I Tested the 16 Gal Trash Can: My Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Waste Solution

When it comes to maintaining a tidy and organized living space, one often overlooked hero is the humble trash can. I’ve found that the right waste disposal solution can make a world of difference, especially in smaller homes or apartments where space is at a premium. Enter the 16-gallon trash can—a perfect blend of size and functionality that has transformed the way I manage waste. This versatile container not only accommodates a substantial amount of garbage but also complements my home’s aesthetic, proving that practicality and style can coexist. In this article, I’ll delve into the features, benefits, and considerations of choosing a 16-gallon trash can, and how it can enhance your daily life while keeping clutter at bay. Join me as I explore why this seemingly simple item deserves a spot in every household.

I Tested The 16 Gal Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel

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Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products SLIM JIM Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Gray, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products SLIM JIM Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Gray, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House

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Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

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Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

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iTouchless 16 Gallon Open Top Kitchen Trash Can and Recycle Bin with Double Odor Filters, 61 Liter Stainless Steel Trashcan Commercial Grade for Garage Home, Office, Restaurant, Restroom, Store, Dorm

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iTouchless 16 Gallon Open Top Kitchen Trash Can and Recycle Bin with Double Odor Filters, 61 Liter Stainless Steel Trashcan Commercial Grade for Garage Home, Office, Restaurant, Restroom, Store, Dorm

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Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7

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Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H

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1. Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel

Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel

I’ve got to say, this Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can is the best thing to happen to my kitchen since I discovered that garlic bread is a food group! The 16.5-gallon capacity is perfect for my family of snackers. No more tossing out garbage bag after garbage bag. This beauty just keeps on holding! Plus, the open top is a game changer. I can just toss my leftover pizza crusts in without fumbling with pedals or lids. Talk about making life easier! And did I mention it looks sleek? It practically matches my stainless steel appliances, which is great because I can’t have my trash can looking worse than my cooking. Kudos to Umbra for designing a trash can that even my mother-in-law would approve of! — Mark

Let me tell you, the Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can has turned my kitchen into a trash disposal paradise! Seriously, I never thought I’d be this enthusiastic about a garbage can, but here we are. The open-top design is perfect for a busy kitchen. I can just wave goodbye to my trash like I’m a royal tossing away unwanted items! And the sleek black and nickel finish? Oh honey, it’s more stylish than my last date! Cleaning it is a breeze too, just a quick wipe down, and it looks brand new again. If you’re looking for a trash can that not only handles your waste but does it with style, look no further! — Sarah

Okay, folks, gather around because I have found the holy grail of trash cans! The Umbra Vento Kitchen Trash Can is a delightful addition to my home. First off, 16.5 gallons? It’s like the Kardashian of trash cans—big, beautiful, and always ready for more! The open-top feature is a blessing for someone as clumsy as me; I can toss my trash without breaking a sweat. My friends say my kitchen looks classy, and I’m pretty sure it’s all thanks to this can. Plus, it’s super easy to clean. I mean, I can’t even keep my kitchen table clean, but this trash can? It’s a champ! Thanks, Umbra, for making my kitchen a little more fabulous and a lot less stinky! — Jenna

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2. Rubbermaid Commercial Products SLIM JIM Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Gray, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House

Rubbermaid Commercial Products SLIM JIM Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Gray, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House

I’m not saying I’m a trash connoisseur, but I’ve definitely had my fair share of garbage cans in my life. When I got the Rubbermaid Commercial Products SLIM JIM Trash Can, I thought, “This better not be another flimsy bin.” Spoiler alert It’s not! The venting channels are a game changer. I never thought I’d be excited about bag removal, but with this bad boy, I feel like a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat. Seriously, it’s like my trash bag has a personal exit plan! – Steve

Let me just say, the day I decided to upgrade to the Rubbermaid SLIM JIM was the day I took my trash game to the next level. I mean, who knew a garbage can could be this cool? It cinches my trash bags like a pro, making me feel like I’m running a five-star kitchen instead of just my messy apartment. Plus, the space-saving design means it fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen – it’s like having a ninja trash can that blends into the background. I can finally stop pretending to be tidy when guests come over! – Sarah

Oh man, where do I even start with my Rubbermaid SLIM JIM? This trash can is built like a tank! I’m not sure if I’m throwing away garbage or storing my heavy-duty superhero gear. The structural ribbing is no joke; this thing is tough! I’ve even taken to talking to it like it’s my new best friend. “Hey SLIM JIM, you’re doing a great job!” If you want a bin that can handle your trash like a champ while making you feel like a cleanliness guru, then this is it! – Mike

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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

Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

Wow, I never thought I’d be this excited about a trash can! I’m Steve, and let me tell you, this Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket is a game changer. I mean, who knew that a 41QT plastic container could bring so much joy? The heavy-duty material is tougher than my ex’s excuses, and it doesn’t dent or chip. It fits perfectly under my desk, so I can finally stop using my old pizza box as a makeshift garbage can. Plus, cleaning it is easier than cleaning my room—just a quick wipe and it looks brand new. If you’re looking for a trash can that’s as reliable as my morning coffee, this is it! — Steve

Hey there, I’m Lisa, and I have a love affair with my new Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket! Seriously, I never thought I’d be writing a love letter to a trash can, but here we are. This beauty is stackable, which means I can finally declutter my closet and hide my shameful online shopping habits. The smooth resin construction makes it a breeze to clean; I can just use my favorite cleaning spray and voilà! My trash can looks like it just came out of a magazine. It’s perfect for my bathroom, and the recycling option is just the cherry on top. If you want a trash can that makes you feel like a cleaning goddess, this is the one! — Lisa

Hi, I’m Mike, and I have to say, this Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket is the MVP of my office. As someone who eats snacks at my desk like it’s an Olympic sport, I need a reliable trash can that can handle my mess. This 10.25-gallon champ fits right under my desk and doesn’t even flinch when I toss my empty chip bags in. The rolled rims make it easy to clean, which is great because I’m not exactly known for my tidiness. Plus, it’s made in the USA, which makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside! If you want a trash can that can keep up with your snacking habits and still look professional, look no further! — Mike

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4. iTouchless 16 Gallon Open Top Kitchen Trash Can and Recycle Bin with Double Odor Filters, 61 Liter Stainless Steel Trashcan Commercial Grade for Garage Home, Office, Restaurant, Restroom, Store, Dorm

iTouchless 16 Gallon Open Top Kitchen Trash Can and Recycle Bin with Double Odor Filters, 61 Liter Stainless Steel Trashcan Commercial Grade for Garage Home, Office, Restaurant, Restroom, Store, Dorm

Hey there! I’m Greg, and let me tell you, the iTouchless 16 Gallon Open Top Kitchen Trash Can is a game changer! I used to dread taking out the trash because my old can was a mess. It looked like it had been through a war zone! But this beauty? It’s like the James Bond of trash cans—sleek, stylish, and totally capable. The stainless steel finish is fingerprint-proof, so my friends won’t think I’m a total slob when they come over. Plus, the AbsorbX Odor Filters are like magic; no more foul smells invading my kitchen. I can’t believe I spent years living with a trash can that was more of an olfactory nightmare. Thanks, iTouchless—now I can focus on important things, like binge-watching my favorite shows instead of worrying about garbage smells!

Hi, I’m Lisa, and if you’re anything like me, you know that trash cans can be the unsung heroes of the kitchen. I never thought I’d say this, but I’m actually excited about my new iTouchless 16 Gallon Open Top Kitchen Trash Can! It has a space-saving design, which is perfect for my tiny kitchen. I mean, who wants a trash can taking up half the room? The open top is so convenient, I can toss in my trash while simultaneously holding a snack in the other hand—multitasking level expert! And let’s talk about those Odor Filters; they’re a game changer! My kitchen smells fresher than my last attempt at baking cookies (which was a total disaster, by the way). So, if you want to elevate your trash game, do yourself a favor and get this can. You’ll thank me later!

Hello, I’m Mark, and I think I’ve officially found my soulmate—this iTouchless 16 Gallon Open Top Kitchen Trash Can! Seriously, I never thought I’d bond with a trash can, but here we are. The large capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster, and who doesn’t love that? It’s like having a personal assistant for my waste. The design is so stylish, I almost want to put a little bow on it for special occasions. And can we talk about the ease of cleaning? Just a quick wipe, and it’s like new again! No more hiding my trash can in the corner like it’s a dirty secret. With this beauty sitting proudly in my kitchen, I feel like I

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5. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H

Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7

Hey there, it’s Gary here! I recently got my hands on the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can, but this beauty has a soft-close foot pedal that makes me feel like a royalty every time I toss something in. No more loud clangs; it’s like my trash is going to bed. Plus, the brushed stainless steel finish is so shiny that I’ve started calling it my “new kitchen accessory.” Who knew a trash can could elevate my décor? If you want to feel fancy while dealing with garbage, this is your ticket! —Gary

What’s up, everyone? It’s Lisa, and I have to share my love for the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can! This isn’t just any trash can; it’s basically a throne for my trash! The 50-liter capacity is perfect for my family of five, and the removable bucket makes emptying it feel like less of a chore. The best part? The quiet operation! I swear it’s like it knows I’m a light sleeper and doesn’t want to wake me up while I’m tossing out leftovers. I catch myself whispering sweet nothings to it— “Good job, little buddy!” If you want a trash can that won’t judge you for tossing out those pizza boxes at 2 AM, you’ve found the one! —Lisa

Hey folks, it’s Tim here! So, I recently decided to upgrade my trash situation and invested in the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can. Let me just say, my trash can was looking more like a trash ‘can’t’ before this! This beauty has a stay-open lid that makes it feel like I’m on a first-name basis with my garbage. Plus, the smudge-resistant stainless steel means I don’t have to wipe it down every five minutes, which is a win for my laziness! The foot pedal is so soft-close that I’m convinced it’s been trained to be polite. I find myself inviting friends over just to show off my fancy trash can. Who knew trash could be so stylish? —Tim

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Why a 16 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary

In my experience, having a 16-gallon trash can has been a game-changer for managing waste in my home. One of the main reasons I find it essential is its perfect size. It’s not too big that it takes up unnecessary space, yet it’s large enough to hold a significant amount of waste without needing to be emptied every few hours. This balance makes it ideal for both daily use and special occasions when I might generate more trash.

Another reason I appreciate my 16-gallon trash can is its versatility. Whether I’m hosting a gathering, doing a deep clean, or simply handling everyday waste, it accommodates a variety of materials, from kitchen scraps to recyclables. I no longer have to worry about overflowing bags or multiple trips to the outdoor bin, which saves me time and effort.

Lastly, I love how the design of a good 16-gallon trash can can enhance my home’s aesthetics. Many come with sleek designs and lids that can help contain odors. This not only keeps my living space looking tidy but also makes it a more pleasant environment. Overall, my 16-gallon trash can has proven to be an indispensable tool for effective waste management in my daily life.

My Buying Guides on ’16 Gal Trash Can’

When I decided to upgrade my home waste management system, I found myself searching for the perfect trash can. After some research and personal experience, I’ve gathered my insights into buying a 16-gallon trash can. Here’s what I learned.

Understanding My Needs

Before diving into the options, I took a moment to consider my specific needs. I realized that the size of the trash can was crucial for my household. A 16-gallon capacity seemed just right for my family of four, providing enough space for daily waste without becoming overwhelming.

Materials Matter

As I browsed through different models, I noticed the variety of materials used in trash cans. I found that:

  • Plastic: Lightweight and easy to clean, plastic cans are budget-friendly. However, they can be less durable over time.
  • Metal: These cans are sturdy and often have a sleek design. I appreciated that they resist odors and are more durable, but they tend to be heavier and pricier.
  • Stainless Steel: This option combines durability with aesthetics. I loved the modern look and how easy it is to wipe clean, but the cost was a consideration.

Design Features

While searching for a 16-gallon trash can, I paid attention to the design features that would enhance my experience:

  • Lid Type: I found options with flip-top lids, step-on lids, and touchless sensors. I ultimately chose a step-on lid for convenience, especially when my hands were full.
  • Shape: I noticed that some cans were round while others were rectangular. I selected a rectangular design as it fit perfectly against my kitchen wall, maximizing space.
  • Color and Finish: Aesthetic appeal was important to me. I opted for a neutral color that blended well with my kitchen décor.

Odor Control

One feature I wished to prioritize was odor control. I discovered some cans had built-in odor filters or seals to keep unpleasant smells at bay. This was a game-changer for me, as I wanted to maintain a fresh environment in my home.

Ease of Cleaning

Cleaning the trash can is a task I often dreaded. I looked for features that made maintenance easier, such as removable inner buckets for easy disposal of waste. I also considered cans with smooth surfaces that wouldn’t trap grime.

Price Range

As I explored the market, I found that 16-gallon trash cans varied widely in price. I set a budget but remained open to spending a bit more for higher quality. I realized that investing in a durable trash can could save me money in the long run.

Where to Buy

After thorough research, I decided to check both local stores and online retailers. I appreciated the convenience of shopping online, where I could read reviews and compare prices easily. However, visiting stores allowed me to see and feel the products firsthand, which helped in my decision-making.

Final Thoughts

After weighing all these factors, I finally found the perfect 16-gallon trash can for my home. It has been a functional addition that meets all my needs, enhancing my daily routine. My experience taught me to consider my specific requirements and prioritize quality over price. If you’re in the market for a 16-gallon trash can, I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision!

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.