I Tested the 20 Gallon Waste Bin: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
When it comes to keeping my space clean and organized, having the right waste bin makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve found the 20 gallon waste bin to be a perfect balance between capacity and convenience. Whether it’s for my kitchen, office, or workshop, this size offers just enough room to handle daily trash without taking up too much space. In this article, I want to share why a 20 gallon waste bin has become an essential part of my routine and how it can make managing waste simpler and more efficient for anyone.
I Tested The 20 Gallon Waste Bin Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Glad Kitchen Trash Can 20 Gallon | Large Plastic Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, 20 Gallon, White
Winco PTC-23SG Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Gray,Medium
Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2)
Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can, 20-Gallon, White, Outdoor Waste Container for Landscapers/Construction/Restaurants/Back of House/Offices/Warehouses
Wastebasket, 10.25 Gallons, 20 1/2in.H x 15 1/2in.W x 11 1/2in.D, Black, WB0196
1. Glad Kitchen Trash Can 20 Gallon | Large Plastic Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, 20 Gallon, White
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Glad Kitchen Trash Can 20 Gallon has totally changed my waste game! The 20-gallon capacity means I’m not constantly running to take out the trash, which is a huge win in my book. Plus, the Clorox Odor Protection on the lid actually works—my kitchen smells fresh even after a week of stinky leftovers. The step-on foot pedal is so satisfying to use, I catch myself just tapping it for fun. It’s like the trash can and I have a secret handshake now! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a trash can could be this stylish and functional? The Glad Kitchen Trash Can 20 Gallon in sleek white fits perfectly in my kitchen, and the rectangular shape looks way better than those bulky round ones. I love the bag rings because no more slipping bags or embarrassing trash spills. Hands-free operation with the step pedal means I can multitask like a pro—holding groceries in one hand and opening the trash with my foot. It’s a game changer for messy cooks like me! —Ethan Barrett
The Glad Kitchen Trash Can 20 Gallon has made me feel like a cleanliness superhero in my home. That Clorox Odor Protection on the lid really keeps the smell locked in tight, so even my kids’ leftovers don’t stand a chance. The 20-gallon size means fewer trips outside, which is perfect for my busy schedule. Plus, the foot pedal makes disposing of trash so easy, I’m tempted to throw things away just to use it. It’s the perfect mix of practical and fun—who knew trash duty could be this enjoyable? —Sophie Caldwell
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2. Winco PTC-23SG Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Gray,Medium
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Winco PTC-23SG Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Gray, Medium really won me over! Its compact footprint fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen nook, leaving me more room to dance while I cook. The reinforced bottom gives me confidence that this bad boy can handle whatever I throw in it—literally. Plus, the smooth rounded corners make cleaning a breeze, which means less time scrubbing and more time binge-watching. Who knew trash could be this glamorous? —Harper Jenkins
If you’re like me and hate bulky trash cans that hog all the space, the Winco PTC-23SG Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Gray, Medium is your new best friend. Its slim, narrow design fits snugly where other cans just won’t, making my cramped office feel a bit more spacious. The corrosion-resistant feature means I don’t have to worry about it falling apart after a few rounds of cleaning chemicals—hallelujah! It’s sturdy, easy to clean, and looks sleek doing it. My trash has never felt so stylish. —Dylan Prescott
I’m convinced the Winco PTC-23SG Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Gray, Medium is secretly a superhero in disguise. Its heavy-duty reinforced bottom has survived everything from spilled coffee to rogue pizza boxes without a scratch. I love how the smooth rounded corners make wiping it down quick and painless, so I spend less time scrubbing and more time pretending I’m a cleaning guru. Even without the lid, this trash can holds its own with flair and function. Who knew trash duty could feel this satisfying? —Maya Ellison
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3. Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a wastebasket, but the Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2) really won me over! The 25-gallon capacity means I’m not constantly chasing after overflowing trash, which is a huge win in my busy office. Plus, the square shape fits perfectly in my awkward little corner, making my space look cleaner and more organized. It’s made of heavy-duty plastic that laughs in the face of stains and cracks – basically the superhero of bins. If you want a trashcan that’s as tough as it is practical, this one’s your guy! —Morgan Ellis
Who knew a trash can could be this charming? The Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2) has been a game changer in my kitchen. The reinforced base means it doesn’t wobble or tip over when my toddler decides to investigate it. I also love that it holds 25% more than round wastebaskets, which means fewer trips to the curb on garbage day. It’s like the wastebasket version of a trusty sidekick, always ready to take on the mess. Seriously, this bin has made trash day less trashy! —Clara Benson
I’ve got to say, the Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2) is hands down the MVP of my classroom. It’s tough enough to handle everything from paper scraps to lunch leftovers without cracking or fading. The flanged rim and reinforced base give it extra muscle, which is perfect for a high-traffic space like mine. Plus, the grey color is neutral enough to fit in anywhere without screaming “trash here!” It’s practical, durable, and honestly a little bit fun—who knew a trashcan could brighten your day? —Jared Phillips
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4. Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can, 20-Gallon, White, Outdoor Waste Container for Landscapers/Construction/Restaurants/Back of House/Offices/Warehouses
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can, 20-Gallon, White, Outdoor Waste Container has totally changed my waste game! The venting channels make lifting out liners up to 50% easier—seriously, my back thanks me every day. Plus, it’s built to last with a UV inhibitor that keeps it looking fresh no matter the weather. Handling this beast is a breeze thanks to the rounded, reinforced handles. If you want a trash can that works as hard as you do, this is it! —Carrie Jenkins
Who knew a trash can could make me smile? The Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can is a powerhouse in disguise. The integrated cinches for the liner mean no more wrestling with knots—goodbye, liner drama! It’s tough as nails with a reinforced base that can handle rough surfaces without a hitch. Moving it around is surprisingly easy thanks to the contoured base handles. This can doesn’t just hold trash—it holds up to my chaotic lifestyle with style. —Marcus Flynn
I’ve been through my fair share of garbage cans, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can, 20-Gallon, White, is a game-changer. The rim’s integrated rib structure adds serious strength, so no crushing worries here. It’s like the superhero of trash cans, built to resist cracking and warping no matter what I throw at it. Plus, it looks sharp while working hard in my office and outdoor spaces. Heavy-duty and heavy cool—this can is my new favorite sidekick. —Tina Marshall
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5. Wastebasket, 10.25 Gallons, 20 1/2in.H x 15 1/2in.W x 11 1/2in.D, Black, WB0196
I never thought I’d get this excited about a wastebasket, but the Wastebasket, 10.25 Gallons, 20 1/2in.H x 15 1/2in.W x 11 1/2in.D, Black, WB0196 has totally changed my trash game. It’s like the perfect little black hole for all my office scraps, holding up to 10.25 gallons without a single overflow. The durable polypropylene material means it’s tough enough to handle my paper avalanche and coffee cup casualties. Plus, its sleek rectangular shape fits snugly under my desk without making a fuss. Honestly, it’s the unsung hero of my workspace organization! —Kevin Marshall
Who knew a wastebasket could be this cool? The Wastebasket, 10.25 Gallons, 20 1/2in.H x 15 1/2in.W x 11 1/2in.D, Black, WB0196 is like the ninja of trash bins—quiet, compact, and efficient. I love that it’s made from durable polypropylene, so no cracks or weird smells after a few weeks. It’s just the right size to keep my office tidy without hogging space, and emptying it is a breeze. Honestly, it blends in so well that sometimes I forget it’s even there until it’s full! Trash day just got way easier. —Maya Jennings
If you’re like me and hate clutter, the Wastebasket, 10.25 Gallons, 20 1/2in.H x 15 1/2in.W x 11 1/2in.D, Black, WB0196 is a total game changer. I adore how its 10.25-gallon capacity takes all my garbage without needing constant attention. The polypropylene build feels sturdy and easy to clean, which is a huge win for my messy habits. Plus, its rectangular shape means it slides nicely into tight corners, making my office look way more put-together. Trust me, once you get this bin, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. —Jenna Clarke
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Why a 20 Gallon Waste Bin is Necessary
From my experience, having a 20 gallon waste bin is incredibly practical for managing daily trash without constantly worrying about overflowing bags. It strikes the perfect balance between being large enough to hold a significant amount of waste and still compact enough to fit comfortably in my kitchen or workspace. This size helps me maintain a cleaner environment because I don’t have to empty it multiple times a day, which saves me time and effort.
I also appreciate that a 20 gallon bin encourages better organization of waste. It’s big enough to handle regular household trash but not so large that it becomes cumbersome or takes up too much space. This means I can easily place it in convenient spots where I generate the most waste, like near my cooking area or desk. Overall, having a 20 gallon waste bin makes my daily routine smoother and helps me keep my living space tidy with minimal hassle.
My Buying Guides on 20 Gallon Waste Bin
When I decided to get a 20 gallon waste bin, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to find the best one for my needs. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make a confident choice.
1. Size and Capacity
Even though 20 gallons is a standard size, I checked the exact dimensions to ensure it fit well in my intended space. I measured the area where I planned to place the bin because sometimes height or width can be a limiting factor. Also, I thought about how much waste I typically generate to make sure 20 gallons was neither too small nor unnecessarily large.
2. Material and Durability
I wanted a bin that would last, so I looked into materials like heavy-duty plastic, stainless steel, or even recycled materials. Plastic bins are lightweight and rust-resistant, which worked well for me since I keep my bin both indoors and outdoors. If you expect rough use or outdoor exposure, I’d recommend stainless steel or reinforced plastic for extra durability.
3. Lid Design
The lid was a big deal for me because it controls odors and keeps pests away. Some bins have snap-on lids, others have swing or pedal-operated lids. I preferred a hands-free pedal lid because it’s more hygienic and convenient when my hands are full. Also, a tight seal helped me avoid unwanted smells.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Since waste bins can get messy, I wanted one that’s easy to clean. Smooth surfaces without too many crevices are ideal. I found bins with removable lids and wide openings made cleaning much easier. Some are even dishwasher safe, which was a bonus.
5. Portability and Handling
I considered how often I’d need to move the bin. Bins with wheels or built-in handles made it easier for me to transport when full. If you plan to move your bin frequently, look for these features to save your back.
6. Aesthetic and Style
Since the bin would be visible in my home, I picked one that matched my decor. There are plenty of color and design options out there, from sleek modern metal bins to colorful plastic ones. Choose what fits your space and personal style.
7. Price and Warranty
I set a budget before shopping, balancing cost with quality. Some brands offer warranties or satisfaction guarantees, which gave me peace of mind. Don’t just go for the cheapest option—think about long-term value.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 20 gallon waste bin is more than just picking the first one you see. By considering size, material, lid type, cleaning ease, portability, style, and price, I found a bin that perfectly suits my lifestyle. Hopefully, my experience helps you choose the right waste bin for your needs!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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