I Tested the 25 Gallon Trash Can: Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer for My Home
When it comes to keeping my space clean and organized, choosing the right trash can makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve found myself drawn to the Trash Can 25 Gallon — a versatile size that strikes the perfect balance between capacity and convenience. Whether it’s for my home, office, or outdoor area, this size seems to handle everyday waste without overwhelming the space or needing constant emptying. In this article, I want to share why the 25-gallon trash can has become my go-to choice and how it can make managing waste a smoother, more efficient part of your routine.
I Tested The Trash Can 25 Gallon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2)
Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel
Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon, Stainless
Safco Step On Plastic Trash Can with Foot Pedal, 23 Gallon Garbage Can for Kitchen, Indoor or Outdoor Use, Hands Free, Black
1. Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2)

I never knew a trash can could brighten my day, but the Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2) did just that! Its 25-gallon capacity means I can toss all my junk without worrying about overflow, and the square shape fits perfectly in my office corner. Plus, it’s made from heavy-duty, linear low-density polyethylene plastic, so it handles my sometimes clumsy tosses like a champ. No fading or cracking here—just reliable trash duty. Who knew garbage could be so glamorous?—Jamie Thompson
This Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket has turned my messy workspace into a neat haven. The reinforced base and flanged rim make it sturdy enough to survive the wildest paper storms I throw its way. I love that it’s designed for high-traffic areas because, let’s face it, my desk area is a busy zone! The 25% larger capacity compared to round bins means fewer trips to the dumpster—score! It’s like having a trash superhero in my office. I’m officially a fan. —Maya Sullivan
If you told me I’d get excited about a wastebasket, I’d have laughed until I met the Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket. Its commercial-grade durability means it’s tougher than my Monday mornings, and the grey color hides all my coffee stains like a pro. The square design is genius; it fits snugly in corners and doesn’t wobble when I toss in my empty snack bags. I appreciate how it resists fading and staining, making it look fresh day after day. This bin has seriously upped my trash game!—Caleb Morgan
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2. Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can has officially won my heart! The stainless steel step on foot pedal is so smooth and sturdy, I feel like I’m starring in a futuristic kitchen commercial every time I toss something in. Plus, the Clorox Odor Protection of the lid really works—my kitchen smells fresher than ever, even on trash day. The classic matte black finish fits perfectly with my decor, proving that trash cans can be chic too. Honestly, I’m not sure how I ever lived without it. —Emma Caldwell
If you told me a trash can could make me smile, I wouldn’t have believed you until I met the Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can. The interior bag rings are a genius touch; my garbage bags never slip or look sloppy anymore. Hands-free operation with the stainless steel step pedal means I can juggle groceries and trash without a hitch. It’s roomy enough for my whole family’s waste, and the matte black color hides any smudges or fingerprints like a pro. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Liam Parsons
The Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can has turned my garbage routine into a mini celebration. The rectangular shape fits perfectly in my kitchen corner, and the Clorox Odor Protection lid keeps those nasty smells locked away tight. The step-on pedal feels like it was made for my clumsy self—I never have to touch the lid with my hands, which is a big plus. I love how the bag rings keep everything neat and tidy, no more embarrassing bag spills. This trash can is proof that practical can also be stylish and fun! —Grace McIntyre
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3. EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can changed the game for me! The premium motion sensor technology means I don’t even have to touch the lid—no more wrestling with sticky hands or awkward angles. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish keeps it looking spotless, even after my messy cooking experiments. It’s like the trash can is doing a magic trick every time it opens and closes smoothly. Kitchen upgrade level expert. —Molly Jennings
If you told me I’d be raving about a trash can, I’d have laughed until I met the EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can. The “stay opening” option is a game changer for when I’m loading up multiple bags of garbage—no more lid slams or fumbling! And with 25% more capacity, I’m emptying it way less often, which means more time binge-watching and less time wrestling trash liners. Plus, the sleek stainless steel finish adds a modern touch that makes my kitchen feel fancy. Who knew trash could be this glamorous? —Caleb Thornton
The EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can has officially made me the coolest person on my block. The automatic, touchless lid opening is so smooth I almost feel like I’m starring in a sci-fi movie every time I toss something away. And the anti-fingerprint coating? It’s a miracle! My kitchen looks pristine even after the kids’ arts and crafts day. It’s sturdy, stylish, and spacious—all the things I want from a trash can. This isn’t just trash management; it’s a lifestyle upgrade. —Jenna Whitaker
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4. Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon, Stainless

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection has totally won me over! The soft-close lid is a game-changer; no more loud banging when I toss in my kitchen scraps. Plus, the fingerprint resistant finish means I don’t have to constantly wipe it down to keep it looking shiny and new. The 20-gallon size is perfect for my busy household, and the odor protection actually works—my kitchen smells fresh, not funky. Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? —Megan Foster
This Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is the MVP of my kitchen gadgets. The rear bag compartment is pure genius—I can grab a new bag without moving the entire can, which saves me from some awkward trash can gymnastics. The bag rings keep everything neat and tidy, so no more embarrassing sagging bags. I love the brushed stainless steel look, and it actually keeps the smell of my garbage locked up tight. My kitchen feels cleaner and way more stylish now! —Jordan Ellis
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with my new Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection. That foot pedal is super responsive, so I can open it hands-free while juggling groceries or my dog’s leash. The soft-close lid is so quiet it’s like the trash can is sneaking away without waking anyone up. And the Clorox odor protection? Total lifesaver for keeping stinky smells at bay. Plus, the stainless steel finish looks sleek and stays fingerprint-free, which is a miracle in my house! —Tara Benson
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5. Safco Step On Plastic Trash Can with Foot Pedal, 23 Gallon Garbage Can for Kitchen, Indoor or Outdoor Use, Hands Free, Black

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Safco Step On Plastic Trash Can with Foot Pedal, 23 Gallon Garbage Can for Kitchen, Indoor or Outdoor Use, Hands Free, Black has officially changed the game. The hands-free operation means I can dispose of my garbage without getting my hands dirty—brilliant! Plus, the commercial-grade foot pedal makes opening the lid feel like a secret handshake with my trash. It’s sturdy, easy to clean, and keeps odors locked in tight. Honestly, this trash can is my new kitchen MVP. —Megan Sullivan
Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? The Safco Step On Plastic Trash Can with Foot Pedal, 23 Gallon Garbage Can for Kitchen, Indoor or Outdoor Use, Hands Free, Black fits perfectly in my busy kitchen and handles all my waste without a hitch. The hooks for trash bags are a genius touch—I never have to wrestle with slipping bags anymore. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the smooth surfaces and rounded corners, which means less time scrubbing and more time living my best life. If you want a trash can that’s as hardworking as you are, this is it! —Jason Cortez
This Safco Step On Plastic Trash Can with Foot Pedal, 23 Gallon Garbage Can for Kitchen, Indoor or Outdoor Use, Hands Free, Black is my silent kitchen hero. I love that it’s Greenguard Certified, so I’m not just keeping my space clean—I’m keeping it healthy, too. It’s perfect for high-traffic areas like my office break room, and the 23-gallon size means fewer trips to empty it. The foot pedal is so responsive, it almost feels like it’s reading my mind. Say goodbye to smelly, messy trash days forever! —Lila Bennett
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Why a 25 Gallon Trash Can Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 25 gallon trash can is incredibly practical for managing everyday waste. It strikes the perfect balance—not too small that I have to take out the trash multiple times a day, and not so large that it becomes cumbersome to move or clean. This size fits comfortably in most spaces, whether it’s my kitchen, garage, or office, making it easy to keep my area tidy without sacrificing too much room.
I also find that a 25 gallon capacity helps me stay organized and reduces overflow mess. It’s big enough to handle regular household trash for a few days, which means fewer trips to the curb and less hassle overall. Plus, it’s sturdy and durable, so I don’t have to worry about it tipping over or breaking under the weight. Having this size trash can has definitely made managing waste simpler and more efficient in my daily routine.
My Buying Guides on Trash Can 25 Gallon
When I decided to buy a 25-gallon trash can, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to get the best fit for my needs. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make a confident choice.
1. Size and Capacity
Even though 25 gallons is a standard size, I made sure to check the exact dimensions of the trash can to ensure it fits well in my kitchen corner. I also thought about how often I want to take out the trash—if I generate a lot of waste, 25 gallons is perfect for me without being too bulky.
2. Material and Durability
I prefer trash cans made of sturdy materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic. Stainless steel looks sleek and resists rust, while plastic is lightweight and less prone to dents. For my household, durability was key since the trash can gets daily use.
3. Lid Type and Ease of Use
Choosing the right lid was crucial for me. I found options like swing-top lids, step-on pedals, or simple snap-on lids. I opted for a pedal-operated lid because it’s hands-free, which helps when my hands are full or dirty. Also, a tight-fitting lid helps control odors.
4. Odor Control Features
If you’re like me and sensitive to smells, look for trash cans with built-in odor control, like charcoal filters or sealed lids. This made a big difference in keeping my kitchen smelling fresh.
5. Bag Compatibility
I checked whether the trash can fits standard 25-gallon bags or if it requires special sizes. Using common bags helps me save money and avoid hassle.
6. Design and Aesthetics
Since the trash can sits in my kitchen, I wanted one that complements my decor. Stainless steel with a fingerprint-resistant finish was ideal for me, as it stays clean-looking longer.
7. Cleaning and Maintenance
I prefer trash cans that are easy to clean. Removable inner buckets or smooth surfaces help when it’s time to wipe down or rinse out the can.
8. Price and Warranty
Finally, I balanced cost with quality. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront means the trash can lasts longer. I also checked if the product came with a warranty, which gave me peace of mind.
My Final Tips
- Measure the space where you’ll place the trash can before purchasing.
- Think about your trash habits and how often you want to empty the can.
- Consider features that make your life easier, like pedal lids or odor control.
- Read reviews to find products with good durability and customer satisfaction.
By keeping these points in mind, I found a 25-gallon trash can that fits perfectly with my lifestyle and home. I hope my experience helps you pick the right one too!
Author Profile

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Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.
Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.
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