A 13-gallon garbage can is the gold standard for most kitchens, thanks to its practical size, space-saving design, and compatibility with widely available trash bags. It’s large enough to handle up to a week’s worth of kitchen trash for a small household—typically holding about 2–3 full grocery bags of waste or one full laundry basket—while staying compact enough to fit conveniently under counters or next to cabinetry.
Key Features of a 13 Gallon Garbage Can
- Size & Capacity: Most 13-gallon cans measure between 23–28 inches tall and 12–14 inches wide—about knee-high for most adults and the right size for standard 13-gallon drawstring bags. Despite their compact footprint, these cans can hold a lot of trash.
- Lid Types: Common features include swing-top, step-on pedal, touch-top, and motion-sensor lids, each offering hands-free convenience and better odor control.
- Materials: They are available in durable plastic or stainless steel, often with removable liners or bag rings for easy cleaning and bag changes. Many 13-gallon garbage cans are crafted from high-quality materials for durability and longevity. They are also available in a variety of colors to match different kitchen or home décors.
- Placement & Use: Designed for kitchens but also suitable for garages, offices, or dorm rooms, delivering enough capacity to hold a lot of waste and reduce the need for frequent emptying.
Trash Can Basics
Trash cans are a fundamental part of keeping any home, office, or public area clean and organized. Available in a variety of sizes and styles, they are designed to meet the needs of different spaces—from compact 3-gallon bins for bedrooms and bathrooms to spacious 13-gallon trash cans that are perfect for kitchens and garages. The right trash can not only hold the quantity of trash your household or workspace generates but also helps minimize noise and control odors with a well-fitted lid. Easy access and thoughtful design features, such as hands-free operation or soft-close lids, make daily cleanup more convenient and efficient. With so many options available, you can find a trash can that fits seamlessly into your home’s style while keeping your environment clean and clutter-free. Whether you’re outfitting kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, or utility areas, choosing the right trash can is key to maintaining a tidy and welcoming space.
Practical Advice
- Check Measurements: Always measure your available space—especially if sliding the can under a counter—to ensure a good fit.
- Odor Control Options: Some models include built-in odor filters for a fresher kitchen.
- Bag Compatibility: 13-gallon trash bags are widely available and specifically designed to fit these cans snugly, preventing slips and messes.
A 13-gallon can strikes the best balance between capacity, convenience, and manageability, making it a reliable choice for busy home kitchens.
Trash Bag Compatibility
Selecting a trash can that works with commonly available trash bags is essential for hassle-free waste management. Most 13-gallon trash cans are specifically designed to fit standard 13-gallon trash bags, making it easy to find replacements and ensuring a snug, secure fit that prevents slipping and messes. Some products may require custom-sized bags, but opting for a universal design saves both time and money, as you can use widely sold trash bags from any seller. This compatibility not only makes it easy to remove and replace full bags but also helps keep your home clean and odor-free. With the right combination of trash can and trash bag, managing kitchen trash, bathroom waste, or garage garbage becomes a simple, efficient task—helping you maintain a clean and organized space every day.
iTouchless SensorCan 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Odor Filter
- DEDICATED U.S.-BASED CUSTOMER SUPPORT – Our dedicated U.S.-based Customer Service Team is committed to ensuring your satisfaction. For any questions or feedback, please contact us via the website (see the user manual for details).
- 100% TOUCHLESS & HYGIENIC – Just the motion of your hand opens the lid automatically…no touching needed! This smart trash can is the hygienic and convenient choice. The lid opens and closes smoothly and quietly, reducing noise in your kitchen and ensuring the can is always securely closed.
- STOP TRASH ODORS – 1 AbsorbX Odor Filter is included to absorb and neutralize garbage smells. Free Text Message Reminder lets you know when it’s time to replace your Odor Filter, ensuring maximum fresh air quality in your home.
- EASY TO CLEAN & STYLISH – This rust-resistant, fingerprint-proof stainless steel trash can is effortlessly wiped clean with a damp cloth. Its sleek, modern design with a silver sheen complements any decor.
- VERSATILE POWER OPTIONS – Powered by 4 D-size batteries (not included) or optional AC Adapter (sold separately) for continuous power for this trash can kitchen bin.
- EXTENDED BATTERY LIFE – Utilizes power efficiently, lasting 3X longer than competitors. 4 D-size batteries (not included) offer up to 1.5 years of use for these trash cans for kitchens. This energy-efficient sensor trash can saves money and time.
- EFFICIENT SPACE & MONEY SAVER – Oval shape fits snugly in corners, accommodating common 13-gallon trash bags, saving you money with this garbage can 13-gallon tall kitchen bin. iTouchless trash cans for the kitchen are designed for maximum convenience.
Amazon Basics Smudge-Resistant, Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal
Amazon Basics
Smudge-Resistant, Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal
- CONVENIENT SIZE: 50-liter / 13.2-gallon trash can for home or office
- EVERYDAY USE: Stay-open lid, removable bucket, and carry handle ensure easy, convenient trash disposal
- DURABLE: Stainless steel, smudge-resistant exterior, and heavy-duty plastic inner bucket for reliable strength
- QUIET OPERATION: Manual foot lever and soft-close lid for ultra-quiet opening and closing
- PRODUCT DIMENSIONS: 14.7 x 16.7 x 25.9 inches (LxWxH)
simplehuman 50 Liter 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock
simplehuman
50 Liter 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock
- Plastic
- Imported
- SILENT CLOSE LID - Patented lid shox technology controls the motion of the lid for a slow, silent close.
- LOCK THE LID SHUT - A slide lock securely locks the lid to help keep pets and curious children from getting into the trash.
- STAY-OPEN LID - The lid stays open for as long as you like — perfect for longer chores.
- SEMI-ROUND SHAPE - Space efficient semi-round shape is great for high-traffic areas.
- LARGE CAPACITY - Ideal for large families or busy households.
- CUSTOM FIT LINERS - simplehuman's code P liners are designed to fit this can perfectly, so they don't slip, and they stay completely hidden. Extra-thick plastic and double-seam construction prevent rips and tears.
BestOffice Kitchen Trash Can with Lid
- AUTOMATIC AND HYGIENIC - While conventional trash cans are cumbersome and noisy, our automatic trash can uses touchless technology to open and close the lid, ensuring that you throw your trash away soundlessly and hygienically. automatic trash can
- SENSIBLE, MODERN DESIGN - Who knew a trash can could be so beautiful? Our trash can is made of high-quality stainless steel with a stainless steel wire drawing surface. The oval body and sloping lid are sleek and modern, making this trash can a functional and visually appealing addition to any space. automatic trash can
- ULTRA-LARGE CAPACITY - With a 13-gallon capacity, our trash can is more than equipped to meet your daily needs, and is compatible with the standard 13-gallon trash bag from any supermarket. automatic trash can
- ODORLESS + EASY TO CLEAN - The trash can’s stainless steel wire drawing is fingerprint-resistant and easily cleaned after sustained use, while the sealed exterior and infrared technology ensure odor is contained. automatic trash can
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL - Our automatic trash can is ideal for virtually any setting. Whether you’re in the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, office, or even your study, this trash can is an effective and attractive addition. automatic trash can
Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can, Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
Glad
13 Gallon Trash Can, Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid, Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
- WASTE BIN WITH 13 GALLON CAPACITY - This 13-gallon trash can is perfect for any household and features a classic rectangular shape in a matte black finish.
- CLOROX ODOR PROTECTION - Lidded trash can is formulated with Clorox Odor Protection on the lid to thoroughly block odors for the life of the can.
- STEP ON TRASH CAN FOR EASY USE - This kitchen trash can with lid is designed with a foot pedal for hands-free operation. It allows you to throw your trash without having to lift the lid of the can.
- KITCHEN TRASH CAN WITH BAG RINGS - Keep the bag slack neatly tucked in while securing the trash bag in place. The interior bag ring liner will prevent the trash bag from falling in.
- SUITABLE FOR HOME OR COMMERCIAL USE - Use this dustbin to keep any interior space clean. This 13G/50L garbage bin fits any kitchen and is great for families and office spaces. The rectangular trash can is 18” wide, 14.7” deep, and 25” high.
FAQs
What are the dimensions of a typical 13-gallon garbage can?
Most 13-gallon cans stand between 23–28 inches tall and 10–14 inches wide, making them about knee-high for the average adult and ideal for fitting under most kitchen counters.
Why is 13 gallons the most common size for kitchen trash cans?
It perfectly balances holding enough waste for several days without taking up too much space, and it works with widely available 13-gallon drawstring trash bags, preventing bag slip and mess.
What lid options are available?
Common lid types include step-on pedals, swing-tops, touch-tops, and sensor motion lids—each designed for hands-free convenience and odor control.
Are 13-gallon garbage cans easy to clean?
Yes, many models feature removable inner liners or bag rings for easy cleaning. Stainless steel versions often have fingerprint-resistant finishes for added convenience.
Where else can I use a 13-gallon garbage can besides the kitchen?
They’re also popular for garages, offices, home workshops, and dorm rooms due to their versatile size and capacity.
Final Thoughts
A 13-gallon garbage can remains the gold standard for American kitchens, thanks to its blend of practicality, versatility, and compatibility with common trash bags. With a range of lid mechanisms and finishes—like step-open, swing-top, and stainless steel designs—it adapts to any décor and every cleaning routine. The size is large enough to contain several days’ worth of family trash but compact enough to slide under counters or in small spaces. For anyone seeking a waste solution that’s functional, easy to maintain, and adaptable to changing needs, the 13-gallon can is a reliable and sensible choice. Order today!
