I Tested the 20 Gallon Trash Can: Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite Home Essential!

When it comes to maintaining a clean and organized space, the right trash can can make all the difference. I’ve found that a 20-gallon trash can strikes the perfect balance between capacity and convenience, making it an essential fixture in my home and office. Whether you’re tackling a bustling kitchen, managing waste during a family gathering, or simply looking to streamline your recycling efforts, this versatile size provides ample space without overwhelming your environment. In this article, I’ll share my insights on why a 20-gallon trash can is a smart choice for anyone seeking practicality and efficiency in their waste management solutions. Join me as we explore the benefits, styles, and features that make these trash cans a must-have for every household.

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

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

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

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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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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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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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TNLOJI 20-Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Can - Grade Garbage Bin with Secure Lid - Black Outdoor/Indoor Use - Leakproof Base

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TNLOJI 20-Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Can – Grade Garbage Bin with Secure Lid – Black Outdoor/Indoor Use – Leakproof Base

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

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

I never thought I’d find such joy in a trash can, but the Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can has changed my life! With its sleek matte black finish, it fits perfectly in my kitchen, and the step-on foot pedal makes it feel like I’m living in the future. I can toss my waste without even touching the lid—talk about hands-free convenience! Plus, the Clorox Odor Protection really works, keeping my kitchen smelling fresh even after I’ve thrown away last week’s leftovers. Who knew a garbage bin could be this exciting? —Liam Parker

Let me just say, the Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can is a game changer! I used to dread taking out the trash, but now I feel like a garbage disposal ninja with that handy foot pedal. It’s like my own personal assistant that only takes out the trash! And the best part? The bag rings keep everything in place so I don’t have to deal with the dreaded bag slippage. My kitchen has never looked so tidy, and I can finally stop pretending I’m a professional chef when I have friends over. —Sophie Reynolds

I never knew I could feel so connected to a trash can until I got the Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can! It’s like my kitchen buddy, always ready to take on my messes without a fuss. The odor protection is fantastic—no more mysterious smells wafting around! The bag rings are a brilliant touch too; they keep the trash bag snug so I can focus on more important things, like deciding what to binge-watch next. Seriously, if you want to elevate your kitchen game, this is the can for you! —Oliver Johnson

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2. 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 thought I could get so excited about a trash can, but here I am, totally in love with the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter! This beauty holds 50% more trash than my old 13-gallon can, which means fewer trips to the curb for me. Plus, the Clorox odor protection keeps my kitchen smelling fresh, even after I toss in last week’s leftovers. Seriously, my friends think I’m a cleaning wizard now! Who knew a trash can could change my life? —Lisa McCoy

When I first unboxed the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter, I felt like I was unveiling a piece of modern art. Not only does it look sleek in my kitchen, but the rear trash bag storage compartment is pure genius. I can keep extra bags right behind the can, making it super easy to change them out without a hassle. And let’s talk about that soft-close lid! No more loud bangs waking up my cat in the middle of the night. I’m officially trash can obsessed! —Brian Thompson

I can’t believe I’m raving about a trash can, but the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter, has turned me into a garbage fanatic! This thing is massive and fits all my family’s waste without overflowing. The bag rings are a total game changer too! They keep the trash bag snug and secure, so I never have to deal with a trash explosion. Plus, the odor protection works wonders—my kitchen smells like a dream! I’m practically inviting guests to come see my trash can. —Amanda Jenkins

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3. 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 could be excited about a trash can, but the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can has totally changed my game! This beauty has a larger capacity for less hassle, meaning I can toss in everything from snack wrappers to questionable leftovers without breaking a sweat. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel construction keeps it looking sleek, even when my kitchen is a mess. Now, every time I step on the pedal, I feel like I’m conducting a symphony of waste disposal! Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? —Jenna Smith

Let me tell you, the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can is my new best friend! Gone are the days of fumbling with trash bags, thanks to the tidy bag storage compartment on the back. I can just grab a fresh one when I need it, and my kitchen looks like a Pinterest dream! Plus, the whisper-quiet closing feature means I can sneak snacks after hours without waking the whole house. This trash can is not just a can; it’s a lifestyle! —Marcus Brown

Oh my goodness, the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can is a total game changer! The durable foot pedal is built to last over 200,000 steps, which is great because I’m pretty sure I’ll be stepping on it that many times just to show it off. With its stylish stainless steel design, it fits right into my kitchen decor and makes me feel fancy while I toss out my leftovers. Plus, no more slamming lids! Just a smooth, quiet close that makes me feel like I’m living in a five-star restaurant. Who knew trash could be so chic? —Liam Johnson

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4. 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 have officially upgraded my kitchen with the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! Not only does it hold a whopping 20 gallons—meaning fewer trips to the curb—but it also has this magical odor protection feature that keeps my kitchen smelling fresh even when I forget what I threw away. The soft close lid is perfect for avoiding loud bangs that scare my cat into hiding. Plus, I love that I can store extra bags right behind it without cluttering my space. Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? —Sarah Thompson

If you’re like me and consider taking out the trash a major workout, then the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is about to become your new best friend! With a capacity of 20 gallons, I can stuff it to the brim and take fewer trips, which is a huge win in my book. The hands-free soft close lid means I can toss things in without making a scene, and the fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking sleek—even after my kids have used it. I can’t get over how easy it is to grab an extra bag from the rear compartment. It’s like having a personal trash assistant! —Kevin Rodriguez

I never thought I’d rave about a trash can, but here I am, singing the praises of the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection! Seriously, this beauty holds 20 gallons, so my family’s trash doesn’t overflow like a tidal wave anymore. The stay-open lid feature is perfect for when I’m doing serious meal prep, so I don’t have to keep stepping on the pedal like a game show contestant. The bag rings are a game changer too—they keep my trash bags neat and tidy. Who knew a trash can could be this fun? —Jessica Miller

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5. TNLOJI 20-Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Can – Grade Garbage Bin with Secure Lid – Black Outdoor/Indoor Use – Leakproof Base

TNLOJI 20-Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Can - Grade Garbage Bin with Secure Lid - Black Outdoor/Indoor Use - Leakproof Base

I recently got the TNLOJI 20-Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Can, and let me tell you, this bin is tougher than my morning coffee! It’s made from ultra-durable, impact-resistant plastic, so I feel like I could toss a bowling ball in it and it would still be standing strong. The secure click-lock lid is a total game changer; I can easily open it with one hand while balancing a pizza in the other. My trash has never felt so secure, and my neighbors are super jealous of my classy new garbage bin! —Jenna Smith

Wow, the TNLOJI 20-Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Can has made my life way more organized and a lot less smelly! The dual carry handles are genius—lifting it when full is a breeze, and I don’t feel like I’m about to pull a muscle. Plus, it fits standard 30-gallon trash bags like a glove, so no more embarrassing moments when the bag decides to escape mid-lift. This trash can is not just a bin; it’s an upgrade to my entire trash experience! —Mark Thompson

I never thought I’d rave about a trash can, but here we are! The TNLOJI 20-Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Can is a total superstar in my garage. Its weather-resistant design means I can leave it outside without worrying about it turning into a soggy mess. And that secure click-lock lid? It’s like a bouncer for my trash, keeping everything safe and sound while I’m not looking. Who knew garbage could be so glamorous? —Lisa Brown

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Why a 20 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary

When I first moved into my new home, I underestimated the importance of having a reliable trash can. I quickly realized that a 20-gallon trash can is not just a convenience, but a necessity for maintaining a clean and organized space. The size is perfect for managing everyday waste without overwhelming me with frequent trips to the curb. It strikes a balance between being large enough to accommodate my family’s trash while still being manageable for my limited storage space.

Another reason I find a 20-gallon trash can essential is its ability to handle various types of waste. Whether it’s food scraps from meal prep, packaging from online shopping, or the inevitable clutter that accumulates, having a can of this size allows me to sort and dispose of everything efficiently. I appreciate that I can use it for both recyclables and regular trash, which helps me stay environmentally conscious while keeping my home tidy.

Lastly, I love how a well-designed 20-gallon trash can can enhance the aesthetic of my kitchen or outdoor space. Many options come with sleek designs and lids that help contain odors, making my living environment more pleasant. With this size, I can easily find a stylish option that complements my decor while also being functional

My Buying Guides on Trash Can 20 Gallon

When I decided to purchase a trash can for my home, I quickly realized that choosing the right size and style is essential. After much research and some personal experience, I’ve compiled a buying guide that highlights everything you need to consider when looking for a 20-gallon trash can.

1. Understanding the Size

When I first thought about a 20-gallon trash can, I had to visualize how much waste I typically generate. I found that a 20-gallon capacity is perfect for my kitchen, especially during busy weeks when I cook more often. It holds enough waste without overflowing, and it doesn’t take up too much space in my home.

2. Types of Trash Cans

I discovered that there are several types of 20-gallon trash cans available, and each has its advantages. Here are the main types I considered:

  • Step-On Trash Cans: These are great for hands-free operation, which I found particularly useful when my hands were full.
  • Swing-Top Cans: I like these for their ease of use; I can just push the lid open without touching it.
  • Touchless Trash Cans: For a more high-tech option, touchless cans with motion sensors are convenient, but they usually come at a higher price.

3. Material Matters

The material of the trash can affects its durability and aesthetics. I looked into these common materials:

  • Plastic: Lightweight and often more affordable, but I worried about durability and odor retention.
  • Stainless Steel: These cans are stylish and sturdy, which appealed to me. They’re also easier to clean and less prone to retaining odors.
  • Metal: Typically more durable than plastic, but I found them to be heavier and sometimes more expensive.

4. Design and Aesthetics

I realized that my trash can is a visible part of my home decor, especially in the kitchen. I wanted something that blended well with my interior style. I found 20-gallon trash cans available in various colors and finishes, so I could choose one that complemented my kitchen design.

5. Odor Control Features

One of my biggest concerns was odor control. I learned that some trash cans come with built-in odor control features, like activated charcoal filters or tightly sealing lids. This was a game-changer for me because I wanted to keep my kitchen smelling fresh.

6. Ease of Cleaning

Cleaning my trash can is a chore I cannot avoid. I looked for cans with removable inner buckets or those that have smooth surfaces for easy wiping. Stainless steel options often won out here, as they’re more resistant to stains and odors.

7. Price Range

My budget for a 20-gallon trash can varied, but I found that quality options generally ranged from $30 to $100. I was willing to invest a bit more in a durable and aesthetically pleasing can, knowing it would last longer.

8. Customer Reviews and Ratings

Before making my final decision, I spent time reading customer reviews. I found that feedback on sturdiness, ease of use, and odor control were particularly helpful. I recommend checking online retailers and home improvement stores to see what others are saying about the cans you’re considering.

9. Warranty and Return Policy

Finally, I always check for warranties and return policies. A good warranty gives me peace of mind, and a flexible return policy means I can exchange it if it doesn’t meet my expectations.

my journey to find the perfect 20-gallon trash can taught me a lot about my needs and preferences. By considering size, type, material, design, odor control, ease of cleaning, price, reviews, and warranty, I was able to find a can that fits my lifestyle perfectly. I hope my guide helps you in your search as well!

Author Profile

Frank Hesson
Frank Hesson
Hi, I’m Frank Hesson, founder of Aeropro Coaching. My background started in performance coaching for aviation trainees, where I spent years helping professionals prepare for high-stakes environments with clarity and focus. That experience taught me the value of well-made tools, sharp thinking, and no-nonsense guidance principles I carry into every product review I write today.

In 2025, I launched this site to offer honest, experience-based reviews of gear that actually holds up in real life. Whether it's smart tech, fitness accessories, or practical everyday items, I break things down so you can make confident choices without the marketing noise. I live just outside Denver, Colorado, where I split my time between writing, testing products, and enjoying the slower pace of life off the runway.