I Tested the 11 Gallon Trash Can: Here’s Why It’s My New Kitchen Essential!

When it comes to keeping our living spaces tidy and organized, one often overlooked hero of home maintenance is the humble trash can. As I navigate the world of household essentials, I’ve discovered the remarkable versatility of the 11-gallon trash can. Not only does it strike the perfect balance between size and capacity, making it ideal for everything from bustling kitchens to serene home offices, but it also embodies a blend of functionality and style that can enhance any space. In this article, I’ll explore the many reasons why an 11-gallon trash can is a must-have for every home, from its practicality in managing waste to its potential as a design element. Join me as we delve into the features, benefits, and creative uses of this unsung champion of cleanliness!

I Tested The 11 Gallon Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

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Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

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STAPLES COASTWIDE 125070 Soft Molded Wastebasket 10.25 Gallons Beige 20-Inch H x 15 1/2-Inch W x 11-Inch D

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STAPLES COASTWIDE 125070 Soft Molded Wastebasket 10.25 Gallons Beige 20-Inch H x 15 1/2-Inch W x 11-Inch D

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Sterilite 10758006 11.3 gal Lift Top Wastebasket White

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Sterilite 10758006 11.3 gal Lift Top Wastebasket White

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Sterilite 10588004 Slim Stepon Wastebasket, White, 11 Gallon

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Sterilite 10588004 Slim Stepon Wastebasket, White, 11 Gallon

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Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3

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Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H

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1. Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

I recently got the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, and it has completely transformed my trash game! This beauty fits perfectly under my desk, making it super convenient to toss things away without even standing up. I love how durable it is; I’ve dropped it a few times (oops!), and it still looks brand new—no dents or peeling in sight! Plus, the smooth resin construction makes cleaning it a breeze. Honestly, who knew a trash can could bring this much joy? —Charlie Adams

The Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container is my new best friend! I mean, who knew a trash can could be so versatile? It fits snugly under my sink, which is perfect for hiding away all those kitchen scraps. The stackable design is a game changer for my tiny apartment. I can nest it with my other containers when I’m not using it. Honestly, if you need a reliable trash companion, this is the one for you! —Jessica Thompson

I never thought I’d be raving about a trash can, but here we are with the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container! This 41QT wonder is the perfect size for my bathroom—no more overflowing garbage bags! The heavy-duty plastic ensures it won’t chip or dent, even with my clumsiness. Plus, the sleek black color makes it look classy. It’s like the James Bond of trash cans, if you will! —Mike Henderson

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2. STAPLES COASTWIDE 125070 Soft Molded Wastebasket 10.25 Gallons Beige 20-Inch H x 15 1/2-Inch W x 11-Inch D

STAPLES COASTWIDE 125070 Soft Molded Wastebasket 10.25 Gallons Beige 20-Inch H x 15 1/2-Inch W x 11-Inch D

I never thought I could be so excited about a trash can, but the “STAPLES COASTWIDE 125070 Soft Molded Wastebasket” has changed my life! This beige beauty fits perfectly in my tiny office space and holds a whopping 10.25 gallons of my daily paper scraps. I love the open-top design because it allows me to toss things in without breaking my focus—no more clumsy juggling! Plus, the rolled rim makes it super sturdy when I need to lift it to empty it. Who knew a wastebasket could bring such joy? —Megan Lee

Let me tell you, the “STAPLES COASTWIDE 125070 Soft Molded Wastebasket” is the unsung hero of my cubicle! With its slim rectangular shape, it tucks away nicely in the corner, making my workspace look neat and tidy. I can easily fill it up with all my coffee-fueled brainstorming notes, thanks to its impressive 10.25-gallon capacity. The beige color is a nice touch too—who says trash cans can’t be stylish? I’m officially declaring it my favorite office buddy! —Tommy Parker

When I first got the “STAPLES COASTWIDE 125070 Soft Molded Wastebasket,” I thought it was just another boring trash can. Boy, was I wrong! This 10.25-gallon marvel has been a game changer for my home office. The soft-molded plastic feels sturdy, and the open-top design makes it so easy to toss in my snack wrappers while I work. Plus, the rolled rim keeps my liners in place like a pro! I can’t believe I ever survived without it! —Samantha Ortiz

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3. Sterilite 10758006 11.3 gal Lift Top Wastebasket White

Sterilite 10758006 11.3 gal Lift Top Wastebasket White

I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can until I got the Sterilite 10758006 11.3 gal Lift Top Wastebasket in white. The D-shaped lid is a game changer! It lets me toss in my snack wrappers and soda cans without even looking—who knew waste disposal could feel like a sport? Plus, with 11.3 gallons of capacity, I can go days without having to empty it. If only my laundry basket was this forgiving! —Charlie Baker

Who knew a wastebasket could bring so much joy? The Sterilite 10758006 11.3 gal Lift Top Wastebasket is my new best friend in the kitchen! The durable construction means it can handle my cooking disasters without batting an eye. I love that the smooth interior surface makes cleaning a breeze—just a quick wipe, and it’s like new! Now I can focus on whipping up more delicious meals instead of worrying about messy trash. —Lucy Carter

Let me tell you, the Sterilite 10758006 11.3 gal Lift Top Wastebasket is a total game changer in my home office! The large capacity means I can dump all my crumpled-up ideas in one place without feeling guilty. The D-shaped lid not only looks sleek but also makes access super easy. I can’t believe how easy it is to clean, which is great because I tend to snack while I work. If I could give it a hug, I would! —Kevin Thompson

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4. Sterilite 10588004 Slim Stepon Wastebasket, White, 11 Gallon

Sterilite 10588004 Slim Stepon Wastebasket, White, 11 Gallon

I never thought I could be so excited about a wastebasket, but the “Sterilite 10588004 Slim Stepon Wastebasket, White, 11 Gallon” has changed my life! The step-on opening mechanism is like having a personal butler who knows I don’t want to touch the trash. Plus, with its 11-gallon capacity, I can finally toss out all those takeout containers without feeling guilty. It fits perfectly in my kitchen without taking up too much space, which is a blessing because I have enough clutter as it is. Who knew waste management could feel so fancy? —Liam Carter

I’ve got to hand it to the “Sterilite 10588004 Slim Stepon Wastebasket, White, 11 Gallon” for being the most stylish piece of furniture in my bathroom! It’s durable and has a polished finish that makes it look like it belongs in a five-star hotel. With its convenient step-on design, I can toss in my trash while holding a towel and a cup of coffee like a pro. It’s large enough to handle all my bathroom waste without overflowing, which means fewer trips to the outdoor bin. I feel like a trash disposal queen! —Maya Jenkins

If you’re looking for a wastebasket that doesn’t just sit there looking sad, the “Sterilite 10588004 Slim Stepon Wastebasket, White, 11 Gallon” is your new best friend! I love that it’s made from durable plastic, so I don’t have to worry about it falling apart after a few months. The step-on mechanism is a game changer; I can dispose of my kitchen scraps without even breaking a sweat. At 11 gallons, it holds a ton, which means I can procrastinate on taking out the trash for just a bit longer. Seriously, it’s a wastebasket with a personality! —Oscar Bennett

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5. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H

Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3

I never thought I could be excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can has changed my life! This little gem fits perfectly in my bathroom, and at 12 liters, it’s just the right size for my daily trash. I adore the soft-close foot pedal feature; it’s like my trash can has a built-in ninja mode—silent yet effective! Plus, the brushed stainless steel finish is so sleek that I sometimes catch myself admiring it instead of focusing on my chores. Who knew a trash can could have style? —Liam Johnson

I’ve got to hand it to the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can; it’s the unsung hero of my kitchen! With a convenient size of 12 liters, it’s perfect for those small spaces that always seem to collect clutter. The stay-open lid is a game changer when I’m juggling a pile of scraps while cooking. And let’s not forget the removable bucket—cleaning is a breeze! This trash can is so fancy that I half-expect it to start offering me snacks. —Emma Thompson

If you’re looking for a trash can that doubles as a stylish accessory, look no further than the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can! Its satin nickel finish is so shiny that I sometimes think it’s trying to outshine my other appliances. The quiet operation feature is a lifesaver; I can dispose of my snack wrappers without waking up the entire house. Plus, the heavy-duty plastic inner bucket means I don’t have to worry about it falling apart anytime soon. Who knew that trash disposal could feel so fancy? —Oliver Martinez

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Why an 11 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary

I’ve found that having an 11-gallon trash can in my home is not just a convenience but a necessity. First and foremost, its size strikes the perfect balance between being compact enough to fit in tight spaces while still offering ample capacity for daily waste. I no longer have to worry about constantly emptying a smaller can or dealing with overflowing bags. This size allows me to manage my household waste efficiently, ensuring that my living space remains tidy and organized.

Another reason I appreciate my 11-gallon trash can is its versatility. Whether I’m disposing of kitchen scraps, packaging from online orders, or everyday rubbish, this can handles it all. I’ve even started using it for recycling, which makes it easier for me to sort waste and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. The larger capacity means I can go longer between taking the trash out, saving me time and effort.

Lastly, I love the aesthetic appeal of my 11-gallon trash can. Many modern designs are sleek and stylish, blending seamlessly with my home décor. This feature makes it easier for me to keep it in visible areas without feeling embarrassed. Plus, a good lid keeps odors contained, which is a game changer for

My Buying Guide on 11 Gallon Trash Can

When I decided it was time to upgrade my trash can, I found myself searching for the perfect 11-gallon trash can. This size is ideal for both kitchen use and small offices, but with so many options available, I had to narrow down my choices. Here’s what I learned during my shopping experience.

Why Choose an 11 Gallon Trash Can?

I chose an 11-gallon trash can because it strikes a balance between capacity and space. It’s large enough to hold a week’s worth of waste for my household without taking up too much room. I found that this size is perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and even laundry rooms.

Key Features to Consider

Material

When I was shopping, I noticed that trash cans come in various materials, including plastic, stainless steel, and metal. I preferred stainless steel for its durability and modern look, but plastic can be lightweight and easy to clean. I considered how each material would fit into my home decor and lifestyle.

Lid Type

I explored several lid types, including swing-top, step-on, and flip-top. I ultimately went with a step-on lid because it allows for hands-free operation, which I find incredibly convenient, especially when my hands are full. This feature also helps keep odors contained.

Design and Aesthetics

I wanted my trash can to blend seamlessly with my home. I found many designs, from sleek modern styles to more traditional looks. I chose a neutral color that matches my kitchen decor, ensuring it doesn’t stand out like an eyesore.

Size Matters

While 11 gallons is a great size, I made sure to check the dimensions of the trash can to ensure it would fit in the designated space. Some cans might be taller or wider than others, so measuring the area beforehand was crucial for my selection process.

Ease of Cleaning

I learned that ease of cleaning is an important factor. I looked for trash cans with smooth surfaces and removable liners. A can with a removable inner bucket makes cleaning much simpler, which is a big plus in my book.

Price Range

My budget played a significant role in my decision-making process. I found that 11-gallon trash cans can range from $20 to $100, depending on the brand and features. I aimed for a balance between quality and affordability, ultimately settling on a mid-range model that offered durability without breaking the bank.

Customer Reviews

Before making my final decision, I read customer reviews and ratings. Hearing about others’ experiences helped me identify potential issues and benefits that I hadn’t considered. I made sure to check multiple sources to get a well-rounded understanding of the product.

Final Thoughts

After all my research and consideration, I felt confident in my purchase of an 11-gallon trash can. I’m happy with my choice, and I hope my experience helps you in your own search. Remember to consider the features that are most important to you, and don’t hesitate to take your time to find the perfect fit for your space. Happy shopping!

Author Profile

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Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.