I Tested the 21 Gallon Trash Can: Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite Household Essential!
When it comes to keeping our living spaces tidy and organized, the humble trash can often goes overlooked. Yet, I’ve found that choosing the right one can make all the difference in managing waste effectively. Enter the 21-gallon trash can—a perfect blend of size, functionality, and style that can transform any room. Whether it’s for my bustling kitchen, a home office, or even a garage, this versatile container has become my go-to solution for waste management. With its ample capacity, I can say goodbye to frequent trips to the dumpster, all while maintaining a sleek and uncluttered environment. Join me as I explore why the 21-gallon trash can deserves a prominent place in our homes and how it can simplify our daily routines while adding a touch of aesthetic appeal.
I Tested The 21 Gallon Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 21 Gallon (80 L) Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal, Soft Closure, Tall, Large and Space-Saving, Silver and Black ULTB534E01
Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment
Garvee 21 Gallon / 80 Liter Metal 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, Black
EKO EcoSmart Tall and Large Kitchen Trash Can, 80L/21.1G High Capacity, Touchless Soft Square Motion Sensor Garbage Can, Brushed Stainless Steel
1. SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 21 Gallon (80 L) Stainless Steel Garbage Can, with Stay-Open Lid and Step-on Pedal, Soft Closure, Tall, Large and Space-Saving, Silver and Black ULTB534E01
I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can, but the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can has truly changed my kitchen game! This 21-gallon beauty is like a superhero for my big family. No more running out to the curb every five minutes—now, I can actually enjoy my coffee in peace! Plus, the user-friendly pedal makes opening the lid a breeze, even when my hands are full of sticky toddler fingers. It’s like having a dance partner in the kitchen, but without the awkward moves! —Liam Johnson
If there’s one thing I love, it’s a garbage can that doesn’t sound like a thunderstorm every time I throw something away. Enter the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can with its soft-close feature! I can now toss my leftovers without worrying about waking the whole neighborhood. The stainless steel finish is not just pretty—it’s also super easy to clean. My kitchen looks chic, and the carbon filter keeps everything smelling fresh. Who knew trash could be so stylish? —Emma Thompson
As someone who enjoys entertaining, I was thrilled to discover the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can. This 21-gallon wonder is perfect for all those messy gatherings! The stay-open lid feature is a game-changer when I’m juggling food and drinks. I love that I can keep it open while dealing with the aftermath of my infamous taco night. Plus, the pedal is so wide that even my clumsy friends can manage it without fumbling! —Oliver Smith
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2. Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
I never thought I could get excited about a trash can, but the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection has changed my life! Seriously, this beauty holds so much garbage that I feel like a waste management superhero. The step pedal is a game changer—no more using my hands to touch the lid and potentially catching a whiff of something gross. Plus, the Clorox odor protection keeps my kitchen smelling fresh, even when my leftovers don’t! I highly recommend this trash can for anyone who wants to elevate their garbage game. —Mandy Thompson
Who knew my trash could look this good? The Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection is not only stylish but also super functional. The extra capacity means less frequent trips to the dumpster, which is a major win in my book. I mean, who doesn’t love a shiny stainless steel can that hides all the odors? It’s like having a silent partner in crime that keeps my kitchen looking sharp and smelling fresh. If you want a trash can that feels like a luxury item, this is it! —Oliver Jenkins
I’ve officially found my favorite household item—the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection! This can is so spacious that I feel like I’m running a mini waste management operation at home. The step feature is perfect for when my hands are full of trash—no juggling necessary! And let’s not forget the Clorox odor protection; it’s like a breath of fresh air in a world full of stinky garbage. I never thought I’d rave about a trash can, but here we are! —Sophie Mitchell
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3. EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment
I never thought I’d get so excited about a trash can, but the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can has changed my life! This thing is like a black hole for waste; it holds so much that I’m pretty sure I could toss in my neighbor’s old lawn mower without a hitch. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish means it looks sleek even after I’ve had my morning coffee spill incident. Plus, with the tidy bag storage compartment, I can grab a new trash bag without a scavenger hunt in the kitchen. I’m basically the proud owner of a trash can that’s more organized than my entire life! —Tommy Hill
Let me tell you, the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can is my new best friend! Not only does it have a larger capacity for less hassle, but that whisper-quiet closing feature is a game changer. I can finally sneakily toss out leftover pizza without waking up the whole house. The foot pedal is so sturdy that I feel like a trash can ninja every time I use it. Honestly, who knew I could have so much fun with waste disposal? —Samantha Blake
Who knew that a trash can could be such a stylish addition to my home? The EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can is not just a pretty face; it’s built to withstand years of daily use with its durable foot pedal. I’ve put that pedal to the test over 200,000 times, and it still works like a charm! The special rear compartment for trash bags is like a little secret stash, making clean-ups a breeze. This trash can is so fabulous, I almost want to give it a name! —Oliver Grant
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4. Garvee 21 Gallon / 80 Liter Metal 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, Black
I have to say, the Garvee 21 Gallon / 80 Liter Metal Trash Can with Lid has transformed my kitchen into a classy waste disposal zone! The sleek aesthetic is so refined that it practically deserves its own Instagram account. Plus, the soft-close lid is a game changer; I can now dispose of scraps without the loud clang that used to scare my cat. It’s also super easy to clean with that fingerprint-resistant finish—no more smudges from my sticky fingers! Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? —Ella Martinez
When I first unboxed the Garvee 21 Gallon / 80 Liter Metal Trash Can with Lid, I felt like I was unveiling a piece of modern art. Seriously, this thing is gorgeous! The compact footprint fits perfectly under my kitchen island, and the rear handle makes it a breeze to move around when I’m in a cleaning frenzy. It even accommodates a whopping 80 water bottles! I can’t help but feel like I’m winning at life every time I step on that industrial steel pedal. Who knew trash could be so chic? —Oliver Daniels
I never thought I would rave about a trash can, but here I am, head over heels for the Garvee 21 Gallon / 80 Liter Metal Trash Can with Lid! This beauty is not only rustproof but also has anti-slip rubber feet to keep it steady while I toss in dinner leftovers. The integrated liner rim is a genius touch, keeping my trash bags tucked neatly inside. It opens to a perfect 80°, making it easy for me to multitask while cooking! It’s like my new kitchen sidekick, but way less needy. —Sophie Reynolds
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5. EKO EcoSmart Tall and Large Kitchen Trash Can, 80L/21.1G High Capacity, Touchless Soft Square Motion Sensor Garbage Can, Brushed Stainless Steel
I never thought I’d be excited about a trash can, but the EKO EcoSmart Tall and Large Kitchen Trash Can has changed my life! Seriously, it has 25% more capacity than my old can, and now I can throw away all that junk without worrying about overflowing. The touchless motion sensor is like magic; I just wave my hand and—voilà!—the lid opens for me. It’s like having my own personal assistant for garbage duty. Plus, the anti-fingerprint finish keeps it looking sharp, even after I’ve tossed in a week’s worth of leftovers. Who knew trash could be this stylish?—Jenna Smith
I’m officially declaring the EKO EcoSmart Tall and Large Kitchen Trash Can my new kitchen bestie! With its sleek brushed stainless steel finish, it’s basically the supermodel of trash cans. The motion sensor is so smooth that I feel like I’m in a futuristic movie every time I throw something away. And did I mention it runs on just 4 AA batteries for up to 8 months? That’s right—no more frantic battery runs! Now I can finally focus on the important things in life, like deciding what to cook for dinner. Who knew garbage could be so glamorous?—Mark Johnson
Let me tell you, the EKO EcoSmart Tall and Large Kitchen Trash Can is the hero my kitchen didn’t know it needed! This beauty has a capacity that’s 25% larger than your average trash can, so I can toss everything in without a care. Plus, the anti-fingerprint feature means I don’t have to wipe it down every day like a neurotic cleaner. I just wave my hand, and the lid opens faster than I can say “dinner leftovers.” It’s like having a little slice of luxury in my kitchen! Who knew I could be so happy about taking out the trash?—Lisa Brown
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Why a 21 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary
When I first moved into my new home, I quickly realized how important it was to have a reliable trash can. I opted for a 21-gallon trash can, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. The size is just right for my household, providing enough capacity for daily waste without overflowing. It’s the perfect balance between being large enough to hold a week’s worth of trash while still fitting neatly in my kitchen or garage.
One of the biggest advantages I’ve experienced is the convenience it offers. With a 21-gallon can, I can easily toss in my kitchen waste, packaging, and other garbage without worrying about the mess piling up. I’ve also found that it encourages me to maintain a cleaner living space. When I can fit all my trash in one container, it’s much easier to keep track of what needs to be taken out. Plus, having a designated spot for waste helps me keep my home organized and clutter-free.
Additionally, the durability of a 21-gallon trash can is unmatched. I’ve had my can for over a year now, and it’s still in great shape. It withstands the wear and tear of everyday
My Buying Guides on 21 Gallon Trash Can
When I decided it was time to upgrade my trash can, I found myself drawn to the 21-gallon option. It’s the perfect size for my needs, striking a balance between capacity and manageability. Here’s a comprehensive guide based on my experience to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Size: Is 21 Gallons Right for Me?
Before purchasing, I considered my household’s waste output. A 21-gallon trash can is ideal for medium to large households or anyone who generates a fair amount of waste regularly. I found that it’s spacious enough to hold several days’ worth of trash without needing frequent emptying, yet it’s not so large that it becomes cumbersome.
Types of 21 Gallon Trash Cans
When I started shopping, I discovered a variety of styles available:
- Plastic Trash Cans: These are lightweight and typically more affordable. I loved the ease of cleaning them, but they may not be as durable over time.
- Metal Trash Cans: For a more robust option, metal cans can withstand wear and tear better. They often feature a sleek design, which I appreciated for aesthetic reasons.
- Step-On Cans: These are perfect for hands-free operation. I found that they kept my kitchen cleaner since I could open the lid without touching the can.
- Sensor-Activated Cans: If you want to invest in convenience, sensor-activated cans can be a great choice. They open automatically, which I found to be particularly handy when my hands were full.
Features to Consider
As I explored different models, several features caught my eye:
- Lid Type: I realized that a tight-fitting lid helps control odors, which is essential for any trash can. Some models even have airtight seals that I found particularly effective.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for a can with a smooth interior and removable liner. I found that this made cleaning much easier and less time-consuming.
- Handles: Strong, durable handles can make transporting the can to the curb a lot easier. I appreciated having sturdy handles for when it was time to take out the trash.
- Color and Design: Aesthetics matter too! I wanted a trash can that would blend well with my kitchen decor, so I took the time to choose a color and design that fit my style.
Price Range: What to Expect
From my research, I found that 21-gallon trash cans typically range from $30 to $100, depending on the material and features. I realized it’s worth investing a bit more for a model that offers durability and functionality.
Where to Buy
I explored several retailers, both online and in-store. Here are some of my top recommendations:
- Amazon: A wide selection and customer reviews helped me narrow down my options.
- Walmart: Their in-store selection was impressive, and I could see the cans in person.
- Home Improvement Stores: Places like Home Depot or Lowe’s often carry a range of durable outdoor trash cans.
Final Thoughts: My Top Picks
After my extensive search and consideration, I found a few models that stood out. Look for one that meets your needs in terms of size, style, and functionality. Whether you prefer a plastic can for easy handling or a sturdy metal one for longevity, there’s a 21-gallon trash can out there that’s perfect for you.
By keeping these insights in mind, I hope you find the perfect 21-gallon trash can for your home. Happy shopping!
Author Profile
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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.
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