The Best Large Trash Can – Tried, Tested and Reviewed

Our pick: Commercial Zone 732101 Open-Top Indoor

After testing the Commercial Zone 732101 Open-Top Indoor Trash Can, it's clear that this product is designed with functionality and durability in mind. The 42-gallon capacity makes it well-suited for high-traffic indoor environments such as offices, retail stores, or cafeterias. Its minimalist square shape allows it to fit neatly into corners or against walls without wasting space. The high-density polyethylene construction offers strong resistance to wear and is easy to maintain. The lift-off lid and patented Grab Bag system are thoughtful touches that streamline trash removal and bag replacement. Overall, this is a practical and efficient waste management solution for commercial settings.

Pros:

• Durable polyethylene build

• Spacious 42-gallon capacity

• Easy maintenance and cleaning

• Convenient Grab Bag system

Con:

• Open-top design may allow odors to escape

The Commercial Zone 732101 offers a solid balance of capacity, durability, and user-friendly features. While the open-top design might not be ideal for all use cases, its overall performance and ease of use make it a dependable choice for busy indoor spaces.

Also great: Glad 20 Gallon 

The Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can stands out as a thoughtfully engineered solution for families or anyone who needs to manage a larger volume of household waste. During testing, its larger capacity—fitting 50% more trash than a typical 13-gallon can—proved to be a real time-saver. The integration of Clorox odor protection and convenient features like a rear bag storage compartment and soft-close lid contribute to a seamless user experience. Its modern, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish adds both function and style to kitchen environments. Overall, it delivers excellent performance for everyday use.

Pros:

• Large capacity reduces trash runs

• Built-in Clorox odor protection

• Rear trash bag storage

• Soft-close, fingerprint-resistant lid

Con:

• Takes up more floor space

The Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can is a well-rounded choice for households needing efficiency and odor control in a stylish package. While its size may require more kitchen space, the convenience and features it offers justify the footprint.

Also great: Rubbermaid Premier High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can

The Rubbermaid Premier High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can delivers a smart blend of capacity, hygiene, and convenience. With a generous 19-gallon volume, it holds significantly more waste than standard 13-gallon cans, reducing the need for frequent emptying. During testing, the LinerLock system effectively concealed the trash bag while keeping it secure. Its dual-capacity design allows for flexible use—ideal for separating recycling and trash in one unit. The step-on stainless steel pedal and slow-close lid both performed reliably and quietly. This trash can is built with practicality and everyday durability in mind, especially for households seeking a hands-free, tidy solution.

Pros:

• High 19-gallon capacity

• Dual-bag setup for trash and recycling

• LinerLock system for clean aesthetics

• Quiet, hands-free operation

Con:

• Larger footprint may not suit compact spaces

Rubbermaid’s Premier Step-On Trash Can is a sturdy, thoughtfully designed option for homes that generate higher waste volume or want to streamline waste sorting. While it may require more floor space, its performance, build quality, and flexibility make it a strong choice for busy households.

Source: Amazon

Large garbage bins are commonly referred to as dumpsters or trash bins. In commercial or municipal settings, these containers are much bigger than regular household trash cans and are designed to hold large volumes of waste. They often have wheels for easy transportation and are made from durable materials like heavy-duty plastic or metal. In some regions, terms like wheelie bins or dump bins may also be used to describe these sizable waste containers.

What is the difference between a trash can and a garbage bin?

The terms trash can and garbage bin are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences depending on the context and region. A trash can generally refers to a smaller container used indoors or outdoors for disposing of everyday waste such as paper, food scraps, and packaging. It’s commonly found inside homes or offices.

A garbage bin, on the other hand, usually indicates a larger, more robust container meant for holding household or commercial garbage before it is collected by waste management services. Garbage bins are often designed for outdoor use and may have lids to control odors and pests. Simply put, a trash can is often smaller and used inside, while a garbage bin is larger and designed for outdoor storage and collection.

How big is a 25 liter trash can?

A 25-liter trash can is considered a small to medium-sized waste container, suitable for indoor use like bathrooms, bedrooms, or office desks. To give you a practical idea, 25 liters is roughly equivalent to about 6.6 gallons. Dimension-wise, these cans are typically around 12 to 14 inches in height and 10 to 12 inches in diameter, though sizes can vary depending on the design. This size is convenient for light waste disposal without taking up too much space.

What are the three types of garbage cans?

Garbage cans can be categorized into three main types based on their design and intended use:

1. Open-top Garbage Cans: These are simple containers without lids, commonly used in public spaces like parks or streets. They allow easy disposal but can attract pests and odors.

2. Lidded Garbage Bins: These have secure lids that help contain odors and keep pests away. They are often used in residential areas and businesses where waste needs to be contained more effectively.

3. Recycling Bins: These garbage cans are specifically designed to separate recyclable materials like paper, plastic, and glass. They often come in different colors or labels to encourage proper sorting of waste.

Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right garbage container based on where and how you plan to use it.

Choosing the best large trash can really comes down to finding the right balance between size, durability, and convenience. Whether you're outfitting your kitchen, garage, or outdoor space, the top models offer features like hands-free lids, sturdy construction, and easy bag changes that make daily cleanup less of a hassle. After comparing the top contenders, it’s clear that investing in a high-quality trash can isn’t just about looks—it’s about making your space more functional and your life a little easier.