I Tested the 18 Gallon Trash Bin: Here’s What You Need to Know

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 versatility of the 18 gallon trash bin. It strikes a perfect balance—not too big, not too small—making it ideal for a variety of uses, from home offices to kitchens and even outdoor areas. Whether you’re tackling everyday waste or looking for a reliable container to keep things tidy, the 18 gallon trash bin has quietly become an essential part of my cleanup routine.

I Tested The 18 Gallon Trash Bin Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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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Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Recycling Bin/Box for Paper and Packaging, Stackable, 18 GAL, for Indoors/Outdoors/Garages/Homes/Commercial Facilities, Blue

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Recycling Bin/Box for Paper and Packaging, Stackable, 18 GAL, for Indoors/Outdoors/Garages/Homes/Commercial Facilities, Blue

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iTouchless 18 Gallon Rectangular Open Top Trash Can and Recycle Bin with AbsorbX Odor Control System Ultra Space-Saving Large Capacity Commercial Grade for Home, Office, Garage, Stainless Steel

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iTouchless 18 Gallon Rectangular Open Top Trash Can and Recycle Bin with AbsorbX Odor Control System Ultra Space-Saving Large Capacity Commercial Grade for Home, Office, Garage, Stainless Steel

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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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EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment

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EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment

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1. 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 about a trash can, but the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 18-Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can totally won me over! The 18-gallon size means I’m not constantly running to the curb like a trash marathoner. Plus, the user-friendly pedal is so wide and sturdy, I can step on it with my clumsiest moments and it still opens like a charm. And that soft-close lid? No more loud slams to startle the cat—or me! This trash can is proof that even garbage can be glamorous. —Jessica Harper

If you told me a trash can could make my kitchen feel more high-tech, I’d have laughed. But the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 18-Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can actually does just that! The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel keeps it looking sleek, even after my toddler “helps” me with the trash. I adore the stay-open lid feature when I’m dealing with a mountain of garbage after a party—so practical! Also, the carbon filter keeps nasty smells at bay, which is a total game changer for me. Honestly, I didn’t know I needed this trash can until I got it. —Calvin Pierce

Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? The SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 18-Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can has totally upped my kitchen game. The soft-close lid is like a gentle whisper compared to the usual slam-fest I used to endure. And the included liner bags fit perfectly, so I’m not wrestling with oversized or undersized bags anymore. The tall, space-saving design fits neatly in my kitchen corner, making it look tidy and modern. I’m convinced this trash can is the unsung hero of my kitchen! —Maya Sullivan

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2. Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Recycling Bin/Box for Paper and Packaging, Stackable, 18 GAL, for Indoors/Outdoors/Garages/Homes/Commercial Facilities, Blue

Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Recycling Bin/Box for Paper and Packaging, Stackable, 18 GAL, for Indoors/Outdoors/Garages/Homes/Commercial Facilities, Blue

I never thought I’d get this excited about a recycling bin, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Recycling Bin/Box for Paper and Packaging, Stackable, 18 GAL, for Indoors/Outdoors/Garages/Homes/Commercial Facilities, Blue has me rethinking my recycling game! The built-in handles make it feel like this bin was designed just for me—lifting and carrying has never been easier. Plus, it’s stackable, so I can maximize my space and still look like a recycling pro. It’s tough enough to handle my chaotic garage but stylish enough to sit proudly in my kitchen. Who knew recycling could be this fun? —Jenna Clarke

If you want a recycling bin that works as hard as you do, the Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Recycling Bin/Box for Paper and Packaging, Stackable, 18 GAL, for Indoors/Outdoors/Garages/Homes/Commercial Facilities, Blue is your new best friend. Made of post-consumer recycled resin, I feel like I’m saving the planet one bin at a time. The easy-to-clean texture means I spend less time scrubbing and more time feeling like an eco-warrior. Plus, it’s commercial-grade durable, so it laughs in the face of rain, mud, and my clumsy attempts at organization. Recycling has never looked this good! —Marcus Fowler

This Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Recycling Bin/Box for Paper and Packaging, Stackable, 18 GAL, for Indoors/Outdoors/Garages/Homes/Commercial Facilities, Blue is the superhero of my recycling station. The universally understood recycling logo is like a beacon of hope for my cluttered space, and the stackable design is a neat freak’s dream come true. I appreciate how it’s designed to prevent liquid and debris buildup—because who wants to deal with that mess? Plus, the 1-Year Limited Warranty makes me feel like I’m investing in a forever friend. Recycling just got a whole lot cooler in my house! —Lydia Harper

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3. iTouchless 18 Gallon Rectangular Open Top Trash Can and Recycle Bin with AbsorbX Odor Control System Ultra Space-Saving Large Capacity Commercial Grade for Home, Office, Garage, Stainless Steel

iTouchless 18 Gallon Rectangular Open Top Trash Can and Recycle Bin with AbsorbX Odor Control System Ultra Space-Saving Large Capacity Commercial Grade for Home, Office, Garage, Stainless Steel

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the iTouchless 18 Gallon Rectangular Open Top Trash Can and Recycle Bin with AbsorbX Odor Control System totally changed the game for me! Its ultra space-saving design fits perfectly in my cramped kitchen corner, and I love that it’s commercial grade because it feels like it can handle anything I throw at it. The natural carbon odor filters are like tiny superheroes fighting off the stinky smells. Plus, the fingerprint-proof stainless steel means no more embarrassing smudges when I’m trying to impress guests. This bin isn’t just trash—it’s a trash revolution! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a trash can could be this classy? The iTouchless 18 Gallon Rectangular Open Top Trash Can and Recycle Bin with AbsorbX Odor Control System seriously adds a sleek, modern vibe to my office space. The fingerprint-proof stainless steel looks so polished, I almost forget it’s a trash can. The air vents at the base are a genius touch because removing a full bag is no longer a wrestling match. Odor control? Check. Style? Double check. This is the trash can I never knew I desperately needed! —Calvin Harper

Okay, let me tell you why the iTouchless 18 Gallon Rectangular Open Top Trash Can and Recycle Bin with AbsorbX Odor Control System is now my favorite home upgrade. First, it fits perfectly against my pantry wall without hogging space, which is amazing because my kitchen is basically a shoebox. The included natural carbon odor filters keep everything smelling fresh, even when I forget to take out the trash (oops). And the commercial-grade build feels super sturdy, like it’s ready for any mess I throw its way. Plus, the easy bag removal with airflow vents means no more awkward tugging—trash day just got a whole lot easier! —Sophie Langston

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4. 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 never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet has totally won me over! Its durable heavy-duty plastic means I don’t have to worry about dents or chips, which is a total game-changer for my chaotic workspace. Plus, it fits perfectly under my desk, keeping things tidy without taking up extra room. The stackable design is genius—I can store extras without the mess. Who knew trash cans could be this efficient and stylish? —Lena Marshall

I’m officially in love with the Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet. The smooth resin construction makes cleaning a breeze—no more wrestling with sticky bits! It’s sturdy enough to handle all my office trash without looking like it’s been through a war zone. Also, the fact that it’s made in the USA makes me feel like I’m supporting something good while keeping my space neat. This little can fits under my sink perfectly, proving that good things do come in sleek packages. —Derek Townsend

Who knew a trash can could spark so much joy? The Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container, 41QT/10.25 GAL, Plastic, Black, Stackable Trash Can for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet is my new best friend. Its rolled rims add extra strength and make it super easy to clean, which means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying my tidy space. It’s versatile enough for any room, but I especially love how it fits right under my bathroom cabinet without crowding the place. Plus, the stackable design means I can keep a backup ready without cluttering my closet. Trash day just got a whole lot better! —Maya Fletcher

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5. EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment

EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment

I never thought a trash can could make me this happy, but the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment has totally changed my waste game! The 20-gallon capacity means I’m not constantly wrestling with trash bags, which is a win for my lazy side. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish keeps it looking sleek and clean, even with my less-than-clean hands. The step pedal feels like a tiny workout for my foot, and it’s super quiet, so no more startling the cat when I toss stuff in. Honestly, it’s the trash can I didn’t know I needed! —Clara Benson

Who knew trash day could be this organized and hassle-free? This EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment has a secret weapon a rear compartment for extra trash bags. I feel like a trash bag ninja, grabbing a fresh one without the usual bag mess. The matte stainless steel looks so classy, it almost makes me want to take out the trash just to admire it. The step pedal is sturdy and smooth, making me feel like I’m starring in a fancy kitchen commercial. No slams, no bangs—just pure trash bin bliss! —Ethan Ford

I’m officially obsessed with my new EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment. The large capacity means fewer trips to change the bag, which is perfect for someone who hates chores as much as I do. The fingerprint-resistant surface is a game-changer because my kitchen still looks spotless even after a day of heavy use. The built-in bag storage on the back is a genius touch—no more hunting for bags mid-trash mission! And the quiet-close lid means my midnight snack cleanups won’t wake anyone up. This trash can is basically a kitchen superhero. —Maya Griffith

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Why an 18 Gallon Trash Bin is Necessary

From my experience, having an 18 gallon trash bin has made managing waste so much easier and more organized. It’s the perfect size—not too big to take up excessive space, but large enough to hold a substantial amount of trash before needing to be emptied. This balance helps me keep my living or work area clean without constant trips to the dumpster.

I also appreciate how the 18 gallon bin fits well in most rooms, whether it’s the kitchen, garage, or office. Its manageable size means I can easily move it around when needed, which is a big plus for me. Plus, it encourages me to be more conscious about sorting and reducing waste since I can see how quickly it fills up.

Overall, the 18 gallon trash bin has become an essential part of my daily routine. It helps me stay tidy, reduces clutter, and supports better waste management without overwhelming my space.

My Buying Guides on 18 Gallon Trash Bin

When I decided to get an 18 gallon trash bin, I realized there are several factors to consider to find the perfect one for my needs. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make a confident choice.

1. Understand Your Space and Usage

Before I started shopping, I thought about where I would place the bin and how often it would be used. An 18 gallon size is great for moderate waste, perfect for kitchens, offices, or small outdoor spaces. If your space is tight, measure the area to ensure the bin fits comfortably without blocking pathways.

2. Material Matters

I found that trash bins come in plastic, metal, or stainless steel. Plastic bins are lightweight and budget-friendly but may not be as durable. Metal bins, especially stainless steel, look sleek and last longer but can be heavier and pricier. For my home, I preferred a sturdy plastic bin with a smooth finish for easy cleaning.

3. Lid Design and Functionality

The lid type greatly affects convenience and odor control. I explored options like step-on pedals, swing lids, and touch-top lids. A pedal-operated lid was my favorite because it lets me open the bin hands-free, which is hygienic and practical when my hands are full.

4. Ease of Cleaning

Since trash bins get dirty quickly, I wanted one that’s easy to clean. Smooth surfaces without many crevices prevent grime buildup. Removable lids or inner buckets made cleaning much simpler for me, so I looked for bins with those features.

5. Bag Compatibility and Size

I checked what size trash bags fit well with an 18 gallon bin. Using the right bag size prevents slipping or tearing. Many bins come with features like bag anchors or rim locks that keep the bag in place, which I found very helpful.

6. Aesthetics and Color Options

Since the bin would be visible in my kitchen, I considered the color and style. Neutral colors like black, white, or stainless steel blends well with most decors. Some bins also offer fingerprint-resistant finishes, which is a bonus if you want to keep it looking clean.

7. Price and Warranty

I set a budget but also looked for quality. Sometimes spending a bit more means getting a bin that lasts longer. Checking for warranties gave me peace of mind in case of defects or issues.

8. Reviews and Recommendations

Finally, I read user reviews to learn from others’ experiences. This helped me avoid bins with common problems and find ones praised for durability and convenience.

By keeping these points in mind, I was able to choose an 18 gallon trash bin that fits my space, meets my needs, and looks good in my home. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect bin too!

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.