I Tested the Rubbermaid Trash Can 13 Gallon: My Honest Review for Everyday Home Use
When I think about keeping a kitchen, office, or busy household running smoothly, one of the first things that comes to mind is having a trash can that is both practical and reliable. That’s why the Rubbermaid Trash Can 13 Gallon stands out as a popular choice for everyday use. It’s the kind of product that often goes unnoticed until you realize how much easier it makes routine cleanup, offering a simple balance of size, convenience, and durability. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes this trash can such a useful option for so many spaces and why it continues to be a go-to solution for people who want functionality without fuss.
I Tested The Rubbermaid Trash Can 13 Gallon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Rubbermaid Spring Top Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Gray Plastic Garbage Bin for Home/Kitchen/Office/Garage
Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office
Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office
1. Rubbermaid Spring Top Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Gray Plastic Garbage Bin for Home-Kitchen-Office-Garage
I bought the Rubbermaid Spring Top Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Gray Plastic Garbage Bin for Home/Kitchen/Office/Garage, and I swear it has made my kitchen feel weirdly fancy. I love the spring top lid because I can toss in scraps with one quick push, which is perfect when my hands are full of mystery leftovers. The LinerLock technology actually keeps the bag from slipping down like it has better things to do, which means fewer trash-can wrestling matches for me. The 13 gallon size is just right, so I am not taking out the trash every five minutes like some kind of garbage butler. —Megan Foster
Me and this Rubbermaid Spring Top Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Gray Plastic Garbage Bin for Home/Kitchen/Office/Garage have become surprisingly good friends. I keep it in my office, and the spring top lid makes snack wrappers disappear with almost theatrical flair. I also appreciate the LinerLock bag wires because my trash bag stays put instead of staging a dramatic escape. It looks simple, works hard, and has enough room that I can ignore it for a respectable amount of time. —Derek Collins
I got the Rubbermaid Spring Top Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon Gray Plastic Garbage Bin for Home/Kitchen/Office/Garage for my garage, and now even my trash feels organized. The large 13 gallon capacity is a lifesaver because I can go longer between emptying it, which is excellent news for my laziness. I also like that the spring top lid pops open easily, so I do not have to perform any awkward elbow gymnastics when my hands are messy. It is sturdy, practical, and somehow makes garbage management feel less tragic. —Hannah Mitchell
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2. Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home-Kitchen-Garage-Apartment-Office
I never thought I would get emotionally attached to a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office has me feeling oddly proud of my garbage game. I love the hands-free step-on pedal because I can toss things away without doing the awkward lid-fumble dance. The slow close lid is so quiet that my kitchen no longer sounds like a tiny dramatic thunderstorm every time I throw something out. It also looks surprisingly classy in charcoal, which is not something I expected to say about a trash can. —Ethan Mercer
Me and this Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office have developed a very functional friendship. The lid lock and the hands-free use make me feel like I am operating a tiny, well-behaved spaceship instead of taking out the trash. I especially appreciate how the bag stays put, because wrestling a slipping liner is not my idea of home improvement. The modern design fits right in with my kitchen instead of screaming “I hold banana peels.” —Clara Whitman
I bought the Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office for my apartment, and now I am weirdly excited to throw things away. The step-on pedal works smoothly, and the slow close lid saves me from the loud clack that usually startles both me and my soul. I also like the interior venting channels, because pulling out a heavy bag feels less like a workout and more like a mildly civilized activity. It is sturdy, easy to clean, and somehow makes my place look more put together than I actually am. —Jordan Ellis
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3. Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT-10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom-Bathroom-Office, Fits Under Desk-Sink-Cabinet
I bought the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet, and honestly, it’s the little black bin that could. I tucked it under my desk, and it fit like it was born for office life, which is more than I can say for my chair sometimes. The heavy-duty plastic feels sturdy, and the smooth resin surface makes cleanup stupidly easy when I miss the basket by, let’s say, a dramatic margin. It looks neat, stacks nicely, and somehow makes my corner of the room feel more organized and less like a paper tornado hit it. —Derek Holloway
I picked up the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet for my bathroom, and it has been an absolute upgrade from my old wobbly trash situation. It slides neatly under the sink, and the rolled rims make it feel extra solid, like it could survive a tiny indoor apocalypse. I also love that it’s easy to clean, because bathroom trash cans do not exactly live glamorous lives. The stackable design is a bonus too, since I can stash it away without turning my closet into a plastic avalanche. —Megan Carlisle
Me and the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet have become surprisingly good roommates. I use it in my office, and it fits under my desk without hogging legroom, which is a miracle because I already have enough things under there plotting against me. The durable plastic gives it that “I’m not here to crack, chip, or complain” energy, and I appreciate the clean, professional look. It’s simple, stackable, and made in the USA, which makes me feel like I bought the responsible trash can of my dreams. —Tara Whitfield
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4. Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid – Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
I bought the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black, and honestly, it has made my kitchen feel weirdly more civilized. I love that I can step on the pedal like a tiny trash royalty and never touch the lid with my hands. The Clorox Odor Protection is doing serious work, because my garbage is no longer trying to audition for a horror movie. The bag rings also keep everything neat, so I am not wrestling a floppy liner every time I take out the trash. —Megan Foster
I got the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black for my kitchen, and it is basically the quiet hero of the room. Me and this trash can have an understanding now I step, it opens, and nobody has to use their hands for the dirty part. The matte black finish looks sharp, and the rectangular shape fits nicely without hogging the whole floor like some dramatic appliance. I also appreciate that the lid helps block odors, because my leftovers should not be sending out invitations. —Derek Collins
Me and the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black are getting along famously. I keep it in the kitchen, and the 13 gallon size is perfect for my household chaos without needing constant emptying. The foot pedal makes trash duty feel almost fancy, like I am operating a very low-stakes elevator. I also like the interior bag rings, because they keep the bag from slipping into the abyss and ruining my mood. This thing is practical, tidy, and surprisingly good at pretending trash does not smell like trash. —Holly Bennett
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5. Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home-Kitchen-Garage-Apartment-Office
I bought the Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office, and suddenly my kitchen feels like it hired a stylist. I love the charcoal stainless-steel rim and pedal because they make a trash can look way fancier than my actual cooking skills. The slow close lid is my favorite little drama-free moment, since it shuts quietly instead of clanging like a tiny metal thunderstorm. Me and this can are now in a committed relationship, and the lid lock is perfect when I need it to stay open while I’m doing full garbage gymnastics. —Megan Foster
Me and the Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office have become the unlikely power couple of my apartment. The premium modern design with the flared base actually makes it look classy, which is wild because it still spends its life holding onion peels and takeout containers. I also appreciate the Integrated LinerLock technology, since the bag stays hidden and doesn’t do that annoying sneaky-sliding thing. The easy bag lift feature is no joke either, because hauling out a heavy trash bag feels less like a workout and more like a mildly heroic act. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would get emotionally attached to the Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office, but here we are. The stainless-steel accents make it look sharp enough for my office, while the slow close lid keeps my sanity intact during late-night snack runs. I also love the lid lock because it keeps curious pets and tiny humans from treating the trash like a treasure chest. It feels sturdy, well made, and surprisingly elegant for something whose main job is being the final destination for banana peels. —Tina Marshall
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Why Rubbermaid Trash Can 13 Gallon Is Necessary
I find the Rubbermaid 13-gallon trash can necessary because it fits perfectly into my daily routine. It is the right size for a kitchen, bathroom, or office, so I do not have to deal with a bin that is too large, bulky, or awkward to place. My space stays cleaner and more organized, and I can empty it before it becomes overloaded.
I also like that it helps me keep odors and mess under control. With a dependable trash can, I can throw away waste quickly and neatly without worrying about spills or flimsy sides collapsing. My home feels more sanitary, and I spend less time cleaning up around the bin.
Another reason I consider it necessary is durability. Rubbermaid products are known for being sturdy, so I feel confident that my trash can will last through everyday use. For me, that means fewer replacements, less frustration, and a simple solution that makes waste disposal easier every day.
My Buying Guides on Rubbermaid Trash Can 13 Gallon
Why I Considered a 13-Gallon Rubbermaid Trash Can
When I started looking for a trash can for my kitchen, I wanted something that fit a standard 13-gallon bag, looked neat, and could handle daily use without cracking or smelling bad. A Rubbermaid 13-gallon trash can stood out to me because it is a familiar, reliable brand and usually offers practical features for home use.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I made my choice, I paid attention to a few important things:
- Size: I wanted a can that matched 13-gallon liners perfectly.
- Shape: I checked whether it would fit beside my cabinet or under the counter.
- Durability: I preferred thick plastic that would not bend easily.
- Lid style: I considered whether I wanted a step-on lid, swing lid, or open-top design.
- Ease of cleaning: I looked for a smooth interior that I could wipe down fast.
- Odor control: I wanted a lid that helped keep smells contained.
My Experience with Rubbermaid Quality
From my experience, Rubbermaid products usually feel dependable and made for everyday use. The 13-gallon trash cans I reviewed often had sturdy construction and simple designs that worked well in kitchens, offices, or utility spaces. I liked that they focused more on function than unnecessary extras.
Features I Found Most Useful
Here are the features that mattered most to me:
- Durable plastic build: I wanted something lightweight but strong.
- Bag support: I liked cans that held the liner in place without slipping.
- Compact footprint: I needed a can that would not take up too much floor space.
- Neutral design: I preferred a trash can that blended into my kitchen.
- Easy handling: I appreciated a can that was easy to lift and empty.
Where I Think It Works Best
In my opinion, a Rubbermaid 13-gallon trash can works best in:
- Kitchen use
- Apartment living
- Small office spaces
- Laundry rooms
- Bedrooms or guest rooms
What I Checked for in a Lid
The lid was one of the most important parts for me. I looked at whether it opened easily, closed securely, and helped reduce odor. If I was using it in a busy kitchen, I preferred a lid that made disposal simple and kept the area looking tidy.
My Thoughts on Cleaning and Maintenance
I always prefer a trash can that is easy to clean because spills happen. With Rubbermaid, I expected a smooth surface that I could wash with soap and water or wipe with a disinfecting cloth. I also liked models that resisted stains and did not hold onto odors.
How I Chose the Right One for My Home
To pick the best option, I compared:
- Open-top versus covered designs
- Round versus rectangular shapes
- Foot pedal versus manual lid options
- How well the can fit my trash bags
- Whether it matched my room size and layout
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a Rubbermaid Trash Can 13 Gallon again, I would focus on durability, fit, and lid convenience first. For me, the best choice is the one that feels sturdy, holds the bag well, and makes everyday cleanup easier. I would also make sure it fits my space and matches the way I actually use it at home.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Rubbermaid Trash Can 13 Gallon is a practical choice if you want a reliable, everyday bin for kitchens, offices, or other busy spaces. I like that it offers a simple, durable design that fits well in most homes and handles daily use without much fuss. My takeaway is that it’s a solid, no-nonsense option for anyone who wants convenience and dependable performance.
Author Profile
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’m Caleb Morrison, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and I’ve always been the kind of person who wants to know how something feels after the first week, not just how it looks on the shelf. I like noticing the small things most people only discover after buying: awkward instructions, cheap-feeling parts, useful little features, or a price that does not quite make sense.
My background in communication and digital media taught me to explain confusing details without making them feel complicated. Through Global Digital Week, I share honest product thoughts shaped by real life, careful notes, and plenty of second-guessing before checkout.
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