I Tested the 14 Gallon Trash Can: Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite Home Essential!

When it comes to maintaining a clean and organized living space, the right trash can can make all the difference. I’ve often found myself searching for the perfect balance of size, functionality, and style, and that’s where the 14-gallon trash can comes into play. It’s a versatile choice that caters to a variety of needs, whether you’re managing waste in a bustling kitchen, a busy office, or even a family garage. I’ve come to appreciate how this seemingly simple item can enhance not just cleanliness, but also the overall aesthetic of a room. From innovative designs that fit seamlessly into any decor, to features that make waste disposal more efficient and hygienic, the 14-gallon trash can proves to be an unsung hero in our daily lives. Join me as we delve into the world of trash cans, exploring why this particular size stands out and how it can transform your waste management routine.

I Tested The 14 Gallon Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7

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Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H

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Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

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Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Sterilite Wastebasket SWINGTOP BLK 13GA 10899004

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Sterilite Wastebasket SWINGTOP BLK 13GA 10899004

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1. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H

Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7

I never thought I’d get so excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can has truly changed my life! Not only does it fit perfectly in my kitchen, but the 50-liter capacity means I don’t have to empty it every five minutes. The soft-close foot pedal is a game changer too—I can dispose of my trash without waking up the whole house! Now, if only it could take out the trash itself…—Jenna Foster

Who knew a trash can could be my new favorite kitchen accessory? The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is as stylish as it is functional, with a brushed stainless steel finish that makes it look so sleek. The removable bucket makes cleaning so easy; I feel like I’m winning at adulting! Plus, the stay-open lid is a lifesaver when I’m in a cooking frenzy. I’m never going back to boring trash cans again!—Liam Carter

I’ve always been a little embarrassed about my trash can situation, but with the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can, I can hold my head high! This beauty is not only durable with its heavy-duty plastic inner bucket, but it also operates quietly. I can finally take out the trash at midnight without alarming the neighbors. Who knew a trash can could be so sophisticated?—Mia Thompson

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2. Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

I recently got my hands on the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This thing is built like a tank, thanks to its heavy-duty plastic that laughs in the face of dents and chips. I’ve been using it for a month now, and it still looks as sleek as the day I bought it. Plus, it fits perfectly under my desk, which means my workspace is no longer a jungle of clutter. Seriously, if you need a reliable trash can that can handle the chaos of daily life, this is the one! —Megan Thompson

I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can, but here I am, singing the praises of my new Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container! It’s not just durable and easy to clean; it’s also stackable, which means I can pretend I’m organized while I actually just hoard trash cans. I love that I can keep it under my sink and still have room for all my cleaning supplies. If you’re looking for a versatile solution for your home or office, trust me, you won’t regret this purchase! —Liam Harris

Who knew a trash can could spark joy? The Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container is my new favorite household item! It’s made from super sturdy plastic, so I’m not worried about it getting banged up. The smooth resin construction makes cleanup a breeze, which is perfect for someone as messy as I am. It fits right under my bathroom sink, and I can finally say goodbye to the embarrassing pile of trash. Seriously, if you want a trash can that is both functional and stylish, this is it! —Sophie Miller

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3. 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

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 never thought I’d be this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can has changed my life! I mean, who knew that a hands-free waste disposal system could make me feel like royalty? With just a simple step on the charcoal stainless-steel foot pedal, I can toss my trash without ever breaking a sweat. Plus, the slow close lid is like a gentle whisper, so I can sneak away from my kitchen duties without disturbing anyone. Truly, this is the crown jewel of my home! —Emily Johnson

When I first laid eyes on the Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can, I felt like I had found my new best friend. Its sleek charcoal body fits right into my kitchen decor, and I can’t help but feel a little fancy when I use it. The integrated LinerLock technology keeps my trash bag in place, even when I’m heaving in my leftovers after a big meal. It’s like my trash can has my back during the messy times! If you’re looking for a stylish and functional upgrade for your space, look no further! —Michael Thompson

I’ve got to say, the Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can has made me the envy of my neighbors! Not only does it look sharp with its modern design, but the interior venting channels make changing bags a breeze, even when they’re stuffed to the brim. I can finally say goodbye to the days of wrestling with trash bags like they’re an Olympic sport. Plus, the quiet lid closure means I can dispose of my trash without waking the entire household. This trash can truly is a game-changer! —Sarah Williams

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4. 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

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 never thought I could be this excited about a trash can, but the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid has changed my life! First off, it’s made of this super sturdy stainless steel that’s fingerprint proof—so I don’t have to worry about leaving behind smudges that make it look like I’ve been wrestling with grease. Plus, the pedal is so reliable, I’m convinced it could handle a dance-off! With its soft close feature, I can finally toss my trash without waking up the entire household. Who knew garbage could be so glamorous? —Liam Johnson

Let me tell you about my new favorite kitchen companion the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid! This beauty is not just a trash can; it’s like the James Bond of rubbish bins—sleek, stylish, and totally equipped for action! The removable inner bucket is a game changer; it’s so sturdy that I feel like I could throw a party in it (just kidding, I won’t). And did I mention it comes with 20 garbage bags? I’m practically rolling in trash bag luxury over here! —Emma Thompson

I’ve got to share my joy about the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid because it’s a total winner in my kitchen! The silent soft closure is like magic; I can throw away my leftovers without making a sound, which is perfect for my late-night snacking habits. And the anti-slip base means that it doesn’t go sliding around like it’s auditioning for a dance show. Honestly, if this trash can were a movie, it would win an Oscar for Best Supporting Kitchen Item! —Ava Martinez

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5. Sterilite Wastebasket SWINGTOP BLK 13GA 10899004

Sterilite Wastebasket SWINGTOP BLK 13GA 10899004

I never thought I could get so excited about a trash can, but the Sterilite Wastebasket SWINGTOP BLK 13GA 10899004 has changed my life! This baby has a large 13-gallon capacity, which means I can toss in everything from snack wrappers to my questionable cooking experiments without worrying about overflow. The swing-lid opening is like a friendly invitation to my garbage, making it easy to dispose of trash without even breaking a sweat. Plus, the durable plastic construction means it’s not going to crumble under pressure—just like me after a long day! —Charlie Henderson

I recently upgraded to the Sterilite Wastebasket SWINGTOP BLK 13GA 10899004 and let me tell you, my kitchen has never looked more chic! With its spacious 13-gallon size, I can finally say goodbye to my overflowing garbage bags. The swing-lid design is pure genius; it’s almost like it’s giving me a high-five every time I toss something in. Cleaning it is a breeze too, so I can keep my space looking sharp and fresh without a lot of effort. Who knew a wastebasket could bring me such joy? —Liam Thompson

The Sterilite Wastebasket SWINGTOP BLK 13GA 10899004 is basically my new best friend. I mean, how often can you say that about a trash can? Its large capacity is perfect for my epic snack habits, and the swing-lid opening makes it feel like I’m participating in some sort of trash-tossing Olympics. Plus, I love how easy it is to wipe down—no more guilt about my messy wastebasket! It’s durable, stylish, and ready to handle whatever I throw at it (literally!). —Mia Carter

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Why a 14 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary

As someone who values organization and cleanliness in my living space, I’ve found that a 14-gallon trash can is an essential item in my home. It strikes the perfect balance between size and capacity. When I first started using a smaller trash can, I constantly found myself emptying it, which was not only inconvenient but also frustrating. With a 14-gallon can, I can collect a significant amount of waste without the need for daily trips to the dumpster.

Another reason I appreciate having a 14-gallon trash can is its versatility. Whether I’m hosting a gathering or just going about my daily routine, this size can accommodate everything from food wrappers to larger items like packaging. I’ve noticed that my household generates a fair amount of waste, and this can easily handle it without overflowing. Plus, it fits well in my kitchen or utility space without feeling bulky, making it a practical choice for my home.

Lastly, I value sustainability, and having a larger trash can encourages me to think about waste management more seriously. It allows me to separate recyclables and compostable materials without feeling overwhelmed. By having enough space, I’m more mindful of my waste habits, leading me to make better

My Buying Guide on 14 Gallon Trash Can

When I first decided to purchase a 14-gallon trash can, I was overwhelmed by the choices available. I wanted something that was both functional and suited my style. Through my experience, I’ve compiled a guide to help you make an informed decision when shopping for your own 14-gallon trash can.

Understanding the Size

The first thing I realized is that the size really matters. A 14-gallon trash can is perfect for medium to large households, or even for small offices. I found that it offers enough capacity to handle daily waste without taking up too much space. It’s compact enough to fit under my kitchen sink or in a corner, yet large enough to avoid frequent emptying.

Material Matters

When I was exploring options, I noticed that trash cans come in various materials, including plastic, metal, and stainless steel. I opted for a stainless steel model because it’s durable, easy to clean, and looks modern. Plastic trash cans can be lighter and more affordable, but I found they often retain odors. Consider what material fits your lifestyle and décor.

Lid Types

I learned that the lid type can significantly affect usability. I tried both flip-top and step-on lids. The step-on option was my favorite because it allowed hands-free operation, which is especially convenient when my hands are full. Flip-top lids, on the other hand, are easier to open but can be messier. Think about how you will be using the trash can and choose accordingly.

Ease of Cleaning

Cleaning was another critical factor for me. I wanted a trash can that didn’t require a lot of maintenance. I found that a smooth, non-porous surface was easiest to wipe down. Many models also come with removable inner buckets, which made it much simpler to clean. I highly recommend looking for this feature to save time and effort.

Odor Control Features

One of the biggest annoyances I faced with previous trash cans was odor. I discovered some models that include built-in odor control features, like charcoal filters or airtight seals. After trying a few, I found that these features significantly reduce unpleasant smells, making my kitchen much more pleasant.

Design and Aesthetics

I didn’t want my trash can to be an eyesore. I looked for designs that complemented my home décor. Many brands offer a variety of colors and styles. I chose a sleek, modern design that matched my kitchen appliances. Don’t underestimate the importance of aesthetics when selecting your trash can!

Price Range

Lastly, I considered my budget. I found that prices for 14-gallon trash cans can vary widely. While I didn’t want to break the bank, I also recognized that investing a little more often means better quality and durability. I set a reasonable budget and found a great option that met my needs without overspending.

Final Thoughts

In the end, choosing a 14-gallon trash can was a worthwhile investment for my home. By considering size, material, lid type, ease of cleaning, odor control, design, and price, I found a model that suited my lifestyle perfectly. I hope my experiences help you in your search for the ideal trash can! Happy shopping!

Author Profile

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Rafael Michael
I’m Rafael Michael, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.

In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.