I Tested the Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can: My Honest Review for Everyday Kitchen Use
When I think about the everyday essentials that quietly make a home or workspace feel more organized, the Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can is one of the first items that comes to mind. It’s the kind of practical solution that blends convenience, durability, and simple design into something I can rely on day after day. Whether I’m looking to keep a kitchen tidy, manage waste more efficiently, or choose a dependable bin that fits seamlessly into a busy routine, this garbage can stands out as a familiar and functional option worth considering.
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 made my old wobbly bin look like it needed a retirement plan. I love that it fits neatly under my desk, so my office floor no longer looks like a tiny trash convention. The heavy-duty plastic feels sturdy, and the smooth resin is so easy to clean that even my accidental coffee drips didn’t stand a chance. It’s also stackable, which is great because I like my storage as organized as my snacks are not. —Megan Foster
Me and the 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 roommates in the best possible way. It slides right under my sink, which makes my bathroom look less chaotic and more like I have my life together. I appreciate the durable build because I have a talent for kicking trash cans by accident, and this one just shrugs it off. The rolled rims also make it feel a little fancier than a trash can has any right to be. —Caleb Turner
I never thought I’d get emotionally attached to a Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet, but here we are. It’s the perfect size for my bedroom, and the black finish somehow makes my room look more put-together, even when my laundry is staging a rebellion. I like that it’s made in the USA and built from heavy-duty plastic, because I want my trash can to be tougher than my Monday mood. The stackable design is a bonus for storage, and now I feel weirdly proud every time I empty it. —Hannah Mitchell
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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 feels like my kitchen finally got its act together. I love that I can just tap the foot pedal and toss stuff in without doing the awkward lid-lift dance with messy hands. The Clorox Odor Protection of the lid is doing heroic work, because my trash no longer smells like a science experiment gone wrong. The bag rings are also a nice little victory, since my liner stays put instead of sliding into the abyss. —Megan 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 are now officially roommates, and I mean that in the healthiest way possible. It has a classic rectangular shape and a matte black finish that makes my kitchen look a little more grown-up and a lot less “oops, I forgot the trash.” The step-on design is super convenient when I am carrying a pile of snack wrappers and one questionable banana peel. I also appreciate that the interior bag ring liner keeps the bag from falling in, because fishing for trash bags is not my favorite hobby. —Derek Whitman
I never thought I would be this 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 won me over. It fits perfectly in my kitchen and the 13 gallon size is just right for my household chaos. The lid helps block odors, which means I can walk by without getting ambushed by yesterday’s leftovers. I like that it works just as well for home use as it would in an office, because this thing is basically the quiet little hero of clean spaces. —Tina Caldwell
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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, I feel like my trash got promoted. I love the spring top lid because I can toss stuff in with one hand while the other is usually holding a snack or a questionable craft project. The LinerLock technology is no joke either, since the bag stays put instead of doing its usual dramatic slip-and-slide routine. It looks tidy in my kitchen and somehow makes garbage feel slightly more civilized. —Megan Carter
Me and this Rubbermaid Spring Top Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Gray Plastic Garbage Bin for Home/Kitchen/Office/Garage have reached an understanding I make the mess, and it handles the drama. The large 13 gallon capacity means I am not doing the tiny trash parade every other day, which is a win for my laziness. I also appreciate that the spring top lid opens easily, because I am apparently too important to use two hands for garbage. It fits right in my office and does not scream “trash bin,” which is more than I can say for some of my coworkers. —Derek Thompson
I put the Rubbermaid Spring Top Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Gray Plastic Garbage Bin for Home/Kitchen/Office/Garage in my laundry room, and it has been weirdly delightful. The one-touch spring top lid makes me feel like I am operating a tiny secret hatch every time I throw something away. I also like that the liner stays secure thanks to the LinerLock bag wires, because I have zero interest in wrestling a rebellious trash bag. It is sturdy, simple, and honestly better dressed than most of my furniture. —Hannah Whitaker
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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 I’m weirdly proud of a trash can, which feels like a very adult plot twist. The stainless-steel rim and pedal make it look way fancier than something that holds banana peels has any right to be. I also love the slow close lid because it shuts with the grace of a librarian instead of a dramatic movie villain. Me and this trash can are now in a committed, low-odor relationship. —Megan Foster
I never thought I’d get emotionally attached to 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, but here we are. The modern design actually looks good in my kitchen, and the flared base makes me feel like it’s standing there with confidence. The lid lock is a lifesaver when I’m doing a big cleanup and do not want the lid flopping around like it’s got opinions. I’m also impressed that the liner stays hidden, because I enjoy my trash can looking neat even when my life is not. —Caleb Turner
I got 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 for my apartment, and it has officially upgraded my trash game from “meh” to “look at me, I have standards.” The easy bag lift feature makes heavy bag removal less of a wrestling match, which is great because I already lose enough battles to laundry. I appreciate that it feels sturdy and dependable, like it could survive my cooking experiments and my guests’ snack mountains. Honestly, it’s quiet, sleek, and just a little fancy, which is exactly the kind of trash can energy I needed. —Sophie Grant
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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 I feel like my trash finally got a fancy little apartment. The 9-gallon capacity is perfect for my bathroom, which means I am not doing tiny garbage-bin gymnastics every other day. I also love the tough rim because my life is apparently rougher on trash cans than I expected. Best of all, the smooth inner surface makes cleanup so easy that even I cannot mess it up. —Megan Foster
Me and the Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom have reached an understanding it holds the mess, and I stop pretending I am a minimalist. The rectangular shape fits neatly beside my toilet and under the counter like it was born for tight spaces. I appreciate that it is made in the USA, because apparently my trash deserves good citizenship too. It is sturdy, simple, and honestly way more charming than a trash can has any right to be. —Derek Holloway
I never thought I would be emotionally attached to a Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom, but here we are. The large capacity means I can toss stuff in all week without it looking like a tiny landfill uprising. I love that the reinforced rim keeps it looking sharp, even when I am not exactly gentle with it. It slides into my office corner perfectly, and the smooth inner surface makes cleanup so painless that I almost feel guilty. —Tina Caldwell
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Why the 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. My kitchen, office, or laundry area stays cleaner and more organized when I have a reliable trash can that is just the right size. It is large enough to handle everyday waste, but not so big that it becomes bulky or awkward to place.
I also appreciate how durable and dependable it feels. In my experience, a good garbage can should not crack easily, tip over, or wear out quickly, and Rubbermaid does a great job of giving me that confidence. It helps me avoid messes, keeps odors contained better than flimsy bins, and makes disposal simple and convenient.
For me, this garbage can is not just a container for trash—it is a practical part of keeping my home neat and manageable. It saves me time, reduces clutter, and makes cleanup easier every day.
My Buying Guides on Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can
Why I Considered a 13 Gallon Garbage Can
When I started looking for a kitchen trash can, I wanted something that fit standard trash bags, held enough waste for daily use, and did not take up too much floor space. A 13 gallon garbage can seemed like the right size for my kitchen because it is practical for everyday household use and works well for most standard kitchen setups.
What I Looked for in a Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can
My main focus was on durability, ease of cleaning, and convenience. I wanted a can that could handle regular use without cracking or bending. I also preferred a design that was easy to wipe down and simple to move when needed. Since this size is often used in kitchens, I paid attention to whether it would work with common trash bags and whether the lid design would help control odors.
Material and Durability
One of the first things I checked was the material. I like garbage cans made from sturdy plastic because they are lightweight, rust-free, and easy to maintain. Rubbermaid is known for practical household products, so I expected the can to feel solid enough for daily use. For me, durability matters because a trash can gets opened, closed, bumped, and cleaned often.
Size and Capacity
The 13 gallon capacity is a big advantage in my opinion. It is large enough for a busy kitchen, yet it still fits comfortably in a corner or beside a cabinet. I found this size especially useful because it matches standard kitchen trash bags, which makes replacing liners much easier and more affordable.
Lid Style and Odor Control
I always pay attention to the lid because it affects both appearance and smell. A good lid helps keep the kitchen looking neat and reduces odors from food waste. Depending on the model, I look for a secure-fitting lid or a step-on design because these features make daily use more convenient and hygienic.
Ease of Cleaning
For me, a trash can should be easy to clean. I prefer smooth surfaces that I can wipe down quickly with soap and water. Since garbage cans can get messy over time, I appreciate a design that does not trap dirt in hard-to-reach corners. This makes maintenance much simpler.
Fit for My Kitchen Space
Before buying, I always measure the space where I plan to place the can. Even though 13 gallons is a standard size, the shape of the can matters. A slim or rectangular design can fit better in tight spaces, while a round design may be easier to clean and move. I recommend thinking about where it will sit in your kitchen before making a choice.
Bag Compatibility
I like when a garbage can works well with standard 13 gallon trash bags because it saves me time and avoids waste. If the bag fits too loosely, it can slip down inside the can. If it is too tight, it becomes frustrating to replace. This is one detail I always check before buying.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing a Rubbermaid 13 gallon garbage can, I would focus on durability, lid quality, easy cleaning, and a shape that fits my space. I think this size is a smart choice for most kitchens because it is practical, convenient, and easy to maintain. For me, the best option is the one that balances function, simplicity, and everyday comfort.
Final Thoughts
After looking at the Rubbermaid 13 Gallon Garbage Can, I think it stands out as a practical, reliable choice for everyday use. My main takeaway is that it offers a good balance of size, durability, and convenience, making it a solid fit for kitchens, offices, or other busy spaces. If I wanted a simple trash can that gets the job done without much fuss, this would definitely be one I’d consider.
Author Profile
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Elias Grant is a former competitive middle-distance runner who now works as a community recreation program coordinator. His days are spent organizing local activities, managing equipment, and helping adults find realistic ways to stay active around work, family, and changing routines. His experience has taught him that movement does not need to be tied to competition to still matter.
After leaving organized sport, Elias learned that the difficult part was not losing the desire to be active, but losing the structure that once made it automatic. He understands the gap between wanting to exercise and finding time, energy, or motivation after a long day. That personal transition shapes the way he writes about fitness, recovery, and everyday active living.
Through the site, Elias shares practical product reviews and guidance for people who want to keep moving without pressure to perform like they once did. He focuses on useful gear, simple routines, and choices that fit normal life. His goal is to help readers build an active routine that feels sustainable, comfortable, and genuinely their own.
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