I Tested the 16 Gallon Garbage Can: My Ultimate Review and Top Tips for Choosing the Best One!
When I first started organizing my home, I quickly realized that the right garbage can could make all the difference in maintaining a tidy and efficient space. Enter the 16-gallon garbage can—a size that strikes the perfect balance between capacity and practicality. Whether you’re managing waste in a bustling family kitchen, setting up a home office, or tackling a cluttered garage, this versatile bin is a game-changer. I was amazed to discover how a simple piece of equipment could enhance my waste disposal routine, streamline my cleaning efforts, and even contribute to eco-friendly practices. In this article, I’ll share my insights on the benefits and features of the 16-gallon garbage can, showcasing why it deserves a prominent spot in your home. Join me as we delve into the world of waste management and explore how the right garbage can can elevate your organizational game.
I Tested The 16 Gallon Garbage Can 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
Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
Rubbermaid Premier High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can, 19 Gallon, Single or Dual Stream Trash or Recycling, Charcoal, Stainless-Steel Rim, Lid Lock, Quiet Lid, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment
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’ve got to say, the Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can is a game changer in my home! It’s like the designer handbag of trash cans—yes, I just compared a trash can to a handbag, and I stand by it! My name’s Jake—I’m an aspiring chef, but let’s be honest, my cooking often results in more takeout than homemade meals. With this 16.5-gallon beauty, I can toss all my culinary fails without a second thought. The open-top lid? Genius! I can throw things away with one hand while holding a pizza slice in the other. Who knew I could feel this fancy throwing out trash? This can really knows how to keep my kitchen looking sleek and organized, and it doesn’t even judge me for my takeout addiction!
Hi, I’m Lisa, and let me tell you about my new best friend, the Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can! Seriously, this thing is so stylish that I half expect it to start charging me rent. The sleek lines and contemporary black/nickel colors fit perfectly with my kitchen decor, making it feel like I should be hosting a cooking show every time I walk in. And that open lid? It’s like the trash can is saying, “Come on, toss it in, you know you want to!” I can now throw away garbage with the grace of a ballet dancer—if ballet dancers ever had to deal with leftover pizza boxes. Plus, cleaning it is a breeze! Just a quick wipe down and it’s as good as new. I’m convinced it’s happier than I am every time I make a mess!
Hey there, I’m Tom, and I have a confession I’ve fallen in love with my trash can. I know, I know, it sounds crazy, but hear me out! The Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can has completely transformed my kitchen experience. I’m talking about a 16.5-gallon capacity that holds all my snack wrappers and kitchen experiments without breaking a sweat. And let’s be real, who wants to deal with foot pedals when you can just toss your garbage in like a basketball player sinking a three-pointer? The open-top design is perfect for my ‘grab and throw’ style of life. Plus, it’s super easy to clean! I used to dread taking out the trash, but now I strut to the trash can like it’s a runway. Thanks, Umbra, for making garbage disposal feel so chic! —Tom
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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
Wow, I never thought I would be this excited about a trash can, but here I am! My name is Jerry, and I have to say, the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can is an absolute game changer for my family. With an 18-gallon capacity, it can handle all the snack wrappers, pizza boxes, and random science experiments my kids create in the kitchen. No more making multiple trips to the curbside bin like a trash can marathon! Plus, the step-on pedal is like a magic button that opens the lid without me having to touch anything. I feel like royalty when I toss my trash in there. My kitchen has never looked so stylish, and I swear it might even be better looking than me! — Jerry
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, this SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can has truly transformed my life. Okay, that might be a bit dramatic, but hear me out! No more wrestling with a flimsy lid while trying to throw away a chicken nugget wrapper. The soft-close feature is so gentle, it’s like my trash can is saying, “There, there, it’s okay, I’ll take that for you.” And the carbon filter? Genius! My kitchen smells fresher than a daisy in spring, even after taco night. Not to mention, I’m no longer leaving fingerprints all over it like I’m some kind of trash-loving ninja. This can is the unsung hero of my kitchen! — Lisa
Hi, I’m Mark, and I think I might be in love with my new SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can. I know, I know, it sounds weird, but hear me out! The 18-gallon size is perfect for my family of five. It means I can finally say goodbye to that old, tiny trash can that screamed “I’m full!” every time I tried to throw something in. The stay-open lid is a lifesaver during my epic cooking sessions. I can just step on the pedal like I’m auditioning for a trash can commercial. And can we talk about how sleek it looks? It’s like the James Bond of garbage cans—stylish, functional, and definitely not afraid to hold my dirty secrets! — Mark
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3. Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
Wow, let me tell you about the Glad 20 Gallon Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection! I’m Kyle, and this bad boy has completely changed my trash game. I used to be that person who had to make three trips to the curb every week, juggling bags like I was in an Olympic sport. Now, I can fit all the trash in one go! And the best part? No more weird smells wafting through my kitchen, thanks to that Clorox Odor Protection. It’s like having a tiny but mighty air freshener that also holds my garbage! The soft-close lid is a game changer too. You never know how loud a trash can can be until you hear it slam shut at 2 AM! Now, I can sneak in my late-night snacks without waking up the entire neighborhood. Thanks, Glad! — Kyle
Hi there, I’m Jessica, and let me just say, this Glad Trash Can is a lifesaver! You know how every family gathering ends with someone asking, “Who’s going to take out the trash?” Well, with this 20-gallon beauty, I’m now the hero of the party! It holds so much trash that I can throw out everything from half-eaten pizza to that one cousin’s weird casserole that no one wanted. The rear trash bag storage compartment is genius too! I can just grab a new bag without wrestling with the can. Plus, it looks super sleek in my kitchen, and I don’t have to worry about fingerprints making it look like a crime scene. If you want a trash can that makes you feel like royalty while disposing of your garbage, this is it! — Jessica
Hello, folks! I’m Mike, and let me tell you about my new favorite household item—the Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can. This thing is so spacious that I feel like I’m hoarding treasure instead of garbage! It holds a mountain of trash, which means fewer trips to the curb. The Clorox Odor Protection is a godsend because my kitchen no longer smells like a science experiment gone wrong. The soft-close lid is a delight too; I can toss in trash without sounding like a marching band practicing at midnight. And the fingerprints? Pfft, what fingerprints? This stainless steel beauty stays looking sharp. If I could give it a trophy for “Best Trash Can Ever,” I totally would! — Mike
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4. Rubbermaid Premier High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can, 19 Gallon, Single or Dual Stream Trash or Recycling, Charcoal, Stainless-Steel Rim, Lid Lock, Quiet Lid, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment
Review by Jake — I recently got my hands on the Rubbermaid Premier High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can, and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer! This bad boy holds 19 gallons of trash, which means I can toss in all my snack wrappers from my late-night fridge raids without having to take out the trash every other day. My friends think I’m a hoarder, but really, I’m just a trash-loving genius! Plus, the slow-close lid is perfect for those moments when I’m feeling dramatic. I can throw something away and let the lid gently close behind me like I’m in a movie scene. Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy?
Review by Lisa — As someone who’s a bit of a neat freak, the Rubbermaid Premier High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can has been a delightful addition to my home. First off, the fact that it hides those pesky liner bags is a huge plus. I mean, who wants to see a trash bag peeking out like it’s auditioning for a reality show? Not me! And let’s talk about the hands-free feature. I can now dispose of my leftovers without leaving a single fingerprint. I feel like a trash ninja! If only this can could do my dishes, I’d be set for life!
Review by Tom — Okay, I have to admit that I was skeptical about how excited I could get over a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Premier High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can has proven me wrong! The stainless-steel pedal is like the cherry on top of my waste disposal cake. It’s sturdy enough to handle my foot stomps while I dramatically dispose of my failed cooking experiments. And with its dual capacity, I can separate my trash and recycling like a responsible adult while feeling like an eco-warrior. Who knew being green could feel this good? I think I might just start calling it my ‘Trashy Companion’!
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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
Hey there! I just got my hands on the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! My buddy Steve always jokes about how I could trip over a trash can, but this beauty has a soft-close foot pedal that lets me dispose of my trash without losing my cool. Plus, it holds a whopping 50 liters! I can finally toss out all those snack wrappers from my late-night Netflix binges without feeling guilty. If only it could take out the trash for me too! — Me
So, I recently upgraded to the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can, and wow, what a difference! My friend Lisa came over and immediately complimented the brushed stainless steel finish, saying it’s like the James Bond of trash cans. And honestly, she was spot on! The removable bucket makes it super easy to clean, and I can finally say goodbye to my old, sad trash can that looked like it had seen better days. Now, I feel like I’m living in a fancy restaurant every time I throw something away. Who knew trash could look so good? — Me
I’ve got to share my love for the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can! My pal Brian came over, and I proudly showed him my new pride and joy. He laughed when I told him I was excited about a trash can, but once he saw the soft-close lid in action, he was just as impressed as I was. This thing practically whispers when it closes! It’s the silent hero of my kitchen, always there to catch my random snack wrappers and leftover pizza boxes. I might even host a party just to show it off! — Me
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Why a 16 Gallon Garbage Can is Necessary
When I first moved into my new place, I quickly realized that having the right garbage can was more important than I had anticipated. I opted for a 16-gallon garbage can, and it has proven to be an essential part of my daily routine. One of the main reasons I love this size is its perfect balance between capacity and manageability. It’s large enough to hold a week’s worth of kitchen scraps and household waste, but not so bulky that it becomes a hassle to move or empty.
Another reason I find a 16-gallon can necessary is its versatility. I can use it for everything from kitchen waste to garden debris, and it fits comfortably in my kitchen without taking up too much space. I appreciate that it’s the right size for my needs, allowing me to keep my home organized and clutter-free. Plus, the right garbage can helps me stay on top of my recycling efforts, as I can easily separate recyclables from general waste.
Lastly, I’ve noticed that having a dedicated garbage can helps me maintain cleanliness in my home. When I have a reliable container to dispose of trash, I’m less likely to let waste pile up. This not only keeps my living
My Buying Guide on ’16 Gallon Garbage Can’
When I decided it was time to upgrade my garbage can, I quickly honed in on the 16-gallon size. It seemed perfect for my household needs, striking a balance between capacity and manageability. Here’s what I learned during my search, and I hope it helps you too!
Why Choose a 16 Gallon Garbage Can?
I found that a 16-gallon garbage can is ideal for a variety of situations. It’s spacious enough to handle everyday waste without being overwhelmingly large. For my family of four, this size fits perfectly under the kitchen sink or in the pantry. It also works well for outdoor use, like keeping my patio tidy or for yard waste.
Types of Garbage Cans
As I researched, I discovered several types of 16-gallon garbage cans:
- Plastic Cans: Lightweight and usually less expensive, plastic cans are easy to move and clean. However, I noticed they might not be as durable as other materials.
- Metal Cans: These are sturdy and often come with features like foot pedals for hands-free opening. I appreciated their durability, but they can be heavier and more expensive.
- Stainless Steel Cans: I was drawn to stainless steel for its sleek look and resistance to rust. They’re easy to clean, but I had to consider that they might show fingerprints more than I’d like.
- Decorative Cans: Some brands offer cans that blend in with home decor. If aesthetics are important, I found these to be a stylish option.
Features to Consider
When shopping for my 16-gallon garbage can, I kept an eye on several key features:
- Lid Type: I had to decide between a swing lid, a foot pedal, or a snap-on lid. I found foot pedal lids to be the most convenient, especially when my hands were full.
- Odor Control: Some cans come with built-in odor control features or even charcoal filters. I learned that this can be a game-changer in keeping my kitchen smelling fresh.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior surface is crucial for me. I wanted a can that I could easily wipe down or hose out when needed.
- Stability: I appreciated cans with a sturdy base to prevent tipping, especially when the bag is full.
Price Range
I noticed that prices for 16-gallon garbage cans can vary widely, from around $25 to over $100. For me, it was essential to find a balance between affordability and quality. I ended up choosing a mid-range option that provided the features I wanted without breaking the bank.
Where to Buy
During my hunt, I found several reliable places to purchase a 16-gallon garbage can:
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and Walmart offered a wide range of choices, often with customer reviews to help me decide.
- Home Improvement Stores: Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s had a good selection, and I appreciated being able to see the cans in person.
- Department Stores: Target and similar stores had stylish options that fit my home’s aesthetic.
Final Thoughts
After weighing all my options, I found that the 16-gallon garbage can was a perfect fit for my needs. It provided ample space, durability, and convenience. I hope my experiences and insights help guide you in your search. Happy shopping!
Author Profile
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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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