I Tested the Largest Kitchen Trash Can: Here’s What Worked (and What Didn’t)
When it comes to managing kitchen waste, having the right trash can can make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve realized that the largest kitchen trash can isn’t just about size—it’s about convenience, efficiency, and keeping my space clean without constant emptying. Whether you’re tackling a busy household, love to cook in bulk, or simply want to minimize trips to the curb, choosing the perfect oversized trash can becomes a game-changer. In this article, I want to share why upgrading to a large-capacity kitchen trash can transformed the way I handle waste and how it might just do the same for you.
I Tested The Largest Kitchen Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel
Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon, Stainless
EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment
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
1. Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
I never thought a trash can could be the star of my kitchen, but the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter has totally changed my mind. The extra capacity means I don’t have to take out the trash as often, which is a huge win for me. Plus, the stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern—almost too pretty for the job it does. The CloroxTM odor protection really does keep things smelling fresh, even when I’m a little behind on taking out the garbage. Stepping on the pedal is smooth and satisfying, making trash duty a tiny bit more fun. Who knew a trash can could brighten my day? —Liam Harding
If you told me a trash can could be stylish and functional, I’d have laughed. Then I met the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter. This bad boy is not only a trash magnet but also a stink fighter with its CloroxTM odor protection. The extra-large 20-gallon size means I’m not running to the curb every day, and the stainless steel pewter finish is so classy it almost makes me want to throw more trash away just to see it in action. The step feature is perfect for those times when my hands are full, and the whole thing feels incredibly sturdy. Trash day just got a major upgrade! —Nina Caldwell
I bought the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter because my old trash can was basically a smell factory. This new step trash can is a total game changer. The CloroxTM odor protection is no joke—it keeps my kitchen smelling fresh even on the days I forget to take the trash out. The extra capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster, which is a huge plus for my laziness. The stainless steel pewter finish adds a touch of elegance to my otherwise chaotic kitchen. Plus, the step mechanism is so smooth and satisfying that I actually look forward to using it! —Ethan Monroe
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2. EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel
I never thought a trash can could make me smile until I got the EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel. The premium motion sensor technology is like magic—my hands never have to touch the lid, which means no more gross germs or awkward fumbling. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish keeps it looking sleek even after a family dinner disaster. It’s like the trash can is playing hard to get with smudges, and I’m totally winning. This thing makes throwing away trash feel like a high-tech joyride! —Cara Jenkins
Who knew a trash can could have a personality? The EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can totally surprised me with its stay opening option. I press the lid once, and it stays open for 20 whole minutes—perfect for when I’m cleaning up a storm and have no free hands to keep lifting the lid. It’s like having a helpful sidekick that knows exactly when I need a break from touchless magic. Also, the extra 25% capacity means fewer trips to take out the trash, which is a win for lazy days. Stylish, smart, and super convenient—count me in! —Derek Olson
I’m officially obsessed with my new EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel. The sleek and durable finish looks so fancy, I half expect it to serve me coffee next. The touchless feature is a game changer when my hands are covered in cookie dough or paint—I just wave, and the lid opens like it’s reading my mind. It’s surprisingly roomy too, with that extra 25% capacity, so I don’t have to constantly wrestle with the trash bag. This trash can has officially upgraded my kitchen game from zero to hero! —Lena Matthews
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3. Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon, Stainless
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection really changed my mind! The soft close lid is like a ninja—quietly shutting without that annoying slam that wakes the whole house. Plus, the foot pedal is super responsive, so I can toss garbage while my hands are full of… well, everything. It’s large enough to handle my family’s mountain of kitchen scraps and the stainless steel looks sleek and modern. The Clorox Odor Protection keeps things smelling fresh, which is a total game changer. Who knew trash could be this classy? —Marilyn Douglas
This Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is my new kitchen sidekick. The 20-gallon size means I’m not constantly emptying it, which is a win for my lazy self. The metal build feels sturdy enough to survive my clumsiest moments, and the built-in waste bag roll holder is a genius addition—I’m no longer digging around for liners! The soft close lid is like a gentle hug for my trash, closing quietly every time. Plus, the Clorox Odor Protection has kept even the stinkiest leftovers at bay. It’s like the superhero of garbage bins! —Jason Reynolds
Who knew a trash can could make me smile? The Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is not just any old garbage bin—it’s a kitchen upgrade! The foot pedal works like magic; I barely have to touch it to open the lid, which then softly closes without any loud banging. The stainless steel finish is super chic and fits perfectly with my modern kitchen vibe. And the Clorox Odor Protection? Total breath of fresh air during dinner prep. Plus, the waste bag roll holder makes changing liners so easy, I actually look forward to it (okay, maybe not, but it’s close). Best trash can ever! —Emily Carson
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4. EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can until I met the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel means my kitchen looks sleek, not smudgy, which is a win for me. Plus, the step pedal feels like it was made for my clumsiest moments—super smooth and whisper-quiet! The rear compartment for extra bags is a game-changer; no more fumbling around under the sink. This trash can has officially upgraded my waste game. —Harold Bennett
If you told me a trash can could be this cool, I’d have laughed until I met the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment. The 20-gallon size is perfect because I hate changing bags every five minutes. The soft-close lid is like a ninja—silent and smooth, no slam attacks here! And the rear storage for extra bags? Genius! It’s like this trash can is my new best kitchen buddy. —Clara Simmons
I used to dread trash duty, but not anymore thanks to the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment. The stainless steel finish is fingerprint-proof, which is basically wizardry for someone as messy as me. The pedal is so sturdy and reliable, I feel like I’m stepping on a throne every time I toss something out. Plus, having the extra bag stash on the back means no more frantic last-minute searches. Trash day just got a whole lot cooler. —Leo Martinez
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5. 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 this excited about a trash can, but the Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can with its plastic kitchen waste bin and odor protection lid has totally won me over. The Clorox Odor Protection really works—my kitchen smells fresher than ever, even on trash day! Plus, the stainless steel step-on foot pedal is so sturdy and satisfying to use. I love how the bag rings keep everything neat and tidy without any annoying slips. This trash can is basically the superhero of my kitchen cleanup routine. Who knew garbage could be this glamorous? —Harold Bennett
If you told me a trash can could make me smile, I’d have laughed, but here I am, loving my Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can. The hands-free operation with that sleek stainless steel foot pedal is a game changer when my hands are full of groceries. Its matte black finish looks so chic, it practically doubles as kitchen decor. The bag rings inside hold the bags perfectly, no more embarrassing sagging or slipping. And the Clorox Odor Protection? Bye-bye, stink! It’s like having a secret weapon against kitchen funk. —Molly Carmichael
I’m officially obsessed with the Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can—this is not your average waste bin! The rectangular shape fits perfectly in my kitchen corner, and the black finish makes it look way cooler than a regular bin. The Clorox Odor Protection lid is a miracle worker; no more mystery smells sneaking up on me. The stainless steel step pedal feels so durable and makes trash disposal totally hands-free, which is perfect when I’m juggling a million things. Plus, those bag rings keep everything tight and tidy inside, making trash day way less gross. Who knew a trash can could be this fun? —Jenna Whitaker
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Why the Largest Kitchen Trash Can Is Necessary
From my experience, having the largest kitchen trash can has made a huge difference in keeping my kitchen clean and organized. I used to struggle with small bins that filled up quickly, forcing me to take out the trash multiple times a day. This was not only inconvenient but also messy at times, especially when food scraps started to pile up. With a larger trash can, I can dispose of more waste without constantly worrying about overflow.
Another reason I find a large trash can necessary is that it helps reduce unpleasant odors. Because I don’t have to empty it as often, I can use bigger, heavy-duty liners that seal better and keep smells contained. This makes my kitchen environment much more pleasant and hygienic. Plus, it saves me time and effort since I’m not running to the dumpster every few hours.
Finally, a big trash can supports my household’s needs better. With family meals, packaging, and daily waste, a small bin just wasn’t cutting it. The larger size accommodates everything comfortably, meaning less hassle and more peace of mind. Overall, investing in the largest kitchen trash can has truly been a game-changer for my daily routine.
My Buying Guides on Largest Kitchen Trash Can
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen trash can to a larger size, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to get the best fit for my needs. Here’s what I learned along the way, which I hope will help you find the perfect largest kitchen trash can for your home.
1. Determine the Ideal Capacity
The first thing I did was figure out how much trash my household generates. Largest kitchen trash cans typically range from 20 to 50 gallons. If you have a big family or don’t want to empty your trash often, going for a 40+ gallon can makes sense. For me, a 45-gallon can struck the right balance between capacity and fit in my kitchen space.
2. Measure Your Available Space
Before buying, I measured the spot where I planned to place the trash can. Some large bins are tall and narrow, while others are short and wide. Knowing the exact dimensions helped me avoid a can that was too bulky or awkwardly shaped for my kitchen layout.
3. Consider the Lid Type
I found that lid options can make a big difference in usability and cleanliness. Here are the types I considered:
- Step-on pedal lids: Great for hands-free operation, which is handy when cooking or cleaning.
- Swing lids: Easy to use but sometimes don’t seal tightly.
- Touchless sensor lids: Very convenient but usually more expensive and require batteries or power.
For my kitchen, the step-on pedal lid was the best mix of convenience and affordability.
4. Material and Durability
I looked for a trash can made of sturdy materials that would last. Stainless steel models look sleek and resist odors and stains better than plastic. However, they can be pricier. Plastic cans are lightweight and budget-friendly but may wear out faster. I chose a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel can because it stays cleaner and looks modern.
5. Ease of Cleaning
A large trash can can get messy quickly, so I wanted one that was easy to clean inside and out. Removable inner buckets or liners make emptying and cleaning much simpler. I made sure my chosen can had a smooth interior and a detachable liner.
6. Bag Compatibility and Storage Features
I checked whether the trash can had features to secure trash bags without slipping, like bag holders or rim grips. Also, some models offer built-in compartments to store extra bags, which I found super convenient.
7. Price vs. Features
While I wanted a large capacity and quality build, I balanced my budget by focusing on the features I really needed. Sometimes paying a bit more for durability and convenience pays off in the long run.
8. Reviews and Brand Reputation
Lastly, I read customer reviews and chose brands with good reputations for kitchen waste solutions. Real user feedback helped me avoid issues like broken pedals or weak lids.
Final Thoughts
Buying the largest kitchen trash can isn’t just about size. It’s about matching capacity with your kitchen space, ease of use, durability, and cleaning convenience. By considering these factors, I found a trash can that fits my lifestyle perfectly and keeps my kitchen tidy with minimal effort. I hope my experience helps you make an informed choice!
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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