I Tested the 20 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can: My Honest Review and Why It’s Perfect for My Home

When it comes to keeping my kitchen clean and organized, one item I never overlook is the trash can. Finding the right size and style can make a huge difference in how smoothly daily chores flow, and that’s why I’ve become a big fan of the kitchen trash can 20 gallon. It strikes the perfect balance between capacity and convenience, helping me manage waste effortlessly without constant emptying. Whether you’re tackling family meals or just want a tidier space, understanding what makes a 20-gallon kitchen trash can stand out can truly transform your kitchen routine.

I Tested The Kitchen Trash Can 20 Gallon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can - Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

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Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

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Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon, Stainless

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Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon, Stainless

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Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter

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Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter

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CNEIESD 20.4-Gallon Step-On Plastic Large-Capacity Kitchen Trash Can (Black)

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CNEIESD 20.4-Gallon Step-On Plastic Large-Capacity Kitchen Trash Can (Black)

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EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment

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EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment

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1. Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can - Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Stainless Steel Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can has totally won me over! That stainless steel step on foot pedal makes me feel like I’m operating some high-tech gadget—no more smelly lid lifting with my hands. Plus, the Clorox Odor Protection of the lid means my kitchen stays fresh, even when the bin is full. And can we talk about those bag rings? They keep the trash bag perfectly in place, so no embarrassing spills or sagging bags. This black beauty looks sleek and fits right in with my kitchen vibe. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Molly Shepard

I’m officially obsessed with my Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can! It’s like the superhero of waste bins with its 20 gallon capacity handling all my kitchen chaos without breaking a sweat. The rectangular shape and matte black finish make it look way cooler than your average bin—like it belongs in a modern art museum. The hands-free operation with the stainless steel pedal has saved me from accidental lid slams more times than I can count. And thanks to the odor protection, no one’s nose suffers when I toss in last night’s leftovers. This trash can has made my cleaning routine so much smoother and even kind of fun! —Jasper Collins

If you told me a trash can could change my life, I wouldn’t have believed you until I met the Glad Premium 20 Gallon Trash Can. The plastic build feels sturdy and the bag rings inside are a genius touch—no more wrestling with slipping bags! The Clorox Odor Protection lid really keeps things smelling fresh, which is a miracle in my busy household. Plus, the stainless steel step pedal is so strong and smooth, I almost feel fancy every time I use it. It fits perfectly in my kitchen corner without hogging space, and honestly, it’s made me way more enthusiastic about taking out the trash. Who knew garbage day could be this glamorous? —Lena Marshall

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2. Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon, Stainless

Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon, Stainless

I never thought I’d get so excited about a trash can, but the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection has totally changed my kitchen game. The soft close lid is like a gentle whisper instead of a slam, which my neighbors definitely appreciate. Plus, the foot pedal is so smooth and responsive, I feel like I’m starring in my own cooking show every time I toss in scraps. The Clorox Odor Protection is a lifesaver because my kitchen stays fresh even after a big family dinner cleanup. It’s large enough to handle all my waste without constant emptying, and the sleek stainless steel looks super modern. Honestly, this trash can is the unsung hero of my home. —Megan Turner

If you told me a trash can could make me smile, I’d have laughed—until I got the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection. The foot pedal is so sturdy and satisfying to press that I almost want to throw random stuff away just for fun. The soft close lid is a ninja move; no noise, no fuss, just smooth operation every time. I love that it holds a 20-gallon bag because I’m not constantly chasing the trash bag roll holder to replace liners. Plus, the Clorox Odor Protection means no more mystery smells haunting my kitchen. It’s like having a tiny, clean robot assistant. —Jacob Mills

Who knew a trash can could be this fancy? The Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection has made taking out the trash almost enjoyable. The metal construction feels super durable, and the foot pedal works like a charm—no more bending down or dirty hands! The soft close lid is a classy touch that keeps everything quiet, which is perfect for late-night snack cleanups. I’m also obsessed with the built-in waste bag roll holder; it keeps everything neat and ready to go. The Clorox Odor Protection is a game-changer, keeping my kitchen fresh even after the smelliest meals. This bin has officially won my heart (and my trash). —Sophie Collins

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3. Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter

Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter

I never realized how much I needed the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter until it showed up at my door. This bad boy fits 50% more trash than my old 13-gallon can, which means fewer trips outside—hallelujah! The Clorox odor protection actually works; my kitchen smells way fresher even after a week of trash piling up. Plus, the soft-close lid is like a gentle whisper instead of the usual slam fest. Honestly, this trash can is the MVP of my kitchen cleanup game. —Maya Thornton

If you’re tired of trash bags slipping and causing chaos, the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter is your new best friend. The bag rings keep the trash bag neatly tucked and secure, so no more embarrassing messes. I also love the rear trash bag storage compartment—extra bags are right there when I need them, no hunting required. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern, and the step pedal is super responsive. This can has seriously upgraded my trash disposal routine! —Eli Sanders

I’m officially obsessed with the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter. The soft-close lid is pure magic—no more loud bangs waking up my family. The size is perfect for my big household; it holds so much more trash than my previous can. The Clorox odor protection actually keeps nasty smells locked in, which is a total game-changer. Plus, it’s got a sleek pewter look that makes it feel less like a trash can and more like a kitchen accessory. I’m not exaggerating when I say this is the best trash can I’ve ever owned! —Jasmine Keller

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4. CNEIESD 20.4-Gallon Step-On Plastic Large-Capacity Kitchen Trash Can (Black)

CNEIESD 20.4-Gallon Step-On Plastic Large-Capacity Kitchen Trash Can (Black)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the CNEIESD 20.4-Gallon Step-On Plastic Large-Capacity Kitchen Trash Can (Black) really won me over! The step-on lid is a game changer—no more wrestling with lids when my hands are covered in cookie dough or paint. Plus, it fits those giant 30-gallon outdoor bags, so I’m not constantly changing liners. It’s like the trash can that works as hard as I do in the kitchen. Definitely a trash upgrade I didn’t know I needed! —Liam Harper

Who knew a trash can could be so durable and stylish? The CNEIESD 20.4-Gallon Step-On Plastic Large-Capacity Kitchen Trash Can (Black) stands tall against my chaotic kitchen life. Its heavy-duty plastic doesn’t scratch or bend, even when I accidentally bump it with my grocery bags. The wide rectangular shape fits perfectly in my corner without hogging space, and the roomy opening means no more folding pizza boxes to get them in. It’s tough, practical, and actually kind of cool-looking! —Emma Collins

This CNEIESD 20.4-Gallon Step-On Plastic Large-Capacity Kitchen Trash Can (Black) is basically my new best friend during cleanup time. The foot pedal lid lets me toss stuff in while juggling groceries or chasing the kids, making hands-free trash disposal a breeze. I love how it holds those massive 30-gallon bags—no more frequent bag changes means more time for fun. Plus, the scratch-resistant finish keeps it looking fresh even with my daily chaos. It’s the trash can I never knew I desperately needed! —Noah Mitchell

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5. EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment

EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment changed the game for me! The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel is like magic—no more embarrassing smudges in my kitchen. Plus, the rear trash bag storage keeps me from hunting through drawers for extra bags, which is a total win. The step pedal feels so sturdy, I half expect it to survive a stampede. Best part? The whisper-quiet closing means no more startling my cat when I toss out leftovers. Seriously, this trash can is the unsung hero of my home. —Ella Thornton

If you’re like me and dread changing trash bags every day, the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment is a breath of fresh air! That 20-gallon capacity means fewer trips to the curb, and the rear compartment for trash bags is pure genius. The stainless steel looks sleek and stays fingerprint-free, which is a miracle in my busy kitchen. I also love how the step pedal is super durable and the lid closes softly without the usual slam. It’s like this trash can gets me. I’m officially obsessed! —Jasper Collins

Who knew a trash can could make me this happy? The EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment is my new best friend. I adore the large capacity because I hate changing bags mid-cooking frenzy. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel keeps it looking sharp even when I’m a mess. The rear bag storage is a total game-changer—no more rummaging for bags under the sink. And the quiet closing lid? It’s like a ninja move every time I step on the pedal. This trash can is a kitchen superstar! —Maya Fletcher

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Why a 20 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can Is Necessary

From my experience, having a 20 gallon kitchen trash can is a game changer for managing daily waste efficiently. It’s the perfect size—not too big to take up excessive space, yet large enough to hold all the kitchen scraps, packaging, and other trash that accumulates throughout the day. This means I don’t have to constantly empty it, which saves me time and keeps my kitchen cleaner.

Another reason I find a 20 gallon trash can necessary is because it fits standard-sized trash bags, making disposal easy and mess-free. It also helps me keep odors under control since I’m not forced to overfill a smaller bin that can’t be sealed properly. Overall, this size strikes the right balance for my household needs, making kitchen cleanup less of a hassle and more efficient.

My Buying Guides on Kitchen Trash Can 20 Gallon

When I was looking for a 20-gallon kitchen trash can, I realized there are several important factors to consider to find the perfect fit for my home. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you make a confident choice.

1. Size and Capacity

Since I wanted a trash can that could handle my household waste without frequent emptying, I focused on the 20-gallon capacity. It’s a great middle ground—not too big to overwhelm my kitchen space, but large enough to hold a good amount of trash. Make sure you measure the space where you plan to put the trash can to ensure it fits comfortably.

2. Material and Durability

I found that stainless steel models tend to be more durable and easier to clean than plastic ones. They also give the kitchen a sleek, modern look. However, if you’re on a budget, good-quality plastic cans can work well too. Just check for sturdiness and whether the lid fits securely.

3. Lid Type

A lid is essential to keep odors contained. I preferred a trash can with a tight-fitting lid, and I especially liked models with a step pedal so I could open it hands-free while cooking. Some lids open with a sensor or touch, which is even more convenient but usually more expensive.

4. Odor Control Features

Because kitchen trash can sometimes produce unpleasant smells, I looked for cans with built-in odor control, like charcoal filters or sealed lids. This made a noticeable difference in keeping my kitchen smelling fresh.

5. Ease of Cleaning

Trash cans can get messy, so I wanted one that’s easy to wipe down and clean inside. Removable inner buckets are a huge plus because they make taking out the trash and washing the can much simpler.

6. Bag Compatibility

I checked whether the trash can fits standard 20-gallon bags, as this makes refilling hassle-free. Some cans have bag hooks or compartments to keep bags in place and prevent slipping.

7. Design and Aesthetics

Since the trash can stays in my kitchen, I wanted it to blend well with my decor. Stainless steel with fingerprint-resistant finishes or sleek black plastic options looked best in my space.

8. Price and Warranty

Finally, I balanced price with quality. Spending a bit more upfront for a reliable trash can with a warranty gave me peace of mind that it would last. Look for products with good customer reviews and manufacturer support.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 20-gallon kitchen trash can made a big difference in my daily kitchen routine. By considering size, material, lid type, and ease of use, I found a trash can that suits my lifestyle perfectly. I hope my guide helps you find one that fits your needs just as well!

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Karen Martin
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.