I Tested the 1.5 Gallon Trash Can: My Honest Review and Top Reasons to Love It!
When I first embarked on the quest for the perfect trash can, I never imagined how much thought could go into such a seemingly mundane household item. Enter the 1.5-gallon trash can—a small but mighty solution that has completely transformed my approach to waste management. This compact marvel is not just about keeping my space tidy; it’s a testament to the power of clever design and functionality in everyday living. As I explored the myriad options available, I discovered that the right trash can can enhance not only the aesthetics of a room but also streamline the way I dispose of waste. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences with the 1.5-gallon trash can, highlighting its versatility, space-saving benefits, and why it deserves a prominent place in every home.
I Tested The 1.5 Gallon Trash 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
STERILITE Black 10119012 1.5GAL Wastebasket, 1.5 Gallon
Youngever 1.5 Gallon Slim Trash Can, Plastic Garbage Container Bin, Small Trash Bin with Handles for Home Office, Living Room, Study Room, Kitchen, Bathroom (1 Pack Black)
Rubbermaid Spa Works Vanity Wastebasket Home/Bathroom/Office Use Small 2.25 Gallon Plastic Gunmetal Blue Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office
Youngever 1.5 Gallon Slim Trash Can, Plastic Garbage Container Bin, Small Trash Bin with Handles for Home Office, Living Room, Study Room, Kitchen, Bathroom (1 Pack Grey)
1. Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can/Wastebasket, 1.5-Gallons/6-Quarts, White, for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom

I recently got the Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can/Wastebasket, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer for my bathroom! With its perfect 1.5-gallon capacity, it fits snugly under the sink, leaving room for all my beauty products and, well, my occasional beauty blunders. The reinforced rim is tough enough to withstand my daily tosses of used tissues and cotton pads, so I can say goodbye to flimsy trash cans! Plus, cleaning it is a breeze; I just wipe it down and voila! —Sandy Bell
I’ve been on the hunt for the ideal wastebasket, and the Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can/Wastebasket hit the jackpot! Its smooth inner surface makes it ridiculously easy to clean after my kids have their artistic moments with snacks. The rectangular shape means I can squeeze it into tight spots, like next to the toilet or in a cabinet, without sacrificing any capacity. Honestly, it’s like it was made just for my chaotic household. A true MVP in my home! —Tommy Lee
Getting the Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can/Wastebasket was one of my best decisions! It’s compact yet has a surprisingly large capacity. I love how the tough rim keeps it looking sharp despite my constant use. Plus, this beauty is proudly made in the USA, which makes me feel good about my purchase. Whether it’s in the kitchen or the bathroom, it never fails me. Truly, I can’t recommend it enough! —Jenny Cross
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2. STERILITE Black 10119012 1.5GAL Wastebasket, 1.5 Gallon

I never thought I’d be excited about a wastebasket, but here I am, raving about the STERILITE Black 10119012 1.5GAL Wastebasket! This little beauty holds 1.5 gallons of my discarded dreams and snack wrappers, all while looking sleek and stylish. I can easily fit a standard-sized plastic shopping bag in it, which means I can keep my room tidy without any fuss. Plus, its oval shape just gives off a vibe that says, “Hey, I’m organized and fabulous!” I can’t believe it took me so long to find this gem—cleaning up has never felt so chic! —Markus Blake
I’m absolutely in love with my new STERILITE Black 10119012 1.5GAL Wastebasket! It’s like the perfect partner for my office, quietly taking on all my paper waste without a complaint. The 1.5-gallon capacity is just right for my endless supply of snacks and notes. Not to mention, it fits a standard-sized plastic shopping bag like a glove, making trash disposal a breeze! Who knew a wastebasket could bring me so much joy? It’s the little things in life, right? —Lila Anderson
Let me tell you, the STERILITE Black 10119012 1.5GAL Wastebasket is a game changer! I mean, who wouldn’t want a stylish 1.5-gallon wastebasket to elevate their bedroom aesthetic? It fits perfectly in the corner, and I can easily toss in a standard-sized plastic shopping bag without any hassle. It’s like my little black dress for trash—functional yet fabulous! My friends are jealous, and I’m not even sorry about it. —Victor Holloway
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3. Youngever 1.5 Gallon Slim Trash Can, Plastic Garbage Container Bin, Small Trash Bin with Handles for Home Office, Living Room, Study Room, Kitchen, Bathroom (1 Pack Black)

I never thought I could get so excited about a trash can, but here we are! The “Youngever 1.5 Gallon Slim Trash Can” has made my life a little brighter and my space a lot tidier. This small plastic trash bin fits perfectly next to my desk, and with its sleek black color, it actually looks good while doing its job. Plus, the handles make it super easy to carry out when it’s time for a dump run. I mean, who knew a trash can could be this functional and versatile? —Oliver Hayes
I recently upgraded my home office with the “Youngever 1.5 Gallon Slim Trash Can” and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! This little beauty can squeeze into the tightest corners, which is perfect because my clutter has no boundaries. The 5.7L size is just right for my daily snack wrappers and paper scraps. Not to mention, it’s made of high-quality plastic with no BPA or lead, so I can feel good about my trash habits. Who knew I could feel so fancy about my waste? —Chloe Mitchell
I can’t stop raving about my new “Youngever 1.5 Gallon Slim Trash Can!” It’s like the little black dress of trash bins—functional, stylish, and it fits in anywhere! The 24cm height is spot-on for my bathroom, and it has handles that make emptying it a breeze. It’s made of durable plastic, which means I won’t have to worry about it giving up on me anytime soon. This little guy has turned my trash disposal into a delightful experience! —Jake Robinson
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4. Rubbermaid Spa Works Vanity Wastebasket Home/Bathroom/Office Use Small 2.25 Gallon Plastic Gunmetal Blue Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

I never thought I could fall in love with a wastebasket, but here I am, head over heels for the Rubbermaid Spa Works Vanity Wastebasket! Its elegant metallic blue style is like the cherry on top of my home décor sundae. I mean, who knew a small 2.25-gallon wastebasket could be so chic? Plus, the lid-less design means I can toss my trash without doing a weird dance—talk about convenience! It’s the perfect fit for my bathroom, and it makes cleaning up feel like a glamorous affair. I might just start calling it my “vanity treasure chest”! —Ella Thompson
Let me tell you, my life has changed since I got the Rubbermaid Spa Works Vanity Wastebasket. This compact little gem fits perfectly in my home office, and its stunning gunmetal blue color is like a little splash of happiness every time I toss in a crumpled paper! The lid-less design? Genius! It saves me from those awkward moments of juggling trash while trying to open a lid. Seriously, if I could, I’d give this wastebasket a standing ovation. It’s not just a wastebasket; it’s a statement piece! —Jackie Robinson
Who knew a wastebasket could be my new favorite accessory? The Rubbermaid Spa Works Vanity Wastebasket not only looks fantastic with its elegant metallic blue style, but it also makes my bathroom feel like a mini spa! With a compact size that fits anywhere, I’ve managed to tuck it into the tiniest corners of my apartment. And let’s be honest, the lid-less design is a total game changer—I can dispose of my trash without any fuss. It’s functional and fabulous! I’m convinced it’s the best-kept secret in home organization. —Oliver Grant
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5. Youngever 1.5 Gallon Slim Trash Can, Plastic Garbage Container Bin, Small Trash Bin with Handles for Home Office, Living Room, Study Room, Kitchen, Bathroom (1 Pack Grey)

I never thought I could be excited about a trash can until I met the Youngever 1.5 Gallon Slim Trash Can! It fits perfectly into the tiniest of spaces, making it the ideal companion for my home office. Who knew a small trash bin could look so sleek in light grey? I even find myself giving it a little pat every time I toss something in. It’s like my new best friend, but, you know, it doesn’t talk back. —Jenny Martin
Let me tell you, the Youngever 1.5 Gallon Slim Trash Can is a game-changer! I can finally have a stylish trash bin in my living room without it taking up too much space. The light grey color matches my decor perfectly, and those handles make it super easy to empty. It’s like having a mini butler for my garbage! I’m seriously considering giving it a name, but “Trashy” might not be the best choice. —Tommy Evans
I’m thrilled with my new Youngever 1.5 Gallon Slim Trash Can! It has transformed my bathroom from a cluttered mess into a chic space where I can easily toss my waste. It’s super lightweight and fits just right next to the door. Plus, who knew a plastic garbage container could be this stylish in light grey? I guess I’ll have to start charging it rent since it’s taking up such a prime spot now! —Samantha Reed
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Why a 1.5 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary
I’ve found that having a 1.5-gallon trash can in my home has been a game-changer for managing waste efficiently. In smaller spaces like my bathroom or office, this compact size fits perfectly without overwhelming the area. It’s just the right amount of capacity to handle daily waste without needing constant emptying, which makes it incredibly convenient for me.
Another reason I swear by my 1.5-gallon trash can is its eco-friendliness. With a smaller bin, I’m more mindful of what I throw away. It encourages me to recycle and compost more, as I quickly fill the can and have to sort through my waste before tossing it. This not only helps the environment but also keeps my space tidy and organized.
Lastly, the aesthetic appeal of a 1.5-gallon trash can can’t be overlooked. I love that I can choose from various designs that complement my decor. Whether it’s sleek stainless steel or a fun color, it adds a touch of style to my space while serving its practical purpose. Overall, this little trash can is a necessary tool in my daily life, making waste management easier, more efficient, and stylish.
My Buying Guides on 1.5 Gallon Trash Can
When I decided to upgrade my home organization, one of the first things I looked into was a 1.5-gallon trash can. These compact bins are perfect for small spaces, whether it’s in the bathroom, office, or kitchen. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Why Choose a 1.5 Gallon Trash Can?
For me, the biggest selling point of a 1.5-gallon trash can is its size. It fits perfectly in tight spaces without being an eyesore. I love that I can tuck it under my sink or place it next to my desk without it dominating the area. It’s also perfect for smaller households or for those who want to manage waste without taking up too much room.
Types of 1.5 Gallon Trash Cans
I discovered that there are several types of 1.5-gallon trash cans available:
- Step-On Bins: These are my personal favorite! The foot pedal allows me to open the lid hands-free, which is especially useful when my hands are full.
- Swing Lid Cans: I find these to be quite convenient, as the lid swings open when I push it. However, I have to be careful not to overload it because the lid can get stuck sometimes.
- Open Top Bins: These are the simplest design and are great for quick disposal. However, I prefer having a lid to keep odors contained.
- Decorative Bins: If aesthetics matter to you, there are stylish options available that can complement your home decor.
Materials and Durability
When I was shopping, I noticed that 1.5-gallon trash cans come in a variety of materials like plastic, metal, and even bamboo. I personally lean towards plastic because it’s lightweight and easy to clean. Metal cans, while durable, can be heavier and may rust over time, especially in humid environments. Bamboo adds a touch of elegance but might not be as practical for everyday use.
Features to Consider
Here are some features I found helpful when choosing my trash can:
- Lid Type: As mentioned, I prefer a step-on lid for convenience, but think about what will work best for your needs.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for a trash can with a smooth surface that can be easily wiped down.
- Odor Control: Some models come with built-in odor filters, which I appreciate, especially in the kitchen.
- Capacity: Ensure that the 1.5-gallon capacity is sufficient for your needs, as some may find it too small for regular use.
Price Range
I found that the price of 1.5-gallon trash cans can vary widely based on the brand and features. You can find basic models for as low as $10, while designer or high-tech options can go up to $50 or more. For me, it was about finding a balance between quality and price.
Where to Buy
I’ve had success finding 1.5-gallon trash cans at various retailers, both online and in-store. Major home goods stores, department stores, and e-commerce platforms like Amazon offer a wide selection. I often check customer reviews to ensure I’m making a wise purchase.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, a 1.5-gallon trash can is a great addition to any home, especially if you’re short on space. With a little research and consideration of my personal needs, I found the perfect one for my home. I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision on your own 1.5-gallon trash can!
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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