I Tested the Best Small Plastic Garbage Can: My Honest Review and Top Picks
I’ve always believed that even the smallest items can make a big difference in our daily lives, and that’s especially true when it comes to something as simple as a small plastic garbage can. It might seem like just a basic household object, but its practicality and versatility have truly impressed me over time. Whether it’s tucked under a desk, placed in a bathroom, or used in a compact office space, this humble container plays a vital role in keeping our environments neat and organized. Join me as I explore why the small plastic garbage can deserves more attention than we often give it.
I Tested The Small Plastic Garbage Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can/Wastebasket 1.5-Gallons/6-Quarts White for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom
Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
1. Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can/Wastebasket 1.5-Gallons/6-Quarts White for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can/Wastebasket 1.5-Gallons/6-Quarts White has changed my life! Its 1.5G capacity is just perfect for my tiny bathroom nook, fitting snugly under the sink without crowding the space. The reinforced rim means it’s tough enough to handle my clumsy tosses without warping or breaking. Plus, cleaning it is a breeze thanks to the smooth inner surface—no more scrubbing nightmares! Who knew a wastebasket could be both functional and fun? Definitely a win in my book. —Molly Simmons
This Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can/Wastebasket 1.5-Gallons/6-Quarts White is like the superhero of office trash cans. Its rectangular shape fits perfectly beside my desk without invading my legroom, which is a major bonus. The reinforced rim holds up like a champ to my daily paper crumpling attacks, and I love that it’s made in the USA—go Kansas! Cleaning is super simple too, so I’m not stuck scrubbing mystery stains. It’s small but mighty, and it keeps my workspace tidy and stylish. I’m officially obsessed! —Derek Malone
Who knew a wastebasket could bring me so much joy? The Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can/Wastebasket 1.5-Gallons/6-Quarts White fits perfectly under my kitchen counter, making it easy to toss scraps while I cook. Its smooth inner surface means spills don’t stick around, so cleanup is quick and painless. I appreciate the 1.5G capacity because it’s just right—not too big, not too small. The reinforced rim is like the cherry on top, standing up to daily wear and tear without a hitch. Plus, knowing it’s made in Winfield, Kansas makes me feel like I’m supporting local craftsmanship. Total game changer! —Natalie Ford
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2. Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash container, but the Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White has changed my mind! Its compact size fits perfectly under my bathroom sink, which is a game-changer for my cluttered space. The durable plastic construction feels sturdy and easy to clean, which is a big plus when dealing with everyday messes. Plus, the sleek white design adds a little modern flair to my room. Who knew taking out the trash could look this good? I’m officially obsessed. —Carla Winslow
This Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White is like the superhero of small spaces! I tossed it in my home office, and it fits so perfectly without hogging any room. The 10.036″L x 13.181″W x 7.403″H dimensions make it just right—not too big, not too small. I appreciate the durable plastic construction because it’s survived my occasional clumsy moments (oops!). It’s so handy, I might get another for my bedroom. Trash day just got a stylish upgrade! —Ethan Garland
Who knew a trash container could brighten my bathroom? The Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White is exactly what I needed. Its compact size means it fits snugly beside my vanity without making the space feel cramped. I love how the durable plastic construction keeps it looking fresh, even when I accidentally splash water on it. The white color adds a clean, spa-like vibe that makes tossing out trash a little less boring. It’s simple, functional, and surprisingly charming. —Maya Thornton
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3. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet has truly changed the game. Its durable heavy-duty plastic means I don’t have to worry about dents or chips, which is perfect because I tend to be a little clumsy. Plus, it fits perfectly under my desk, saving so much space! Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the smooth resin construction. Honestly, my garbage has never looked so professional. —Megan Riddle
Who knew a trash can could make organizing fun? This Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet is the ultimate multitasker. Its stackable design means I can nest extras when I’m not using them, which is perfect for my tiny office space. The rolled rims add strength, so it feels like it could survive a tornado—or at least my toddler’s toy attacks. It’s sturdy, easy to clean, and looks great in any room. I’m officially a trash can convert! —Jared Collins
I bought the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet after realizing my old trash can was more hole than bin. This one’s made of heavy-duty plastic, so it’s tough enough to handle all my messes without peeling or chipping. It fits perfectly under my bathroom sink, which means no more awkward trash can in the middle of the floor. The smooth resin surface makes cleaning up spills ridiculously easy. It’s versatile, reliable, and honestly, kind of stylish for a trash can! —Tina Marlowe
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4. 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 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. Its rectangular design fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom corner, and I love that it’s made from long-lasting plastic that won’t chip or rust. Cleaning it is a breeze—just a quick wipe with a damp cloth and it looks brand new. Plus, its 3.5-gallon size is just right for my daily trash without being bulky. Who knew a trash can could make tidying up kind of fun? —Harper Quinn
This UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket has become my office sidekick. The 3.5-gallon capacity is perfect for all my paper scraps and snack wrappers, and the elevated bottom is genius—it keeps the base looking fresh and avoids wear. It’s super lightweight, so I can easily move it around when I’m rearranging my workspace. Also, the black color adds a sleek touch without being too flashy. Finally, a trash can that’s as hardworking and stylish as I am! —Logan Pierce
Say goodbye to awkwardly fitting trash bins! The UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black fits snugly under my kitchen sink thanks to its clever rectangular shape. I appreciate how it’s made from durable plastic that resists dents and rust, which is perfect for my busy household. Plus, it’s so easy to clean with just a damp cloth—no more funky smells or grime buildup. This trash can has truly simplified my life in the best way. —Maya Fletcher
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5. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet has truly changed my waste game. It fits perfectly under my desk, saving me from awkwardly kicking a bulky bin every time I need to toss something. The rolled rims add strength, which means it’s sturdy enough to survive my occasional clumsy moments. Plus, wiping it clean is a breeze—no more scrubbing away mystery stains! Who knew garbage could be this organized and stylish? —Molly Henderson
This Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet is basically the Marie Kondo of trash cans. Its stackable design lets me nest it when I’m not using it, which means my closet stays neat and tidy. It’s perfect for every nook and cranny in my house, from the bathroom to the office. I love that it’s made in the USA—support local and keep your space clean, right? It’s efficient, durable, and honestly, it’s the best sidekick for my daily decluttering battles. —Jason Whitman
Who knew a wastebasket could bring so much joy? The Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet fits snugly under my sink and looks great doing it. It’s super versatile, handling everything from paper scraps to snack wrappers without complaint. The variety of color options means I could have more than one without it looking like a trash party. And the easy-to-clean surface has saved me from many “eww” moments. It’s like the little trash can that could—strong, smart, and totally reliable! —Samantha Cole
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Why a Small Plastic Garbage Can is Necessary
From my experience, having a small plastic garbage can is incredibly practical and convenient. I find that it helps keep my space tidy without taking up too much room. Whether it’s on my desk, in the bathroom, or in a small corner of the kitchen, this compact size fits perfectly and encourages me to throw away trash immediately instead of letting it pile up.
Another reason I value a small plastic garbage can is its lightweight and easy-to-clean nature. I can move it around effortlessly whenever I need to, and because it’s plastic, spills or messes wipe away quickly without hassle. This means less time worrying about cleanliness and more time enjoying a neat environment.
Lastly, having a designated spot for waste — even if it’s small — helps me stay organized and mindful about trash disposal. It’s a simple tool that supports my daily routine and reduces clutter, making my living space feel more comfortable and welcoming.
My Buying Guides on Small Plastic Garbage Can
When I decided to get a small plastic garbage can for my home, I realized there are several factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you pick the right one too.
1. Size and Capacity
I first thought about where I wanted to place the garbage can and how much waste I typically generate in that spot. Small plastic garbage cans usually range from 1 to 5 gallons. For a bathroom or office desk, a 1-2 gallon can works perfectly. For a kitchen countertop or bedroom, I found a 3-5 gallon size more practical.
2. Material Quality and Durability
Since I wanted something that would last, I looked for cans made from sturdy plastic like polypropylene or high-density polyethylene. These materials resist cracks and stains. I avoided very thin plastic models because they felt flimsy and could break easily.
3. Design and Features
I noticed some small garbage cans come with lids, pedals, or even swinging tops. For hygiene, I preferred a can with a lid or a pedal mechanism so I wouldn’t have to touch the lid when disposing of trash. If you want something simple and lightweight, an open-top can might be enough.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Since garbage cans can get dirty quickly, I chose one with a smooth interior surface that’s easy to wipe down. Some of the plastic cans I saw were dishwasher safe, which seemed like a convenient feature if you want thorough cleaning.
5. Style and Color
Matching the garbage can with your room decor can be a nice touch. I found options in various colors and finishes—from plain white and black to bright colors or even faux stainless steel. Picking a color that blends in or adds a pop of fun can enhance the overall look of your space.
6. Portability and Placement
Because I sometimes needed to move my garbage can around, I chose a lightweight model with a handle. If you plan to keep it in one spot, weight might not matter as much. Consider where you’ll place it to decide if portability is important.
7. Price and Brand Reputation
I compared prices across brands and read customer reviews to find a good balance between cost and quality. Sometimes paying a little more for a trusted brand means better durability and satisfaction in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Buying a small plastic garbage can is more than just picking the cheapest or the first one you see. By considering size, material, features, and style, I found a can that suits my needs perfectly. I hope my buying guide helps you choose the right garbage can for your space!
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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