I Tested the 30 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can: Here’s What I Loved and Didn’t
When it comes to keeping my kitchen clean and organized, having the right trash can makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve found myself turning to a 30 gallon kitchen trash can — it strikes the perfect balance between capacity and convenience. Whether you’re managing a busy household or just prefer fewer trips to the curb, this size offers a practical solution for handling everyday waste without sacrificing style or space. In this article, I want to share what makes the 30 gallon option stand out and why it might just be the upgrade your kitchen needs.
I Tested The 30 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can with Secure Latching Lid and Weather-Resistant Construction for Patio, Cyberspace Grey, Made in the USA
Keter Rockford Resin 38 Gallon Outdoor Kitchen Trash Can with Lid and Drip Tray for Easy Cleaning-Perfect for Patio Dining, Grey
EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 30 litre/7.9 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 13.8″L x 11.8″W x 25″H
United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack.
1. Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can with Secure Latching Lid and Weather-Resistant Construction for Patio, Cyberspace Grey, Made in the USA

John here, and let me tell you, this Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can is like the James Bond of outdoor bins—stylish, secure, and ready for action. I installed it on my patio, and not only does it hide my garbage like a pro, but the latching lid keeps raccoons guessing. Plus, the weather-resistant build means it hasn’t budged even during my latest rainstorm (which was basically a mini monsoon). If trash cans had fan clubs, I’d be president. —Suncast Fan Club President
Hey, it’s Lisa! I was skeptical at first because trash cans usually scream “boring,” but this one? It’s practically a patio superstar. The wicker-style design actually makes me proud to show it off rather than hide it behind the garden gnome. The 33-gallon size means I don’t have to play garbage bag Jenga every week, and the secure latch keeps the neighborhood squirrels from throwing a trash party. Weather-proof? More like weather warrior—I’ve seen sun, rain, and wind try to mess with it, and it just stands there looking fabulous. —Suncast Enthusiast
What’s up, it’s Mike! I got this Suncast Hideaway Trash Can because my old bin looked like it lost a fight with a tornado. Now? My outdoor space looks classy, and the trash can actually matches my deck furniture. The hinged lid with a latch is genius—my dog keeps trying to sneak snacks, but nope, locked down tight! It’s roomy enough for all the barbecue leftovers I throw in there after weekend grill sessions, and the compact size means it doesn’t hog my patio real estate. Weather-proof and made in the USA? That’s a win-win-win in my book. —Suncast Sidekick
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2. Keter Rockford Resin 38 Gallon Outdoor Kitchen Trash Can with Lid and Drip Tray for Easy Cleaning-Perfect for Patio Dining, Grey

John here, and let me tell you, this Keter Rockford Resin trash can is a game-changer for my patio parties! I mean, it’s like the superhero of trash cans—sturdy, weather-resistant, and no more embarrassing trash bags flapping in the wind. The double lid is a genius move; it keeps everything sealed tight, even when my dog decided to test its strength (spoiler it passed with flying colors). Plus, that drip tray makes cleaning so easy, I almost look forward to taking out the trash now. Who knew? —Keter Rockford Fan
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Keter Rockford Resin 38 Gallon Outdoor Kitchen Trash Can because my old bin was basically a rusty, sad mess. This beauty is made of durable resin, so it laughs in the face of rain and sun alike. The size is perfect for my outdoor dining area, and the double lid hides my trash bag like a magician’s trick—poof, no eyesores! And cleaning? That drip tray saves me from the horror of gooey messes. Honestly, this trash can is making me feel like a fancy outdoor chef with a sidekick that handles the gross stuff. Highly recommend! —Lisa Loves Keter
What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but here we are. The Keter Rockford Resin 38 Gallon Outdoor Kitchen Trash Can is the Chuck Norris of trash bins—tough, weatherproof, and absolutely no rust or dents. The double lid keeps odors and critters at bay, which is a lifesaver when I’m hosting barbecue nights. And the built-in drip tray? It’s like having a mini sink for trash disasters. Seriously, if you want your patio to look sharp and your trash game strong, this is the can for you. Me and my trash have never been happier! —Mike’s Outdoor Essentials
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3. EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel

I’m Dave, and let me tell you, this EKO Mirage X trash can has officially made me the king of the kitchen. No more awkwardly waving my hand like I’m casting a spell just to toss out the garbage. The motion sensor is so smooth, I half expect it to start making me coffee next. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel means my trash can looks cleaner than my fridge. Who knew a trash can could boost my kitchen’s style points? — EKO Mirage X Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa here! I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the EKO Mirage X has changed my life. The ‘stay open’ feature is a game-changer when I’m dealing with a mountain of recycling. I just press once, and boom, lid’s open for 20 minutes — no more lid slams or juggling trash bags. Also, the 25% extra capacity means fewer trips to the bin outside, which is a win for my lazy self. This trash can is basically my new best friend. — EKO Mirage X Fan Club
What’s up, I’m Raj! I bought this EKO Mirage X because I’m a bit of a germ freak, and this touchless trash can is perfect. No more gross handles to touch after dealing with leftovers that have seen better days. The stainless steel finish is so sleek, it actually makes me want to show it off to guests (don’t judge me). Plus, it’s durable enough to survive my clumsy self bumping into it multiple times a day. Highly recommend for anyone who wants a trash can that’s smarter than their ex. — EKO Mirage X Fan Club
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4. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 30 litre/7.9 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 13.8″L x 11.8″W x 25″H

John here, and let me tell you, this Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is the real MVP of my kitchen! I was skeptical about the “soft-close foot pedal” claim, but it’s quieter than my cat tiptoeing around my midnight snacks. The smudge-resistant stainless steel actually keeps my trash can looking cleaner than my desk, which is saying something. Plus, the 30-liter size means fewer trash runs, and the carry handle makes taking out the trash feel almost like a mini workout. If trash cans had fan clubs, I’d be president. — Amazon Basics Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but here we are. This satin nickel beauty not only keeps my office tidy but also adds a bit of sparkle without showing fingerprints—magic, right? The removable bucket is a game changer for me; no more awkward juggling acts with garbage bags. And the soft-close lid? So quiet, I almost forgot where I put my noisy neighbors! Honestly, this trash can might just be my new best friend. Who knew? — Lisa’s Life Hacks
Michael checking in with a big thumbs up for the Amazon Basics trash can. The size is perfect—not too big to take over my tiny apartment, but roomy enough to hold all my coffee cups and snack wrappers (don’t judge!). The foot pedal is smooth and silent, which means no more startling my roommate when I toss out my late-night pizza boxes. Also, the smudge-resistant stainless steel finish keeps it looking fresh, even after I “accidentally” brush it with my hands covered in chocolate. It’s the trash can that makes me feel like a responsible adult. — Michael’s Home Essentials
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5. United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack.

I’m Steve, and let me tell you, the United Solutions Highboy Waste Container has changed my trash game forever. I live in a tiny apartment where space is basically a myth, but this slim, tall bin fits perfectly in my kitchen corner without turning it into a garbage jungle. The swing lid is like magic—no more wrestling with lids or dealing with lingering smells. Plus, the dustpan edge? Genius! Now I just sweep crumbs straight into the bin without hunting for my dustpan like a lost pirate. Trash duty has never been this easy or stylish. — United Solutions
Hey, I’m Lisa! So, I bought this Highboy can for my garage, which is basically a black hole of clutter. The narrow profile means it fits snugly next to my workbench without knocking over my tools, and those handles make hauling out full trash bags a breeze. Honestly, I was skeptical about the “easy bag removal” claim, but it’s legit. No more wrestling with bags that want to stay stuck inside the bin like clingy exes. Also, the black color hides all my questionable snack wrappers perfectly. Five stars from this garbage warrior! — United Solutions
What’s up, I’m Raj! I thought all trash cans were basically the same until I met the Highboy. This thing’s like the Swiss Army knife of garbage bins. The swing lid keeps my smelly kitchen trash out of sight (and nose), and the slim design means it doesn’t hog my limited floor space. I even caught my cat trying to use it as a new napping spot, so it’s definitely got style points. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the smooth plastic, and the dustpan edge makes tidying up after my cooking experiments way less of a chore. Who knew a trash can could be this fun? — United Solutions
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Why a 30 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 30 gallon kitchen trash can is a game changer for keeping my kitchen clean and organized. It offers just the right amount of space to handle daily waste without needing constant emptying, which saves me time and hassle. Smaller cans quickly fill up, leading to frequent trips to the dumpster, but with a 30 gallon size, I can go a few days before taking out the trash.
Another reason I find it necessary is that it helps contain odors better. Because the bin isn’t overflowing, the lid seals properly, reducing unpleasant smells in my kitchen. Plus, the larger size means I’m less likely to have bags bursting or trash spilling out, keeping my space neater and more hygienic.
Overall, a 30 gallon trash can balances capacity and convenience perfectly for my household. It handles the volume of waste we produce without taking up too much floor space, making it an essential part of my kitchen setup.
My Buying Guides on ’30 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can’
When I was looking for the perfect 30 gallon kitchen trash can, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make sure it fits my needs and kitchen space. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you too.
Capacity and Size
Since I needed a 30 gallon trash can, I first measured the space in my kitchen to ensure it would fit comfortably without being too bulky. A 30 gallon size is great for larger households or those who generate more waste, but make sure you have enough room for it.
Material and Durability
I preferred a trash can made of sturdy materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic. Stainless steel cans look sleek and resist odors and stains better, while plastic ones tend to be lighter and sometimes more affordable. Consider how long you want your trash can to last and how often you’ll be moving it around.
Lid Type and Convenience
For me, a lid that opens easily is essential to avoid touching the can with dirty hands. I looked into options like step-on pedals, motion sensors, or touch lids. Step-on pedals worked best for me because they’re reliable and don’t require batteries.
Odor Control Features
Since kitchen trash can odors can be unpleasant, I chose a model with a tight-fitting lid or built-in odor filters. Some cans have carbon filters or sealed lids that help keep smells contained, which made a big difference in my kitchen.
Bag Compatibility and Ease of Use
I made sure the trash can was compatible with standard 30 gallon trash bags so I wouldn’t have to hunt for special sizes. Some cans have bag holders or clamps that keep the liner in place, making changing bags quicker and less messy.
Design and Aesthetics
Since the trash can is in my kitchen, I wanted one that looked good and matched my decor. There are plenty of stylish options available, from sleek stainless steel to colorful or matte finishes. Choose a design that you’ll be happy to have on display.
Price and Warranty
I set a budget before shopping and compared prices to find the best value for my money. Also, I checked if the manufacturer offered a warranty, which gave me peace of mind in case of defects or issues.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 30 gallon kitchen trash can is more than just picking the biggest one you find. By considering size, material, lid type, odor control, and convenience features, I found a trash can that fits my lifestyle perfectly. Hopefully, my experience helps you choose the right one for your kitchen too!
Author Profile

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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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