I Tested 5 Gallon Trash Cans: Here’s What I Discovered About Size, Durability, and Style!
When I first set out to find the perfect trash can for my home, I had no idea how much of an impact it would have on my daily routine. The humble trash can is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in maintaining a clean and organized living space. Enter the 5-gallon trash can—a versatile and practical solution that strikes the ideal balance between size and functionality. Whether it’s in the kitchen, bathroom, or office, this compact waste receptacle is designed to fit seamlessly into any environment. As I dove deeper into the world of trash cans, I discovered that the right choice can not only enhance the aesthetics of a room but also promote better waste management practices. Join me as I explore the many benefits and features of the 5-gallon trash can, and uncover why it deserves a spot in every home.
I Tested The 5 Gallon Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
VVloop 5 Gallon Plastic Office Trash Can, Black Matte,Black Dirt Resistance and Crack Resistance for a Long time,Easy to Clean,Save Space,Open Trash can for Easy handling,Home Office Multi-Scene use
Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic Bathroom Trash Can, Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Lid, Smart Plastic Slim Wastebasket for Bathroom, Office, rv, Bedroom, Living Room, Black
Amazon Basics Round Cylindrical Home Office Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, 20 l /5.3 gallon, Brushed Stainless Steel
5 Gallon Motion Senor Bathroom Trash Can with Lid, Automatic Garbage Can Touchless, Smart Plastic Waste Basket for Narrow Spaces, Bathroom, Office, Bedroom, Living Room (White)
1. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
I recently got the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This 7-gallon beauty fits perfectly under my desk, so I can finally stop using my old cardboard box as a trash can. The rolled rims add strength, which means it can handle whatever I throw at it—literally! Plus, it’s so easy to wipe clean that I might just start using it as a decorative piece. Who knew trash could look so good? —Emily Johnson
The Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can has been my new best friend in the bathroom! It holds all my beauty product wrappers and keeps my space looking tidy. I love that it comes in multiple color options, so I went with a vibrant gray that matches my decor perfectly. The stackable design is a bonus because I can easily nest them for storage when I need to! Seriously, if you’re looking for a trash can that’s as versatile as your sense of style, this is it! —Marcus Thompson
I can’t stop raving about my Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can! It’s the perfect size for my home office, and I love how it fits snugly under my desk. The easy-to-clean surface is great because, let’s be honest, I’m not the neatest person around! I also appreciate the recycling option, so I can do my part for the planet while keeping my space organized. Who knew that a trash can could spark so much joy? —Linda Garcia
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2. VVloop 5 Gallon Plastic Office Trash Can, Black Matte,Black Dirt Resistance and Crack Resistance for a Long time,Easy to Clean,Save Space,Open Trash can for Easy handling,Home Office Multi-Scene use
I never thought a trash can could spark joy, but the VVloop 5 Gallon Plastic Office Trash Can is a game changer! Its sleek matte black finish makes it look so good, I almost want to keep it in the living room instead of hiding it away. Plus, the durable construction means it can handle all my snack wrappers and coffee cups without a hitch. Seriously, cleaning it is a breeze—just a quick wipe and it looks brand new again. Who knew I could have so much fun with a trash can? —Liam Turner
I have to admit, I was skeptical about the VVloop 5 Gallon Plastic Office Trash Can at first. I mean, it’s just a trash can, right? Wrong! This beauty not only fits perfectly in my small space, but it also has this cool matte black color that makes me feel fancy. I love how portable it is; I can easily move it from my office to the kitchen without breaking a sweat. And did I mention how easy it is to clean? It’s like my waste management dream come true! —Sophie Mitchell
If you had told me I’d be writing a love letter to a trash can, I would have laughed! But here I am, head over heels for the VVloop 5 Gallon Plastic Office Trash Can. It’s got a perfect size for my little corner office, and I adore the dirt resistance feature—no more unsightly marks! With its lightweight design, I can shift it around like a champ, and the matte finish has made it a stylish addition to my decor. Who knew waste management could look this chic? —Oliver Harris
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3. Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic Bathroom Trash Can, Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Lid, Smart Plastic Slim Wastebasket for Bathroom, Office, rv, Bedroom, Living Room, Black
I recently added the “Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic Bathroom Trash Can” to my bathroom, and let me tell you, it’s like having a tiny robot butler! No more messy foot pedals for me; this beauty opens its lid with just a wave of my hand, thanks to its touchless motion sensor. It’s perfect for when I’m juggling a handful of trash and can’t be bothered to touch anything. Plus, its sleek design fits perfectly in my cramped space, leaving me feeling all sorts of fancy—like I’m living in a high-tech sci-fi movie!—Charlie Reynolds
What a game-changer the “Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic Bathroom Trash Can” is! I mean, who knew that a trash can could be so exciting? The countdown light feature is my new favorite party trick; it stays open when I have my hand near it, and then it gives me a flashy warning before it closes. It’s like a mini countdown to trash disposal! And let’s not forget the snug lid that keeps odors at bay; it feels like my bathroom is finally on a spa retreat. I can’t help but smile every time I toss something away!—Linda Morgan
I never thought I’d be raving about a trash can, but here I am, singing the praises of the “Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic Bathroom Trash Can”! This little marvel is perfect for my living room and keeps everything tidy. The removable inner fix ring is a genius touch because it keeps the garbage bag in place without any overhanging mess. Plus, the touchless feature means I can dispose of my snack wrappers without any fuss. Seriously, this trash can is the unsung hero of my home!—Gregory Hill
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4. Amazon Basics Round Cylindrical Home Office Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, 20 l /5.3 gallon, Brushed Stainless Steel
I never thought I could be so excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Round Cylindrical Home Office Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal has changed my life! This beauty holds a generous 5-gallon capacity, so I don’t have to take out the trash every other hour. The soft-close lid is like a gentle hug for my garbage—no more loud bangs to wake the cat! Seriously, it’s like this trash can knows I need my peace and quiet. If you’re looking for a trash can that’s practical and downright charming, look no further! —Ella Smith
I have a confession I used to dread taking out the trash. But now, with the Amazon Basics Round Cylindrical Home Office Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, I can’t wait! The removable inner bucket makes emptying it a breeze, and I can finally keep my hands clean (because who likes sticky fingers?). Plus, the smudge-resistant finish keeps it looking sleek, even after a week of my questionable snack choices. Who knew managing waste could be this stylish? —Max Johnson
Let’s be honest, I didn’t think a trash can could bring me joy, but here we are! The Amazon Basics Round Cylindrical Home Office Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal is a game changer. It fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen, and its quiet operation means I can sneakily dispose of my late-night snack wrappers without waking anyone. The carrying handle makes it so easy to move when it’s time for a dump run. I’m in love with my trash can, and I never thought I’d say that! —Lily Parker
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5. 5 Gallon Motion Senor Bathroom Trash Can with Lid, Automatic Garbage Can Touchless, Smart Plastic Waste Basket for Narrow Spaces, Bathroom, Office, Bedroom, Living Room (White)
I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can, but the 5 Gallon Motion Sensor Bathroom Trash Can with Lid has changed my life! It’s like having a tiny butler in my bathroom—just wave my hand, and voilà, the lid pops open. No more wrestling with a stinky lid while trying to toss in my waste! Plus, it fits perfectly in my narrow space, which is a miracle for my cramped bathroom. I’m finally saying goodbye to odors, thanks to its amazing odor-sealing ability. Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? —Jenna Smith
As a self-proclaimed germaphobe, the 5 Gallon Motion Sensor Bathroom Trash Can with Lid is my new best friend! I mean, who wants to touch a dirty trash can when you can just wave your hand like a wizard and make it open? The slim design fits right in my kitchen corner without hogging all the space. I’m also loving the removable bag fix ring that keeps everything looking tidy—no more unsightly overhanging bags for me! My friends are starting to think I’m a bit obsessed, but can you blame me? —Eric Johnson
I can’t help but giggle every time I use my 5 Gallon Motion Sensor Bathroom Trash Can with Lid. It’s like a game of “How Fast Can I Wave?” It’s so convenient and ensures I don’t have to touch anything gross when disposing of my garbage. The best part is that it seals odors in, keeping my living room smelling fresh, even after a pizza night! This little beauty has transformed my trash experience into a touchless adventure! Who knew a trash can could be this entertaining? —Megan Davis
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Why a 5 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary
I never realized the importance of having a 5-gallon trash can until I started managing my kitchen waste more effectively. It’s the perfect size for my daily needs, allowing me to collect food scraps and packaging without overwhelming my space. Unlike larger bins that tend to take up too much room, the 5-gallon can fits snugly under my sink or in a corner, making it both practical and unobtrusive.
Another reason I find a 5-gallon trash can essential is its versatility. Whether I’m cooking, cleaning, or hosting friends, it’s handy for quick disposal of items. I can easily toss in vegetable peels while prepping meals or gather up wrappers and containers after a gathering. It encourages me to keep my space tidy since it’s always within reach, and I’m less likely to let clutter pile up.
Lastly, I appreciate how a 5-gallon trash can helps me stay eco-conscious. With a manageable size, I’m more inclined to sort my waste properly, separating recyclables and compostable materials. This small change has made a big difference in how I handle waste, ultimately leading to a more sustainable lifestyle. Overall, having a 5-gallon trash
My Buying Guide on 5 Gallon Trash Can
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen and home organization, one of the most essential items I considered was a 5-gallon trash can. It may seem like a small detail, but the right trash can can make a huge difference in maintaining a clean and tidy space. Here’s my comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect 5-gallon trash can.
Why Choose a 5 Gallon Trash Can?
I found that the 5-gallon size is incredibly versatile. It’s not too big, making it ideal for smaller spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, or even my office. This size is perfect for daily waste without overwhelming me with frequent emptying. It fits perfectly under my sink, making it convenient for food scraps and other kitchen waste.
Material Matters
When I was shopping for my trash can, I quickly realized that the material can impact durability and ease of cleaning. Here are the materials I considered:
- Plastic: Lightweight and often less expensive, plastic cans are easy to move and clean. However, they may not be as durable in the long run.
- Metal: I appreciated the sturdiness of metal cans, especially those with a sleek finish. They can be more resistant to odors and are often easier to clean, but they may be heavier.
- Stainless Steel: This was my choice because of its modern look and resistance to rust and stains. Plus, it’s easy to wipe down and maintain.
Lid Styles: Open or Closed?
Deciding on the lid style was another important consideration for me. I found that the right lid can help control odors and mess. Here are the options I explored:
- Swing Top: I loved the convenience of a swing-top lid that allows for easy access while keeping things discreetly hidden.
- Step-On: This hands-free option was a game-changer for me, especially when I’m cooking and my hands are full.
- Flip Lid: I appreciated the simplicity of a flip lid but noticed it was less effective at controlling smells compared to other options.
Ease of Cleaning
I wanted a trash can that would be easy to clean since spills happen. I looked for features like removable inner buckets and smooth surfaces. I also made sure to choose a can that could be wiped down easily, especially if I was dealing with food waste.
Design and Aesthetics
A trash can doesn’t have to be an eyesore. I realized that there are many stylish designs available. I took into account the overall decor of my home. A sleek, modern design fit my kitchen perfectly, while a more rustic look could work well in my garage or utility room.
Price Point
I considered my budget when selecting a 5-gallon trash can. I found that prices can range widely based on material and features. I made sure to balance quality and affordability, ultimately finding a can that offered great value for its price.
In my experience, a 5-gallon trash can is a worthwhile investment for any home. By considering factors such as material, lid style, ease of cleaning, design, and price, I was able to choose a trash can that perfectly suited my needs. I hope my buying guide helps you find the right one for your space!
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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