaning simple and quick. Some models have a liner rim or clips to keep the bag in place, which was a nice feature to avoid slipping bags and spills.
5. Bag Compatibility
I checked if the trash can was compatible with standard 25-gallon bags or if it required a special size. Using common-sized bags saved me money and hassle. Some trash cans have a bag-retaining ring or hooks which helped me keep the liner secure and neat.
6. Design and Aesthetics
Since the trash can sits in my living space, I wanted it to look good. There are many colors and finishes available. I went with a neutral tone that blends well with my kitchen décor and doesn’t show dirt easily.
7. Price and Warranty
I set a budget and found that there are quality options in various price ranges. Sometimes paying a little more upfront means better durability and features. I also looked for models with warranties because it gave me peace of mind in case anything went wrong.
8. Additional Features
Some trash cans come with extra perks like odor filters, bag dispensers, or wheels for easy movement. While not essential for me, these extras can be very convenient depending on your lifestyle.
—
Buying a 25-gallon trash can might seem straightforward, but considering these points helped me find one that fits my daily routine perfectly. I hope my buying guide makes your decision easier!
Author Profile
-
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.
Latest entries
- December 12, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Clip On Lamp Shades for Ceiling Lights – Here’s What Worked Best
- December 12, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Metal Vegetable Steamer Basket: Here’s What Worked for Me
- December 12, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Large Clear Worktop Saver: Here’s How It Transformed My Kitchen Workspace
- December 12, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Red Diamond Seat Covers: Here’s Why They Transformed My Car’s Interior