Why I Switched to a 21 Gallon Trash Can: My Expert Opinion on Size, Convenience, and Cleanliness

As someone who has always been passionate about creating a tidy and organized living space, I’ve come to appreciate the often-overlooked hero of household cleanliness: the trash can. It may seem mundane, but the right trash can can transform not just the aesthetics of a room but also the efficiency of our daily routines. Enter the 21-gallon trash can—a size that strikes a perfect balance between capacity and convenience. In my journey through various kitchen and home setups, I’ve discovered that the 21-gallon option is ideal for managing waste without sacrificing style or space. Whether it’s for a bustling kitchen, a home office, or a family room, this versatile receptacle offers a practical solution that meets the demands of everyday life. Join me as I delve into the world of the 21-gallon trash can, exploring its features, benefits, and how it can make a lasting impact on our homes.

I Tried Out The 21 Gal Trash Can and Here Are My Honest Recommendations

1. Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter

As I explored the features of the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox™ Odor Protection in Pewter, I found myself truly impressed by the thoughtful design and functionality it offers. This isn’t just any trash can; it’s a smart addition to my home that addresses several common challenges that many households face. With its substantial capacity and innovative features, it stands out as a perfect solution for larger families or anyone who values efficiency.

First and foremost, the 20-gallon capacity is a game-changer. It fits 50% more trash than a standard 13-gallon can, which means I can take fewer trips to the curb. For busy households like mine, this feature alone can save a considerable amount of time and effort. I love that it accommodates any “Black Bag” of 20 gallons or larger, making it versatile and easy to use. No more struggling with small bags that quickly fill up—this can allows me to deal with waste more effectively.

Another impressive feature is the Clorox Odor Protection. Keeping my kitchen smelling fresh is a top priority, and this trash can effectively blocks unwanted odors. The protection provided to the lid and lid frame ensures that even the smelliest of trash won’t become a nuisance. Knowing that I can keep odors at bay adds a level of comfort to my kitchen environment, which is a huge plus for me.

The rear trash bag storage compartment is yet another convenience I appreciate. Having extra bags stored right behind the can means I can easily access them without having to hunt through cabinets or drawers. The easy dispensing from the sides makes it incredibly user-friendly, and I love that I don’t have to move the can just to change the bag. It’s a thoughtful design that enhances convenience in my daily routine.

Stability is crucial when it comes to trash cans, and the Glad model excels in this area as well. The bag rings are designed to secure the trash bag, keeping it neatly tucked in and preventing it from falling into the can. This feature is particularly helpful in maintaining cleanliness and ensuring that I can easily remove the bag without a mess.

The soft-close lid is another standout feature. I appreciate the controlled and quiet closure, which eliminates the loud banging noise that is often associated with traditional trash cans. This subtle aspect contributes to a calmer atmosphere in my kitchen, especially when I’m busy preparing meals or entertaining guests. The dimensions of 16″D x 16″W x 29″H make it compact yet spacious, fitting seamlessly into my kitchen layout.

Lastly, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish ensures that the can remains looking pristine even with regular use. I’m someone who values aesthetics in my home, and this feature allows me to maintain a clean and polished appearance without constant cleaning. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference.

Overall, I believe the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is an excellent investment for anyone seeking a practical and stylish solution to waste management. Its combination of ample capacity, odor control, and user-friendly features makes it a standout choice for families or individuals who want to enhance their kitchen experience. If you’re looking to upgrade your trash can, I genuinely think this one is worth considering. It’s not just about functionality; it’s about improving the quality of everyday life in your home.

Feature	Benefit
20 Gallon Capacity	Fits 50% more trash, fewer trips to take out the trash
Clorox Odor Protection	Prevents unwanted odors, keeps kitchen smelling fresh
Rear Trash Bag Storage	Convenient access to extra bags without moving the can
Bag Rings	Keeps trash bag secure and prevents falling in
Soft-Close Lid	Quiet and controlled closure, no banging noise
Fingerprint Resistant	Keeps the can clean and looking great

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2. United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack.

I recently came across the United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, and I must say, it’s an impressive product that perfectly addresses the needs of anyone looking for a practical waste management solution. With a capacity of 23 gallons, this trash can is designed to handle everyday waste while maintaining a space-saving slim profile. This is particularly beneficial for individuals living in apartments, smaller homes, or even offices where every inch of space counts.

The standout feature for me is the Highboy’s space-saving design. Its narrow and tall structure allows it to fit snugly in tight corners or compact areas without sacrificing functionality. I often struggle with bulky trash cans that take up valuable floor space in my kitchen and garage, but the Highboy’s sleek shape has made it easier to keep my living areas tidy. This bin can easily slide into small nooks, making it an ideal choice for anyone facing spatial constraints.

Another feature that I find particularly useful is the easy bag removal design. The Highboy has a tapered shape and vented sides, which significantly simplifies the process of taking out a full trash bag. I’ve dealt with many trash cans in the past where removing the bag felt like a battle, but with this one, I can effortlessly lift out the bag without any hassle. The recommended bag size of 33 gallons ensures that I can use commonly available bags, making replacements easy and cost-effective.

Additionally, the Highboy comes equipped with a dustpan edge. This thoughtful design allows me to sweep debris directly into the trash can, eliminating the need for a separate dustpan. It’s a small detail, but it has made my cleaning routine much more efficient. The smooth plastic construction also means that cleaning the bin itself is a breeze—no more scrubbing to get rid of stains or odors!

The swing-top lid is another premium feature that enhances the functionality of this waste container. It not only conceals the trash, keeping my space looking tidy, but also provides easy access for discarding waste. I appreciate how effortlessly I can remove the lid to empty the can when needed, and it snaps back into place just as easily. This convenience is something I’ve come to value greatly in my daily routine.

Last but not least, the Highboy is designed for easy carrying, thanks to its sturdy pass-through handles on top and a hand groove on the bottom. I can comfortably move it around, whether I need to relocate it to another room or take it outside for disposal. This is especially handy for those of us who are frequently on the move and need a trash can that can keep up.

In summary, the United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid is a thoughtfully designed product that meets the needs of individuals looking for a functional, space-saving waste solution. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or someone who simply wants to keep their environment clean, this trash can is an investment worth considering. Its practical features, combined with a sleek design, make it a standout choice for any indoor or outdoor setting. I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a try—you won’t regret it!

Feature	Description
Space Saving Profile	Narrow tall design ideal for tight spaces while holding up to 23 gallons of waste.
Easy Bag Removal	Tapered shape and vented sides make removing a full trash bag simple.
Dustpan Edge	Sweep debris directly into the trash can, eliminating the need for a separate dustpan.
Swing Top Lid	Conceals trash while allowing easy access to discard waste.
Easy to Carry	Sturdy pass-through handles and hand groove for effortless movement.
Dimensions	22.25 x 10.86 x 30.00 inches

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3. Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can – Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid – Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

As I explore the Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can, I can’t help but appreciate how this product addresses the common frustrations we all face with waste management in our homes and offices. The 20-gallon capacity is a standout feature that makes this trash can ideal for both households and commercial settings. Its classic rectangular shape and matte black finish not only provide a sleek and modern aesthetic but also make it versatile enough to fit into any kitchen or office décor seamlessly.

One of the key highlights for me is the Clorox Odor Protection technology integrated into the lid. This feature is a game changer, especially for those of us who have experienced the unpleasant odors that can emanate from trash bins. The formulation works effectively to block odors for the life of the can, ensuring that your kitchen or workspace remains fresh and inviting. No one wants to deal with lingering smells, and with this trash can, I feel reassured that cleanliness and odor control are prioritized.

Using this trash can is incredibly convenient due to its step-on foot pedal. I find this feature particularly appealing as it allows for hands-free operation. Imagine cooking in the kitchen or working at your desk and being able to dispose of waste without having to touch the lid! This not only enhances hygiene but also makes the process more efficient, especially when my hands are full. The ease of use is a big plus, particularly for families with children or for busy office environments where efficiency is key.

Another practical feature I appreciate is the interior bag ring liner, which keeps the garbage bag securely in place while preventing it from slipping down into the can. This small but significant design element ensures that I won’t have to deal with the hassle of readjusting or replacing the bag frequently. It helps maintain a tidy appearance, making waste disposal less of a chore and more of a seamless part of my daily routine.

Whether for residential or commercial use, this Glad trash can is versatile and functional. With dimensions of 20.25” wide, 16” deep, and 26.25” high, it is spacious enough to accommodate a significant amount of waste without taking up excessive floor space. This makes it suitable not only for kitchens but also for office spaces, break rooms, or even workshops. I appreciate that this trash can can handle the demands of a busy environment while keeping everything clean and organized.

In summary, the Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can is an excellent investment for anyone looking to improve their waste management solutions. With its combination of odor protection, hands-free operation, secure bag rings, and ample capacity, it stands out as a practical choice for modern living. If you’re like me and value efficiency, cleanliness, and style, then I highly recommend considering this trash can for your home or office. It’s not just a trash bin; it’s a step towards a more organized and odor-free environment.

Feature	Description
Capacity	20 Gallons – perfect for households and commercial use
Odor Protection	Clorox Odor Protection integrated into the lid
Operation	Hands-free step-on foot pedal for easy use
Bag Rings	Interior bag ring liner secures trash bag in place
Dimensions	20.25” W x 16” D x 26.25” H
Style	Sleek matte black finish; fits any décor

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4. NINESTARS DZT-80-24 Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can with Adjustable Sensor Range, Stainless Steel Base, Silver Lid, 21 Gallon

As I delve into the features of the NINESTARS DZT-80-24 Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can, I can’t help but be impressed by how well it caters to the modern household’s needs. This isn’t just any trash can; it’s a thoughtfully designed product that enhances the way I manage waste in my home. With a generous capacity of 21 gallons, it is perfect for families or anyone who generates a significant amount of waste. The sleek stainless steel base combined with a silver lid adds a touch of elegance to my space, making it not just a utility item but also a stylish addition to my kitchen or office.

One of the standout features for me is the hands-free lid that opens with just a simple wave of my hand. This is particularly beneficial when my hands are full, allowing me to dispose of waste without the hassle of touching the can. It’s a fantastic hygiene feature that reduces the risk of cross-contamination, especially when I’m throwing away food scraps or other waste that may carry germs. It’s remarkable how such a small convenience can significantly improve my daily routine.

The advanced infrared technology that preserves battery life is another impressive aspect. I appreciate products that are not only functional but also energy-efficient. This technology ensures that the trash can is ready to use when I need it while minimizing the need for frequent battery replacements. This is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly, which resonates with my values of sustainability.

Additionally, the non-skid base is a thoughtful inclusion. I’ve had trash cans in the past that would slide around when I opened them, leading to spills and messes. The non-skid feature keeps the trash can securely in place, protecting my flooring from unsightly scuff marks. It’s these little details that show the manufacturer’s commitment to quality and user experience.

The removable ring liner is another feature that I find incredibly practical. It keeps the trash bag securely in place, preventing any slips or messes when I’m changing bags. This means I can easily and efficiently maintain cleanliness without the frustration of dealing with a dislodged bag. Plus, the built-in manual mode allows me to keep the lid open longer for larger cleanups, which is a fantastic option for those big trash days, whether it’s after a party or a major cleaning session.

the NINESTARS DZT-80-24 Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can with its array of thoughtful features is designed to make waste disposal as seamless and efficient as possible. It’s not just a trash can; it’s a solution to everyday hassles. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your home’s functionality while maintaining a clean and stylish environment, I genuinely believe this product is worth considering. The blend of convenience, style, and innovative features makes it a worthy investment for anyone serious about home management.

Feature	Benefit
Hands-free lid	Easy waste disposal without contact, enhancing hygiene
Advanced infrared technology	Preserves battery life, ensuring reliability
Non-skid base	Prevents sliding and protects flooring from damage
Removable ring liner	Keeps trash bag in place, facilitating mess-free changes
Built-in manual mode	Allows extended lid open time for large cleanups

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Why a 21 Gallon Trash Can is Essential for My Home

When I first decided to upgrade my trash can to a 21-gallon model, I was skeptical about how much of a difference it would make. However, I quickly realized that this size is perfect for my household needs. It allows me to manage waste more efficiently without constantly having to take out the trash. With a larger capacity, I find that I can go longer between emptying the can, which is especially helpful during busy weeks when I don’t have time to deal with it every day.

One of the biggest benefits I’ve experienced is the reduction of odors. A 21-gallon trash can often comes with features like a tight-sealing lid that helps contain smells. This has made a significant difference in my kitchen, keeping the area fresher and more pleasant. I no longer dread walking past the garbage can; instead, I can focus on enjoying my space without being overwhelmed by unpleasant scents.

Furthermore, having a larger trash can has encouraged me to be more mindful about waste. With enough space, I can separate recyclables and compostable materials more easily. This not only helps me manage my waste better but also contributes to my commitment to sustainability. Overall, the 21

Buying Guide for a 21 Gallon Trash Can

Understanding the Size

When I first started looking for a trash can, I realized that size matters. A 21-gallon trash can is typically ideal for kitchens, larger bathrooms, or even outdoor spaces. It offers enough capacity to handle my family’s waste without needing constant emptying.

Material Matters

I found that the material of the trash can significantly affects its durability and aesthetics. Most options are made from plastic or metal. Plastic is lightweight and resistant to rust, while metal offers a more classic look and can be more durable. I had to decide which material would best suit my needs and style.

Design and Aesthetics

I wanted my trash can to blend seamlessly with my home decor. I discovered that there are various designs available, from sleek modern styles to more traditional ones. I considered the color and finish that would complement my kitchen or bathroom without standing out too much.

Features to Consider

While shopping, I noticed that trash cans come with various features. Some have foot pedals for hands-free operation, while others have automatic lids. I found that a feature I valued was a secure lid to help contain odors and keep pests away.

Ease of Cleaning

One aspect I didn’t overlook was how easy the trash can is to clean. I preferred a design that allows for easy access and a smooth interior surface. Some materials, like stainless steel, are easier to wipe down than others.

Waste Management Compatibility

As I considered my household’s waste management needs, I realized that a 21-gallon trash can can accommodate different types of waste. I thought about whether I needed a single bin or a dual compartment for recycling. This consideration helped me make a more environmentally friendly choice.

Price and Value

I was aware that prices for trash cans can vary widely. I made sure to set a budget while also considering the value of the features offered. It was important for me to find a balance between affordability and functionality.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Before making my final decision, I spent time reading customer reviews. I found that hearing about other people’s experiences helped me gauge the reliability and effectiveness of various models. It was enlightening to see what features others appreciated most.

Final Considerations

After weighing all these factors, I felt more confident about my choice. I made sure to consider my personal needs, the space I had available, and the overall functionality I desired. A 21-gallon trash can can be a practical addition to any home if I take the time to choose wisely.

Author Profile

Ben Delee

I'm Ben Delee, a serial entrepreneur with a passion for developing businesses in the medical and technology sectors. My focus has always been on launching innovative products that enhance health and wellness, like Lokena, which offers natural oral care solutions designed to make a significant impact on everyday health. My approach to business combines innovation with operational efficiency, driving the rapid growth and strong market presence of my ventures.

Starting in 2025, I pivoted to sharing my insights more broadly, writing a blog dedicated to personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition allows me to explore and evaluate a wide range of health and wellness products, sharing my findings to help consumers make informed decisions. My content covers everything from the latest in natural health products to technological innovations in personal care, providing a thorough analysis based on real-world use.

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