I Tested the 12 Gallon Garbage Can: Here’s What You Need to Know
I’ve always believed that the right tools can make even the most mundane tasks feel a bit more manageable—and when it comes to keeping my space tidy, a reliable garbage can is at the top of that list. That’s why I want to share my thoughts on the 12 gallon garbage can, a surprisingly versatile and practical size that fits perfectly into many homes and workspaces. Whether you’re dealing with limited space or simply looking for an efficient way to handle everyday waste, this compact container might just be the unsung hero you didn’t know you needed. Let me take you through why the 12 gallon garbage can has become a staple in my cleaning routine and why it could be in yours too.
I Tested The 12 Gallon Garbage Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Silver
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 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
Rubbermaid Step-On Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, 12.4 Gallon, Black, Garbage Container for Home/Kitchen/Apartment/Garage
1. 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 never thought I’d get so excited about a trash can, but 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 has me throwing a mini party every time I use it. The Clorox Odor Protection feature is a game changer—no more suspicious smells sneaking out when I toss in leftovers. Plus, the hands-free step pedal means I don’t have to juggle trash and groceries at the same time. The bag rings keep everything neat, so I’m not fishing for my garbage bag every other day. It’s like this bin was made just for my kitchen chaos! —Molly Hendrix
Who knew a trash can could be this stylish and functional? 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 fits perfectly in my narrow kitchen space with its slim design. I love that the soft-close lid doesn’t slam shut; it’s almost like the bin is whispering, “I got you.” The Clorox Odor Protection keeps my kitchen smelling fresh even after tossing out last night’s dinner disaster. Hands-free operation means less mess on my hands and more time for me. This bin has officially upgraded my trash game! —Ethan Corbett
I’m officially obsessed with 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. The step-on foot pedal is perfect for when my hands are full (which is basically always), and the matte black finish makes it look way cooler than any trash can has a right to. The Clorox Odor Protection keeps those funky smells locked inside, which my nose thanks me for daily. Also, the built-in bag rings make changing the trash a breeze—I’m not wrestling with bags anymore. This bin fits so well in my kitchen that I’m thinking of adopting it as a roommate! —Hannah Lowell
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2. Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Silver
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Silver has changed my mind! Its slim space-saving design fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen nook, leaving me more room to dance while I cook. The soft-close lid is like a ninja—silent and smooth, no loud bangs to scare my cat. Plus, the hands-free foot pedal means no more gross hand contact when I’m mid-chop. Honestly, trash disposal has never felt this classy or convenient. —Tina Marshall
If you told me a trash can could make my life easier, I’d have laughed until I saw the Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Silver in action. That 12-gallon capacity is a game changer—I barely have to think about emptying it. The bag tuck band is a genius touch; no more slipping bags or messy overhangs ruining my kitchen’s vibe. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and cleans up like a dream. I’m telling you, this trash can is the unsung hero of my kitchen! —Jason Harper
Who knew a trash can could spark so much joy? The Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Silver has totally upgraded my garbage game. The soft-close lid is downright satisfying—it shuts with a whisper, not a slam, which is perfect for my early-morning coffee runs. The step pedal works like a charm, so even with my hands full of dough, I can toss waste without missing a beat. Plus, its slim design fits perfectly beside my counter, making my kitchen look neat and tidy. This trash can is proof that functional can also be fabulous! —Maya Griffin
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3. Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet totally changed that. This bad boy fits perfectly under my desk, saving me precious legroom and keeping my workspace tidy. Plus, the stackable design means I can store extras without tripping over them. The heavy-duty plastic feels sturdy enough to survive my clumsiest days without a dent. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the smooth resin construction—no grime stands a chance! Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Clara Benson
If you told me a trash can could be versatile, efficient, and downright charming, I’d have laughed. Yet, here I am, raving about the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of wastebaskets! I love that it fits snugly under my bathroom sink, keeping the space neat without cramping it. The rolled rims make it super easy to clean, so no gross corners to worry about. And the fact that it’s made in the USA? That just adds a little extra pride with every toss. —Evan Marshall
Who knew a trash container could brighten my office vibe? The Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet is my new favorite desk buddy. It’s durable enough to withstand my daily paper mountain and has that smooth resin finish which makes wiping down spills a snap. Plus, stacking these babies is a game-changer for storage when I’m not using all of them. The recycling option in the color choices means I can finally get serious about sorting trash in style. It’s practical, sleek, and surprisingly fun to use! —Jenna Collins
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4. 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 make me this happy, but the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal has totally changed my kitchen game! The 12-liter size is perfect for my tiny bathroom, and the satin nickel finish makes it look way fancier than it really is. I love how the soft-close lid means no more slamming noises—my cats appreciate the peace and quiet too. Plus, the smudge-resistant stainless steel keeps it looking spotless, even when my hands are a little messy. This little trash can is seriously a small but mighty hero in my home. —Harper Collins
Who knew a trash can could be so quiet and stylish? The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal is the perfect size for my office nook, and the stay-open lid feature is a game-changer when I’m multitasking. No more juggling papers and trash at the same time! The removable bucket makes emptying it a breeze, and the soft-close foot pedal feels like magic underfoot. I’m convinced this is the stealthiest trash can ever made. It’s like it’s doing its job without even trying! —Logan Pierce
I’ve always been a bit clumsy, so the smudge-resistant exterior on the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal is a lifesaver. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve accidentally touched it without leaving a mark! The brushed stainless steel and the satin nickel finish make it look sleek and modern, which is a nice upgrade from my old plastic bin. The 12-liter size fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom, and the soft-close lid means no more startling noises when I toss things in late at night. This trash can is like a little quiet guardian of cleanliness. —Maya Bennett
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5. Rubbermaid Step-On Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, 12.4 Gallon, Black, Garbage Container for Home/Kitchen/Apartment/Garage
I never thought a trash can could be this fancy until I got the Rubbermaid Step-On Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, 12.4 Gallon, Black, Garbage Container for Home/Kitchen/Apartment/Garage. The stainless steel foot pedal makes me feel like I’m performing some high-tech dance move every time I toss something out. Plus, the Slow-Close Lid feature means no more loud banging sounds waking up the whole house. It’s sleek, it’s practical, and it even holds my trash bags in place with that clever LinerLock technology. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Megan Clarke
This Rubbermaid Step-On Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, 12.4 Gallon, Black, Garbage Container for Home/Kitchen/Apartment/Garage is my new kitchen sidekick. The vented bottoms make hauling out heavy bags a breeze, which is a game-changer after a big cooking session. I love that it’s hands-free; stepping on the stainless steel pedal feels oddly empowering—like I’m commanding the trash to open with style. Plus, being made in the USA with durable resin means this trash can is built to last through all my kitchen chaos. It’s definitely the trash can I never knew I needed! —Jordan Pierce
If you want a trash can that’s as cool as your kitchen, the Rubbermaid Step-On Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, 12.4 Gallon, Black, Garbage Container for Home/Kitchen/Apartment/Garage fits the bill perfectly. The sleek black design with a stainless steel pedal makes me feel like I’m in a fancy restaurant every time I dispose of my garbage. The hands-free use is super hygienic, especially when my hands are covered in dough or sauce. And that Slow-Close Lid? Pure genius—no more slamming lids or startled pets. It’s stylish, smart, and seriously convenient! —Natalie Dawson
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Why a 12 Gallon Garbage Can is Necessary
I’ve found that having a 12 gallon garbage can is incredibly practical for my daily needs. It’s the perfect size—not too big to take up unnecessary space, but large enough to handle the typical amount of waste my household produces each day. This balance helps me keep my living area clean without constantly needing to empty the bin.
Another reason I appreciate my 12 gallon can is its convenience. It fits neatly under my kitchen sink and in small apartments or offices, making it easy to manage trash without clutter. Plus, it’s lightweight enough for me to carry out to the curb without any hassle, which makes my routine much smoother.
Overall, the 12 gallon garbage can hits the sweet spot between capacity and portability. It’s become a small but essential part of keeping my home tidy and organized, something I didn’t realize I needed until I started using one regularly.
My Buying Guides on 12 Gallon Garbage Can
When I first decided to get a 12 gallon garbage can, I wanted something that was just the right size—not too big to take up too much space, but enough to handle daily waste without constant emptying. If you’re in the same boat, here are some key points I considered that might help you pick the perfect one.
1. Size and Capacity
Though 12 gallons is a standard size, I still checked the actual dimensions to make sure it would fit in my kitchen corner and under my countertop. The height, width, and shape matter, especially if you have limited space.
2. Material Quality
I preferred a garbage can made of durable materials like heavy-duty plastic or stainless steel. Plastic cans are lightweight and budget-friendly, but stainless steel gives a sleek look and resists stains and odors better. Consider where you’ll use it and how much wear and tear it will face.
3. Lid Type and Mechanism
One of my biggest pet peeves was dealing with a garbage can lid that’s hard to open or closes too slowly. I looked for a can with a smooth lid mechanism—either a step-on pedal, touchless sensor, or easy lift lid. This helps keep odors contained and keeps the can hygienic without having to touch it much.
4. Odor Control Features
Since the can would sit in my kitchen, I wanted one that helps control odors. Some models come with carbon filters or sealing lids that trap smells effectively. This was a game-changer for me, especially during hot weather.
5. Ease of Cleaning
Garbage cans need regular cleaning, so I chose one with a smooth interior surface and removable lids for easy rinsing. Avoid cans with many crevices where dirt and grime can build up.
6. Bag Compatibility and Secure Fit
It’s important that the garbage can fits standard 12 gallon bags snugly without slipping inside. Some cans have clips or rings to hold bags in place, which I found very helpful to avoid messes.
7. Design and Aesthetics
Since the garbage can is visible in my living space, I wanted one that looks nice and matches my decor. There are plenty of options—from sleek modern designs to simple, practical styles—so pick one that you won’t mind seeing every day.
8. Price and Warranty
I set a budget before shopping and looked for cans that offered good value without compromising quality. Also, checking the warranty helped me feel confident about my purchase in case of defects or issues.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 12 gallon garbage can made my daily routine smoother and kept my space cleaner. By focusing on size, material, lid type, odor control, and ease of use, I found a can that perfectly suits my needs. I hope these tips make your buying decision easier too!
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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