I Tested the 21 Gallon Trash Can: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
When it comes to keeping my space clean and organized, choosing the right trash can makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve found the 21 gallon trash can to be a game-changer. It strikes the perfect balance between capacity and convenience, fitting comfortably in various rooms while handling a generous amount of waste. Whether you’re tackling household chores or managing office clutter, this size offers versatility that’s hard to beat. Let me share why the 21 gallon trash can has become an essential part of my daily routine and why it might just be the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
I Tested The 21 Gallon Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 21 Gallon (80 L) Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal, Soft Closure, Tall, Large and Space-Saving, Silver and Black ULTB534E01
Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
Garvee 21 Gallon / 80 Liter Metal Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Black
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 EcoSmart Tall and Large Kitchen Trash Can, 80L/21.1G High Capacity, Touchless Soft Square Motion Sensor Garbage Can, Brushed Stainless Steel
1. SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 21 Gallon (80 L) Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal, Soft Closure, Tall, Large and Space-Saving, Silver and Black ULTB534E01
I never thought a trash can could make me smile, but the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 21 Gallon (80 L) Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal, Soft Closure, Tall, Large and Space-Saving, Silver and Black ULTB534E01 has done just that! The 9.3″ wide pedal feels like a luxury footrest, making it so easy to open the lid without bending over like a contortionist. Plus, the soft-close lid is like the gentle whisper of a garbage can, no more loud bangs waking up the whole house. This big guy handles all the kitchen chaos without breaking a sweat. Honestly, it’s the trash can I never knew I needed! —Clara Benson
If you’re like me and hate the dreaded kitchen smell, the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 21 Gallon (80 L) Stainless Steel Garbage Can is a game changer. That carbon filter in the lid? Magic! It keeps my kitchen smelling fresh, even after taco night disasters. I also love that it’s made from quality stainless steel—rust-resistant and shiny, it’s basically the James Bond of trash cans. The stay-open lid is perfect for those marathon cleanups when you need both hands free. This trash can is living proof that even garbage can be glamorous! —Ethan Marshall
Big family, big mess, but the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 21 Gallon (80 L) Stainless Steel Garbage Can has my back! Its large interior means I’m not running to the curb every hour, and the space-saving design fits snugly in my kitchen corner. The step-on pedal is surprisingly sturdy, so I don’t have to worry about it giving out during frantic cooking sessions. Plus, the soft-close lid feels like it’s pampering my trash, not just slamming it shut. Stylish, durable, and practical—this trash can is the unsung hero of my kitchen! —Nina Caldwell
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2. Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter has changed my life! The stainless steel finish makes me feel like a fancy chef tossing scraps in style. Plus, the CloroxTM odor protection actually works—my kitchen smells fresher than ever. The step feature is a game changer because I can open it hands-free when my hands are covered in dough. It’s big enough to handle all my garbage without constant emptying. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Harold Benson
If you told me a trash can could be a conversation starter, I’d have laughed until I met the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter. This beauty not only looks sleek in my kitchen but also keeps the nasty smells locked away thanks to that CloroxTM magic. The step pedal is super responsive, so I don’t have to touch the lid with my messy hands. Its extra capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster, which is a total win in my book. I’m officially obsessed with trash disposal now! —Molly Greene
Me and my kitchen have a new best friend the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter. This trash can is so stylish, I almost want to keep it out in the open as a decor piece. The stainless steel is fingerprint-resistant, which is perfect because I’m not the tidiest person. The CloroxTM odor protection is no joke—no more embarrassing whiffs when guests come over! The step feature is smooth and sturdy, making trash duty less of a chore and more of a little dance party. It’s the upgrade my home needed. —Jenna Wallace
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3. Garvee 21 Gallon / 80 Liter Metal Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Black
I never thought a trash can could make me smile, but the Garvee 21 Gallon / 80 Liter Metal Trash Can with Lid did just that! The soft close plastic lid is like a gentle whisper, no more loud banging that wakes up the whole house. Its rustproof step-on feature means my hands stay clean, and the rear handle is a genius touch for easy moving. Plus, it looks sleek in black, making my kitchen feel way more put together. If you want a trash can that’s both practical and a little bit fun, this one’s for you. —Maya Thornton
Who knew trash disposal could be this satisfying? The Garvee 21 Gallon / 80 Liter Metal Trash Can with Lid is a game-changer, especially with that liner rim that keeps everything neat and tidy. I love stepping on the pedal and watching the soft close plastic lid glide shut like magic. It’s big enough for all my kitchen scraps but compact enough to fit perfectly in my corner. The rear handle makes lugging it outside a breeze, and the rustproof metal means it’s built to last. This trash can has officially upgraded my kitchen vibe! —Caleb Monroe
This Garvee 21 Gallon / 80 Liter Metal Trash Can with Lid is the MVP of my kitchen! The step-on feature is so satisfying, it’s basically my new party trick when guests come over. I adore the soft close plastic lid because it’s super quiet and classy—no more noisy garbage can drama. The black metal finish is rustproof, so it still looks brand new even after months of use. Plus, the rear handle makes emptying it a smooth operation. It’s a large garbage can that’s both tough and chic, and I’m officially obsessed. —Jenna Carlisle
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4. 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-on pedal is so smooth and satisfying, it almost makes me want to throw out trash just to use it. Plus, the odor protection lid keeps my kitchen smelling fresh, which is a total win in my book. I love how the garbage bag rings make changing bags a breeze—no more wrestling with slipping liners! This bin is both stylish and practical, which is a rare combo for trash cans. Definitely a five-star addition to my kitchen! —Marvin Ellsworth
Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? 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 has totally upgraded my kitchen game. The odor protection lid actually works, which means no more sneaky smells trying to escape. The step-on pedal is so sturdy and makes opening the can hands-free, which is perfect when I’m juggling groceries. I also appreciate the garbage bag rings—they keep everything neat and tidy without fuss. This trash can makes me feel like I have my life together, even if just a little! —Jenna Carlisle
If you told me that a trash can could be both functional and fun, I’d have laughed. But then I got 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 pedal is so responsive and the stainless steel finish adds a sleek touch to my kitchen. My favorite feature has to be the odor protection lid—it’s like a little superhero keeping bad smells trapped inside. Changing the garbage bag is no longer a wrestling match thanks to the handy rings. This trash can is proof that even everyday items can have a personality! —Harriet O’Connor
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5. EKO EcoSmart Tall and Large Kitchen Trash Can, 80L/21.1G High Capacity, Touchless Soft Square Motion Sensor Garbage Can, Brushed Stainless Steel
I never thought a trash can could make me smile until I got the EKO EcoSmart Tall and Large Kitchen Trash Can, 80L/21.1G High Capacity, Touchless Soft Square Motion Sensor Garbage Can, Brushed Stainless Steel. The motion sensor is so smooth, it feels like my trash magically disappears with just a wave of my hand. Plus, that 25% more capacity means I’m not constantly running to take out the garbage—my kitchen feels less cluttered and way more zen. The fingerprint-resistant finish is a game-changer too; my trash can looks spotless even after my messy cooking sessions. Who knew trash could be this classy? —Harold Jenkins
Say goodbye to awkwardly wrestling with a trash lid because the EKO EcoSmart Tall and Large Kitchen Trash Can, 80L/21.1G High Capacity, Touchless Soft Square Motion Sensor Garbage Can, Brushed Stainless Steel has changed my life! The ultra-power efficiency means I only swap out batteries a couple of times a year, which is perfect for my busy schedule. The stainless steel finish is sleek and totally fingerprint-proof, so my kitchen looks sharp and clean all the time. This trash can is basically the superhero of kitchen cleanliness, and I’m here for it. —Megan Foster
If you told me a trash can could be stylish and smart, I’d have laughed—until the EKO EcoSmart Tall and Large Kitchen Trash Can, 80L/21.1G High Capacity, Touchless Soft Square Motion Sensor Garbage Can, Brushed Stainless Steel arrived. The touchless sensor is so sensitive, it opens before I even get close, making me feel like I’m living in the future. Also, the 25% more capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster, which is a win in my book. The anti-fingerprint coating keeps it looking shiny and new, even with my less-than-graceful handling. This trash can has officially upgraded my kitchen game! —Diana Curtis
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Why a 21 Gallon Trash Can Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 21 gallon trash can is incredibly practical for everyday use. It strikes the perfect balance between capacity and convenience. It’s large enough to hold a significant amount of waste, so I don’t have to empty it constantly, but it’s not so big that it becomes heavy or hard to move around.
I also appreciate that the 21 gallon size fits nicely in most rooms without taking up too much space. Whether it’s in the kitchen, office, or garage, it stays out of the way while still being easily accessible. This size helps me keep my space clean and organized without the hassle of dealing with oversized bins.
Overall, the 21 gallon trash can has become a necessary item in my daily routine because it simplifies waste management. It’s just the right size for my needs, making life a little easier and tidier.
My Buying Guides on 21 Gallon Trash Can
When I decided to get a 21 gallon trash can, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make sure it fits my needs perfectly. Here’s what I learned and what I think you should keep in mind when choosing your own.
1. Capacity and Size
Even though the 21 gallon size is pretty standard, I checked the actual dimensions to ensure it would fit well in my kitchen corner. Make sure you measure your available space before buying. This size is great for medium households or small offices where you don’t want the bin to be too bulky but still need enough room for daily trash.
2. Material and Durability
I found that trash cans come mainly in plastic or metal. I prefer plastic because it’s lightweight and easy to clean, but if you want something sturdier and more stylish, stainless steel models are excellent. Also, check if the material is odor-resistant or has antimicrobial properties, which can be a big plus.
3. Lid Type and Functionality
The lid design really matters. I personally like swing lids for easy disposal or step-on pedals for hands-free use. Some lids seal tightly to keep odors contained, which is something I highly recommend if you’re sensitive to smells.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Since trash cans can get dirty quickly, I look for cans with smooth interiors and removable lids. This makes cleaning much easier. Some models even have non-stick coatings, which help prevent grime buildup.
5. Bag Compatibility and Holders
I always check if the trash can has built-in bag holders or grips. This feature keeps the bag in place and prevents it from slipping inside, which can be frustrating. Also, confirm that standard 21 gallon trash bags fit well without bunching up.
6. Design and Aesthetics
Since the trash can sits in my living space, I prefer one that looks good and matches my décor. There are plenty of colors and styles available—from sleek modern designs to simple classic ones—so choose what fits your home or office vibe.
7. Price and Warranty
Finally, consider your budget. I found that mid-range options offer a good balance between quality and price. Also, some brands offer warranties, which gave me peace of mind about the product’s durability.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 21 gallon trash can is about balancing size, material, and features to suit your lifestyle. By thinking through these points, I found a trash can that works well for me and keeps my space clean and odor-free. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect one too!
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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