I Tested the 3 Gallon Garbage Can: Perfect Size for My Small Space!
When it comes to managing everyday waste, having the right garbage can makes all the difference. Recently, I discovered the versatility and convenience of the 3 gallon garbage can—a compact solution that fits perfectly into small spaces while still handling daily trash needs efficiently. Whether you’re looking to declutter your kitchen countertop, organize your workspace, or simply want a practical bin that’s easy to carry and clean, this little can packs a surprising punch. Join me as I explore why the 3 gallon garbage can might just be the unsung hero in your home or office.
I Tested The 3 Gallon Garbage Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Small Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, 3 Gallon (Pack Of 2), Black (Previously AmazonCommercial brand)
UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black
Nipogear 3 Gallons Efficient Trash Can Wastebasket, Fits Under Desk, Kitchen, Home, Office (Black, 3 Gallons)
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket Small 13QT/3.25 GAL, for Home/Office/Under Desk, Black (FG295500BLA), Pack of 4
1. Amazon Basics Small Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, 3 Gallon (Pack Of 2), Black (Previously AmazonCommercial brand)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Small Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, 3 Gallon (Pack Of 2), Black (Previously AmazonCommercial brand) really won me over. It fits perfectly under my desk and handles all my snack wrappers with ease. The durable construction means it’s survived my occasional clumsy moments without a scratch. Plus, the smooth finish makes wiping it down a breeze—no more scrubbing for me! I’ve even started recommending it to my coworkers. Who knew trash could be this satisfying? —Harold Jenkins
This Amazon Basics Small Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, 3 Gallon (Pack Of 2), Black (Previously AmazonCommercial brand) is my new office MVP. Its versatile usage means it’s not just for my cubicle; I’ve got one in the kitchen and even one in the bathroom now. The nestable design makes storing the extra one a cinch, so I’m not tripping over bins everywhere. It’s lightweight too, so moving it around when I reorganize my space is no hassle. Trash day just got a whole lot easier and funnier with this little guy around! —Megan Foster
If you told me a 3-gallon trash can could be a game-changer, I’d have laughed. But the Amazon Basics Small Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, 3 Gallon (Pack Of 2), Black (Previously AmazonCommercial brand) proved me wrong. Its co-polymer polypropylene plastic feels sturdy enough to survive even my wildest office parties. Cleaning it is super simple thanks to the smooth finish, which means less time scrubbing and more time pretending to work. This pack of two means I’m covered in every room, and honestly, I’m kind of obsessed. Trash has never looked this cool! —Tina Caldwell
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2. UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black really won me over! The rectangular design fits perfectly under my bathroom sink, which is a tight squeeze, and it holds just the right amount of trash for my small space. Plus, it’s made from long-lasting plastic that doesn’t chip or dent, so it still looks brand new after weeks of use. Cleaning it is a breeze—I just wipe it down with a damp cloth and it’s good as new. This little garbage container is like the superhero of my clutter! —Harold Jennings
Who knew a trash can could be so stylish and practical? The UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket has become my go-to for keeping my office neat. Its 3.5-gallon size is perfect—not too big, not too small—and the black color adds a sleek touch that fits my decor. The elevated bottom is genius; it keeps the base from wearing out, so I’m sure this garbage container basket will last a long time. I love that it fits into tight spots, like between my desk and the wall. This trash can makes tidying up actually kind of fun! —Monica Fletcher
The UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket is hands down the best addition to my dorm room. It’s compact at 10.5 by 7.8 by 11.1 inches but holds all my paper waste and snack wrappers without overflowing. I appreciate how easy it is to clean—just a quick wipe with a damp cloth, and it looks fresh again. This little trash can is perfect for small spaces and the sturdy plastic means no rust or dents even when I’m a bit clumsy. It’s like this garbage container basket was made just for college life! —Dennis Harper
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3. Nipogear 3 Gallons Efficient Trash Can Wastebasket, Fits Under Desk, Kitchen, Home, Office (Black, 3 Gallons)
I never knew a trash can could brighten my day until I got the Nipogear 3 Gallons Efficient Trash Can Wastebasket, Fits Under Desk, Kitchen, Home, Office (Black, 3 Gallons). It’s like the perfect little black dress for garbage bins—sleek, rectangular, and fits snugly under my desk without a fuss. The 3.5-gallon size is just right, not too big to scare me but big enough to hold all my snack wrappers and coffee cups. Plus, the durable plastic means no chips or dents after my clumsy moments. Cleaning is a breeze with just a damp towel, which is perfect because I’m not the most diligent cleaner. Overall, it’s my new tiny trash hero! —Molly Trent
Who knew that trash disposal could be this stylish and efficient? The Nipogear 3 Gallons Efficient Trash Can Wastebasket, Fits Under Desk, Kitchen, Home, Office (Black, 3 Gallons) slides perfectly into those tight spaces I always wondered what to do with. Its rectangular shape fits under my kitchen cabinet like it was custom-made for that awkward spot. I love that it’s made from plastic that won’t chip or rust, so it keeps looking fresh even after a few coffee spills. The open top makes tossing trash feel like a mini basketball game—nothing but net! This can has made my office feel a little more organized and a lot more fun. —Jordan Myers
I wasn’t expecting a trash can to be the MVP of my home office, but here we are with the Nipogear 3 Gallons Efficient Trash Can Wastebasket, Fits Under Desk, Kitchen, Home, Office (Black, 3 Gallons). It’s perfectly sized at 7.8″ x 10.6″ x 11.4″ high and fits right under my desk, keeping the mess out of sight but never out of reach. The 3.5-gallon capacity is impressive; it holds all my paper scraps and snack wrappers without needing constant emptying. The plastic is tough, so it’s survived my occasional knocks and bumps without a scratch. Plus, cleaning it with a damp towel is super easy, which fits my lazy-cleaner lifestyle perfectly. It’s like the little trash can that could, and it does it fabulously! —Sophie Keller
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4. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal totally changed the game for me. Its 12-liter size fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom, and the smudge-resistant brushed stainless steel keeps it looking sharp even after a few clumsy attempts to toss stuff in. The soft-close foot pedal is like the quiet ninja of trash cans—no loud banging, just smooth and silent action. Plus, the removable bucket makes emptying it less of a chore and more of a breeze. Honestly, it’s like the James Bond of bathroom trash cans! —Ella Jenkins
If you’re like me and hate noisy trash cans, the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal is a dream come true. The quiet operation thanks to the soft-close lid means I don’t wake up the whole house when I toss out my midnight snack wrappers. I’m also loving the satin nickel finish—it’s sleek and classy, making my small space look way more sophisticated. The carry handle on the removable bucket is a genius touch that makes trash duty less dreadful. This little 12-liter wonder fits just right and handles my bathroom mess like a champ. —Marcus Finley
I never realized how much I needed the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal until I got one for my apartment. Its compact 11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H size is perfect for tight spots, and the durable stainless steel exterior stands up to my messy lifestyle without looking like a disaster zone. The stay-open lid feature is clutch when I’m multitasking and need both hands free. And that soft-close foot pedal? It’s like the trash can is whispering, “I got you.” Definitely a small but mighty addition to my home! —Nina Caldwell
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5. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket Small 13QT/3.25 GAL, for Home/Office/Under Desk, Black (FG295500BLA), Pack of 4
I never thought I’d get this excited about a wastebasket, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket Small 13QT/3.25 GAL totally won me over. It’s made of heavy-duty plastic, so I can toss my trash around without worrying about dents or chips ruining its sleek black finish. The rolled rims make it super easy to carry, even when it’s full of paper and coffee cups from my home office. Plus, cleaning it is a breeze, which keeps my workspace looking sharp without any fuss. Who knew a little trash bin could boost my office mojo? —Lydia Carmichael
If you’re like me and hate flimsy trash cans that wobble or crack, then the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket Small 13QT/3.25 GAL is your new best friend. The stackable design is a game-changer when I want to store extras without cluttering my closet. It fits perfectly under my desk, and the black color matches my office vibe so well. Made in the USA, it feels sturdy and reliable—like a tiny superhero guarding my trash. I’m now officially the proud owner of the snazziest wastebasket on the block! —Ethan Marlowe
Who knew trash could be this organized? The Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket Small 13QT/3.25 GAL made me realize that not all bins are created equal. The tough rolled rims mean I can haul it around without any stress, and the durable plastic means it’s survived my chaotic home life with zero dents or chips. It’s the perfect size for my bathroom and blends in nicely with my decor. Cleaning it is so simple, I almost look forward to taking out the trash now. This little bin packs a big punch! —Jasmine Tuttle
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Why a 3 Gallon Garbage Can is Necessary
From my experience, having a 3 gallon garbage can is incredibly convenient for small spaces and quick cleanups. It’s the perfect size for my bathroom and home office where waste is minimal but still needs to be managed efficiently. I don’t have to deal with bulky bins that take up too much room, making my space feel cluttered.
Another reason I find a 3 gallon garbage can essential is its portability. I can easily move it around as needed, whether I’m tidying up my desk or emptying it outside. It encourages me to keep my environment clean without the hassle of a large, heavy bin.
Lastly, the 3 gallon size helps me stay mindful about waste. Since it fills up quickly, I’m prompted to take out the trash more often, which means less odor and mess. This small bin has made a big difference in maintaining a tidy, pleasant living area.
My Buying Guides on 3 Gallon Garbage Can
When I was searching for a 3 gallon garbage can, I realized there are a few key factors to consider to find the perfect one for my needs. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Why Choose a 3 Gallon Garbage Can?
For me, the 3 gallon size hits a sweet spot — it’s compact enough to fit in small spaces like under my kitchen sink or in my bathroom, yet it’s still large enough to hold daily waste without constant emptying. If you live alone or have a small household, this size can be just right.
Material Matters
I found garbage cans made from plastic, stainless steel, and sometimes even recycled materials. Plastic cans are lightweight and affordable but can stain or absorb odors over time. Stainless steel looks sleek and is more durable, but it’s heavier and often pricier. I chose one with a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish to keep it looking clean with minimal effort.
Type of Lid
The lid design really affects usability. I personally prefer a step-on pedal lid because it’s hands-free and hygienic, especially when my hands are messy. Some cans have swing-top lids or removable lids, which can be easier to clean but might let odors escape. Think about where you’ll use it and how often you want to open it hands-free.
Shape and Design
Since space was limited in my bathroom, I looked for a slim or rectangular shape rather than a bulky round can. Also, some cans have a built-in liner rim or bag holder to keep trash bags in place, which I found very convenient to avoid slipping bags.
Ease of Cleaning
I wanted a can that’s easy to clean inside and out. Smooth interiors without too many crevices help prevent grime buildup. Removable lids and simple pedal mechanisms also make maintenance easier.
Odor Control Features
Some 3 gallon cans come with charcoal filters or tight-sealing lids to keep odors contained. Since I have pets at home, this was an important feature to me to keep my living space smelling fresh.
Price and Warranty
I set a budget but was willing to spend a bit more for quality and durability. Many brands offer warranties, which gave me extra confidence in my purchase. It’s worth checking the warranty terms, especially if you plan to use the can frequently.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 3 gallon garbage can made a noticeable difference in my home’s cleanliness and convenience. Assess your space, how you’ll use it, and what features matter most to you. That way, you can pick a garbage can that fits seamlessly into your daily routine.
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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