10 Best 20 Gallon Trash Cans for 2026 (No More Spills)
You need reliability, you want cleanliness, and you’re done dealing with leaking trash bags and tipping cans. A 20-gallon trash can strikes that perfect balance—it’s large enough for busy households and commercial spaces, yet compact enough to fit comfortably in your kitchen or office. But here’s what most people miss: not all 20-gallon cans are created equal, and the wrong choice means you’ll keep battling the same frustrating spills and odors you’re trying to escape.
Table of Contents
Quick Overview
- Interior bag rings and vented channels secure liners in place, preventing slippage, exposed edges, and spills during use.
- Step pedal and soft-close lid mechanisms enable hands-free operation, reducing contact that could cause tipping or spillage.
- Durable plastic or stainless steel construction with reinforced rims ensures stability and prevents structural failures that lead to spills.
- Rectangular designs with stay-open lids provide stable positioning and controlled access, minimizing accidental tip-overs during disposal.
- Rear wheels and molded handles facilitate smooth repositioning without dragging, reducing the risk of contents spilling when moving full cans.
| Glad 20 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Pedal |  | Best Overall | Material: Plastic with stainless steel pedal | Opening Mechanism: Step pedal | Odor Protection: Clorox Odor Protection | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Glad 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can |  | Premium Choice | Material: Stainless steel | Opening Mechanism: Step pedal with soft-close | Odor Protection: Clorox antimicrobial protection | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can 20 Gallon |  | Most Features | Material: Stainless steel | Opening Mechanism: Step pedal with soft-close | Odor Protection: Odor protection on lid/frame | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 20 Gallon Heavy Duty Trash Can with Lid |  | Heavy-Duty Option | Material: High-density plastic | Opening Mechanism: Manual snap-lock lid | Odor Protection: None mentioned | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| EKO Hudson 75L Step Trash Can with Storage |  | Editor’s Choice | Material: Stainless steel | Opening Mechanism: Step pedal with soft-close | Odor Protection: None mentioned | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Glad 20 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid |  | Budget-Friendly Pick | Material: Plastic | Opening Mechanism: Step pedal | Odor Protection: Clorox Odor Protection | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can 20 Gallon |  | Best For Families | Material: Stainless steel | Opening Mechanism: Dual (step pedal and manual) | Odor Protection: Clorox Protection on lid | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can (20 Gallon) |  | Most Stylish | Material: Stainless steel (black finish) | Opening Mechanism: Dual (step pedal and manual) | Odor Protection: Clorox protection | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Rubbermaid BRUTE Heavy-Duty 20-Gallon Trash Can |  | Commercial Grade | Material: Plastic | Opening Mechanism: Manual handles | Odor Protection: None mentioned | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| United Solution 20 Gallon Waste Container 2-Pack |  | Best Value | Material: Injection molded plastic | Opening Mechanism: Manual click-lock lid | Odor Protection: None mentioned | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Glad 20 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Pedal
If you’re tired of touching grimy trash can lids while cooking or cleaning, the Glad 20 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Pedal offers a hygienic solution. Its stainless steel step pedal enables hands-free operation, keeping bacteria off your hands. The 74-liter rectangular design measures 20.25″ W x 16″ D x 26.25″ H, fitting seamlessly in kitchens and office spaces.
Formulated with Clorox Odor Protection, it blocks unwanted smells effectively. Interior bag rings secure trash bags for a tidy appearance. The matte black plastic construction with stainless steel accents suits both home and commercial environments, delivering durability and style.
- Material:Plastic with stainless steel pedal
- Opening Mechanism:Step pedal
- Odor Protection:Clorox Odor Protection
- Bag Securing:Interior bag rings
- Shape:Rectangular
- Dimensions (H):26.25″ H
- Additional Feature:Matte black finish
- Additional Feature:Home or commercial use
- Additional Feature:Interior bag rings included
Glad 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can
For households seeking a premium waste solution that combines generous capacity with advanced odor control, the Glad 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can delivers exceptional value. You’ll fit 50% more trash with its 75.5-liter capacity, while Clorox antimicrobial protection inhibits odor-causing bacteria on the lid and frame. The fingerprint-resistant brushed pewter finish maintains its appearance without constant cleaning.
You’ll appreciate the soft-close lid’s quiet operation and convenient pedal control. The rear compartment stores extra bags, and bag rings secure liners firmly in place. When it’s time to empty, the lid stays open for hassle-free removal. A 5-year warranty backs this durable construction.
- Material:Stainless steel
- Opening Mechanism:Step pedal with soft-close
- Odor Protection:Clorox antimicrobial protection
- Bag Securing:Bag rings
- Shape:Not specified
- Dimensions (H):Not specified
- Additional Feature:Rear bag compartment
- Additional Feature:5-year warranty included
- Additional Feature:Fingerprint-resistant finish
Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can 20 Gallon
The Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can combines odor-fighting technology with sleek design, making it the best choice for households that demand both functionality and style in high-traffic areas. You’ll appreciate the odor protection built into the lid and frame, keeping unwanted smells contained. The fingerprint-resistant brushed stainless steel finish maintains its polished appearance without constant cleaning.
You can access extra bags through the convenient side compartment without relocating the can. The soft-close lid guarantees quiet operation, while integrated bag rings secure liners firmly. Its 20-gallon capacity suits busy kitchens and offices perfectly, providing durability and sophistication.
- Material:Stainless steel
- Opening Mechanism:Step pedal with soft-close
- Odor Protection:Odor protection on lid/frame
- Bag Securing:Bag rings
- Shape:Not specified
- Dimensions (H):Not specified
- Additional Feature:Side bag dispenser
- Additional Feature:Brushed stainless steel
- Additional Feature:Adds home sophistication
20 Gallon Heavy Duty Trash Can with Lid
Built to withstand demanding conditions, this 20-gallon heavy-duty trash can with lid serves homeowners and businesses that need reliable waste management in challenging environments. Its high-density plastic construction resists impacts, UV rays, and weathering, ensuring long-term durability outdoors or indoors.
The snap-lock lid is both windproof and leakproof, preventing spills and keeping contents secure. Ergonomic handles on top and bottom make lifting and moving effortless, even when loaded to its 40-pound capacity.
- Material:High-density plastic
- Opening Mechanism:Manual snap-lock lid
- Odor Protection:None mentioned
- Bag Securing:None mentioned
- Shape:Not specified
- Dimensions (H):25.375″ H
- Additional Feature:40 lbs load capacity
- Additional Feature:UV ray resistant
- Additional Feature:Windproof snap-lock lid
EKO Hudson 75L Step Trash Can with Storage
Standing at just over 31 inches tall with a sleek matte stainless steel exterior, this step trash can excels at blending substantial 20-gallon capacity with space-saving design—making it ideal for homeowners who need a full-sized bin that won’t overwhelm their kitchen or laundry room. You’ll appreciate the rear storage compartment that keeps replacement bags within reach, eliminating trips to the pantry.
The whisper-quiet closing mechanism prevents disruptive slamming, while the smudge-resistant finish maintains its polished appearance with minimal maintenance. At 19 pounds, it’s sturdy enough to withstand daily use across multiple rooms. With 4.7 stars from 793 customers, it’s proven reliable for home and office environments.
- Material:Stainless steel
- Opening Mechanism:Step pedal with soft-close
- Odor Protection:None mentioned
- Bag Securing:None mentioned (implied standard)
- Shape:Rectangular
- Dimensions (H):31.4″ H
- Additional Feature:19 pounds item weight
- Additional Feature:Smudge resistant coating
- Additional Feature:4.7 star rating
Glad 20 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid
Families seeking a hands-free waste solution will appreciate the Glad 20 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can’s step pedal operation and Clorox Odor Protection technology. The hands-free pedal proves particularly useful when your hands are full, while the interior bag ring liner secures your trash bag, preventing it from slipping inside and keeping slack tucked neatly.
Measuring 20.25″ wide by 16″ deep by 26.25″ high, this rectangular white plastic can fits seamlessly into kitchens and offices. Its sleek design works equally well in residential homes or commercial spaces, maintaining clean, tidy interiors wherever you place it.
- Material:Plastic
- Opening Mechanism:Step pedal
- Odor Protection:Clorox Odor Protection
- Bag Securing:Interior bag ring liner
- Shape:Rectangular
- Dimensions (H):26.25″ H
- Additional Feature:Classic white finish
- Additional Feature:Lidded design included
- Additional Feature:Family and office suitable
Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can 20 Gallon
The Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can combines Clorox odor-blocking technology with a generous 20-gallon capacity, making it ideal for busy households that generate substantial waste during meal prep and daily activities. The dual-opening design offers versatility—use the step pedal for hands-free access or manually lift the lid when needed. The soft-close mechanism operates quietly, while bag rings keep liners secure and tidy.
The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish maintains a sleek appearance in modern kitchens, complementing contemporary décor. When it’s time to empty, the 90-degree hinged frame simplifies bag removal. The stay-open function proves invaluable during extended cleaning sessions, allowing you to work efficiently without holding the lid.
- Material:Stainless steel
- Opening Mechanism:Dual (step pedal and manual)
- Odor Protection:Clorox Protection on lid
- Bag Securing:Bag rings
- Shape:Not specified
- Dimensions (H):Not specified
- Additional Feature:90-degree hinged frame
- Additional Feature:50% larger capacity
- Additional Feature:Modern kitchen design
Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can (20 Gallon)
Large households generating substantial daily waste will find the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can an ideal solution with its impressive 20-gallon capacity—50% more volume than standard kitchen bins. The dual opening design features both a foot pedal and lift-top lid for versatile operation, while the soft-close mechanism guarantees quiet, controlled closure. The stay-open option facilitates hands-free use during cooking and meal prep, and integrated Clorox protection actively blocks unwanted odors throughout use.
The hinged frame simplifies bag removal, and bag rings secure liners while concealing edges for a clean appearance. A built-in waste bag compartment stores extra bags conveniently within reach. Measuring 15″D x 16.75″W x 28.8″H, this black stainless steel bin combines functionality with sleek aesthetics that complement any kitchen décor.
- Material:Stainless steel (black finish)
- Opening Mechanism:Dual (step pedal and manual)
- Odor Protection:Clorox protection
- Bag Securing:Bag rings
- Shape:Rectangular
- Dimensions (H):28.8″ H
- Additional Feature:Black stainless steel
- Additional Feature:Lift-top dual opening
- Additional Feature:Stay-open lid option
Rubbermaid BRUTE Heavy-Duty 20-Gallon Trash Can
When you need a trash can that won’t crack under pressure from heavy-duty use, the Rubbermaid BRUTE Heavy-Duty 20-Gallon Trash Can stands as the premier choice for commercial kitchens, construction sites, and high-traffic workplaces. You’ll appreciate its vented channels that make liner removal 50% easier, while integrated cinches eliminate knot-tying for faster bag changes.
The reinforced base withstands dragging over rough surfaces, and it’s tested to 20,000 cycles without fading, warping, or crushing. It meets NSF 2, 21 approval and USDA compliance standards, ensuring you can safely store food. The stackable design simplifies storage and transport between locations.
- Material:Plastic
- Opening Mechanism:Manual handles
- Odor Protection:None mentioned
- Bag Securing:None mentioned
- Shape:Not specified
- Dimensions (H):Not specified
- Additional Feature:NSF 2, 21 approved
- Additional Feature:20,000 cycle tested
- Additional Feature:Stackable nesting design
United Solution 20 Gallon Waste Container 2-Pack
If you need a versatile waste container that shifts seamlessly between your home office, garage, and outdoor spaces, the United Solution 20 Gallon Waste Container 2-Pack delivers practical functionality at an affordable price point. You’ll appreciate the pass-through handles and bottom hand groove that make lifting and carrying effortless, while the click lock lid prevents spills during transport.
The injection-molded plastic construction handles 40 pounds of waste, and the tapered design allows bags to slide out cleanly. At 25.3″ tall, these containers work with standard 30-gallon trash bags and adapt easily as recycling bins or storage containers throughout your property.
- Material:Injection molded plastic
- Opening Mechanism:Manual click-lock lid
- Odor Protection:None mentioned
- Bag Securing:Tapered design for bag removal
- Shape:Round
- Dimensions (H):25.3″ H
- Additional Feature:2-pack bundle included
- Additional Feature:Tapered bag removal
- Additional Feature:Hand groove bottom support
Factors to Consider When Choosing 20 Gallon Trash Cans
When you’re shopping for a 20-gallon trash can, you’ll need to evaluate several key features that affect its performance and longevity. Consider how the capacity fits your space, whether it includes odor-blocking technology, and what type of lid mechanism works best for your needs. You should also assess the construction material’s durability and determine if you need it for indoor or outdoor use.
Capacity and Size Requirements
Selecting the right 20-gallon trash can starts with evaluating your actual waste production patterns and measuring your available space carefully. Determine how much trash your household or business generates to confirm this capacity meets your requirements, noting height, width, and depth constraints. Rectangular or square designs maximize usable volume compared to round cans with identical capacities.
Check the weight capacity specifications to guarantee the can manages your maximum expected load between disposals, and don’t overlook practical considerations like maneuverability—a full 20-gallon container becomes heavy rapidly. Consider entry point dimensions where you’ll place the trash can, ensuring adequate clearance for comfortable use and easy removal when it’s time to empty. Match these physical requirements with your space constraints for ideal functionality.
Odor Control Technology
Beyond finding the right size for your space, managing unwanted smells becomes a top priority when shopping for 20-gallon trash cans. You’ll find several effective technologies designed to combat odors. Many models incorporate Clorox protection or antimicrobial coatings on lids and frames that inhibit bacteria growth at the source. These coatings actively block unwanted smells before they escape. Advanced odor control formulas work by neutralizing and trapping unpleasant odors rather than simply masking them.
You can also opt for cans equipped with activated carbon filters, which absorb and filter out undesirable smells through natural absorption. Don’t overlook practical design features—proper ventilation systems and airtight seals work together to guarantee your kitchen or workspace maintains a fresh environment even when the can’s full.
Lid Operation Mechanisms
The way you access your trash can affects daily efficiency. Manual lids offer simplicity but require free hands to lift them. Step pedal mechanisms let you open the can with your foot, keeping your hands available for carrying trash bags or disposing of messy items without touching potentially dirty surfaces. Sensor-activated lids provide the most convenient hands-free operation through motion detection technology, automatically opening when you approach and closing after disposal.
Consider your typical usage patterns when choosing a lid mechanism. If you frequently carry multiple items, hands-free options prove invaluable. Look for models with soft-close mechanisms that prevent loud slamming and extend the can’s lifespan through controlled closure. Also factor in aesthetics—sleeker lid designs integrate better with modern interiors.
Material and Durability
Material choice determines how well your 20 gallon trash can withstands daily wear and tear. Durable plastic or stainless steel construction resists damage from heavy use, considerably extending your can’s lifespan. For outdoor placement, you’ll want heavy-duty plastic with UV protection to prevent fading, cracking, and warping from sun exposure.
Stainless steel offers a sleek, fingerprint-resistant finish that’s incredibly easy to clean and maintain, perfect for visible indoor areas where appearance matters. Look for reinforced rims and bases that add strength to support heavier loads without crushing, while molded handles and contoured designs improve ergonomics during regular trash removal.
Indoor Vs Outdoor Use
Indoor trash cans prioritize odor control, quiet operation, and sleek aesthetics that complement your home decor. Convenient features like bag rings and hands-free lids make daily use effortless while handling regular household waste volumes.
Outdoor cans demand weather-resistant construction with reinforced bases and secure lids that withstand harsh elements. Heavy-duty materials prevent deterioration from sun, rain, and temperature fluctuations while providing pest prevention and handling larger volumes from yard work and gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Replace a 20 Gallon Trash Can?
You should replace your 20-gallon trash can every 5-10 years, depending on wear and tear. If you notice cracks, persistent odors, or a broken lid, it’s time to get a new one sooner for better functionality.
Can 20 Gallon Trash Cans Be Used Outdoors in All Weather?
You can use 20-gallon trash cans outdoors, but they’re not all weather-resistant. Look for UV-protected plastic or metal models with sealed lids. Standard indoor cans will crack, fade, and deteriorate quickly when exposed to sun and rain.
What’s the Standard Height of a 20 Gallon Trash Can?
You’ll typically find 20-gallon trash cans standing between 22 and 28 inches tall. The exact height varies by brand and design, but most models fall within this range, making them convenient for standard kitchen or office use.
Are 20 Gallon Trash Bags Universally Compatible With All Brands?
No, they’re not universally compatible. You’ll find variations in can dimensions and rim designs across brands. While most 20-gallon bags fit standard cans, you should check your specific can’s measurements to verify a proper, secure fit.
How Do I Remove Stubborn Odors From My Trash Can?
Studies show 85% of trash can odors come from bacteria buildup. You’ll eliminate stubborn smells by scrubbing your can with hot water and dish soap, then spraying it with white vinegar and baking soda solution before drying completely.
