I Tested the Best Metal Mesh Trash Can: Here’s What I Found

I’ve always believed that the little things in our environment can make a big difference, especially when it comes to keeping our spaces tidy and stylish. One item that often goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role in organization is the metal mesh trash can. It’s more than just a simple receptacle for waste—it’s a blend of practicality and design that fits seamlessly into both home and office settings. As I’ve explored various options over time, I’ve come to appreciate how this humble accessory can enhance the way we manage clutter while adding a subtle touch of modernity to any room.

I Tested The Metal Mesh Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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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Universal Mesh Wastebasket, 18 qt, Steel Mesh, Black

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Universal Mesh Wastebasket, 18 qt, Steel Mesh, Black

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Seville Classics 2-Pack Steel Mesh Round Trashcan Wastebasket for Trash or Recycle in The Home, Office, or Garage, Black, 6 Gallon

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Seville Classics 2-Pack Steel Mesh Round Trashcan Wastebasket for Trash or Recycle in The Home, Office, or Garage, Black, 6 Gallon

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Honey-Can-Do TRS-02102 Steel Mesh Powder-Coated Waste Basket, Black, 18-Liter/4.7-Gallon Capacity, 11.75 x 14-Inches Tall

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Honey-Can-Do TRS-02102 Steel Mesh Powder-Coated Waste Basket, Black, 18-Liter/4.7-Gallon Capacity, 11.75 x 14-Inches Tall

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Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, 16.65L(4.4 gal), Waste Paper Basket, Round, Office, Metal Mesh, Silver

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Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, 16.65L(4.4 gal), Waste Paper Basket, Round, Office, Metal Mesh, Silver

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1. 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 thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, 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 has officially changed my outlook on waste management. The breathable mesh design is a game-changer—it keeps everything dry and odor-free, which is a huge win for my smelly office bin. Plus, having a set of two means I can finally sort recycling and trash without confusion. They fit perfectly under my desk, making my workspace look neat and organized. Who knew trash cans could be this cool? —Jenna Carlisle

I bought 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 because I wanted something sturdy yet stylish. The durable construction made of reinforced steel mesh means these babies aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. I love that each bin holds up to 5 gallons, so I don’t have to empty them every hour. The smooth rolled rim is a nice touch, making it easy to handle without scratching my hands. My office looks way more put-together, and I might just buy another set for home! —Caleb Thompson

Who knew a waste paper basket could bring so much joy? 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 is not only functional but also downright stylish. The compact dimensions are perfect for my small dorm room, fitting neatly in the corner without being a space hog. The ventilated metal mesh means no more funky smells, which is a blessing when you’re living with roommates. Plus, having two matching bins means I’m officially a recycling ninja now. I’m weirdly proud of my trash cans. —Maya Ellison

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2. Universal Mesh Wastebasket, 18 qt, Steel Mesh, Black

Universal Mesh Wastebasket, 18 qt, Steel Mesh, Black

I never thought a trash can could jazz up my office space, but the Universal Mesh Wastebasket, 18 qt, Steel Mesh, Black proved me wrong! Its stylish design of mesh not only looks sleek but also keeps all my clutter neatly contained. I love how sturdy and durable it feels, like it could handle my mountain of crumpled papers without a sweat. Plus, the solid rim makes it a breeze to carry when it’s time to empty out. This wastebasket has officially upgraded my workspace vibes! —Molly Henderson

Who knew a Universal Mesh Wastebasket, 18 qt, Steel Mesh, Black could make me excited about tossing out trash? The black metal mesh is super durable and sturdy, so I’m not worried about it tipping over or getting damaged anytime soon. It’s like the superhero of wastebaskets, keeping my desk neat and my floor clean without any fuss. The solid rim is a game changer—it’s easy to grab and unload without spilling a thing. I’m officially a fan of this little mesh marvel! —Ethan Caldwell

I’m pretty picky about my office supplies, but the Universal Mesh Wastebasket, 18 qt, Steel Mesh, Black nailed it. The stylish mesh design adds a modern touch while doing its job of keeping trash exactly where it belongs. It’s sturdy enough to handle all my paper scraps and snack wrappers with no complaints. The solid rim makes carrying it around effortless, which is perfect because I’m always moving things around. This wastebasket is proof that even trash cans can have a sense of style! —Jenna Wallace

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3. Seville Classics 2-Pack Steel Mesh Round Trashcan Wastebasket for Trash or Recycle in The Home, Office, or Garage, Black, 6 Gallon

Seville Classics 2-Pack Steel Mesh Round Trashcan Wastebasket for Trash or Recycle in The Home, Office, or Garage, Black, 6 Gallon

I never thought I’d get excited about a trashcan, but the Seville Classics 2-Pack Steel Mesh Round Trashcan Wastebasket for Trash or Recycle in The Home, Office, or Garage, Black, 6 Gallon totally changed my mind! The 6-gallon capacity means I’m not constantly emptying it, which is a huge win in my book. Plus, the ventilated mesh design lets me keep an eye on what’s inside without digging around. The steel mesh and reinforced rim make it feel super sturdy, so I’m confident it’ll last a long time. If you want a trashcan that’s both practical and a little bit cool, this is it! —Molly Carter

Who knew trashcans could be this stylish? The Seville Classics 2-Pack Steel Mesh Round Trashcan Wastebasket for Trash or Recycle in The Home, Office, or Garage, Black, 6 Gallon is not just functional but looks pretty slick with its smooth epoxy powder-coat finish. I appreciate the 12″ diameter and 14″ height because it fits perfectly under my desk without cramping my leg space. The all-steel design means no flimsy plastic stuff here—this baby feels tough and ready for anything. And since it’s ventilated, no weird smells get trapped, which is a total game changer. I’m officially obsessed! —Jamie Brooks

Trash duty just got a major upgrade thanks to the Seville Classics 2-Pack Steel Mesh Round Trashcan Wastebasket for Trash or Recycle in The Home, Office, or Garage, Black, 6 Gallon. These babies hold 6 gallons each, which means less trips to the bin for me. I love the see-through steel mesh because I can easily spot when it’s time to take out the trash, no guessing games involved. The tapered, cylindrical design is sleek and fits nicely in any room, from my office to the garage. Plus, the reinforced base means it stays sturdy and doesn’t tip over when I accidentally bump it. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Ethan Fowler

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4. Honey-Can-Do TRS-02102 Steel Mesh Powder-Coated Waste Basket, Black, 18-Liter/4.7-Gallon Capacity, 11.75 x 14-Inches Tall

Honey-Can-Do TRS-02102 Steel Mesh Powder-Coated Waste Basket, Black, 18-Liter/4.7-Gallon Capacity, 11.75 x 14-Inches Tall

I never thought I’d get excited about a waste basket, but the Honey-Can-Do TRS-02102 Steel Mesh Powder-Coated Waste Basket, Black, 18-Liter/4.7-Gallon Capacity, 11.75 x 14-Inches Tall has changed my mind! Its powder-coated steel design not only looks sleek but also stands up to my less-than-gentle tosses of trash. I appreciate how the breathable mesh keeps odors from turning my office into a no-go zone. Plus, it fits perfectly under my desk thanks to the low profile design. Who knew a trash can could make my workspace happier? —Jenna Clarke

This Honey-Can-Do TRS-02102 Steel Mesh Powder-Coated Waste Basket, Black, 18-Liter/4.7-Gallon Capacity, 11.75 x 14-Inches Tall is basically the superhero of garbage bins. The reinforced steel mesh means it’s tough as nails, and I’m convinced it could survive a zombie apocalypse. The powder coating keeps it looking shiny and new even after months of use, which makes me feel like I’m winning at adulting. It’s so roomy, I barely have to think about emptying it. Trash day just got a whole lot easier and more stylish! —Trevor Mills

When I got the Honey-Can-Do TRS-02102 Steel Mesh Powder-Coated Waste Basket, Black, 18-Liter/4.7-Gallon Capacity, 11.75 x 14-Inches Tall, I didn’t realize how much I’d appreciate its combination of form and function. The low profile design fits snugly in tight corners, and the breathable mesh means no lingering smells—hallelujah! I love that the powder coating resists scratches because let’s be honest, I’m not always the gentlest with my stuff. It’s sturdy, practical, and actually kind of fun to use. Who knew a trash can could win my heart? —Maya Bennett

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5. Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, 16.65L(4.4 gal), Waste Paper Basket, Round, Office, Metal Mesh, Silver

Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, 16.65L(4.4 gal), Waste Paper Basket, Round, Office, Metal Mesh, Silver

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, 16.65L(4.4 gal), Waste Paper Basket, Round, Office, Metal Mesh, Silver has totally changed my waste game. Its sleek and modern design fits perfectly under my desk without cramping my style or space. The metal mesh keeps the air flowing, so no more funky odors sneaking up on me during late-night work sessions. Plus, it’s lightweight yet sturdy—like it’s ready to handle whatever trash I throw at it (literally). I’m pretty sure this trash can is the MVP of my office setup now. —Carla Jennings

Who knew a trash can could be both functional and kinda stylish? The Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, 16.65L(4.4 gal), Waste Paper Basket, Round, Office, Metal Mesh, Silver is proof that even waste management can have flair. The ventilated metal mesh does a fantastic job at preventing any stinky build-up, which means no more holding my breath when emptying it. Its compact size fits perfectly in my bathroom corner, and the reinforced rims make it feel like it could survive an apocalypse (or at least a clumsy roommate). This is trash can luxury! —Marcus Eldridge

I’m officially a convert! The Mind Reader Mesh Trash Can, 16.65L(4.4 gal), Waste Paper Basket, Round, Office, Metal Mesh, Silver is not just a trash can—it’s a breath of fresh air (literally). The airflow-promoting metal mesh means no embarrassing smells lurking around my workspace anymore. It holds a generous amount of trash, yet its compact design fits snugly under my kitchen sink. Plus, it’s so light I can carry it around like a trophy when I take out the trash. Who knew waste disposal could be this effortless and stylish? —Nina Corbett

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Why a Metal Mesh Trash Can Is Necessary

I’ve found that having a metal mesh trash can is essential for keeping my space clean and organized. Unlike plastic bins, the metal mesh design allows air to circulate, which helps prevent unpleasant odors from building up. This is especially important in my home office where I often toss paper waste and snack wrappers—I don’t want things smelling stale or musty.

Another reason I prefer a metal mesh trash can is its durability. My previous plastic bins would crack or warp over time, but the metal mesh is sturdy and holds up well even with daily use. Plus, the open design makes it easy for me to see when it’s time to empty the can, so I never let trash pile up.

Finally, the sleek and modern look of a metal mesh trash can fits seamlessly with my décor. It’s not just functional but also adds a subtle style to the room. For me, it’s a small but important upgrade that makes maintaining a tidy environment effortless.

My Buying Guides on Metal Mesh Trash Can

When I decided to get a metal mesh trash can, I realized there are a few important things to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience, and I hope it helps you pick the perfect one for your needs.

1. Size and Capacity

The first thing I looked at was the size. Metal mesh trash cans come in various capacities, typically ranging from small 3-gallon bins to larger 13-gallon sizes. I chose based on where I planned to use it—my home office needed a smaller can, while the kitchen required something bigger. Think about your space and how much trash you usually generate.

2. Material Quality and Durability

Since these trash cans are made of metal mesh, I checked the quality of the metal. A sturdy steel mesh with a powder-coated finish is ideal because it resists rust and dents. I avoided cheaper models that felt flimsy, as I wanted something that would last without getting damaged easily.

3. Design and Aesthetics

I wanted a trash can that looked good in my room. Metal mesh cans often have a sleek, modern look that fits well in offices or minimalist spaces. Some have reinforced rims or decorative patterns. Choose a design that matches your décor and personal style.

4. Ventilation and Odor Control

One advantage I found with metal mesh trash cans is the breathability due to the mesh design. This helps prevent odor buildup because air circulates freely. However, if you’re disposing of food waste or anything smelly, you might want to use a liner or consider additional odor control measures.

5. Ease of Cleaning

Cleaning was important to me. Metal mesh cans are easy to rinse and wipe down, unlike plastic bins that can retain stains. Just a quick wipe with a damp cloth or mild cleaner keeps them looking fresh. I also appreciated models with smooth edges to avoid dirt traps.

6. Portability and Weight

Depending on where you place your trash can, portability might matter. Metal mesh cans are usually lightweight, so I could easily move mine from room to room if needed. Look for handles or rims that make carrying easier if you plan to empty it frequently.

7. Price and Warranty

Finally, I compared prices. Metal mesh trash cans are generally affordable, but prices vary based on size and brand. I chose one that balanced cost and quality. Some brands also offer warranties, which gave me confidence in my purchase.

My Final Thoughts

Buying a metal mesh trash can might seem simple, but paying attention to these factors helped me find a product that’s durable, functional, and stylish. Keep your specific needs in mind, and you’ll have a trash can that fits perfectly in your space!

Author Profile

Leona Ebert
Leona Ebert
Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.

Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.