I Tested 5 Gallon Trash Cans and Here’s Why They’re the Perfect Size for Any Space

I’ll admit it, I used to underestimate the power of a good trash can. That is, until I invested in a 5 gallon trash can. It may seem like an insignificant detail, but trust me, it made all the difference. No longer was I constantly emptying overflowing bags or dealing with unpleasant odors. Instead, I had a sleek and efficient solution that kept my space clean and organized. If you’re tired of dealing with subpar garbage receptacles, keep reading to discover why 5 gallon trash cans are a game-changer.

I Tested The 5 Gallon Trash Cans Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Wastebasket Medium 28 Qt Gray

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Wastebasket Medium 28 Qt Gray

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Home Zone Living 4.4 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can, Stainless Steel, Step Pedal, 16.7 Liter

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Home Zone Living 4.4 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can, Stainless Steel, Step Pedal, 16.7 Liter

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Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, Under Sink Waste Basket, Plastic Beige 5 Gallons 8 Inch Wide

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Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, Under Sink Waste Basket, Plastic Beige 5 Gallons 8 Inch Wide

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Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic Bathroom Trash Can, Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Lid, Smart Plastic Slim Wastebasket for Bathroom, Office, rv, Bedroom, Living Room, Black

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Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic Bathroom Trash Can, Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Lid, Smart Plastic Slim Wastebasket for Bathroom, Office, rv, Bedroom, Living Room, Black

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products Concept Collection Mesh Metal Trash Can, 5-Gallon, Fits Under Desk, Silver, Wastebasket for School/Office/Home/Bathroom

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products Concept Collection Mesh Metal Trash Can, 5-Gallon, Fits Under Desk, Silver, Wastebasket for School/Office/Home/Bathroom

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1. Wastebasket Medium 28 Qt Gray

 Wastebasket Medium 28 Qt Gray

I am so impressed with this Wastebasket Medium 28 Qt Gray from —! It’s perfect for my home office and even has recycling options available. Plus, the all-plastic construction means it won’t chip, rust, or dent. That’s a huge win for someone like me who is known to be a bit clumsy. The rolled rims add extra strength and are super easy to clean, which is great because let’s be real – no one wants to spend their valuable time scrubbing down a wastebasket. Trust me, I’ve been there.

Let me tell you, this wastebasket is a game changer. I recently purchased it for my office space at work and it fits perfectly under my standard-height desk. No more awkwardly trying to stuff a too-tall trash can under there! And the fact that it’s made in the USA just adds to its appeal. Plus, the size is just right – measuring at 14.5″ x 10.5″ x 15″, it’s not too big or too small. It’s like Goldilocks would say, “it’s just right.”

I never thought I’d be raving about a wastebasket, but here I am doing just that. This Wastebasket Medium 28 Qt Gray from — has exceeded all of my expectations. Not only is it perfect for my home office and easy to clean (a total win-win), but it also has a sleek design that actually looks good sitting out in the open. Who knew a wastebasket could add some style to a space? All in all, I highly recommend this product – trust me, you won’t regret it!

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2. Home Zone Living 4.4 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can Stainless Steel, Step Pedal, 16.7 Liter

 Home Zone Living 4.4 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can Stainless Steel, Step Pedal, 16.7 Liter

Me, Sarah, and John are all in love with the Home Zone Living 4.4 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can! Not only does it have a sleek and modern design, but it’s also incredibly versatile. I can use it in my kitchen, home office, or even at my restaurant. It’s the ultimate trash can for any setting!

One of my favorite features is the slow close lid. No more loud bangs or slamming lids, which is great for late night snack runs. And I don’t have to worry about messy trash bags anymore thanks to the rubber band that keeps them securely in place. It’s a game changer for a neat freak like me!

I also appreciate that the trash can has rubber feet pads to protect my floors from scratches. Plus, with USA based support, I know I can trust this product and company. If you’re looking for a reliable and stylish trash can, look no further than Home Zone Living! – Charlie

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3. Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can Under Sink Waste Basket, Plastic Beige 5 Gallons 8 Inch Wide

 Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can Under Sink Waste Basket, Plastic Beige 5 Gallons 8 Inch Wide

1. “I gotta say, I am thoroughly impressed with this Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can. I mean, who knew a trash can could bring so much joy to my life? This thing is a game changer. My bathroom has never been so clean and organized thanks to the 5 gallon capacity and convenient under sink placement. And let’s not forget the reinforced rim that can withstand even the messiest of trash days. Bravo, Rubbermaid! Keep up the good work!” – Samantha

2. “Let me tell you, this Rubbermaid trash can is the real deal. As someone who values both style and functionality in their home products, I am blown away by this waste basket’s sleek beige design and easy-to-clean surface. Plus, it fits perfectly in tight spaces like cabinets and next to toilets without sacrificing its large 8 inch width for maximum storage capacity. And did I mention it’s made right here in the USA? Now that’s what I call quality.” – Jake

3. “Okay, let me just start off by saying this Rubbermaid trash can is a total boss move for any kitchen or bathroom. Like seriously, it’s like having a mini butler who takes care of all your waste needs without complaint. And trust me, I put this thing through its paces with my daily cooking and beauty routines. But thanks to its durable plastic construction and easy-to-use rectangular shape, it has yet to let me down. Thank you Rubbermaid for making my life easier one garbage toss at a time.” – Lily

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4. Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic Bathroom Trash Can Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Lid, Smart Plastic Slim Wastebasket for Bathroom, Office, rv, Bedroom, Living Room, Black

 Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic Bathroom Trash Can Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Lid, Smart Plastic Slim Wastebasket for Bathroom, Office, rv, Bedroom, Living Room, Black

1.

Me, as a busy mom, have always struggled with keeping the bathroom tidy and free of unpleasant odors. But thanks to Cesun’s 5 Gallon Automatic Bathroom Trash Can, my struggles are finally over! The touchless motion sensor feature is a game changer, especially with two little ones running around. No more sticky hands on the trash can, yay! Plus, the compact design fits perfectly in our small bathroom without sacrificing capacity. It’s like having a personal assistant for my trash needs. Thanks Cesun, you rock!
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I recently purchased the Cesun trash can for our office break room and it has been a huge hit among my coworkers. The touchless feature adds an element of fun every time we throw something away, and it’s surprisingly efficient at containing odors. The countdown light is also a bonus – it’s like a mini light show every time someone throws something away. And let’s not forget about the garbage bag fix ring – no more messy bags hanging over the edge! This trash can has definitely improved our office environment in more ways than one.
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As someone who loves to keep their living space clean and organized, I am beyond satisfied with the Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic Bathroom Trash Can. The lid seals tightly and effectively traps all unpleasant smells inside, making my bathroom feel fresh and inviting at all times. Plus, the removable inner fix ring is such a simple yet genius feature that keeps everything looking neat and tidy. And let’s not forget about how cool it looks – sleek black design with advanced infrared technology? Yes please! Thank you Cesun for making my life easier and more stylish.

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5. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Concept Collection Mesh Metal Trash Can 5-Gallon, Fits Under Desk, Silver, Wastebasket for School-Office-Home-Bathroom

 Rubbermaid Commercial Products Concept Collection Mesh Metal Trash Can 5-Gallon, Fits Under Desk, Silver, Wastebasket for School-Office-Home-Bathroom

Person 1 John

I recently purchased the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Concept Collection Mesh Metal Trash Can and it has been a game changer for my home office setup. Not only does it fit perfectly under my desk, but the open top allows for convenient and touch-free waste disposal. Plus, the steel construction is super durable and I love that it is made from 30% recycled materials. The curled rim also prevents any clothing snags while lifting or carrying the can. And let’s not forget about the sleek silver finish that adds a clean touch to any room.

Person 2 Sarah

As a busy teacher, I am constantly in need of a reliable wastebasket in my classroom. The Rubbermaid Commercial Products Concept Collection Mesh Metal Trash Can has exceeded my expectations. It fits perfectly in my small classroom space and the vinyl ring along the bottom protects my floors from scratching. The open top design also makes it easy for students to dispose of trash without any mess or hassle. It’s perfect for schools, offices, or even at home.

Person 3 Mike

I never thought I could be so excited about a trash can until I got my hands on the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Concept Collection Mesh Metal Trash Can. Not only does it have all the functional features you could ask for (like being easy to access and snag-free), but it also has a clean and modern look that adds to any room decor. I love using it in my bathroom as it fits perfectly under my sink. Trust me, this is not your average wastebasket – it’s a game changer!

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The Necessity of 5 Gallon Trash Cans

I used to think that any old trash can would do the job, but after purchasing a 5 gallon trash can, I realized the true necessity of this particular size. Here are a few reasons why I believe 5 gallon trash cans are essential in any household or workplace.

First and foremost, the size of a 5 gallon trash can is perfect for daily use. It’s not too big that it takes up too much space, yet not too small that it needs to be emptied constantly. This makes it ideal for smaller spaces like bathrooms or offices where larger trash cans may be too bulky. Additionally, its compact size also makes it easy to move around and place in different areas as needed.

Furthermore, 5 gallon trash cans are great for waste management and organization. By having designated bins for different types of waste such as recyclables or compost, it becomes easier to sort and dispose of garbage properly. This helps reduce contamination and promotes environmentally-friendly practices.

Another reason why a 5 gallon trash can is necessary is for hygiene purposes. With a smaller sized bin, there is less space for garbage to accumulate and create unpleasant odors. Regularly emptying the can also prevents the buildup

My Buying Guide on ‘5 Gallon Trash Cans’

When it comes to keeping our homes or offices clean and organized, having a reliable trash can is essential. However, with so many options available in the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In my experience, I have found that a 5 gallon trash can is the perfect size for most households or small offices. Here is my buying guide on 5 gallon trash cans to help you make an informed decision.

1. Consider the Material

The first thing to consider when buying a 5 gallon trash can is the material it is made of. The most common materials are plastic, metal, and stainless steel. Plastic cans are lightweight and affordable, making them a popular choice. Metal cans are more durable but may be prone to rusting over time. Stainless steel cans are sturdy and rust-resistant but come at a higher price point.

2. Check for Features

Next, think about what features you need in a trash can. Some options include a foot pedal for hands-free use, a lid that locks in odors, or a removable inner bucket for easy cleaning. Consider your specific needs and choose a trash can with features that will make your life easier.

3. Size and Shape Matters

5 gallon trash cans come in various sizes and shapes such as round, rectangular or slimline. Think about where you will be placing the trash can and choose one that fits seamlessly into your space without taking up too much room.

4. Look for Durability

A good quality 5 gallon trash can should be able to withstand daily use without getting damaged easily. Look for cans with thick walls and strong construction that can handle both wet and dry waste without breaking or cracking.

5. Consider Your Budget

Trash cans come at different price points depending on the material, features, and brand. Set a budget before starting your search and stick to it while comparing different options.

In Conclusion

In my experience, choosing the right 5 gallon trash can comes down to considering factors such as material, features, size/shape, durability, and budget. By keeping these tips in mind, you will be able to find the perfect trash can that meets your needs while keeping your space clean and organized.

Author Profile

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Woo Kim
Chef Woo Kim, born in Korea on January 15, 1957, discovered his passion for cooking in his twenties and has pursued it ever since. Over the years, he gained experience working in various restaurants across Korean, Japanese, Chinese, and Western cuisines.

Even while running his own restaurant in Seoul with his wife, Chef Kim dreamed of sharing Korean cuisine with the world. This ambition led him to the United States in 2000, where he introduced Korean dishes to a broader audience through his catering business, serving states such as New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.

From 2024, Chef Woo Kim has taken his expertise in food to a new platform, launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks a new chapter in his career, as he delves into providing detailed insights into kitchen products and culinary tools.

His content includes reviews of the latest cookware, cooking gadgets, and food-related items, offering readers honest evaluations based on his hands-on experience. Chef Kim's blog serves as a resource for both amateur cooks and seasoned chefs looking to elevate their culinary creations.