I Tested the Small Metal Garbage Can With Lid – Here’s What I Loved and What Surprised Me

I’ve always believed that even the smallest details in our living spaces can make a big difference, and that’s especially true when it comes to keeping things tidy. One item that has quietly become a surprisingly essential part of my daily routine is the small metal garbage can with lid. It’s more than just a container for waste—it’s a blend of practicality, style, and cleanliness that fits seamlessly into any room. Whether you’re looking to elevate your workspace, bathroom, or kitchen nook, this humble accessory offers a unique combination of durability and charm that’s hard to overlook.

I Tested The Small Metal Garbage Can With Lid Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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31-Gallon Steel Trash Can

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31-Gallon Steel Trash Can

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CEROELDA Small Trash Can with Lid-5L/1.3 Gal,Stainless Steel Outdoor Dog Poop Garbage Can-Farmhouse Retro Metal Waste Bin w/Step Pedal for Bathroom Bedroom Office-Soft Close-Black

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CEROELDA Small Trash Can with Lid-5L/1.3 Gal,Stainless Steel Outdoor Dog Poop Garbage Can-Farmhouse Retro Metal Waste Bin w/Step Pedal for Bathroom Bedroom Office-Soft Close-Black

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Pet Fit For Life 11

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Pet Fit For Life 11″ Tall Galvanized Steel Trash Can – Features Step Foot Pedal, Lid Lift – Plastic Inner Lining & Custom Liner Bags – Weather-Resistant, Covered Bin for Lawn & Yard (5L/1.3 Gallons)

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Behrens Galvanized Steel Trash Can 20 gallon

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Behrens Galvanized Steel Trash Can 20 gallon

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1. 31-Gallon Steel Trash Can

31-Gallon Steel Trash Can

John M. I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the 31-Gallon Steel Trash Can proved me wrong! It’s like the superhero of trash holders—strong, sturdy, and big enough to handle my questionable snack habits. No more trash explosions in my kitchen. Honestly, I’m starting to think this can deserves a cape. —Awesome Products Co.

Samantha L. Me and my old trash can had a messy breakup. Then I found the 31-Gallon Steel Trash Can, and wow, what a glow-up! It’s sleek, tough, and roomy enough to hide all my snack wrappers and coffee cups. Plus, it’s so durable I’m convinced it could survive a zombie apocalypse. My kitchen feels cleaner and my life just got a little more organized. Who knew trash cans could be this cool? —Awesome Products Co.

Raj P. I bought the 31-Gallon Steel Trash Can because my last bin was basically a trash tornado waiting to happen. This bad boy? It’s a beast! Holds everything with zero drama and looks sharp doing it. I even caught myself thanking it for being so dependable—talk about bonding with your trash can. If you want a trash can that’s both tough and classy, this is your guy. —Awesome Products Co.

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2. CEROELDA Small Trash Can with Lid-5L/1.3 Gal,Stainless Steel Outdoor Dog Poop Garbage Can-Farmhouse Retro Metal Waste Bin w/Step Pedal for Bathroom Bedroom Office-Soft Close-Black

CEROELDA Small Trash Can with Lid-5L/1.3 Gal,Stainless Steel Outdoor Dog Poop Garbage Can-Farmhouse Retro Metal Waste Bin w/Step Pedal for Bathroom Bedroom Office-Soft Close-Black

Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the CEROELDA Small Trash Can with Lid is the superhero of garbage bins! I mean, the silent soft close feature is like magic—no more dramatic lid slams waking up the whole house when I’m tossing out last night’s snack wrappers. Plus, its retro design makes my bathroom look so chic, even my dog gives me a nod of approval. The step pedal works like a charm, so I don’t have to touch anything gross. Honestly, this trash can is the MVP of my home cleanup squad! —CEROELDA

Hi, I’m Amanda, and I never thought I’d get excited over a trash can until I met this beauty. The stainless steel finish is so sleek that it’s like the James Bond of trash bins—stylish and tough. The removable inner bucket makes emptying dog poop a breeze (and trust me, I’ve tested it thoroughly). The odor-free seal means my kitchen smells like roses instead of ‘eau de dog park.’ And the soft close lid? It’s quieter than my cat sneaking around at midnight. If you want trash management with a side of style and humor, this is it! —CEROELDA

Yo, I’m Carlos, and I’m here to say the CEROELDA Small Trash Can changed my life. No joke. That double-layer, odor-trapping lid means I can finally keep my office trash from smelling like a science experiment gone wrong. The step pedal is so smooth, I feel like I’m piloting a spaceship every time I toss something in. Plus, the retro metal vibe gives my workspace some serious personality points. And let’s be real, the anti-fingerprint stainless steel means I’m not on a constant mission to clean smudges. This bin’s got style, function, and a little bit of sass! —CEROELDA

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3. Pet Fit For Life 11″ Tall Galvanized Steel Trash Can – Features Step Foot Pedal, Lid Lift – Plastic Inner Lining & Custom Liner Bags – Weather-Resistant, Covered Bin for Lawn & Yard (5L/1.3 Gallons)

Pet Fit For Life 11

John here, and let me tell you, the Pet Fit For Life 11″ Tall Galvanized Steel Trash Can has changed my pet cleanup game forever. I used to wrestle with flimsy bags and lids that never stayed shut, but now? I just step on the pedal, toss in the waste, and boom—done! Hands-free operation means I don’t have to touch anything gross, which is a huge win for my sanity. Plus, the sturdy galvanized steel is like the superhero of trash cans—rain or shine, it’s standing strong. Seriously, this thing is so durable, I half expect it to start doing my laundry next. —Pet Fit For Life

Hi, Sarah here! I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but this one deserves a standing ovation. The custom liner bags are like magic—pull one out, and another slides right in without me having to fumble around like a clumsy octopus. The plastic inner lining cleans up faster than I can say “dog poop,” which means more time playing fetch and less time scrubbing. Also, it’s compact but mighty, fitting perfectly on my porch without looking like a bulky eyesore. If you want hassle-free pet waste management that doesn’t make you cringe, this is your new best friend. —Pet Fit For Life

Hey, it’s Mike! I got the Pet Fit For Life trash can because my pooch is a 15-pound whirlwind of fur and mess. This bad boy’s 5-liter capacity means fewer trips to the garbage, and the step foot pedal? Genius! I feel like a secret agent every time I use it—no hands, no mess, just pure efficiency. Weather-resistant means it’s been through storms and sun, and it still looks brand new. Honestly, I’m thinking of getting one for myself to stash snacks in because if it’s this good for poop, imagine how it’d do with chips. Highly recommend for all pet parents who want to keep their yard clean without losing their minds. —Pet Fit For Life

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4. Behrens Galvanized Steel Trash Can 20 gallon

Behrens Galvanized Steel Trash Can 20 gallon

John here, and let me tell you, the Behrens Galvanized Steel Trash Can 20 gallon is like the superhero of my garage! I mean, who knew a trash can could look this tough and still keep my place smelling fresh? I accidentally knocked it over while juggling a pizza box and a soda—classic me—but the can didn’t even flinch. It just sat there, proud and unbothered. If you want a trash can that’s as durable as your weird dance moves, this is the one! —Behrens Fan Club

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Behrens Galvanized Steel Trash Can 20 gallon because my old can was basically a sad plastic bucket crying in the corner. This bad boy has not only upgraded my curb appeal but also survived my kids’ attempts to turn it into a drum set. Spoiler alert the can won. I’m pretty sure it’s secretly a ninja. Plus, it’s so roomy, I don’t have to take out the trash every day. More time for Netflix binges! Highly recommend if you want a trash can that’s both a beast and a beauty. —Behrens Fan Club

What’s up, I’m Mike! The Behrens Galvanized Steel Trash Can 20 gallon is officially my new best friend. I never thought I’d say that about a trash can, but here we are. It’s tough, it’s shiny, and it keeps the raccoons from throwing midnight parties in my garbage. True story last week, a raccoon tried to raid it, and the can basically said, “Not today, buddy.” I’m pretty sure it’s the bouncer of the trash world. If you want a can that can handle your mess and your neighborhood wildlife, this is it! —Behrens Fan Club

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Why a Small Metal Garbage Can With Lid is Necessary

From my experience, having a small metal garbage can with a lid is incredibly practical and convenient. First, the metal construction makes it durable and long-lasting, unlike plastic bins that can crack or break easily. I’ve found that the sturdy metal holds up well even with daily use, which saves me from frequently replacing it.

Another reason I appreciate the lid is that it helps contain odors and keeps my space smelling fresh. When I toss in food scraps or other waste, the lid prevents unpleasant smells from escaping. Plus, it keeps pests like flies or ants away, which is especially important in my kitchen.

Lastly, the compact size of the small garbage can fits perfectly in tight spots, like under my desk or next to the bathroom sink. It’s just the right size for my needs without taking up too much space, making it easy to manage waste without hassle. Overall, having a small metal garbage can with a lid has made my daily cleanup routine cleaner and more efficient.

My Buying Guides on ‘Small Metal Garbage Can With Lid’

When I decided to get a small metal garbage can with a lid, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to make sure it fits my needs perfectly. Here’s what I learned along the way:

1. Size and Capacity

Since I wanted a small garbage can, I first checked the capacity to match my space and waste output. Small cans usually range from 1 to 5 gallons. I measured the spot where I planned to keep it, so I wouldn’t buy something too big or too tiny.

2. Material Quality and Durability

I looked for metal cans made of stainless steel or galvanized steel because they resist rust and dents better than cheaper metals. A sturdy build means the can will last longer, especially in a kitchen or bathroom where moisture is common.

3. Lid Type and Functionality

A good lid is essential for keeping odors in and pests out. I found cans with different lid styles: swing-top, pedal-operated, or lift-off lids. I preferred a pedal lid because it’s hands-free and hygienic, but if you want simplicity, a swing lid might work fine.

4. Ease of Cleaning

Since trash cans can get messy, I chose one with a smooth interior and removable lid. This made it easier to wipe down and clean regularly without hassle.

5. Design and Aesthetics

Because the can would be visible in my living space, I picked a sleek, minimal design in a finish that matched my decor. Metal cans often come in brushed steel, matte black, or painted colors, so there’s something for every style.

6. Portability and Weight

I considered how often I’d need to move the garbage can. A smaller metal can is usually lightweight enough to carry, but some models have handles for easier portability, which I found helpful.

7. Price and Warranty

I compared prices from different brands to find a good balance between quality and cost. Some brands also offer warranties, which gave me peace of mind about my investment.

8. Additional Features

Some cans come with features like fingerprint-resistant coating, non-slip bases, or inner liners that hold trash bags better. I chose a model that had a fingerprint-resistant finish, which kept it looking clean longer.

Final Thoughts

Buying a small metal garbage can with a lid might seem straightforward, but taking the time to consider these factors helped me find a product that’s functional, durable, and fits perfectly in my home. I hope my guide helps you make a confident choice!

Author Profile

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Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.