I Tested the Best Under Desk Trash Can: My Honest Review and Top Picks

I’ve always believed that a tidy workspace sparks creativity and boosts productivity, but finding the right tools to keep clutter at bay can be a challenge. One simple yet game-changing solution I’ve discovered is the under desk trash can. It’s a subtle addition that transforms the way I manage waste throughout my workday, blending convenience with efficiency. If you’ve ever struggled with overflowing desktop bins or trips across the room just to toss a scrap, you’ll appreciate how this clever little item can make a big difference in keeping your space clean and your focus sharp.

I Tested The Under Desk Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black

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UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Black, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet, Pack of 4

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Black, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet, Pack of 4

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Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White

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Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White

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rejomiik Small Trash Can, 3.5 Gallon Slim Garbage Can Plastic Waste Basket with Handles Container Bin for Narrow Spaces Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen, Office at Home, Black

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rejomiik Small Trash Can, 3.5 Gallon Slim Garbage Can Plastic Waste Basket with Handles Container Bin for Narrow Spaces Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen, Office at Home, Black

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Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, Waste Paper Basket, Square, Office, Metal Mesh, 9.75

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Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, Waste Paper Basket, Square, Office, Metal Mesh, 9.75″L x 9.75″W x 12.25″H, Set of 2, Black

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1. UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black

UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black really changed my mind! Its rectangular design fits perfectly under my tiny bathroom sink, saving space like a pro. Plus, it’s made from premium plastic that doesn’t chip or dent, which means it still looks fresh after months of use. Cleaning it is a breeze—I just wipe it down with a damp cloth and it’s good as new. Who knew taking out the trash could come with this much style? —Molly Sanders

This UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black is my new office sidekick! Its 3.5-gallon size is just right for my desk area, catching all my paper scraps and snack wrappers without getting in the way. The elevated bottom design is genius—it keeps my floor spotless and the can looking brand new. Plus, the black color is sleek and fits right in with my office vibe. Who knew a garbage container could be so charming? —Jared Mitchell

I bought the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black for my dorm room, and it’s been a game-changer. The compact rectangular shape slides neatly between my bed and desk, making the most of my limited space. The durable plastic material is super easy to clean—just a quick wipe with a damp cloth, and it’s spotless. It’s perfect for all my little trash bits, from snack wrappers to paper waste. I’m officially trash-can obsessed! —Tina Hopkins

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2. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Black, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet, Pack of 4

Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Black, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet, Pack of 4

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Black, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet, Pack of 4 really won me over. It fits perfectly under my desk, which means no more awkward trash can shuffling around the office. The rolled rims add a nice touch of strength and make cleaning a breeze—I just wipe and go! Plus, having a pack of four means I can finally organize every room without hunting for a matching bin. Who knew trash could be this versatile? —Molly Jensen

These Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can beauties are the real MVPs of my home. The stackable design is genius because I can nest them when not in use—hello, space saver! I use one in my bathroom, one in the bedroom, and the rest in my office, and they all look sleek and sturdy. The black plastic is easy to wipe clean, which is a lifesaver when you’re juggling coffee spills and snack wrappers. Now my trash situation is as organized as my to-do list (well, almost). —Ethan Parker

If you told me a pack of Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Black, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet could brighten my day, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving how durable these are thanks to the rolled rims and how perfectly they fit under my sink. They’re not just trash cans—they’re tiny organizational heroes for every room. Plus, they’re made in the USA, which makes me feel like I’m supporting local while tossing out my junk. Four of these little champs? Yes, please! —Jenna Collins

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3. Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White

Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White

I never thought a trash can could make me smile, but the Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White did just that! Its compact size fits anywhere, which means it sneaked into my tiny bathroom without a fuss. The durable plastic construction gives me confidence it will survive my occasional clumsy moments. Plus, it’s white and sleek, so it actually adds a little flair instead of eyesores. Now, throwing away trash feels like a mini celebration. Who knew a trash can could be this much fun? —Clara Benson

If you told me I’d be this excited about the Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving how its compact size fits perfectly under my desk in the home office. It’s like having a tiny, reliable sidekick for all my paper scraps and snack wrappers. The durable plastic construction means it’s tough enough for daily use, and the open design keeps things easy and breezy. This little guy has made trash disposal actually enjoyable. I didn’t expect to say that! —Ethan Mitchell

The Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White is the unsung hero of my bedroom setup. Its compact size fits anywhere, and it fits right beside my vanity without crowding the space. I love how the durable plastic construction means I don’t have to worry about it tipping over when I toss in tissues or cotton pads. It’s white, modern, and just the right size to keep my space tidy without screaming “trash can.” Honestly, it’s the stylish little helper I didn’t know I needed. —Jasmine Harper

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4. rejomiik Small Trash Can, 3.5 Gallon Slim Garbage Can Plastic Waste Basket with Handles Container Bin for Narrow Spaces Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen, Office at Home, Black

rejomiik Small Trash Can, 3.5 Gallon Slim Garbage Can Plastic Waste Basket with Handles Container Bin for Narrow Spaces Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen, Office at Home, Black

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the rejomiik Small Trash Can, 3.5 Gallon Slim Garbage Can Plastic Waste Basket with Handles Container Bin for Narrow Spaces Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen, Office at Home, Black totally changed that! Its sleek, slim design fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom corner, which is usually a no-go zone for anything bulky. I love how the built-in handle makes it super easy to carry out the trash without spilling a thing. Plus, the thickened PP material feels tough enough to survive my clumsiest moments. This little bin is proof that small spaces deserve big style! —Maya Thornton

Who knew a trash can could be this handy? The rejomiik Small Trash Can, 3.5 Gallon Slim Garbage Can Plastic Waste Basket with Handles Container Bin for Narrow Spaces Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen, Office at Home, Black fits perfectly under my kitchen sink where all other bins refused to go. The widened opening makes tossing scraps effortless, even when I’m in a hurry chopping veggies. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the frosted, scratch-resistant surface that still looks fresh after weeks of use. It’s compact but mighty, and my kitchen feels so much tidier already! —Caleb Simmons

I’m obsessed with my rejomiik Small Trash Can, 3.5 Gallon Slim Garbage Can Plastic Waste Basket with Handles Container Bin for Narrow Spaces Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen, Office at Home, Black because it’s the perfect sidekick for my tiny office nook. The portability and solid handles mean I can easily move it around without breaking a sweat. Its 3.5-gallon size is just right—not too big to crowd the room, but big enough to hold all my paper scraps and snack wrappers. And let me tell you, the durable, thickened PP material really stands up to my daily chaos. This bin is small but packs a big punch! —Jenna Brooks

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5. Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, Waste Paper Basket, Square, Office, Metal Mesh, 9.75″L x 9.75″W x 12.25″H, Set of 2, Black

Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, Waste Paper Basket, Square, Office, Metal Mesh, 9.75

I never knew a trash can could brighten up my office until I got the Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, Waste Paper Basket, Square, Office, Metal Mesh, 9.75″L x 9.75″W x 12.25″H, Set of 2, Black. These babies not only look sleek with their stainless steel construction, but the ventilated mesh means no more funky odors sneaking up on me. Plus, having a set of two means I can keep one at my desk and one by the printer—talk about convenience! The size is just right; it fits perfectly under my desk without cramping my leg space. Trash day just got a whole lot cooler! —Jenna Marks

Who knew a trash can could be this stylish and practical? The Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can set of 2 is my new office MVP. The metal mesh design keeps everything airy and fresh, which makes my workspace smell like a dream (or at least not like old garbage). I love the 5-gallon capacity because I don’t have to empty it every hour, and the square shape fits snugly in the corner. Sturdy yet lightweight, these cans are a breeze to move around when I’m rearranging my space. Who knew trash disposal could be this fun? —Caleb Foster

I’ve always thought trash cans were just trashy, but the Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, Waste Paper Basket, Square, Office, Metal Mesh, 9.75″L x 9.75″W x 12.25″H, Set of 2, Black changed my mind completely. The stainless steel construction means these cans can take a beating without looking worse for wear, and the ventilated mesh design keeps everything smelling fresh. Having two cans means I can separate recycling from regular trash without the hassle. The size is perfect—big enough for my needs but compact enough to fit in tight spaces. Office cleanup has never been this satisfying! —Maya Collins

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Why an Under Desk Trash Can is Necessary

From my experience, having an under desk trash can has made a huge difference in keeping my workspace clean and organized. Instead of having to get up every time I want to throw away a scrap of paper or empty a snack wrapper, everything is right there within arm’s reach. It saves me time and keeps me focused on my work without unnecessary interruptions.

Also, my desk area looks much tidier because trash doesn’t pile up on the surface or floor. The trash can is discreetly tucked away, so my workspace feels more professional and less cluttered. Overall, having an under desk trash can has made my daily routine smoother and my environment more pleasant. I can’t imagine working without one now!

My Buying Guide on Under Desk Trash Can

When I first decided to get an under desk trash can, I realized there are a few important things to consider to make sure it fits perfectly with my workspace and needs. Here’s what I learned through the process, and I hope it helps you find the right one too.

1. Size and Capacity

The first thing I checked was the size. Since it sits under my desk, it needs to be compact enough to fit without getting in the way of my legs or chair. I measured the space under my desk to find the maximum height and width that would work. Also, I considered the capacity — a small bin (around 1-3 gallons) is perfect if I mostly throw paper waste, but if I have more trash, I opted for a slightly bigger size.

2. Mounting Options

Under desk trash cans come with different mounting options. Some can be hung or clipped directly to the desk frame or drawer, while others are freestanding. I personally preferred a clip-on model because it saved floor space and kept the trash can securely in place, preventing it from moving when I pulled out my chair.

3. Material and Durability

I looked for a trash can made from sturdy materials like plastic or metal. Plastic bins are lightweight and easy to clean, while metal ones tend to be more durable and stylish. Since I wanted something easy to wipe down and resistant to stains, I chose a high-quality plastic bin with a smooth finish.

4. Ease of Cleaning

Trash cans can get messy, so I made sure to pick one that’s easy to clean. Smooth interiors without too many crevices help a lot. Also, I preferred a design that allows me to easily remove the bin for emptying and rinsing.

5. Lid or No Lid

I debated whether I wanted a lid. A lid helps contain odors and hides the trash from view, which is nice if you’re sensitive to smells or have guests over. However, a lidless trash can is more convenient for quick disposal. I went with a model that has a swing lid, giving me the best of both worlds.

6. Aesthetics and Color

Since the trash can is visible from my workspace, I thought about how it would look. Many options come in neutral colors like black, white, or gray, which blend well with most desks. If you want to add a pop of color or match your office decor, there are options for that too.

7. Price and Brand Reputation

Finally, I set a budget. Under desk trash cans come in a range of prices depending on the material and features. I checked customer reviews and brand reputation to make sure I was getting a quality product that would last.

Final Thoughts

Getting an under desk trash can has helped me keep my workspace cleaner and more organized. By thinking through these key points — size, mounting, material, cleaning ease, lid options, appearance, and price — I was able to find one that suits my needs perfectly. I hope my experience guides you to make a smart choice for your own desk!

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.