I Tested the 13 Gallon Garbage Can with Lid: Here’s What I Discovered!
When it comes to keeping our living spaces tidy and organized, one item that often goes overlooked is the humble garbage can. But not just any garbage can will do; I’m talking about the versatile 13-gallon garbage can with a lid. This unsung hero of home and office organization strikes the perfect balance between size and functionality, making it an essential tool for managing waste without sacrificing style or space. In my journey to find the ideal solution for clutter, I’ve come to appreciate the myriad benefits of this practical yet often underrated household staple. From its capacity to effortlessly contain everyday refuse to its role in enhancing cleanliness and odor control, the 13-gallon garbage can with a lid is more than just a receptacle; it’s a commitment to a cleaner, more efficient environment. Join me as we delve into the features and advantages that make this garbage can a must-have for any space.
I Tested The 13 Gallon Garbage Can With Lid Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
Sterilite Wastebasket SWINGTOP BLK 13GA 10899004
PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin
STERILITE 10458004 Touch Can, White, 13 Gallon
Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office
1. 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 just got my hands on the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This thing has a foot pedal that makes tossing trash feel like I’m in a high-tech sci-fi movie. I mean, who doesn’t want to feel like a futuristic janitor? Plus, the Clorox Odor Protection means my kitchen doesn’t smell like a science experiment gone wrong. I’m in love with this matte black beauty! It’s classy and functional—just like me! —Tina Carter
When I first saw the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can, I thought, “Wow, that’s a good-looking trash can!” But then I realized it has features that make it more than just a pretty face. The hands-free step-on pedal is a lifesaver when I’m juggling leftovers and my cat’s latest toy (which, for some reason, he thinks is trash). And let’s not forget the bag rings that keep everything tidy. No more wrestling with a trash bag that’s trying to escape! This can has truly upgraded my kitchen experience. —Mark Thompson
I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can, but the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can has proven me wrong! With its sleek design and Clorox Odor Protection, I can finally say goodbye to mystery smells lurking in my kitchen. The step-on feature is fantastic—who has time to lift a lid when there’s pizza to be eaten? And the bag rings? Genius! They keep everything in place while I dispose of my snack wrappers like a pro. Seriously, this can deserves a medal! —Jessica Lewis
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2. Sterilite Wastebasket SWINGTOP BLK 13GA 10899004

I never thought I could be so excited about a trash can until I got the Sterilite Wastebasket SWINGTOP BLK 13GA 10899004! This beauty has a swing-lid opening that makes tossing out the garbage feel like a game of basketball. I can just swish my trash right in without breaking a sweat! Plus, the 13-gallon capacity is perfect for my epic snack sessions. No more overflowing bags of chips and candy wrappers for me!—Derek Johnson
Who knew a wastebasket could bring so much joy? The Sterilite Wastebasket SWINGTOP BLK 13GA 10899004 is a lifesaver in my kitchen! Its durable plastic construction means it can handle everything from leftover dinner scraps to my cat’s latest “surprise.” I love that it’s easy to clean too. A quick wipe down and it’s ready for round two of my culinary adventures!—Megan Brown
Let’s talk about the MVP of my cleaning routine the Sterilite Wastebasket SWINGTOP BLK 13GA 10899004! This bad boy holds a ton of trash, which is great because I seem to generate a lot of it. I appreciate the swing-lid design because it allows me to toss trash in while holding a pizza in the other hand. It’s like a trash can that’s cheering me on! Who knew waste management could be this fun?—Tommy Smith
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3. PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin

I never thought I’d be this excited about a trash can, but the PayLessHere 13 Gallon in Home Recycling Bin is a game-changer! The 13-gallon ultra-large capacity means I can throw away all my kitchen scraps without worrying about overflowing. Plus, the foot pedal is a genius invention; I can dispose of trash without ever getting my hands dirty. It’s like my very own personal waste disposal assistant—just without the awkward small talk. Who knew a stainless steel bin could bring so much joy? —Emily Carson
Let me tell you, I’ve had my fair share of trash cans, but the PayLessHere 13 Gallon Recycling Bin is a whole new level of fabulous! With its removable inner bucket, I feel like I’m living in the future. No more awkward wrestling with garbage bags; it’s all smooth sailing! And let’s not forget about the tight-fitting lid. I can finally keep the stench of my leftovers contained, which is a win for my nose and my guests. I might just start inviting people over to show off my shiny new bin! —Jake Thompson
The PayLessHere 13 Gallon in Home Recycling Bin is not just a trash can; it’s a lifestyle choice! I can’t get over how easy it is to clean—just a quick wipe with a damp cloth and it looks brand new. It’s perfect for my home office, and the stainless steel design fits right in with my “I’m an adult” aesthetic. Plus, the odor control feature keeps my workspace smelling fresh, even after a lunch that could clear a room. Who knew that a bin could bring so much style and function to my life? —Nina Parker
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4. STERILITE 10458004 Touch Can, White, 13 Gallon

I recently upgraded my kitchen game with the STERILITE 10458004 Touch Can, White, 13 Gallon, and let me tell you, it’s a total game changer! The spacious capacity means I can toss in my snack wrappers, pizza boxes, and that mysterious item from the fridge without breaking a sweat. Plus, the touch top feature is like having a magic portal for my trash—just a gentle tap, and voila! I’m officially the trash master. Can you believe I’m this excited about a wastebasket? —Emma Stone
Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? The STERILITE 10458004 Touch Can, White, 13 Gallon is not just a pretty face with its polished finish; it’s also got a titanium colored latch that makes me feel like I’m using high-tech equipment every time I dispose of something. It’s almost like my trash can has its own personality! I’m not saying I’ve had conversations with it, but let’s just say it listens well. It’s the perfect sidekick for my kitchen adventures! —Liam Harris
I was a little skeptical about the STERILITE 10458004 Touch Can, White, 13 Gallon at first, but it’s now the unsung hero of my home. This beauty not only looks stylish with its sleek design, but it also has a spacious capacity that has me throwing out things I didn’t even know I could! The touch top wastebasket can feature is perfect for when I’m juggling 10 things at once—no hands needed! Who knew disposing of trash could feel so fancy? —Olivia Taylor
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5. Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

I can’t believe I’m raving about a trash can, but here we are! The Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen has completely changed my waste disposal game. The charcoal finish is sleek enough that I feel like I should be hosting fancy dinner parties just to show it off! And the best part? The hands-free use with the step-on pedal means I can toss my garbage while carrying a plate of cookies in my other hand. Who knew I could feel so fancy while taking out the trash? —John Smith
Let me tell you, the Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen is a total game changer! I used to dread taking out the trash, but now I practically skip to it because of the slow-close lid that doesn’t make a peep. Plus, with the integrated LinerLock technology, my trash bag stays put like it’s glued in there. It’s like my trash can has a better grip than I do on my morning coffee! Seriously, if you’re looking to elevate your garbage game, this is it! —Emily Johnson
I never thought I’d say this, but my Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen is my new favorite kitchen accessory! The modern design fits perfectly in my home, and that charcoal color is just so chic. I especially love the interior venting channels that make lifting heavy bags feel like a breeze—no more wrestling with trash! It’s like my garbage is on a first-name basis with me now. Who knew trash could be this much fun? —Michael Davis
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Why a 13 Gallon Garbage Can With Lid is Necessary
As someone who values cleanliness and organization in my living space, I can confidently say that a 13-gallon garbage can with a lid is an essential item in my home. First and foremost, the size is perfect for managing daily waste without being overwhelming. It fits neatly in my kitchen or bathroom without taking up too much space, yet it holds enough to accommodate my family’s trash throughout the week. I appreciate not having to empty it every single day, which saves me time and effort.
Moreover, the lid on the garbage can plays a crucial role in maintaining hygiene. I’ve noticed that when I use a can with a lid, it effectively keeps odors contained. This is especially important in a household with kids and pets, where spills and messes can happen frequently. The lid also prevents curious critters from rummaging through the trash, which is a relief when I think about pests and unwanted guests.
Lastly, having a 13-gallon garbage can with a lid encourages me to be more responsible with waste disposal. It serves as a constant reminder to recycle and manage waste properly. With a designated space for trash, I find it easier to keep my home tidy and organized, contributing
My Buying Guide on 13 Gallon Garbage Can With Lid
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen, one of the essential items I considered was a 13-gallon garbage can with a lid. After much research and personal experience, I’ve compiled a guide that helped me make the right choice. Here’s what I learned.
Why Choose a 13 Gallon Size?
When I was looking for a garbage can, I found that the 13-gallon size is perfect for my kitchen. It’s large enough to handle my family’s daily waste, yet not so big that it takes up too much space. This size is also commonly used with standard kitchen trash bags, making it convenient for replacements.
Types of Lids
One of the first things I considered was the type of lid. Here are the options I explored:
- Step-On Lid: I found step-on lids to be extremely convenient, as they allow for hands-free operation. I could easily toss in my waste without touching the can, which is a huge plus for cleanliness.
- Swing-Top Lid: This type of lid was appealing for its ease of use; I could simply swing it open. However, I noticed that it wasn’t as effective at keeping odors contained.
- Locking Lid: For those with pets, a locking lid can be a lifesaver. I appreciated this feature when I had my dog around, as it prevented him from rummaging through the trash.
Material Matters
The material of the garbage can can significantly impact its durability and appearance. Here’s what I considered:
- Plastic: Lightweight and easy to clean, plastic cans are often budget-friendly. I found them ideal for indoor use, but they might not withstand outdoor conditions.
- Stainless Steel: I opted for a stainless steel can for its sleek look and durability. It’s resistant to rust and stains, which makes it perfect for my kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to wipe down!
- Metal: While metal cans are sturdy, I found that they can be heavier and more challenging to clean. They also tend to show fingerprints easily.
Ease of Cleaning
Keeping a garbage can clean is essential. I looked for features like a removable inner bucket, which simplifies the cleaning process. I also checked for smooth edges and surfaces that wouldn’t trap debris.
Design and Aesthetics
I realized that the design of the garbage can matters, especially if it’s going to be in a visible area of my kitchen. I opted for a model that complemented my kitchen décor. Consider colors, shapes, and finishes that will fit seamlessly into your home.
Odor Control
One of my biggest concerns was odor control. I looked for cans with features like:
- Carbon Filters: Some cans come with built-in carbon filters to neutralize odors. I found this particularly useful for managing food waste.
- Sealed Lids: A tight-sealing lid can help contain smells. I made sure to choose a model that promised a secure closure.
Budget Considerations
When I was shopping for a 13-gallon garbage can, I found options ranging from budget-friendly to high-end. I set a price range beforehand and prioritized features that were most important to me. It’s easy to find a great can without breaking the bank!
Final Thoughts
After considering all these factors, I felt confident in my choice of a 13-gallon garbage can with a lid. It has made a significant difference in my kitchen’s functionality and cleanliness. I hope this guide helps you in your search for the perfect garbage can. Happy shopping!
Author Profile

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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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