Reviews of the Most Popular 13 Gallon Kitchen Garbage Cans
Looking for the perfect kitchen garbage can to fit under your sink or counter? A 13 gallon capacity hits the sweet spot for most households - not too big or small. But with so many options out there, how do you choose?
We cover the key factors like lid type, materials, special features, brands, and pricing. Read on for our recommendations!
Why Choose a 13 Gallon Kitchen Garbage Can?
A 13 gallon kitchen garbage can provides a great balance of space and waste capacity for the average home.
With a typical height of 25-30 inches, a 13 gallon trash can fits conveniently under most kitchen sinks and counters without occupying too much precious floor space. Yet it still offers enough volume to hold a day or two's worth of garbage for a household of 3-4 people without requiring frequent emptying.
This mid-range size makes it a versatile choice suitable for most kitchens rather than going too small or too large.
Key Features to Consider
When selecting a 13 gallon kitchen garbage can, there are a few key features to consider:
Lid Types
The most common lid types are:
- Step lid - Convenient to open by stepping on a pedal, but can collect dirt and debris.
- Swing lid - Does a better job keeping odors contained, but can unexpectedly swing closed.
- Pedal lid - Allows hands-free, hygienic opening, but costs more than other options.
Think about which would work best for your kitchen's needs.
Materials
Popular trash can materials include:
- Plastic - Most affordable choice but shows dirt and scuffs.
- Stainless steel - Stylish and durable though more expensive.
- Coated steel - Resists fingerprints well and is budget-friendly.
Shape
Shape affects capacity and footprint:
- Tapered - Saves floor space but offers less volume than square.
- Square - Maximize trash capacity but takes up more space.
Special Features
Nice extras to have include:
- Odor control
- Antimicrobial protection
- Non-skid bottom
- Fingerprint resistant coating
Brand Names
Well-known kitchen garbage can brands include:
- Simplehuman
- Rubbermaid
- Umbra
- Rev-A-Shelf
- Tramontina
Pricing
Expect to spend:
- $20-30 for basic plastic
- $50-75 for mid-range coated steel
- $100-200 for high-end stainless steel
Top 5 Product Reviews
Now let's look at reviews of some top-rated options to help you decide:
Simplehuman Rectangular Step Trash Can
Overview : This popular Simplehuman rectangular can has a convenient step pedal and stylish stainless steel design. It's on the pricier end but offers great quality and features.
Dimensions : 25" H x 15.3" W x 11" D
Lid Type : Step pedal
Material : Brushed stainless steel
Key Features : Fingerprint-proof finish, non-skid base, stays open lid, and damper for quiet close
Pros : Very durable, fingerprint-proof, easy step opening, 10-year warranty
Cons : Expensive, can dent if dropped
Price : $130
Rubbermaid Step-On Wastebasket
Overview : A budget-friendly plastic step can from the reliable Rubbermaid brand. Lacks some luxury features but gets the job done.
Dimensions : 30.6” H x 15.9” W x 12.4” D
Lid Type : Step pedal
Material : Plastic
Key Features : Resists fingerprints and smudges
Pros : Inexpensive, good size, easy step opening
Cons : Not as stylish or durable as metal cans
Price : $35
Umbra Venti 13 Gallon Swing Top Can
Overview : An affordable and eye-catching option, the Umbra Venti has a swing lid and cool modern design.
Dimensions : 28” H x 11” W x 11” D
Lid Type : Swing top
Material : Powder coated steel
Key Features : Fingerprint-proof finish, non-skid rubber base
Pros : Stylish design, fingerprint-resistant, budget-friendly
Cons : Swing lid allows some odor escape
Price : $50
Rev-A-Shelf Pull Out Cabinet Door Trash Can
Overview : A convenient in-cabinet mounted can that gives you garbage storage without sacrificing floor space.
Dimensions : Cabinet mounted, holds 13 gallon bag
Lid Type : Self-closing flap
Material : Steel frame, plastic bin
Key Features : Mounts inside cabinet, self-closing lid, easy bag access
Pros : Frees up floor space, self-closes to contain odors
Cons : Requires cabinet installation, pricier
Price : $60
Tramontina Genuine Stainless Steel Step Trash Can
Overview : A high-quality stainless steel step can known for durability and odor control.
Dimensions : 30” H x 10.8” W x 10.8” D
Lid Type : Step pedal
Material : Stainless steel
Key Features : Odor control, fingerprint-proof, soft-close lid
Pros : Very durable steel, traps odors effectively, easy step opening
Cons : More expensive, can show smudges if not cleaned
Price : $90
When selecting a 13 gallon kitchen garbage can, first decide which lid type and material meet your needs and preferences. Look for useful extra features like odor control. While prices range widely, expect to invest around $50-100 for a good mid-range can from a trusted brand like Simplehuman, Rubbermaid, or Tramontina.
Focus on durability, ease of use, odor containment, and footprint. And choose a style that you love since it will be a visible part of your kitchen. With the right 13 gallon trash can, you can keep your garbage under control and your kitchen looking its best.