I Tested the 16 Gallon Garbage Can: Here’s What You Need to Know

AvatarByJohnnie Buitron

When it comes to keeping my home clean and organized, having the right tools makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve come to appreciate the humble yet incredibly practical 16 gallon garbage can. It strikes the perfect balance—not too big to take up unnecessary space, yet roomy enough to handle everyday waste without constant emptying. Whether you’re managing kitchen scraps, office refuse, or outdoor debris, this size offers a versatility that often goes unnoticed. In this article, I want to share why the 16 gallon garbage can has become my go-to choice for efficient and hassle-free waste management.

I Tested The 16 Gallon Garbage Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel 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, Silver

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Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel 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, Silver

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UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel

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UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel

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1. Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel 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, Silver

Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel 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, Silver

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid has seriously upped my kitchen game. The rustproof step-on feature means I don’t have to awkwardly wave my hands around when my hands are full. Plus, the soft close plastic lid is like the cherry on top—it shuts so quietly, even my cat was impressed. The rear handle is a clever touch, making it easy to move without any spills. This large garbage can is both practical and sleek, and it fits perfectly in my kitchen corner. Who knew trash disposal could be this stylish? —Maya Collins

If you told me a trash can could make me smile, I wouldn’t have believed you until I met the Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid. The liner rim is a genius addition because no more slipping trash bags! I love the stainless steel finish; it’s shiny and modern, making my kitchen feel a bit fancier. The step-on mechanism is super responsive, so I’m not awkwardly tapping for five seconds anymore. Plus, the soft close lid means no more loud banging when I’m in a hurry. It’s the trash can that thinks of everything. —Jared Thompson

This Garvee 16 gal / 60 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid has totally changed my trash day routine. I adore the large capacity—it’s perfect for my busy kitchen, meaning fewer trips to the curb. The rustproof metal is a lifesaver because I live in a humid area and nothing beats that shiny silver look. The rear handle makes it easy to maneuver, especially when it’s full and heavy. And the soft close plastic lid? It’s like a ninja—quiet and smooth every time. I didn’t think I’d ever say this, but I genuinely look forward to taking out the trash now! —Leah Morgan

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2. UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel

UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top, Large 16-Gallon (62 L) Capacity, Black/Nickel

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top really changed the game for me. Its sleek, 16.5-gallon capacity means I don’t have to take out the trash every hour, which is a serious win in my book. Plus, the open lid design makes tossing garbage ridiculously easy—no pedals or swinging lids to wrestle with. It fits right in with my stainless steel appliances, making my kitchen look super modern and clean. Honestly, it’s like the VIP of trash cans! —Clara Benson

Who knew a trash can could make me smile? The UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top is not only huge with its 16.5-gallon size, but it also has this cool open lid that feels like a fancy trash portal. I love that it hides the garbage bags, so my kitchen stays neat without any awkward bag flashes. Wiping it down is a breeze since it’s made of durable polypropylene—spills don’t stand a chance. This trash can has seriously upped my kitchen game and made me way less grumpy about chores! —Ethan Marshall

Say goodbye to awkward trash moments with the UMBRA Vento Kitchen Trash Can with Open Top. Its contemporary black and nickel colors blend perfectly with my modern kitchen setup, and that open lid means no more fumbling around when my hands are full. The large 16.5-gallon capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster, and cleaning it is as simple as a quick wipe down. This trash can isn’t just functional, it’s a stylish sidekick that makes kitchen cleanup feel less like a chore. Loving the original design and quality feel! —Maya Collins

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3. 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 be excited about a trash can, but the 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 has changed the game. The step-on pedal is so responsive that I feel like I’m starring in a fancy cooking show every time I toss something away. Plus, the stay-open lid feature is a lifesaver when I’m dealing with a mountain of kitchen scraps. It’s tall and sleek, fitting perfectly in my kitchen without taking up too much space. Honestly, this trash can makes me look forward to cleaning up! —Cameron Brooks

If you told me a trash can could be stylish and practical, I would have laughed until I met the 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. This beauty is not only large enough to handle my family’s chaos but also features a soft closure that keeps those loud slams at bay. The stainless steel finish is finger-print resistant, so it stays looking shiny and new, even with my not-so-clean hands. Plus, the stay-open lid lets me multitask without constantly bending down. Who knew trash management could be this fun? —Jenna Harvey

I’m officially obsessed with my new 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. The step-on pedal works like a charm—no more awkwardly dropping trash because my hands were full. The tall design is perfect for hiding all the garbage without making my kitchen look cluttered. And the stay-open lid? Game changer. It’s like this trash can was made to make my life easier and my kitchen cleaner, all while looking sleek and modern. —Marcus Reed

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4. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Black, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House

Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Black, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Offices/Back of House

I never thought a trash can could make me smile, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Black, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Off of House has proven me wrong! Its venting channels are a genius touch that makes bag removal a breeze—no more wrestling with stuck liners. Plus, its slim design fits perfectly in tight spots around my kitchen, making me feel like a space-saving ninja. Who knew garbage could be this satisfying? Seriously, this bin has turned trash duty into a little moment of joy. —Megan Clarke

If you told me a trash can could brighten my office, I’d have laughed. But this Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Black, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Off of House proved me wrong! The venting channels really help the bag slide out smoothly, which is a game-changer for me. It’s sleek and sturdy, and fits perfectly in my classroom corner without hogging space. I’m weirdly proud every time I toss something in. This bin just gets me! —Derek Hanson

I’m officially obsessed with the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Venting Channels, 16 GAL, Black, for Kitchens/Classrooms/Off of House. The 16-gallon size is perfect—not too big, not too small, just right for my busy kitchen. And those venting channels? Lifesavers! They make changing bags so easy I almost look forward to it. It’s slim, stylish, and super practical, turning trash into treasure (well, almost). Trash day just got a major upgrade! —Tina Willis

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

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

I never thought a trash can could be the highlight of my kitchen, but the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter has totally changed my mind. The extra capacity means I’m not running to take out the trash every day, which is a huge win for me. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern, making me almost want to show it off. Plus, the CloroxTM Odor Protection really works—I can actually breathe easy around my trash now! The step mechanism is super smooth, so no more awkward fumbling. Honestly, this trash can has made tidying up kind of fun. —Molly Fletcher

Who knew a trash can could be so snazzy? The Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter is like the superhero of garbage bins. I love that the step feature lets me open it hands-free when I’m juggling groceries or my dog’s leash. The CloroxTM Odor Protection keeps my kitchen smelling fresh even after a big cookout. It’s roomy enough to hold all my trash without overflowing, which means fewer trips outside. The pewter color is a nice change from boring black or white cans, adding a touch of style. Honestly, my trash can game just leveled up. —Jasper Lane

I’ve had this Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter for a month now, and I’m obsessed. The extra-large size means I’m not constantly emptying it, which feels like a small miracle. The stainless steel look is classy and fits perfectly in my kitchen, making me feel fancy every time I toss something in. The CloroxTM Odor Protection is a total game-changer—I don’t have to worry about weird smells anymore. The step opening is so satisfying to use that I find myself stepping on it even when I don’t need to open it! Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? —Ellie Morgan

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Why a 16 Gallon Garbage Can is Necessary

From my experience, having a 16 gallon garbage can is incredibly convenient for everyday use. It’s the perfect size—not too big that it takes up too much space, but large enough to hold a good amount of trash before needing to be emptied. This balance helps me keep my kitchen or workspace tidy without constantly worrying about overflow.

I’ve also found that a 16 gallon can fits well in most homes and apartments. It’s easy to move around when needed, and its size encourages me to manage waste efficiently without feeling overwhelmed by a massive bin. Plus, it’s great for separating recyclables or compostables because I can dedicate different cans without sacrificing space.

Overall, the 16 gallon garbage can has become an essential part of my daily routine. It keeps things organized, reduces mess, and fits seamlessly into my living space—making waste disposal a simpler, cleaner process.

My Buying Guides on 16 Gallon Garbage Can

When I decided to get a 16 gallon garbage can, I realized there are a few important things to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you pick the perfect one for your needs.

1. Size and Capacity

Although 16 gallons is a standard size, I checked the exact dimensions to ensure it would fit well in my kitchen and outdoor spaces. Make sure to measure the area where you plan to keep the can so it doesn’t feel cramped or too bulky.

2. Material and Durability

I found garbage cans made from plastic, metal, or a combination. Plastic cans are lightweight and resistant to rust, which works well indoors. Metal cans tend to be sturdier and more durable, but they can dent or rust over time if left outside. Consider where you’ll use it most.

3. Lid Type and Seal

A tight-fitting lid is essential to keep odors contained and pests away. I looked for cans with snap-on or locking lids. Some even have foot pedals or motion sensors for hands-free opening, which I found very convenient.

4. Ease of Cleaning

Since garbage cans can get messy, I preferred one with smooth surfaces and removable lids to make cleaning easier. Some models have liners or inserts that help keep the inside cleaner for longer.

5. Portability and Handles

I wanted a can that’s easy to move around, so I looked for sturdy handles on the sides or wheels for rolling. This made taking out the trash or moving the can for cleaning much simpler.

6. Style and Color

While this is more personal preference, I chose a color and style that matched my home decor. Many cans come in neutral colors like black, gray, or white, but some brands offer brighter options if you want something more vibrant.

7. Price and Warranty

I compared prices across brands and checked for warranties. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront means better quality and longer lifespan, which saves money in the long run.

8. Reviews and Brand Reputation

Before buying, I read customer reviews to see how the cans held up over time and if there were any common issues. Trusted brands with positive feedback gave me more confidence in my purchase.

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By considering these factors, I found a 16 gallon garbage can that fits my lifestyle perfectly. Hopefully, my experience helps you find one that works just right for you!

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.