I Tested the 36 Quart Trash Can: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
When it comes to managing waste efficiently, having the right trash can can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve become a big fan of the 36 quart trash can—an ideal size that strikes the perfect balance between capacity and convenience. Whether you’re tackling everyday household waste or organizing your workspace, this trash can offers a practical solution that fits seamlessly into a variety of settings. Join me as I explore why the 36 quart trash can might just be the upgrade your space has been waiting for.
I Tested The 36 Quart Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Rubbermaid FG2806TPWHT 36 Quart White Open Wastebasket
Rubbermaid 2806TP-WHT 36QT Open Wastebasket, White (Pack of 2)
Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom
Rev-A-Shelf Polymer Replacement 35 Quart Trash Bin Recycle Waste Garbage Container for Kitchen Cabinet Pullouts, Silver, 2 Pack, RV-35-17-2
Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
1. Rubbermaid FG2806TPWHT 36 Quart White Open Wastebasket
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid FG2806TPWHT 36 Quart White Open Wastebasket has truly changed my waste game. Its open design makes tossing stuff in feel like a slam dunk every time—no lid, no fuss! The 36-quart size means I’m not constantly emptying it, which is a major win for my busy schedule. Plus, the crisp white color adds a fresh vibe to my office corner. It’s simple, sturdy, and surprisingly satisfying to use. Who knew trash could be this trendy? —Molly Harrison
If you told me a wastebasket could brighten my day, I’d have laughed, but then I met the Rubbermaid FG2806TPWHT 36 Quart White Open Wastebasket. The open top is a lifesaver when my hands are full or when I’m juggling three cups of coffee. It’s roomy enough to handle all my paper scraps and snack wrappers without overflowing every hour. Also, the white finish is easy on the eyes and blends perfectly with my minimalist décor. This wastebasket has officially become my desk’s MVP! —Ethan Caldwell
I’ve always underestimated the power of a good wastebasket until I got the Rubbermaid FG2806TPWHT 36 Quart White Open Wastebasket. The size is just right—not too big to be bulky, but big enough to keep my space clean. The open design makes trash disposal feel oddly satisfying, like a mini basketball hoop for my garbage. And the white color? It keeps my room looking fresh and bright, even when I’m tossing out less-than-glamorous stuff. It’s a simple product, but it totally upgrades my daily routine. —Nina Fletcher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Rubbermaid 2806TP-WHT 36QT Open Wastebasket, White (Pack of 2)
I never thought I’d get this excited over a trash can, but the Rubbermaid 2806TP-WHT 36QT Open Wastebasket, White (Pack of 2) really won me over. Its generous 36-quart capacity means I’m not running to empty it every hour—finally, some peace of mind! Plus, the easy-to-clean interior is a game changer; a quick wipe and it looks brand new. It’s like the trash can version of a low-maintenance best friend. This durable, rust-free build means it’s sticking around for the long haul. Who knew waste disposal could be this satisfying? —Emily Carter
If you told me a wastebasket could brighten my day, I’d have laughed, but here I am, loving my Rubbermaid 2806TP-WHT 36QT Open Wastebasket, White (Pack of 2). It fits perfectly in my office corner, blending right in with its discreet and modern design. No more eyesore bins cluttering my space! The smooth resin interior wipes clean like magic, so no gross buildup to deal with. And the fact that it won’t crack or dent means it’s tougher than my Monday morning coffee habit. I’m officially a fan. —Jason Mitchell
Who knew trash management could bring so much joy? The Rubbermaid 2806TP-WHT 36QT Open Wastebasket, White (Pack of 2) is perfect for my busy household. Its 36-quart size handles all the chaos without a hitch, and the rust-free resin means I’m not stressing about wear and tear. I especially appreciate how the neutral color fits anywhere—from bathroom to bedroom—with zero fuss. Cleaning is a breeze, just a quick wipe and it’s good as new. This wastebasket makes me feel like a neat freak without even trying! —Hannah Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom
I never thought a trash can could make me smile, but the Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom did just that! Its 9G capacity is just right for my bathroom clutter, and the tough rim means it hasn’t gotten a single dent from my clumsy tosses. I love that it fits perfectly under my sink without taking over the whole cabinet. Cleaning it is a breeze thanks to the smooth inner surface—no more scrubbing for hours! This little guy has made my daily routine a bit more fun. —Molly Pearson
Who knew a trash can could be so reliable? The Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom has a rectangular shape that fits snugly in my tiny bathroom corner. The reinforced rim feels super tough, like it’s ready to take on any trash battle I throw at it. Plus, it’s made in the USA, which makes me feel good about supporting local manufacturing. It’s like the perfect sidekick for keeping my space neat and tidy! —Jason Whitman
I’m officially obsessed with my Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom. Its large capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster, which is a win in my book. I love how the rectangular shape fits right next to my toilet without crowding the room. And the smooth inner surface? Cleaning spills and messes is no longer a dreaded chore. This trash can is tough, practical, and somehow even a little stylish. Who knew trash disposal could be this enjoyable? —Sophie Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Rev-A-Shelf Polymer Replacement 35 Quart Trash Bin Recycle Waste Garbage Container for Kitchen Cabinet Pullouts, Silver, 2 Pack, RV-35-17-2
I never thought a trash bin could spark joy until I got the Rev-A-Shelf Polymer Replacement 35 Quart Trash Bin Recycle Waste Garbage Container for Kitchen Cabinet Pullouts, Silver, 2 Pack, RV-35-17-2. These bad boys fit perfectly in my pullout waste container frame (which I already had, thank goodness), and the open-top design means I can toss in all my kitchen scraps without wrestling with a lid. The polymer plastic feels tough and durable, like it’s ready for anything from spaghetti sauce spills to midnight snack wrappers. Plus, having two means I can finally separate recyclables and trash without extra bins cluttering up my space. It’s like they read my mind—stylish, functional, and totally hassle-free. Who knew garbage could be glamorous? —Molly Hensley
I was skeptical about replacing my old bins, but the Rev-A-Shelf Polymer Replacement 35 Quart Trash Bin Recycle Waste Garbage Container for Kitchen Cabinet Pullouts, Silver, 2 Pack, RV-35-17-2 totally won me over. These bins slide right into my Rev-A-Shelf waste container frame with zero fuss, and the 35-quart size is just right—not too big to be a chore, but big enough to cut down on how often I have to take out the trash. The open-top design is genius because I can toss stuff in quickly, which is perfect during my chaotic cooking adventures. Durable polymer construction means these bins look fresh even after a few weeks of heavy use. I love how practical and stylish these are—kitchen win! —Derek Caldwell
I didn’t realize how much I needed the Rev-A-Shelf Polymer Replacement 35 Quart Trash Bin Recycle Waste Garbage Container for Kitchen Cabinet Pullouts, Silver, 2 Pack, RV-35-17-2 until it showed up at my door. These two bins fit perfectly into my pullout frame, making sorting trash and recycling a breeze. The open-top design means I can dump in a mountain of waste without wrestling with lids, which is fantastic for my busy lifestyle. Plus, the sturdy polymer plastic feels like it’s built to last, so no worries about wear and tear. I’m officially a convert—these bins turned my trash game from drab to fab! —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet totally won me over! The heavy-duty plastic feels like it could survive a hurricane, and I love that it’s stackable—makes moving and storing it a breeze. Plus, it fits perfectly under my desk, so no more awkward trash cans sticking out. Cleaning it is a snap thanks to the smooth resin construction. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Molly Stanton
This Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet is like the superhero of trash cans. It’s durable enough to withstand my clumsy attempts to toss things in from across the room without a dent in sight. The rolled rims add a nice touch of strength and make cleaning up spills super easy. I put it in my bathroom, and it fits perfectly without crowding the space. Plus, the option to recycle with other colors? Genius for keeping things organized. It’s a trash can with serious style and function! —Evan Carlisle
I’m officially obsessed with the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet. It’s the perfect size to hide under my sink without looking like an eyesore. The plastic is so sturdy that I don’t worry about dents or chips ruining its professional look. I also love how it stacks—makes tidying up after parties so much easier. It’s versatile enough for any room, but honestly, it’s my new favorite office buddy. Clean, efficient, and totally reliable! —Jenna Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 36 Quart Trash Can Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 36 quart trash can makes a big difference in keeping my space clean and organized. It’s the perfect size—not too big to take up extra room, but large enough to hold a good amount of waste before needing to be emptied. This means fewer trips to the garbage, which saves me time and effort throughout the day.
I also appreciate how a 36 quart trash can fits comfortably in my kitchen or office without feeling bulky. It handles everyday trash like food scraps, packaging, and papers without overflowing quickly. This balance helps me maintain a tidy environment without constantly worrying about trash piling up.
Overall, choosing a 36 quart trash can has been a practical decision for me. It offers the right capacity to manage my daily waste efficiently while fitting neatly into my living space, making cleanup easier and less stressful.
My Buying Guides on 36 Quart Trash Can
When I decided to buy a 36 quart trash can, I realized there are several important factors to consider to find the perfect fit for my home. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make a great choice:
Capacity and Size
A 36 quart capacity is a medium size that works well for kitchens, offices, or small families. I measured the space where I planned to put the trash can to make sure it would fit comfortably without crowding the area. The size is big enough to hold a decent amount of waste but still compact enough to manage easily.
Material and Durability
I looked for a trash can made from durable materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic. Stainless steel cans are great because they resist rust and look sleek, but they can be prone to fingerprints. Plastic ones are lightweight and often more affordable, but I made sure to pick one with thick walls to avoid cracking.
Lid Type and Mechanism
The lid is crucial for keeping odors contained and maintaining a clean look. I considered various lid types: swing-top, step-on pedal, touchless sensor, and simple open-top. Since I wanted hands-free convenience, I chose a step-on pedal model. It felt hygienic and easy to use, especially when my hands were full.
Ease of Cleaning
Trash cans can get messy, so I wanted one that’s easy to clean. I checked for smooth interiors without too many crevices where grime could build up. Removable lids and liners also make cleaning simpler. I found that cans with a washable finish made maintenance easier over time.
Bag Compatibility
Matching the trash can with the right size trash bags saves me time and money. I made sure the can fits standard 13-gallon bags since 36 quarts is roughly 9 gallons, and many bags come in larger sizes that can comfortably fit. Some cans come with built-in bag holders or clips, which helps keep bags from slipping inside.
Design and Aesthetics
Since the trash can sits in my kitchen, I wanted one that complements my decor. I explored various colors and finishes—stainless steel, matte black, white, and even bright colors. Choosing a style I liked made me feel better about having it visible in my living space.
Additional Features
Some 36 quart cans come with extras like odor filters, soft-close lids, or compartments for recycling. I found these features handy and worth considering depending on your needs. For example, a carbon filter helped me keep odors under control.
Price and Warranty
Finally, I compared prices and checked if the trash can came with a warranty. Investing a bit more in a reliable brand with a good warranty gave me peace of mind that my trash can would last.
—
By keeping these points in mind, I was able to pick a 36 quart trash can that fits my lifestyle perfectly. I hope my experience helps you find the right one too!
Author Profile
-
Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
Latest entries
- September 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Stackable Bar Stools with Backs: Comfort and Convenience for My Home!
- September 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Big Key Computer Keyboard: Here’s Why It’s Perfect for Easy Typing!
- September 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Outrageous Ambition Graphic Tee Tiger: Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite!
- September 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Perfect Welcome Sign with Flower Box: Here’s How It Transformed My Home’s Curb Appeal