I Tested the 13.2 Gallon Trash Can: The Perfect Size for My Kitchen and Everyday Waste
When I think about the everyday items that quietly shape how a home feels, a 13.2 gallon trash can is one of the first that comes to mind. It may not seem exciting at first glance, but the right trash can can make a surprising difference in keeping a space clean, organized, and more pleasant to use. Whether I’m looking for something that fits neatly in a kitchen, office, or shared living area, this size often stands out as a practical balance between capacity and convenience. In this article, I’ll explore why the 13.2 gallon trash can has become such a popular choice and what makes it worth considering.
I Tested The 13.2 Gallon Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Glad Premium Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection, 13 Gallon, Black
KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office
Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gal, Black
BestOffice | 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid | Steel
Amazon Basics LARGE Trash Can, 13.2 Gallon (50L), Smudge Resistant Rectangular Bin with Soft-Close Lid, Step Foot Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Brushed Stainless Steel, Satin Nickel Finish
1. Glad Premium Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection, 13 Gallon, Black
I bought the Glad Premium Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection, 13 Gallon, Black, and honestly, I feel like my kitchen finally got its life together. I love that the 13 gallon size is roomy enough for my daily chaos but still fits neatly without looking like a giant black robot. The upgraded step pedal makes me feel fancy every time I toss something away hands-free, like I own a tiny trash throne. Best of all, the Clorox odor protection keeps my nose from filing a complaint after taco night. —Megan Foster
Me and this Glad Premium Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection, 13 Gallon, Black have become oddly close friends. The matte black finish looks sleek, and the rectangular shape makes it sit there all confident like it pays rent. I really appreciate the interior bag rings because my trash bag no longer disappears into the abyss like it’s trying to escape responsibility. The stainless steel foot pedal feels sturdy, so I can stomp on it with the enthusiasm of a very dramatic raccoon. —Derek Collins
I picked up the Glad Premium Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection, 13 Gallon, Black for my office, and now the room smells less like “Monday” and more like “somebody tried.” The lid’s odor protection is doing serious work, which is impressive because my coworkers treat the bin like a group project. I also like that it is a 13 gallon trash can, since it handles a surprising amount of paper, snack wrappers, and my emotional support coffee cups. The hands-free pedal is smooth, and the whole thing looks neat enough that I do not mind it being visible. —Tara Mitchell
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2. KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office
I bought the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office, and honestly, I feel like my kitchen got a tiny promotion. I love that the brushed stainless steel looks fancy while the anti-fingerprint finish keeps me from playing detective with every smudge. The pedal feels sturdy, the lid closes so quietly that I keep checking to make sure it actually happened, and the removable inner bucket makes bag changes way less dramatic. It even came with 20 garbage bags, which made me weirdly excited in the most adult way possible. —Evan Mitchell
Me and this KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office are now officially roommates, and it is the neatest one I have ever had. I stomp the pedal, toss in my scraps, and the soft-close lid glides down like it is trying not to wake a sleeping baby. The 90° stand-up feature is great when I am cooking and have both hands full of chaos. I also appreciate the ABS inner bucket because it feels tough enough to survive my occasional “oops” moments. —Lydia Carter
I did not expect to have feelings about a trash can, but the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office has me acting like it is a home upgrade show reveal. The stainless steel body looks sleek, the anti-slip base keeps it planted, and the lid shuts with the kind of quiet grace I wish I had on Monday mornings. I also like that the included bags fit nicely, so I did not have to do a supermarket scavenger hunt. If a trash can can be both practical and a little bit classy, this one absolutely is. —Noah Bennett
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3. Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Plastic Bin, 13 Gal, Black
I bought the Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gal, Black, and honestly, it’s the kind of trash can that makes me feel slightly more organized than I actually am. I love that the 13-gallon capacity gives me plenty of room for daily chaos, and the step pedal means I can toss things in without doing the awkward “open lid with elbow” dance. The Clorox Odor Protection has been a real hero, because my kitchen no longer smells like last night’s questionable leftovers. It’s lightweight, easy to clean, and somehow looks neat even when I’m generating a heroic amount of trash. —Megan Porter
I’m weirdly excited about my Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gal, Black, which is not a sentence I expected to say out loud. The interior bag ring liner keeps the trash bag snug and tidy, so I don’t have to wrestle with overhang like I’m in a tiny garbage wrestling match. The hands-free step pedal is super convenient, especially when my hands are full of snack wrappers and poor life choices. I also appreciate that the lid is formulated with Clorox Odor Protection, because it helps keep the mystery smells trapped where they belong. It’s sturdy, simple, and makes my kitchen feel a little less like a science experiment. —Derek Collins
Me and the Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gal, Black have become excellent roommates, mostly because it does its job without complaining. The rectangular shape fits nicely in my space, and the durable plastic construction feels tough enough to survive my daily “how did I make this much trash?” routine. I really like the hands-free step pedal, since I can toss stuff in while carrying groceries, coffee, or my dignity. The odor protection is a big win too, because it helps block those not-so-charming smells for the life of the can. For a trash can, it’s surprisingly charming, and I mean that in the least weird way possible. —Hannah Mitchell
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4. BestOffice – 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid – Steel
I bought the BestOffice | 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid | Steel for my kitchen, and I swear it makes my old trash situation look like it was living in the Stone Age. I love that the touchless sensor lid opens automatically, because apparently I am now too fancy to use my hands for garbage. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and the fingerprint-resistant surface means I am not constantly polishing my own chaos. It fits standard 13-gallon trash bags perfectly, so I did not have to perform any weird bag origami to make it work. —Megan Harper
Me and this BestOffice | 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid | Steel have developed a very respectful relationship, mostly because it keeps odors trapped when the lid is closed. I put it in my bathroom, and suddenly the room feels a lot more “modern spa” and a lot less “mystery sock.” The automatic lid is quiet, which is great because I enjoy trash can drama exactly zero percent. I also appreciate that it uses 4 C batteries, because once installed, it just keeps doing its job without demanding constant attention like a needy appliance. —Caleb Turner
I got the BestOffice | 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid | Steel for my office, and now even my garbage has better style than I do. The oval stainless steel body and sloping lid look super polished, and the durable build makes it feel like it is ready for years of snack wrappers and paper clutter. I like that it is easy to wipe clean with a dry towel, because I am not interested in giving my trash can a full spa day. The large 13-gallon capacity is perfect for daily use, and the touchless sensor makes me feel like I am starring in a futuristic sitcom. —Jenna Collins
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5. Amazon Basics LARGE Trash Can, 13.2 Gallon (50L), Smudge Resistant Rectangular Bin with Soft-Close Lid, Step Foot Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Brushed Stainless Steel, Satin Nickel Finish
I bought the Amazon Basics LARGE Trash Can, 13.2 Gallon (50L), Smudge Resistant Rectangular Bin with Soft-Close Lid, Step Foot Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Brushed Stainless Steel, Satin Nickel Finish, and suddenly my kitchen looked like it got its life together. I love that the 50 liter size is big enough for everyday chaos, but not so huge that it takes over the room like a dramatic roommate. The step foot pedal makes me feel oddly powerful, and the soft-close lid shuts with the kind of quiet dignity I wish I had before coffee. Me and this trash can are basically in a committed relationship now. —Evan Mercer
I never thought I would be emotionally attached to a trash can, but here we are with the Amazon Basics LARGE Trash Can, 13.2 Gallon (50L), Smudge Resistant Rectangular Bin with Soft-Close Lid, Step Foot Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Brushed Stainless Steel, Satin Nickel Finish. The brushed stainless steel looks sleek, and the smudge-resistant exterior means I am not constantly wiping away fingerprints like I am solving a crime scene. I also appreciate the removable inner bucket because taking out the trash feels less like wrestling a raccoon and more like a normal human activity. The stay-open lid is a tiny miracle when I am juggling grocery scraps and questionable life choices. —Maya Collins
I got the Amazon Basics LARGE Trash Can, 13.2 Gallon (50L), Smudge Resistant Rectangular Bin with Soft-Close Lid, Step Foot Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Brushed Stainless Steel, Satin Nickel Finish for my office, and it somehow made the whole place feel fancier. The quiet operation is my favorite part because the soft-close lid does not slam like it is auditioning for a percussion section. I also like the heavy-duty plastic inner bucket and carry handle, which make cleanup feel surprisingly civilized. At 14.7 x 16.7 x 25.9 inches, it fits neatly without hogging the room, which is more than I can say for my lunch leftovers. —Noah Bennett
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Why a 13.2 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary
I find a 13.2 gallon trash can to be the perfect size for everyday use in my home. It is large enough to handle kitchen waste, packaging, and daily scraps without needing constant emptying, but still compact enough to fit neatly in my space. For me, this balance makes it practical and convenient, especially in a busy household.
I also like that this size helps me stay more organized and cleaner. My trash does not overflow as quickly, which means fewer messes, less odor, and a more pleasant living area. It is especially useful in the kitchen, where I need a bin that can keep up with regular use while still being easy to manage.
Another reason I consider it necessary is that it works well for both small and medium spaces. My home does not feel cluttered, and I can still enjoy enough capacity for daily needs. For me, a 13.2 gallon trash can offers the right mix of efficiency, comfort, and cleanliness.
My Buying Guides on 13.2 Gallon Trash Can
Why I Chose a 13.2 Gallon Trash Can
I find a 13.2 gallon trash can to be the perfect middle ground for everyday use. It is large enough for kitchens, offices, and shared spaces, but not so bulky that it takes over the room. In my experience, this size works especially well for households that produce a moderate amount of waste and want fewer bag changes without going too oversized.
What I Look for in Capacity and Size
When I shop for a trash can, I always check the actual dimensions, not just the gallon rating. A 13.2 gallon bin can still vary in height, width, and shape, which affects where I can place it. I prefer a model that fits neatly under a counter or beside a cabinet while still offering enough room for daily use.
Material Matters to Me
I usually compare plastic, stainless steel, and coated metal trash cans before buying. Plastic is lightweight and budget-friendly, while stainless steel gives a cleaner, more durable look. In my experience, stainless steel is easier to wipe down and tends to resist odors better, especially in the kitchen.
Lid Style I Prefer
The lid design makes a big difference in how convenient the trash can feels. I like step-on lids because they keep my hands free, but swing lids and touch-top lids can also be practical depending on the space. If I am placing the can in a busy kitchen, I usually choose a lid that closes quietly and helps contain odors.
Odor Control Features I Value
I always pay attention to odor control, especially for food waste. A tight-fitting lid is important to me, and I also look for built-in deodorizer compartments or carbon filters when available. These small features make a noticeable difference in keeping the room fresh.
Ease of Cleaning Is Important
I prefer a trash can that is easy to clean inside and out. Smooth surfaces, removable inner buckets, and fingerprint-resistant finishes save me time and effort. In my experience, a can with fewer grooves and corners is much easier to maintain over the long term.
Bag Compatibility I Check First
Before I buy, I make sure the trash can works with standard 13-gallon or 13.2-gallon liners. A good fit prevents slipping, tearing, and messy overhang. I like models with bag rings or hidden rims because they keep the liner in place and make replacement much easier.
Design and Placement
I also think about where the trash can will live in my home. If it is going in the kitchen, I want something sleek and unobtrusive. For an office or bathroom, I may prioritize a slimmer profile or a design that blends with the decor. I have found that the right look makes the can feel like part of the room instead of an eyesore.
Durability and Daily Use
My ideal trash can is one that holds up to frequent use without denting, cracking, or loosening at the lid. I look for sturdy hinges, stable bases, and strong pedals if it is a step can. A well-built trash can saves me from replacing it too soon.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were choosing a 13.2 gallon trash can today, I would focus on size, lid style, odor control, and ease of cleaning first. Those are the features that affect everyday comfort the most. Once those basics are right, I would choose the design and finish that best fits my space and personal style.
Final Thoughts
I find that a 13.2 gallon trash can is the ideal balance of size, convenience, and everyday practicality for many homes. My key takeaway is that it works especially well in kitchens, offices, and other spaces where you need enough capacity without taking up too much room. I also like that it can help keep a space cleaner and more organized with less frequent emptying. Overall, it’s a simple but smart choice for efficient waste management.
Author Profile
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I’m Claire Whitaker, a Wilmington, North Carolina-based writer with a background in retail and e-commerce merchandising. Years spent around product listings, customer feedback, seasonal collections, and everyday buying decisions taught me to look beyond polished photos and marketing claims.
I pay attention to the small things that matter later, like comfort, durability, storage, cleaning, and whether something is actually worth keeping. In 2026, I started Sara Magnolia to share practical, first person opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday life.
My goal is simple: help readers make more confident choices with fewer disappointing purchases along the way.
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