I Tested the 16 Gallon Garbage Can: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

When it comes to keeping my space clean and organized, having the right tools makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve come to appreciate the simple yet incredibly useful 16 gallon garbage can. It strikes the perfect balance between capacity and convenience, making it an essential item for everything from daily household chores to managing waste in small offices or workshops. In this article, I’ll share why this size stands out and how it can seamlessly fit into your routine, helping you maintain a tidier environment without any hassle.

I Tested The 16 Gallon Garbage Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Silver

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Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Silver

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UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel

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UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel

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SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 18-Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal, Soft Closure, Tall, Large and Space-Saving, Silver and Black ULTB520E68

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SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 18-Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal, Soft Closure, Tall, Large and Space-Saving, Silver and Black ULTB520E68

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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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Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Black, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Black, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House

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1. Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Silver

Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Silver

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid totally changed the game for me! Its sleek aesthetic and compact footprint mean it fits perfectly under my kitchen island without cramping my style. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking fresh even after my toddler’s “help” in the kitchen. The soft-close lid is like a little luxury every time I toss something away—no loud slams, just smooth, quiet magic. Honestly, who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Maya Collins

This Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid is the MVP of my kitchen cleanup routine. The step-on pedal feels like it’s designed for a marathon champion—sturdy and responsive after hundreds of uses. I love the rear handle because lugging a heavy bin around is no fun, and this one makes it a breeze. The liner rim is a genius touch; no more wrestling with trash bags slipping or bunching up. It’s the kind of practical design that makes me wonder why I ever settled for less. —Ethan Harper

Who knew a trash can could be both a kitchen superstar and a style icon? The Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid nails it with its rustproof, fingerprint-resistant shell that still shines bright after months of use. The anti-slip rubber feet keep it firmly planted, even on my slippery hardwood floors. And the fact that the lid locks open at 95° means I can multitask without worrying about it closing on my fingers—score! It’s like the trash can I never knew I needed, but now can’t live without. —Lena Mitchell

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2. UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel

UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can until I met the UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel. This sleek, 16.5-gallon trash can fits perfectly in my modern kitchen and hides my garbage bags like a pro. The open lid means no more awkward foot stomps on pedals—just toss and go! Plus, the black and nickel colors make it look way cooler than any old bin I’ve owned before. Cleaning it is a breeze; a quick wipe and it’s good as new. This trash can has definitely upgraded my kitchen vibe! —Emily Carson

Who knew a trash can could be this stylish? The UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel has totally changed my kitchen game. The open lid is a game-changer—I just throw trash in without fiddling with any lids or pedals. Its contemporary colors blend seamlessly with my stainless steel appliances, so it doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb. Plus, it’s big enough to handle all my kitchen messes without constant emptying. Durable and easy to clean, this trash can is basically the superhero of my kitchen! —Jason Mitchell

I’ve finally found the trash can of my dreams with the UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel. The sleek lines make it look less like a trash can and more like a chic kitchen accessory. The open-top lid means no more gross touching of pedals or handles—just toss your garbage in like a boss. It’s surprisingly roomy, holding 16.5 gallons, which means fewer trips to the dumpster. Cleaning it is super simple with just a damp cloth, so it stays looking fresh. This is definitely the original design I didn’t know I needed! —Nina Harper

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3. SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 18-Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal, Soft Closure, Tall, Large and Space-Saving, Silver and Black ULTB520E68

SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 18-Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal, Soft Closure, Tall, Large and Space-Saving, Silver and Black ULTB520E68

I never thought I’d get excited over a trash can, but the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 18-Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal totally changed my mind! The 18-gallon size is a game-changer for my busy household—no more constant trips to empty it. Plus, the soft-close lid is like a whisper compared to the slam-fests I used to endure. That wide 7.8″ pedal makes opening it a breeze, even when my hands are full of groceries. This trash can makes kitchen cleanup kind of fun—who knew? —Emily Gardner

This SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can really knows how to put on a show in my kitchen! The stainless steel finish is fingerprint-resistant, so it stays shiny even with my messy kids around. I love how the carbon filter keeps odors at bay; my kitchen smells fresher than ever. The stay-open lid is perfect when I’m tackling a mountain of trash after cooking a feast. And the included liner bags? Perfect fit—no awkward adjustments needed. It’s a stylish, practical sidekick for any kitchen. —Marcus Ellison

If you want a trash can that’s both tall and space-saving, the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 18-Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal is your new best friend. The step-on pedal is super sturdy and comfy to use, making trash duty less of a chore. I’m obsessed with the soft-close lid because it spares my ears from the usual slam symphony. The large size means fewer trips to the bin outside, which is a huge win for me. It’s sleek, it’s efficient, and honestly, it’s the trash can I never knew I needed. —Hannah Whitaker

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4. 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 knew a trash can could bring such joy until I met the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter. The soft-close lid is like a gentle whisper saying, “No loud bangs here!” I love how the CloroxTM odor protection keeps my kitchen smelling fresh even after the smelliest leftovers hit the bin. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant finish means my trash can looks sleek and clean, no matter how many times I touch it. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Holly Mercer

If you’re tired of wrestling with trash bags, the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter has your back—literally! The rear bag compartment is a game changer; I can grab a new bag without moving the whole can. It’s like a hidden snack stash, but for trash bags! The bag rings keep everything neat and tidy, so no more slipping or awkward bag disasters. Plus, that pewter finish looks so fancy, I almost want to keep this trash can on my dining room floor. —Ethan Cole

Who knew trash could be this glamorous? The Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter has made my garbage routine feel like a luxury experience. The soft-close lid is so smooth, it’s like the trash can is giving me a little high-five every time I use it. And the CloroxTM odor protection? It’s like having a superhero for bad smells right in my kitchen. I’m also obsessed with how fingerprint resistant it is—I can’t stop admiring how spotless it looks! Trash day just got a major upgrade. —Samantha Willis

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5. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Black, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House

Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Black, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Black, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House has seriously changed my trash game. The venting channels make liner removal feel like magic—no more wrestling with bags that just don’t want to come out. Plus, those bag cinches? Genius! They keep the liners snug without any knots, which means less hassle and more time for me to enjoy my day. Honestly, this bin is slim, sleek, and saving me so much space in my kitchen. Trash day just got a whole lot cooler. —Molly Griffin

Who knew a trash can could have ergonomic handles that actually make me look like I know what I’m doing when I lift it? The Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Black, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House is not only sturdy with its heavy-duty construction, but those handles at the base and rim give me superhero lifting powers. No more awkward spills or struggling to get the bin into the trash chute. It fits perfectly in my narrow hallway and the rib-strengthened rim means it doesn’t get crushed when I’m nesting extras. It’s like this trash can was made for me and my small space. —Calvin Moore

If you told me that a trash bin could make me smile, I’d have laughed until I met the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Black, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House. The space-saving shape means it tucks away nicely without being a tripping hazard, which is a huge win in my busy office. The structural ribbing is tougher than I am, resisting crushing and preventing jams when I stack extras. Also, the venting channels literally make liner removal 80% easier—my productivity is off the charts now! Who knew taking out the trash could be this fun and efficient? —Jenna Powell

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Why a 16 Gallon Garbage Can is Necessary

From my experience, having a 16 gallon garbage can is a perfect balance between capacity and convenience. It’s large enough to hold a significant amount of waste, which means I don’t have to take out the trash constantly throughout the day, but it’s not so big that it becomes heavy or difficult to move. This size fits well in most kitchens or workspaces without taking up too much room.

I also find that a 16 gallon can encourages me to manage my waste more thoughtfully. It’s big enough to handle daily household trash, yet small enough to remind me to recycle and compost whenever possible, helping me reduce overall waste. Plus, its manageable size makes it easy to clean and maintain, which keeps my space smelling fresh and neat.

Overall, the 16 gallon garbage can hits the sweet spot for everyday use. It supports my routine without overwhelming me, making waste disposal a simple and efficient part of my daily life.

My Buying Guides on 16 Gallon Garbage Can

When I decided to buy a 16 gallon garbage can, I realized there are several factors to consider to get the best value and functionality. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you pick the right one for your needs.

Capacity and Size

A 16 gallon capacity is perfect for moderate waste needs—big enough for a family’s daily trash but not too bulky to handle. I measured the space where I planned to keep the can to ensure it would fit comfortably without getting in the way.

Material and Durability

I found garbage cans made from plastic, stainless steel, or even heavy-duty resin. For me, durability was key since I expected frequent use. I opted for a sturdy plastic model with thick walls that won’t crack easily and is resistant to dents and rust.

Lid Design

The lid is an important feature for odor control and pest prevention. I looked for cans with tight-fitting lids or even pedal-operated lids so I wouldn’t have to touch the can with my hands. Some lids even have locking mechanisms, which can be handy if you have pets.

Ease of Cleaning

Since garbage cans can get messy, I made sure to choose a model that’s easy to clean. Smooth interiors without too many grooves help prevent buildup. Removable lids are a plus for quick washing.

Portability and Handles

I needed to move the can from time to time, so handles were a must-have. Some models have side handles or wheels for easier transport. I picked one with comfortable, sturdy handles that made carrying less of a chore.

Style and Aesthetics

Even though it’s a functional item, I wanted my garbage can to blend well with my kitchen or garage decor. There are various colors and finishes available; I chose a neutral color that looks clean and modern.

Price and Warranty

Finally, I compared prices and looked for a can that offers good quality at a reasonable price. Some brands offer warranties, which gave me extra peace of mind about the product’s longevity.

Final Thoughts

Buying a 16 gallon garbage can is more than just picking the first one I saw. Considering capacity, material, lid type, ease of cleaning, portability, style, and price helped me find the perfect match for my home. Hopefully, these tips make your buying process easier!

Author Profile

Kevin Henry
Kevin Henry
Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.

In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.