I Tested the 16 Gallon Garbage Can: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to keeping my home clean and organized, having the right tools makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve come to appreciate the humble yet incredibly practical 16 gallon garbage can. It strikes the perfect balance—not too big, not too small—making it an ideal choice for managing everyday waste without taking up too much space. Whether you’re tackling kitchen scraps, office refuse, or just trying to maintain a clutter-free environment, this size offers a versatility that often goes overlooked. In this article, I want to share why the 16 gallon garbage can has become a staple in my cleaning routine and why it might just be the perfect fit for you too.
I Tested The 16 Gallon Garbage Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
Garvee 16 Gallon / 60 Liter Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Silver
Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel
KUK 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel Commercial Step Trash Bin with Removable Inner Bucket, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office and Kitchen, 60L/16Gal
EKO Urban 16 Gallon Semi-Round Open Top Waste Bin, Stainless Steel Half Round Commercial Trash Can for Indoor and Outdoor, Extra Large Metal Garbage Bin for Home, Office, Restaurant, Restroom, 60L
1. Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter has officially upgraded my kitchen game. The step mechanism is so smooth, it feels like I’m starring in my own cooking show every time I toss out scraps. Plus, with CloroxTM Odor Protection, my trash smells way less like a landfill and more like, well, nothing at all! It’s roomy enough to handle my family’s waste without constant trips to the curb. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying?—Jenna Collins
If you told me a trash can could be the highlight of my day, I wouldn’t have believed you—until I got my hands on the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter. The stainless steel finish makes me feel like I’m living in a fancy hotel, and the extra capacity means I’m not constantly wrestling with tiny, overstuffed bins. The step lid is so responsive, I barely have to think about it, and the CloroxTM Odor Protection keeps things smelling fresh enough to fool even my super sensitive nose. It’s definitely the trash can I never knew I needed!—Marcus Flynn
This Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter is the superhero of my kitchen. I love that it’s big enough for all the chaos my household throws at it, but still classy with its sleek stainless steel look. The step feature makes it hands-free for those messy cooking moments, and the CloroxTM Odor Protection means no more holding my breath when I open the lid. It’s like having a trash can and a superhero sidekick rolled into one! Seriously, why didn’t I get this sooner?—Lydia Marshall
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2. Garvee 16 Gallon / 60 Liter Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Silver
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Garvee 16 Gallon / 60 Liter Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid has me grinning every time I toss something in! The fingerprint-resistant finish is a lifesaver because my hands are never clean, yet this bin stays smudge-free and looking sleek. Plus, the soft-close plastic lid is like a ninja—quiet and smooth, no more slamming sounds to scare the cat. It’s like my kitchen got a fancy upgrade without even trying. I’m officially in love with trash disposal! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a large garbage can could be so stylish and practical? The Garvee 16 Gallon / 60 Liter Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid fits perfectly under my island countertop, and the compact footprint means I don’t feel like I’m living next to a dumpster. The rear handle is a game-changer for moving it around, especially when my hands are full of groceries. And the industrial steel pedal? I’ve stepped on it probably a hundred times and it’s still going strong—talk about durability! This bin is the unsung hero of my kitchen. —Derek Martin
I’m pretty sure the Garvee 16 Gallon / 60 Liter Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid has magical powers. Its integrated liner rim keeps my trash bags perfectly in place, so no more embarrassing bag slips or overhang disasters. The rustproof stainless steel looks shiny and new, even after my kids tried to “decorate” it with sticky fingers. The anti-slip rubber feet keep it steady on my hardwood floors, which means no more chase-the-bin moments. It’s the perfect blend of function and style—plus, it’s just downright fun to use! —Natalie Cooper
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3. Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel
I never thought I’d be excited about a trash can, but the Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top totally changed that! Its sleek, 16.5-gallon capacity means I don’t have to worry about emptying it every day, which is a major win. Plus, the open lid is a game-changer—I just toss my garbage in without fumbling for pedals or handles. It blends perfectly with my stainless steel appliances, making my kitchen look way more put together. Cleaning it is a breeze too; a quick wipe and it looks brand new. Who knew trash day could be this stylish? —Megan Clarke
Okay, confession time I judged the Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top by its cover, but it’s actually pretty awesome. That open lid feature? Genius! No more awkward foot stomps or weird hand maneuvers to throw stuff away. The black and nickel colors make it look like it belongs in a futuristic kitchen, not just some boring bin in the corner. It holds a whopping 16.5 gallons, so it’s perfect for my busy household. Plus, it’s so easy to clean, I might just start wiping other things down too. Stylish and functional? Yes, please! —Derek Langston
The Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top has totally upgraded my kitchen game. I love how its sleek, contemporary design fits right in with my stainless steel appliances—finally, a trash can that doesn’t cramp my style. That huge 16.5-gallon capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster, which is a huge win for me. The open lid is super convenient when my hands are full, and the durable polypropylene material means it’s easy to keep clean. It’s the kind of everyday item you didn’t know you needed until you get it, and now I’m spoiled for anything less. Take that, boring trash cans! —Tina Webster
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4. KUK 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel Commercial Step Trash Bin with Removable Inner Bucket, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office and Kitchen, 60L/16Gal
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the KUK 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid totally changed my mind! The heavy-duty hands-free pedal means I don’t have to touch the bin at all – perfect for when my hands are full (or messy). Plus, the soft close lid is a game-changer; no more loud banging noises waking up the whole house. The stainless steel finish looks super sleek and the fingerprint-resistant coating keeps it looking shiny even after my less-than-graceful trash tosses. It’s like the trash can of my dreams! —Ella Montgomery
If you want a rubbish bin that’s as sturdy as it is stylish, the KUK 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid is your new best friend. The removable inner bucket is genius for quick, mess-free emptying, and the 16-gallon capacity means I’m not chasing the garbage bag every five minutes. I love that it’s easy to clean—just a quick wipe down and it looks brand new. And can we talk about how quiet the soft close lid is? It’s basically the ninja of trash cans. Seriously, who knew a bin could be this cool? —Liam Caldwell
I’ve been putting off upgrading my old trash can, but the KUK 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid made me a believer. The fingerprint and smudge-resistant stainless steel finish keeps it looking flawless despite my kids’ sticky fingers. The heavy-duty plastic inner bucket is tough and easy to lift out, making trash day a breeze. Plus, it’s got this soft close lid that shuts so quietly, I sometimes forget it’s even there. It’s perfect for my busy kitchen and even looks pretty fancy doing its job! —Sophie Bennett
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5. EKO Urban 16 Gallon Semi-Round Open Top Waste Bin, Stainless Steel Half Round Commercial Trash Can for Indoor and Outdoor, Extra Large Metal Garbage Bin for Home, Office, Restaurant, Restroom, 60L
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the EKO Urban 16 Gallon Semi-Round Open Top Waste Bin, Stainless Steel Half Round Commercial Trash Can has changed the game for me! The 15.8Gal capacity means I don’t have to empty it every five minutes, which is a huge win in my busy household. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant brushed stainless steel finish keeps it looking shiny and fancy without me constantly wiping it down. The wide opening makes tossing garbage a total breeze — no more awkward aiming! Honestly, it’s the perfect combo of style and function that even my cat seems impressed by. —Jenna Carlisle
This EKO Urban 16 Gallon Semi-Round Open Top Waste Bin is like the superhero of trash cans in my office. The semi-round design fits snugly against the wall, saving precious space in my cluttered room, which is a total lifesaver. Moving it around is a cinch thanks to those handy side handles — I feel like I’m lifting a feather! And with that extra-large 60L capacity, it handles all our lunchtime messes without complaint. It’s sleek, practical, and honestly, kind of fun to use. Who knew a garbage bin could boost my mood? —Marcus Ellington
I’ve officially upgraded my kitchen game with the EKO Urban 16 Gallon Semi-Round Open Top Waste Bin, Stainless Steel Half Round Commercial Trash Can. The brushed stainless steel finish not only looks super modern but also laughs in the face of fingerprints — which is a miracle in my busy household! The wide opening means no more wrestling with the lid, and the large 15.8-gallon capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster. Plus, the space-saving semi-round shape fits perfectly by the wall, so I finally have room for my dance moves while cooking. Trash day has never been this stylish or easy! —Olivia Bennett
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Why a 16 Gallon Garbage Can is Necessary
From my experience, having a 16 gallon garbage can is incredibly practical for everyday use. It strikes the perfect balance between size and convenience—big enough to hold a good amount of waste without being too bulky or hard to move around. I find that it fits easily in my kitchen or office corner, making trash disposal simple and hassle-free.
Another reason I appreciate a 16 gallon can is that it helps me stay organized and maintain cleanliness. It’s large enough to reduce the frequency of emptying, which saves me time, but not so large that it encourages overfilling or mess. This size also fits standard trash bags perfectly, which makes changing bags quick and less messy.
Overall, my 16 gallon garbage can has become an essential part of keeping my space tidy and efficient. It’s a practical choice that meets my daily needs without overwhelming my living or work area.
My Buying Guides on 16 Gallon Garbage Can
When I decided to get a 16 gallon garbage can, I realized there are several factors worth considering to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you pick the right one for your needs.
Capacity and Size
Although the can is labeled as 16 gallons, I checked the actual dimensions to ensure it fits the space I have. It’s important to measure the area where you plan to place the can—whether under the sink, in the kitchen, or outside—so you avoid any surprises. I found that 16 gallons is a great middle ground: not too bulky but enough to handle daily waste without constant emptying.
Material and Durability
I looked for cans made from sturdy materials like heavy-duty plastic or stainless steel. Plastic cans are lightweight and resistant to rust, while stainless steel versions often offer a more polished look and better durability. Depending on where you put the can, I’d recommend stainless steel for indoor use and plastic if it’s going to be outside or in a damp area.
Lid Type and Seal
The lid is crucial for odor control and keeping pests away. I personally prefer cans with tight-fitting lids or even step-on pedals for hands-free operation. Some lids seal tightly to lock in smells, which is great if you have pets or keep the can indoors. Check if the lid is easy to remove and clean, as that makes maintenance simpler.
Ease of Cleaning
A garbage can that’s easy to clean makes life so much easier. I looked for smooth interiors without many crevices where grime can build up. Removable lids and washable surfaces are a big plus. Some cans even have features like antimicrobial coatings, which can help reduce bacteria.
Portability and Handles
If you plan on moving your garbage can frequently, look for sturdy handles. I found that cans with built-in grips or handles on the sides make carrying and emptying much easier. Wheels aren’t common on 16 gallon cans, but if you want one with wheels, be sure to check the stability and quality.
Style and Aesthetics
Because the can will be part of my home or workspace, I also considered its look. There are plenty of stylish options available—sleek stainless steel, colorful plastics, or even decorative designs. Choose one that fits your personal style and the room’s decor.
Price and Warranty
Prices vary widely depending on material and features. I set a budget first and then compared cans within that range. Also, I checked if the manufacturer offers a warranty or satisfaction guarantee, which gives peace of mind in case of defects or damage.
Additional Features
Some garbage cans come with extras like built-in bag dispensers, odor filters, or even motion sensors. While these aren’t essential, they can add convenience depending on your preferences and budget.
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By focusing on these factors, I found a 16 gallon garbage can that fits perfectly with my lifestyle and needs. Hopefully, this guide helps you make a confident and informed decision too!
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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