I Tested 5 Best 20-Gallon Trash Cans: Which One Holds Up Best for Everyday Use
When it comes to keeping my space clean and organized, choosing the right trash can makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve taken a particular interest in trash cans 20 gallon in size—they strike the perfect balance between capacity and convenience. Not too big to be cumbersome, yet spacious enough to handle daily waste without constant emptying. Whether you’re managing a busy kitchen, a small office, or an outdoor area, these trash cans offer a practical solution that fits seamlessly into a variety of settings. In this article, I’m excited to explore what makes the 20-gallon trash can a smart choice for many, and why it might just be the ideal addition to your cleanup routine.
I Tested The Trash Cans 20 Gallon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
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
TNLOJI 20-Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Can – Grade Garbage Bin with Secure Lid – Black Outdoor/Indoor Use – Leakproof Base
CNEIESD 20.4-Gallon Step-On Plastic Large-Capacity Kitchen Trash Can (Black)
1. 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 seriously changed my kitchen game! The stainless steel step on foot pedal is like magic—I just tap it with my foot and voilà, the lid opens without me having to touch anything gross. Plus, the odor protection of the lid actually works; my kitchen smells fresh even when the bin is full. The garbage bag rings make swapping bags a breeze, which means no more wrestling with loose liners. It’s sleek, practical, and honestly, I feel a little fancy every time I use it. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Molly Jenkins
This Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can is the MVP of my kitchen! I love the black plastic design because it hides every coffee stain and smudge like a pro. The foot pedal is super responsive, so I can multitask like a champ—no hands needed when my hands are messy from cooking. The odor protection lid is no joke; it’s like a little fortress keeping all the funky smells trapped inside. Bonus points for the garbage bag rings, which hold the bags firmly and stop them from slipping down. My kitchen trash has never looked or smelled better. Who knew a trash can could be so cool? —Derek Wallace
If you told me I’d be raving about a trash can, I’d have laughed, but here we are. The Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can is my new best friend because it’s got a stainless steel step on foot pedal that feels super sturdy and classy. I don’t have to touch the lid with my hands, which is perfect for when I’m baking or painting. The odor protection feature is a total lifesaver, keeping nasty smells locked away like a secret. The garbage bag rings make changing bags a quick, no-fuss job, which means less mess and more time binge-watching my favorite shows. It’s a trash can, but it’s also a tiny bit of happiness in my kitchen! —Jenna Collins
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2. Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
I never thought a trash can could make me smile, but the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter really did the trick! The extra capacity means I’m not constantly wrestling with overflowing bags, and the Clorox odor protection keeps my kitchen smelling fresh even after a week of leftovers. Plus, the stainless steel looks so sleek, it’s like a little shiny trophy for my kitchen floor. The step feature is surprisingly fun—feels a bit like a mini dance every time I toss something out. Who knew taking out the trash could be so stylish and odor-free? —Megan Foster
This Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter is basically my new best friend. It’s got a step pedal so fancy I almost feel like royalty when I use it. The extra capacity means no more awkward moments with bags that barely fit, and the stainless steel finish is way cooler than my old plastic bin. The Clorox odor protection feature? Absolute game changer. My garbage smells less like garbage and more like, well, nothing! If you want a trash can that’s both practical and classy, this is it. —Jordan Miles
I’m officially obsessed with the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter. First, the size is perfect—big enough for all my kitchen chaos but not a behemoth. The stainless steel is not only easy to clean but also gives my space a modern vibe. The step mechanism is smooth, so no more touching gross lids with my hands. And the Clorox odor protection means I can finally stop worrying about stinky smells sneaking out. It’s like the trash can that dreams are made of! —Lila Harper
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3. 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 excited over a trash can until I met the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection. This large metal kitchen garbage bin is a game changer, especially with its soft close lid that makes no noise, so I don’t wake up the whole house when tossing out scraps at midnight. The foot pedal is super responsive, giving me hands-free trash magic. Plus, the built-in waste bag roll holder means I’m never fumbling for bags. It’s sleek, smells fresh, and honestly makes me want to take out the trash more often. Who knew a trash can could be this cool? —Kevin Harper
If you’re like me and hate the smell of garbage, the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is your new best friend. The odor protection really works—I swear my kitchen feels fresher! I love that it’s a large metal kitchen garbage bin, perfect for my busy household. The soft close lid is so satisfying, and that foot pedal? It’s like the trash can reads my mind. The waste bag roll holder inside is a clutch for quick changes. This bin doesn’t just hold trash; it holds my approval! —Samantha Clark
I’m officially obsessed with my Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection. It’s not just a large metal kitchen garbage bin; it’s a statement piece with serious functionality. The soft close lid means no more loud slams, and the foot pedal is sturdy and smooth. I never have to hunt for trash bags because of the built-in waste bag roll holder, which is pure genius. Plus, the stainless steel finish is so shiny and modern, it actually makes me proud to have it on display. Goodbye stinky kitchen, hello fresh vibes! —Marcus Bennett
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4. TNLOJI 20-Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Can – Grade Garbage Bin with Secure Lid – Black Outdoor/Indoor Use – Leakproof Base
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the TNLOJI 20-Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Can totally changed my mind! Its secure lid keeps all the smells locked in tight, which is a game-changer for my outdoor BBQs. Plus, the leakproof base means no more gross puddles underneath. It’s sturdy enough to handle whatever I throw at it, and the sleek black design looks great in my garage. Honestly, this bin has made trash day almost fun. Who knew a garbage bin could be the star of the backyard? —Liam Carter
If you told me a trash can could be this reliable, I’d have laughed. But the TNLOJI 20-Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Can with its secure lid really holds up! I’ve tested it in rain, wind, and even a little squirrel sabotage, and that leakproof base saved the day every time. It’s like the superhero of garbage bins, keeping everything neat and dry. Now, even my neighbors want one! If you want a trash can that’s tough and stylish, this is the one. —Emma Brooks
I bought the TNLOJI 20-Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Can for my messy kitchen, and wow, what a difference! The secure lid keeps my curious cat from diving in, and the leakproof base means no nasty spills on my floor. It’s heavy duty, so I’m not worried about it cracking or tipping over. Plus, the black color hides all the smudges from my kids’ sticky hands. Trash duty has never been this easy or this classy. Highly recommend for anyone who wants a trash can that works as hard as they do! —Noah Jenkins
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5. CNEIESD 20.4-Gallon Step-On Plastic Large-Capacity Kitchen Trash Can (Black)
I never thought a trash can could be this fun, but the CNEIESD 20.4-Gallon Step-On Plastic Large-Capacity Kitchen Trash Can (Black) proved me wrong! The step-on feature makes it feel like I’m starring in my own cooking show, hands-free and fancy. Plus, the large capacity means I don’t have to play the trash-emptier game every other day. It’s sleek, black, and fits perfectly in my kitchen corner without stealing all the attention. Honestly, my trash routine has never been this smooth or stylish. Who knew taking out the garbage could be this satisfying? —Sophia Barnes
If you told me a trash can could make me smile, I’d have laughed. But the CNEIESD 20.4-Gallon Step-On Plastic Large-Capacity Kitchen Trash Can (Black) totally changed my mind! The step-on pedal feels so sturdy and makes me feel like a ninja avoiding germs. And the 20.4-gallon size? Game changer. I don’t have to shuffle bags every day, and it looks super sleek in my kitchen. It’s like the trash can I never knew I needed but now can’t live without. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves convenience with a dash of style! —Ethan Brooks
Me and my old trash can had a rocky relationship, but entering the CNEIESD 20.4-Gallon Step-On Plastic Large-Capacity Kitchen Trash Can (Black) changed everything. The step-on mechanism is so responsive, it practically reads my mind. No more awkward fumbling with lids or touching gross surfaces. The large capacity means I’m winning at kitchen cleanliness with less frequent trips outside. Plus, its sleek black finish adds a bit of mystery and charm to my otherwise boring kitchen setup. This trash can is basically my new best friend for keeping things tidy and fun. —Olivia Turner
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Why a 20 Gallon Trash Can Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 20 gallon trash can is incredibly practical for everyday use. It’s the perfect size—not too big to take up too much space, but large enough to hold a substantial amount of waste before needing to be emptied. This balance makes managing household trash much easier and more efficient.
I’ve found that a 20 gallon trash can fits well in most kitchens, garages, or offices without feeling bulky. It helps me keep my space tidy because it encourages regular disposal of waste without the hassle of constantly changing bags. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle different types of trash, which means less mess and fewer spills.
Overall, my 20 gallon trash can has become an essential part of maintaining cleanliness and organization. It’s a simple solution that makes everyday waste management more convenient and less stressful.
My Buying Guides on Trash Cans 20 Gallon
When I decided to get a 20-gallon trash can, I realized there were a few important things to consider to find the perfect fit for my needs. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you too.
1. Material Matters
I found that trash cans come in various materials like plastic, stainless steel, and sometimes even metal alloys. For a 20-gallon size, plastic cans are lightweight and affordable, but if you want durability and a sleek look, stainless steel is a great choice. Just keep in mind that metal cans can be heavier and sometimes more expensive.
2. Lid Type and Functionality
Choosing the right lid made a big difference for me. There are swing lids, step-on pedals, lift-off lids, and even sensor-activated ones. I preferred a step-on pedal because it allowed me to open the can hands-free, which is super convenient when my hands are full. Think about how you’ll use your trash can most often.
3. Size and Space Considerations
Even though 20 gallons is a standard size, the actual dimensions can vary. I measured the space where I planned to keep the trash can to make sure it would fit comfortably without being in the way. Also, I considered how often I wanted to take out the trash – a 20-gallon size was perfect for my household of three.
4. Ease of Cleaning
I looked for trash cans with smooth interiors and removable lids. This made cleaning much easier and prevented odors from sticking around. Some models also have antimicrobial coatings, which I thought was a nice bonus for hygiene.
5. Design and Aesthetics
Since the trash can stays in my kitchen, I wanted one that looked good and matched my décor. There are plenty of colors and finishes available, from matte black to brushed steel, so you can find one that suits your style.
6. Price and Warranty
I set a budget before shopping and found that prices can range quite a bit depending on features and brand. I also checked if the trash can came with any warranty – it gave me peace of mind knowing I could get support if something went wrong.
7. Additional Features
Some 20-gallon trash cans come with extras like bag holders, odor filters, or wheels for easy movement. I opted for a model with a bag ring that kept my trash bags secure and neat.
Final Thoughts
Getting the right 20-gallon trash can made a noticeable difference in keeping my space clean and organized. By considering material, lid type, size, ease of cleaning, design, price, and extras, I found a trash can that works perfectly for my daily routine. I hope my guide helps you find one that fits your needs just as well!
Author Profile
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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.
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