5 Best Small Trash Cans - Sept. 2026

The step butterfly lid allows the user to avoid contact with the can while disguising odors and keeping pets out of this stylish and sturdy compact trash can.

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PROS

The step butterfly lid makes the simplehuman a sanitary option, and the lid is surprisingly quiet when opening and closing.
The lid latch is secure enough to keep nosy pets out and indiscrete odors trapped inside.
The sturdy outside frame comes with an inner bucket to make emptying easier.

CONS

A lack of slip resistance means the can may shift position slightly with several step lid uses.

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

InterDesign

Mono Wastebasket Rectangular Trash Can

This model receives high marks for its innovative wide-mouth design and a whopping 17 color options, the most of any model we considered.

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PROS

Searching for a can to match their décor can be tricky for consumers with the limited options available on most models, but the number of colors offered by InterDesign eliminates that issue.
The wide-mouth design helps avoid the occasional accidental mess that can occur with many trash cans.

CONS

Users report a tendency for the plastic frame to develop scratches over prolonged use.

Rubbermaid

6 Quart Vanity Trash Can

This can stands out for its durability and versatility. The sturdy plastic can handle high-use areas, and the white color matches with virtually any home or office décor.

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PROS

This model lives up to Rubbermaid's reputation for toughness and quality.
The plastic is surprisingly thick and can take a lot of use without cracking or scratching.
It is compact enough some users report it works well in a vehicle interior.
The popular white color matches nicely with most décors.

CONS

The more compact frame means this can fills up more quickly than other similarly purposed trash cans.

mDesign

Oval Slim Design Metal Trash Can

With a durable, easy-to-clean metal exterior, this can is tough enough to withstand the frequent use of large families or high-traffic areas.

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PROS

This metal frame trash can avoids the cracks and scratches common to some plastic cans, and the smooth exterior makes cleaning messes a snap.
mDesign's oval design creates a wide opening for easier storage and emptying.

CONS

The single color option means this can may not fit the décor of some spaces.

Rolodex

Mesh Round Wastebasket

Classic and stylish, this versatile can is a great option for home office, professional, or workspace environments.

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PROS

Rolodex knows office supplies, and this classic office trash can is no exception.
The wire frame is surprisingly durable, with the occasional small dent proving easy to pop out.
A well-made, long-lasting product from a trusted brand.

CONS

The mesh design limits the kinds of trash that can be stored in the can, so this is not a good fit for kitchen-type environments.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews

How We Tested

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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First Reviewed

October 06, 2021

Models
considered

Hours
researched

Written by Ade Hennis

Updated May 2023

Choosing the best small trash can can be complicated. What's good for the office isn't good for the bathroom or the kitchen. As you might have deduced, your primary concern when purchasing a small trash can is where it will be used. If you need one for under the desk in the office, a durable wire mesh basket is ideal. For the bathroom, you want something that's easy to clean, accepts a disposable bag, and has a lid for discreteness. In the bedroom, a heavy-duty plastic wastebasket that fits the room's decor is fine. For the kitchen, you want a metal trash can that is easy to clean, has a lid to help keep in odors, accepts bags, and opens via a foot pedal.

Best Small Trash Cans

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

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