The 10 Best Garbage Pails of 2025, According to Experts

Our pick: Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Rollout Trash

After testing the Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Rollout Trash Can, it’s clear that this unit is built for demanding environments. Whether used for commercial waste management or heavy-duty residential needs, it performs consistently well in terms of durability, maneuverability, and convenience. The design feels purposeful, and all components—especially the wheels, lid, and handle—are made to withstand rigorous daily use. It strikes a solid balance between industrial-grade performance and practical ergonomics.

Pros

• Smooth Mobility with Durable Wheels

• Reinforced and Stable Lid Design

• Easy to Clean Seamless Build

• Ergonomic Handle for Comfortable Use

Cons

• Bulky Size for Limited Storage Areas

The BRUTE Rollout Trash Can delivers excellent performance for users who need a rugged, dependable waste solution. It’s particularly well-suited for garages, driveways, or commercial spaces, where durability and capacity are more important than compactness. Overall, a strong value for those needing long-term, high-volume trash handling.

Also great: Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can

The Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can stands out as a practical and well-built choice for busy households, especially larger families. During testing, it consistently impressed with its generous capacity, quiet operation, and smart design touches like the integrated bag storage and odor control. The sleek stainless steel finish resists fingerprints well, making it look clean even with frequent use. This trash can manages to combine functionality and convenience without compromising on aesthetics.

Pros

• High-Capacity for Less Frequent Emptying

• Built-In Odor Control System

• Hidden Rear Bag Storage Compartment

• Soft-Close and Stay-Open Lid Functionality

Cons

• Large Footprint May Not Suit Small Kitchens

The Glad 20 Gallon Step Trash Can delivers excellent value through a mix of size, usability, and clean design. Ideal for homes with high waste output, it makes daily kitchen tasks more efficient while keeping odors under control. A well-rounded choice for those who want performance with a polished look.

Also great: simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can

The simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can proves to be a solid option for those needing a reliable, everyday waste solution. During hands-on use, its silent lid mechanism stood out, offering a premium feel in an otherwise simple plastic body. The semi-round design helps save floor space, and the added features like the lid lock and stay-open function make it especially practical for homes with children or pets. While it doesn’t have the upscale look of a stainless steel model, it delivers on performance and user-focused design.

Pros

• Quiet and Controlled Lid Closure

• Lid Lock for Pet and Child Safety

• Stay-Open Mode for Chores

• Space-Saving Semi-Round Shape

Cons

• Plastic Build Lacks Premium Aesthetic

This simplehuman trash can offers a great blend of function and thoughtful features for high-traffic kitchens. Its quiet operation, safety features, and practical shape make it a dependable choice for families, even if the all-plastic construction is more utilitarian than stylish.

Source: Amazon

Ideally, garbage bins should be cleaned at least once a month to prevent odor build-up, bacteria growth, and pest attraction. However, if you’re throwing away food scraps, liquids, or other organic waste frequently, you might want to clean your bin every two weeks.

Regular cleaning not only keeps your space hygienic but also helps extend the lifespan of your trash can. Don’t wait until it smells—build cleaning into your household routine to keep things fresh and sanitary.

What Is the Purpose of Collecting Garbage?

Collecting garbage is essential for maintaining public health, environmental safety, and overall cleanliness in living and working spaces. It prevents the spread of disease, reduces air and water pollution, and helps manage waste efficiently.

In homes, proper trash collection keeps pests like flies, rats, and roaches away. In cities, it supports sanitation systems and enables recycling and waste sorting. In short, collecting garbage is a basic but crucial part of a healthy, functional society.

How to Clean a Stainless Steel Garbage Can?

Cleaning a stainless steel garbage can is simple but requires the right approach to avoid damage and maintain its sleek look. Here's how:

1. Empty the bin completely and remove any liner.

2. Rinse with warm water to loosen debris.

3. Mix a solution of mild dish soap and warm water, or use a vinegar-water blend for a natural alternative.

4. Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth to scrub the inside and outside. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch the surface.

5. For tough odors, sprinkle baking soda inside the bin and let it sit for 10–15 minutes before scrubbing.

6. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel.

7. To restore shine, wipe the surface with a little olive oil or a stainless steel cleaner.

Try to clean it monthly or more often if it’s heavily used.

What Size Garbage Can Do I Need?

The right garbage can size depends on your household size and how often you take out the trash. Here's a quick guide:

• Small (7–10 gallons): Best for bathrooms or offices with light trash output.

• Medium (12–16 gallons): Suitable for small kitchens or apartments.

• Standard (13 gallons): Most common size for average households.

• Large (18–20+ gallons): Ideal for big families or those who prefer fewer trips to the curb.

If you recycle, consider getting a dual-compartment trash can to separate waste easily. Also, make sure the size fits well in your space—no one wants a bin that’s always overflowing or too bulky to manage.

When it comes to finding the best garbage pails, it all comes down to what fits your space, habits, and style. Whether you need something sleek for the kitchen or durable for the garage, there’s a perfect option out there. The key is choosing a design that makes everyday cleanup just a little easier—and maybe even more enjoyable. With the right pick, taking out the trash doesn’t have to feel like a chore.