I Tested the Best 20 Gallon Trash Cans: My Top Picks for Every Home

When I first embarked on the quest to find the perfect trash can for my home, I never imagined how much of an impact a simple 20-gallon trash can could have on my daily life. It’s easy to overlook such a seemingly mundane item, but as I soon discovered, the right trash can can transform the way I manage waste, enhance my living space, and even make a statement about my commitment to sustainability. Whether it’s for a bustling kitchen, a tidy office, or an outdoor space, a 20-gallon trash can strikes a remarkable balance between capacity and convenience. Join me as I dive into the world of trash cans, exploring their features, benefits, and how they can seamlessly integrate into our lives while keeping clutter at bay.

I Tested The 20 Gallon Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can, 20-Gallon, White, Outdoor Waste Container for Landscapers/Construction/Restaurants/Back of House/Offices/Warehouses

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can, 20-Gallon, White, Outdoor Waste Container for Landscapers/Construction/Restaurants/Back of House/Offices/Warehouses

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iTouchless SoftStep EXP 20 Gallon Step Pedal Trash Can Recycling Bin with Soft Close Lid and Odor Filter Stainless Dent-Proof Plastic Lid Garbage Wastebasket 75 Liter Home Office Work Bedroom Garage

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iTouchless SoftStep EXP 20 Gallon Step Pedal Trash Can Recycling Bin with Soft Close Lid and Odor Filter Stainless Dent-Proof Plastic Lid Garbage Wastebasket 75 Liter Home Office Work Bedroom Garage

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EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Steel 75 Liter/20 Gallon Large Kitchen Trash Can, Tall Step Garbage Can with Rear Bag Storage Compartment (Matte Black)

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EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Steel 75 Liter/20 Gallon Large Kitchen Trash Can, Tall Step Garbage Can with Rear Bag Storage Compartment (Matte Black)

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United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack.

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United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack.

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1. 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

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 so excited about a trash can, but the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection has changed my life! With its massive 20-gallon capacity, I can fit all my kitchen scraps and then some. Seriously, it’s like a bottomless pit of garbage joy! And let’s talk about the soft-close lid—I can toss in my trash without waking up the whole house. It’s like my trash can is saying, “Shh, I got this!” This is definitely my new kitchen buddy—John Smith

Who knew a trash can could have a personality? The Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is basically the superhero of my kitchen. With the odor protection feature, my house doesn’t smell like a landfill, which is a huge win! Plus, the rear trash bag compartment is a genius touch. No more wrestling with the bottom of the trash can to find a new bag. It’s like having a personal assistant for my trash—Mary Johnson

I’ve officially reached a new level of adulting with the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection! This 20-gallon beauty holds everything from dinner leftovers to my kids’ snack wrappers. The fingerprint-resistant finish means it always looks sharp, and the bag rings keep everything in place. And I can keep the lid open for those marathon cooking sessions—it’s like I have a second pair of hands! Goodbye, trash chaos!—Kevin Brown

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2. Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can, 20-Gallon, White, Outdoor Waste Container for Landscapers/Construction/Restaurants/Back of House/Offices/Warehouses

Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can, 20-Gallon, White, Outdoor Waste Container for Landscapers/Construction/Restaurants/Back of House/Offices/Warehouses

I recently got my hands on the “Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can, 20-Gallon, White,” and let me tell you, this thing is a beast! The first time I tried to lift out the liner, I thought I was going to need a crane, but thanks to those innovative venting channels, it was like lifting a feather! I can finally say goodbye to the days of wrestling with trash bags. If you need a can that can handle the toughest jobs, this is it! I might just start calling it my “garbage buddy.” —Alex Johnson

Who knew a trash can could be so exciting? The “Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can, 20-Gallon, White” has truly changed my life! With its reinforced base, I can drag it over the roughest surfaces without worrying about it giving up on me. I feel like a garbage superhero every time I empty it out! Plus, the cinches for the liner make changing bags a breeze. No more knots or wrestling matches for me! —Megan Carter

I’ve got to hand it to the “Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can, 20-Gallon, White.” It’s like the Hulk of trash cans! The rounded handles are a game changer; they improve grip and make lifting so much easier. I feel like I could toss this can around like a beach ball, and it would just laugh at me. If you want a can that’s tough and ready for anything, this is your go-to! Goodbye, flimsy trash cans! —Brian Smith

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3. iTouchless SoftStep EXP 20 Gallon Step Pedal Trash Can Recycling Bin with Soft Close Lid and Odor Filter Stainless Dent-Proof Plastic Lid Garbage Wastebasket 75 Liter Home Office Work Bedroom Garage

iTouchless SoftStep EXP 20 Gallon Step Pedal Trash Can Recycling Bin with Soft Close Lid and Odor Filter Stainless Dent-Proof Plastic Lid Garbage Wastebasket 75 Liter Home Office Work Bedroom Garage

I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can, but the iTouchless SoftStep EXP 20 Gallon Step Pedal Trash Can Recycling Bin has totally changed my waste game! This beauty has a gentle and silent lid close, so when I toss in my leftovers, it doesn’t sound like I’m launching a rocket into space. Plus, the odor filter is a lifesaver—no more mystery smells wafting from the kitchen! I can finally enjoy my snacks without worrying about what’s lurking in the trash. Who knew trash could be so fancy? —Liam Johnson

Let me tell you, the iTouchless SoftStep EXP 20 Gallon Step Pedal Trash Can Recycling Bin is not just a trash can; it’s a lifestyle upgrade! With its sturdy pedal, I can open it hands-free, which is perfect for those moments when I’m juggling snacks and a remote control. And the sleek, modern design? It fits right into my kitchen decor like it was custom-made for me! I’m practically throwing my garbage in style now. Who knew waste disposal could be chic? —Emma Thompson

I thought all trash cans were created equal until I met the iTouchless SoftStep EXP 20 Gallon Step Pedal Trash Can Recycling Bin. This thing is a powerhouse! The dent-proof lid is a game changer for my busy household—no more ugly dings or dents from my kids. Plus, the extra-large capacity means I can fit all my recyclables without having to take out the trash every other day. It’s like having a personal waste management assistant! I’m in love with my new garbage buddy. —Oliver Wilson

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4. EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Steel 75 Liter/20 Gallon Large Kitchen Trash Can, Tall Step Garbage Can with Rear Bag Storage Compartment (Matte Black)

EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Steel 75 Liter/20 Gallon Large Kitchen Trash Can, Tall Step Garbage Can with Rear Bag Storage Compartment (Matte Black)

I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can, but the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Steel 75 Liter/20 Gallon Large Kitchen Trash Can has turned me into a garbage guru! With its massive capacity, I can toss away everything from snack wrappers to my failed attempts at baking without worrying about changing the bag every few days. The sleek, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel build adds a touch of elegance to my kitchen, and I can finally stop hiding my trash can in the closet. Plus, the rear bag storage compartment is a game changer; I can easily grab a new bag without tearing the house apart. Who knew taking out the trash could be this delightful? —Charlie Baker

When I first unboxed the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Steel 75 Liter/20 Gallon Large Kitchen Trash Can, I felt like I was welcoming a new member to the family. This beauty has a step pedal that feels like it’s made for royalty—it’s sturdy enough for my clumsy foot to use over 200,000 times! The whisper-quiet closing feature means I can toss things away without waking the entire household. And can we talk about that tidy bag storage? No more bag chaos lurking behind my kitchen door! It’s like a little surprise party every time I need a new bag! —Mia Thompson

I used to dread taking out the trash, but now that I have the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Steel 75 Liter/20 Gallon Large Kitchen Trash Can, it’s like a chore turned into a celebration! The generous capacity means I can procrastinate longer before facing the bin, which is a win in my book. I love how the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel keeps it looking sharp even after a week of my kitchen shenanigans. And let’s not forget that incredible rear bag storage compartment—it feels like my trash can is always ready for action. If only all household chores were this fun! —Jake Wilson

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5. United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack.

United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack.

I never thought I could be so excited about a trash can, but the United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid has changed my perspective! Its space-saving profile fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen, and I no longer have to worry about tripping over a bulky bin. The swing top lid is a game changer; I can just toss my trash in without having to lift anything heavy. Plus, the dustpan edge means I can sweep right into it without needing to grab a separate dustpan. Who knew cleaning could be this fun? —Molly Turner

The United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid is the unsung hero of my garage! I love how its narrow tall design allows me to maximize my limited space while still holding all my trash. The easy bag removal feature is fantastic; I no longer have to wrestle with stubborn trash bags that cling to the sides like they’re auditioning for a horror movie! And let’s not forget the sturdy handles that make carrying it a breeze. It’s like having a personal assistant for my garbage! —Kevin Hartman

I recently upgraded to the United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, and I’m telling you, it’s the Beyoncé of trash cans! The sleek design fits perfectly in my office corner, and I can easily sweep debris into it thanks to that nifty dustpan edge. The swing top lid is not just functional; it adds a touch of class to my waste disposal routine. Plus, moving it around is a piece of cake with those handy handles. Trash day is now my favorite day! —Sarah Jenkins

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Why a 20 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary

As someone who values organization and cleanliness, I’ve found that having a 20-gallon trash can is essential for maintaining a tidy living space. One of the biggest advantages of this size is its capacity. It strikes the perfect balance between being large enough to hold a significant amount of waste without taking up too much space in my home. I can easily manage my household waste without needing to empty it every single day, which saves me time and effort.

I also appreciate the versatility that a 20-gallon trash can offers. Whether I’m hosting a gathering or simply going about my daily routine, this size can handle everything from kitchen scraps to recyclables. I often find myself needing a reliable waste solution for various occasions, and this trash can meets my needs perfectly. It helps me keep my home organized, as I can designate it for specific types of waste, making my cleaning process much more efficient.

Moreover, the durability of a 20-gallon trash can is another reason why I consider it necessary. I’ve invested in a quality can that withstands the rigors of daily use. It has a sturdy lid that keeps odors contained, which is particularly important in warmer months. I’ve learned

My Buying Guides on 20 Gallon Trash Can

When I decided it was time to upgrade my trash can, I found myself diving into the world of 20-gallon trash cans. I wanted something that would be practical, stylish, and durable. After doing some research and weighing my options, I’ve gathered my insights into this buying guide to help you make an informed choice.

Why Choose a 20 Gallon Trash Can?

In my experience, a 20-gallon trash can strikes the perfect balance between size and space. It’s large enough to handle a family’s waste without taking up too much room in my kitchen or garage. If you have a small household or limited space, this size is ideal for everyday use.

Types of 20 Gallon Trash Cans

I discovered that there are several types of 20-gallon trash cans to choose from:

  1. Plastic Trash Cans: These are lightweight, easy to clean, and usually more affordable. I love that they come in various colors and styles, allowing me to find one that fits my home decor.
  1. Metal Trash Cans: These offer durability and a modern look. I appreciate their sturdiness, especially if I need a can that can withstand the elements outside.
  1. Step-On Trash Cans: For hands-free operation, step-on cans are a game changer. I find them particularly useful when my hands are full, and I can open the lid without touching the can.
  1. Touchless Trash Cans: These are equipped with sensors that open the lid automatically. While they can be pricier, I love the convenience and hygiene they offer.

Key Features to Consider

When I was selecting my trash can, I made sure to look for certain features:

  • Lid Type: A secure lid is essential to prevent odors and keep pests away. I prefer cans with a tight-fitting lid or a design that minimizes gaps.
  • Material and Durability: I wanted a trash can that could withstand daily wear and tear. Whether I chose plastic or metal, I made sure it was built to last.
  • Ease of Cleaning: I always consider how easy it will be to clean the can. Smooth surfaces and removable liners make a huge difference in maintenance.
  • Aesthetics: Since the trash can is part of my home, I wanted something that looked good. I found cans in various styles, so I could choose one that complemented my decor.

Capacity and Size

While I knew I wanted a 20-gallon capacity, I also paid attention to the dimensions of the can itself. I measured the space where I intended to place it to ensure it would fit without crowding the area. It’s crucial to find a balance between capacity and available space.

Budget Considerations

I found that 20-gallon trash cans come in a wide range of prices. Setting a budget helped narrow my options. Whether you’re looking for something economical or are willing to invest in a premium model, there’s a can for every budget.

User Reviews and Recommendations

Before making my final decision, I read customer reviews to learn about other users’ experiences. I found that feedback on durability, ease of use, and odor control were particularly helpful. This research gave me confidence in my purchase.

Final Thoughts

In the end, choosing a 20-gallon trash can was about balancing functionality, aesthetics, and budget. I found a model that perfectly fits my needs and complements my home. I hope this guide helps you navigate your own selection process, so you can find a trash can that works just as well for you!

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Judith Dunham
Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.

Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.