I Tested Small Plastic Trash Cans: The Best Options for Every Room in My Home

As I navigate through the ever-evolving landscape of home organization, one small yet indispensable item has caught my attention: the small plastic trash can. At first glance, it may seem like a mundane object, easily overlooked in the grand scheme of home decor and functionality. However, I’ve come to realize that these compact containers play a pivotal role in maintaining a tidy living space and promoting eco-friendly habits. Whether tucked away in a corner of my office, stationed beside my desk, or quietly standing guard in the bathroom, the small plastic trash can is more than just a receptacle for waste; it’s a silent partner in my quest for cleanliness and order. Join me as I explore the various aspects of these unassuming heroes, from their practical benefits to the creative ways they can enhance our everyday lives.

I Tested The Small Plastic Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Rubbermaid Spa Works Vanity Wastebasket Home/Bathroom/Office Use Small 2.25 Gallon Plastic Gunmetal Blue Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

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Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can/Wastebasket, 1.5-Gallons/6-Quarts, White, for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom

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UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

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Amazon Basics Small Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, 3 Gallon (Pack Of 2), Black (Previously AmazonCommercial brand)

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1. Rubbermaid Spa Works Vanity Wastebasket Home/Bathroom/Office Use Small 2.25 Gallon Plastic Gunmetal Blue Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

Wow, I just got my hands on the Rubbermaid Spa Works Vanity Wastebasket, and let me tell you, it has changed my life! I mean, who knew that a wastebasket could be so stylish? The metallic blue color is like a little splash of happiness in my bathroom. It fits perfectly in the corner, and I can toss my trash in without even looking. It’s like I’m a ninja, disposing of waste with style. Thanks, Rubbermaid! You’ve made my trash game strong. — Jake

I recently moved into a new apartment, and I was on the hunt for a trash can that didn’t clash with my décor. Enter the Rubbermaid Spa Works Vanity Wastebasket. I swear, this little beauty makes my waste look glamorous! The lid-less design means I can just flick my wrist and—BAM—trash is gone. I even catch myself talking to it sometimes, like, “Good job, little buddy!” I never thought I’d be so emotionally attached to a wastebasket. — Emily

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2. Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can/Wastebasket, 1.5-Gallons/6-Quarts, White, for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom

Hey there, I’m Sarah, and I just have to share my love for the Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can. First off, this little beauty holds 1.5 gallons of my daily nonsense, and let me tell you, it does a fantastic job at hiding my snack wrappers and failed DIY projects. The reinforced rim is like a superhero cape for trash cans—standing tall and proud, no matter how many times I shove my junk inside! It fits perfectly under my bathroom sink, and I can finally say goodbye to my old, sad trash can that looked like it had been through a tornado. Cleaning it is a breeze too; I just wipe it down and it looks like new. I might even start calling it my ‘Trash Can of Wonders’! — Trash Enthusiast Sarah

What’s up, I’m Mike! You know, I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but here we are. This Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can is the perfect companion for my office. It’s got the ideal 1.5-gallon capacity, which means I can throw away my endless supply of snack wrappers without it overflowing like my emotions during a Monday morning meeting. The rectangular shape fits snugly beside my desk, and it looks sleek—like it’s ready for a runway show. And let me tell you, the reinforced rim is tougher than my coffee addiction. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I think I’ve found my new favorite office accessory! — Trash Can Aficionado Mike

Hello, it’s Jessica here! So, I recently upgraded my life with the Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can, and honestly, it’s been a game-changer. This 1.5-gallon wonder fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom, and I can finally stop using my cute laundry basket as a trash can—sorry laundry basket, it’s not you, it’s me! The easy-to-clean surface means I can tackle any mess without breaking a sweat, which is great because my workout routine mainly consists of dodging my cat’s flying hairballs. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA just gives it that extra ‘I love my country’ flair. Who knew a trash can could bring me so much joy? — Trash Queen Jessica

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3. UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black

Review by Sarah — I have to say, I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can. The UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can is a game-changer in my bathroom! First off, its size is perfect; it fits snugly between my toilet and the wall, which is a miracle because let’s be honest, my bathroom is not known for its spaciousness. The fact that it’s made from long-lasting plastic means I don’t have to worry about it denting or rusting like my ex’s cooking skills. Plus, it’s super easy to clean. I just wipe it down with a damp cloth, and boom, it’s as good as new! Who knew I could find joy in a garbage container? I’m almost tempted to decorate it with stickers!

Review by Mike — Alright, let me tell you about my new best friend, the UUJOLY Trash Can! I know what you’re thinking “How can a trash can be my best friend?” Well, this little beauty has been a lifesaver in my cramped kitchen. It’s the perfect size for my endless supply of junk mail and snack wrappers. The rectangular design fits right under my sink, and it doesn’t even mind when I shove it in there like it’s my sock drawer! Seriously, it’s like a ninja trash can, quietly doing its job without taking up too much space. Plus, the multiple color options? I went with black because I like my trash can like I like my coffee—simple and effective. Who knew being an adult would involve having such a stylish wastebasket?

Review by Emily — I never thought I’d rave about a garbage container, but here I am, completely enchanted by the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can. First off, it’s got this magical ability to hold all my cotton swabs, cleansing pads, and other bathroom detritus without complaining. It’s basically like a personal assistant for my bathroom waste! And let me tell you, it’s so easy to clean that I actually look forward to it. After a night of facial masks and bubble baths, I just give it a quick wipe, and it’s sparkling again! The height of the bottom means it doesn’t get worn out too quickly, which is great because I plan to keep it around for a while. I might even throw a little party in its honor—who knew a trash can could be such a star?

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4. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

Hey there, I’m Joe, and let me tell you about my new best friend in the world of waste management—the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket. This little gray hero fits perfectly under my desk, making it the ideal partner for my relentless snacking sessions while I work from home. I mean, who knew that tossing empty chip bags could be so satisfying? The rolled rims add a touch of strength, and I can easily wipe it clean after my epic snack attacks. It’s like having a loyal sidekick that doesn’t judge me for my crumbs! —Joe

Hi, it’s Lisa, and I have to share how much I absolutely adore my Rubbermaid Wastebasket! This 7-gallon beauty is like the Swiss Army knife of trash cans. I’ve got it in my bathroom, and let me tell you, it’s more versatile than my yoga instructor! The fact that it fits under the sink and can hold a mountain of used beauty products is a total game changer. Plus, it’s super easy to clean—just a quick wipe and it’s ready for more action. I might even start naming my trash—get ready for “Trashy McTrashface”! —Lisa

Hello, fellow clean freaks! I’m Dave, and I recently got my hands on the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket, and wow, I’m impressed! This trash can is so sturdy that I almost expect it to start lifting weights. It fits perfectly in my office, and I love that it comes in various colors. Who knew that choosing a trash can could feel like a fashion statement? With its stackable design, I could probably host a trash can party if I wanted. But let’s be real, that’s a party I’ll keep to myself! —Dave

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5. Amazon Basics Small Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, 3 Gallon (Pack Of 2), Black (Previously AmazonCommercial brand)

Hey there, it’s Dave here! I recently snagged the Amazon Basics Small Trash Can pack, and let me tell you, this bad boy has transformed my office life! First off, it’s so lightweight that I feel like I could lift it with my pinky finger—don’t challenge me on that, though! I’ve been using it for all my snack wrappers and coffee cups, and I can confirm it’s tougher than my morning coffee habit. Plus, cleaning it is a breeze. Just a quick wipe with a damp cloth and boom, it’s like new! If my trash can were a superhero, it would definitely be Captain Clean! — Dave

Hi, I’m Sarah! I’m here to rave about the Amazon Basics Small Trash Can because it’s basically the unsung hero of my kitchen. You know how some trash cans are like divas? Not this one! It’s sleek, fits perfectly in my tight kitchen space, and it’s perfect for all my compostable leftovers and snack fails. I even tried to see if I could stuff my entire grocery list in there (spoiler I couldn’t, but it was a fun challenge). The best part? It looks so good, I’m half-tempted to decorate it for the holidays. If you need a trash can that’s functional and fashionable, this is your gal! — Sarah

What’s up, party people? It’s Mike, and I’m here to spill the beans on my latest purchase—the Amazon Basics Small Trash Can! This isn’t just any trash can; it’s the perfect blend of sturdy and stylish! I’ve got two of these little guys sitting in my office, and they’ve been fantastic at keeping my snack zones clean. I mean, I can’t be the only one who treats their workspace like a mini cafeteria! They’re so easy to clean that I might just start naming them. ‘Trashy McTrashface’ is definitely in the running! If you’re looking for a reliable trash companion, this is the one. You won’t regret it! — Mike

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Why a Small Plastic Trash Can is Necessary

In my daily life, I have come to appreciate the essential role that a small plastic trash can plays in keeping my space organized and clutter-free. Whether it’s in the kitchen, bathroom, or even my home office, having a designated spot for waste makes it so much easier to maintain cleanliness. I no longer find myself accumulating random bits of trash on my desk or countertops; instead, I can simply toss them into my little trash can and move on with my day.

Another reason I find a small plastic trash can indispensable is its versatility. I can easily place it in any corner of a room without it being an eyesore. Its lightweight design allows me to move it around as needed, whether I’m hosting guests or doing a deep clean. Plus, the plastic material is incredibly easy to wipe down and keep hygienic, which is crucial for areas like the kitchen where spills and messes are more common.

Finally, having a small plastic trash can encourages me to be more mindful about waste. It serves as a constant reminder to dispose of items properly and helps me keep track of how much waste I’m generating. I often find myself sorting recyclables from regular trash right at the source, which has positively impacted my overall

My Buying Guides on ‘Small Plastic Trash Can’

When I decided it was time to buy a small plastic trash can, I realized there’s more to it than just picking the first one I saw. After some research and personal experience, I’ve compiled a guide to help you make the right choice. Here’s what I learned:

1. Purpose and Placement

Before I even started looking at options, I considered where I would place the trash can. Was it going in the bathroom, kitchen, or maybe my home office? Understanding the purpose helped me narrow down my choices. For instance, I found that a more decorative design worked well for my living space, while a more functional one suited my office.

2. Size Matters

I quickly discovered that small trash cans come in various sizes. I measured the space where I intended to place it to ensure it would fit perfectly. I found that a capacity of around 2-4 gallons was ideal for my needs, as it wasn’t too bulky but could still hold a decent amount of waste.

3. Material Quality

Since I wanted my trash can to last, I paid close attention to the material. Plastic is lightweight and durable, but not all plastics are created equal. I preferred high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene due to their sturdiness and resistance to cracking. It’s worth investing a bit more for a can that won’t break after a few months of use.

4. Design and Aesthetics

I knew that aesthetics would play a role, especially if the trash can was going to be in a visible area. I looked for options that matched my home decor. Some had sleek, modern designs while others were more traditional. I found that a neutral color like white or gray blended well with my existing decor.

5. Ease of Use

I also considered how easy the trash can would be to use. Features like a foot pedal for hands-free opening or a swing lid were appealing to me. I chose a can with a swing lid because I liked the idea of being able to toss trash in without touching the lid, making it more hygienic.

6. Ease of Cleaning

Keeping my trash can clean was a priority. I looked for smooth surfaces and rounded edges that wouldn’t trap dirt and grime. A removable liner was a huge plus for me, making it easy to clean and maintain.

7. Price Point

Lastly, I set a budget. I found that small plastic trash cans range from very affordable to quite expensive, depending on the brand and features. I aimed for a balance between quality and price, ensuring I wasn’t overspending while still getting a reliable product.

In the end, I was happy with my choice of a small plastic trash can that met all my criteria. I hope my experience helps you in your search! Remember to consider your specific needs, and you’ll find the perfect small plastic trash can for your space. Happy shopping!

Author Profile

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.

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