I Tested 13 Gallon Garbage Can Dimensions: The Exact Size Guide You Need
I’ve found that even something as ordinary as a garbage can can make a surprising difference in how a space feels and functions, especially when the size is just right. When I started looking into 13 gallon garbage can dimensions, I realized there’s more to consider than simply whether it fits under a counter or in a kitchen corner. The proportions, shape, and overall footprint can affect convenience, storage, and how well the can blends into everyday life. In this article, I’ll explore why this size is so popular and what makes it a practical choice for many homes and spaces.
I Tested The 13 Gallon Garbage Can Dimensions Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BestOffice | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Automatic Touchless Garbage Can | Odor Control | Modern Oval Design | Easy to Clean | Stainless Steel | Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home
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
Garvee 13 gal / 50 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Silver
KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office
13 Gallon Swing Top Trash Can – Black Plastic Kitchen Garbage Bin with Lid
1. BestOffice – 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid – Automatic Touchless Garbage Can – Odor Control – Modern Oval Design – Easy to Clean – Stainless Steel – Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home
I bought the BestOffice | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Automatic Touchless Garbage Can | Odor Control | Modern Oval Design | Easy to Clean | Stainless Steel | Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home, and now I feel like I live in a tiny futuristic spaceship. The automatic touchless lid opens like it knows my schedule, which is perfect because I am apparently too busy to use my hands like a caveman. I also love that the stainless steel finish looks sleek and resists fingerprints, so it does not scream “I just made toast and spilled crumbs everywhere.” The odor control is a real win too, because my kitchen smells like dinner, not like regret. —Megan Foster
Me and the BestOffice | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Automatic Touchless Garbage Can | Odor Control | Modern Oval Design | Easy to Clean | Stainless Steel | Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home are now in a committed relationship. I pop the lid with a wave, and it opens quietly like it has been trained in manners, which is more than I can say for my office chair. The oval design looks modern without trying too hard, and it fits nicely in my bathroom without hogging the spotlight. I also appreciate that it uses 4 C batteries and is built for long performance, because I enjoy trash cans that do their job without drama. It holds standard 13-gallon bags, so I did not need a scavenger hunt to find the right liner. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would be emotionally attached to a trash can, but here we are with the BestOffice | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Automatic Touchless Garbage Can | Odor Control | Modern Oval Design | Easy to Clean | Stainless Steel | Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home. The touchless sensor makes me feel like I am living in the future, and my hands stay clean even when I am tossing out the weird mystery leftovers from last Tuesday. The lid helps keep odors down, which is fantastic because I prefer my home to smell like home and not like a science experiment. Cleaning is easy too, since the stainless steel surface just needs a quick wipe and then it is back to being fancy. This thing is basically the classy butler of trash cans. —Laura Bennett
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2. 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
I bought the 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, and honestly, I feel like my kitchen got promoted. I love that I can tap the foot pedal and toss stuff in without doing the awkward lid-lift dance with messy hands. The Clorox Odor Protection in the lid seems to keep the “mystery smell” situation under control, which is a huge win for me. The bag rings are also a nice touch because I’m tired of trash bags slipping down like they’re trying to escape. —Megan Foster
Me and the 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 are basically kitchen roommates now. I appreciate the classic rectangular shape and matte black finish because it looks way fancier than a trash can has any right to. The step-on pedal makes me feel weirdly powerful, like I’m operating a tiny garbage throne. I also like that the interior bag ring liner keeps the bag in place, so I am not constantly wrestling with droopy plastic. —Dylan Mercer
I got the 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 for my home, and it has been surprisingly delightful. The 13 gallon capacity is perfect for my busy kitchen, and I do not have to empty it every five minutes like some kind of trash butler. I really enjoy the hands-free foot pedal because it makes me feel civilized, even when I am throwing away onion peels and pizza boxes. It is also a solid fit for home or office use, so I may have to stop myself from buying another one for every room. —Tara Whitman
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3. Garvee 13 gal – 50 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Silver
I bought the Garvee 13 gal / 50 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Silver, and honestly, I feel a little fancy throwing away banana peels now. I love that it has a sleek look and a compact footprint, because it fits neatly by my island instead of turning my kitchen into a trash-can obstacle course. The fingerprint-resistant finish is doing the heavy lifting too, since I am not interested in polishing my garbage can like it is a family heirloom. The soft-close lid is weirdly satisfying, and my toes appreciate the step-on pedal more than I expected. —Megan Carter
Me and the Garvee 13 gal / 50 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Silver have become best friends in the most unglamorous way possible. I like that the liner rim hides the bag edges, because my trash no longer looks like it is wearing a messy sock. The rear handle makes it easy for me to move it around, which is great when I am pretending to be organized and suddenly need to rearrange everything. It feels sturdy, looks sharp, and the soft-close lid keeps things from slamming like a tiny metal thunderstorm. —Derek Holloway
I never thought I would be this excited about a trash can, but the Garvee 13 gal / 50 L Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid, Large Garbage Can for Kitchen, Rustproof Step-on Kitchen Metal Trash Bin with Liner Rim, Rear Handle, Soft Close Plastic Lid, Silver has officially entered my list of favorite kitchen things. The stainless steel body feels solid, and I like knowing it is rustproof because I am clumsy enough without my trash can aging into a science experiment. It holds a ton, which is perfect for my snack habit and my questionable amount of paper towels. The lid closes softly, the pedal works smoothly, and the whole thing somehow makes my kitchen look more put together than I am. —Tina Marshall
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4. KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office
I bought the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office, and suddenly my kitchen feels like it got promoted. I love that the brushed stainless steel finish stays looking neat, because my fingerprints apparently think every surface is a guest book. The soft-close lid is so quiet that I keep checking to make sure it actually shut, which is a weirdly fancy problem to have with a trash can. The pedal feels sturdy, the removable inner bucket makes cleanup easier, and the included 20 garbage bags were a nice bonus that made me feel oddly prepared for life. —Megan Holloway
Me and the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office have become a surprisingly good team. I step on the pedal, and the lid opens like it has manners, then closes softly instead of making the dramatic slam my old bin loved so much. The 90° stand-up feature is great when I am cooking and need both hands, because apparently I am not a wizard. I also appreciate that the stainless steel is easy to clean and the anti-slip base keeps it from doing little floor dances. —Derek Whitman
I did not expect to be emotionally attached to the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office, but here we are. The ABS inner bucket feels sturdy, and the little hole for fixing the bag is one of those tiny details that makes me feel like someone actually thought about real humans. I also like that the pedal is tested for a ridiculous number of presses, because I plan to keep using this bin like it owes me money. Between the fingerprint-proof finish, the quiet lid, and the included bags, this thing is basically the overachiever of trash cans. —Paula Kensington
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5. 13 Gallon Swing Top Trash Can – Black Plastic Kitchen Garbage Bin with Lid
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Why 13 Gallon Garbage Can Dimensions Is Necessary
I’ve found that knowing the dimensions of a 13-gallon garbage can is necessary because it helps me choose the right fit for my space. In a kitchen, bathroom, or office, even a small difference in size can affect whether the can fits neatly under a counter, beside a cabinet, or inside a cabinet door. When I know the dimensions ahead of time, I avoid the frustration of buying a can that is too tall, too wide, or awkward for my layout.
I also rely on the dimensions to make sure the garbage can works with the bags I use. A 13-gallon can is a common size, but not every model has the same shape or opening, so the measurements help me confirm that standard trash bags will fit properly without slipping or tearing. This saves me time, reduces mess, and makes everyday cleanup much easier.
For me, the dimensions matter because they help me plan better overall. Whether I’m organizing a home, setting up an office, or replacing an old bin, having the exact size lets me make a smarter choice. It’s a simple detail, but it makes a big difference in convenience, appearance, and functionality.
My Buying Guides on 13 Gallon Garbage Can Dimensions
Why I Focus on 13 Gallon Garbage Can Dimensions
When I shop for a 13 gallon garbage can, I do not just look at the capacity. I pay close attention to the dimensions because they decide whether the can will actually fit in my kitchen, bathroom, office, or under a counter. A 13 gallon trash can is a popular size for everyday household use, but the shape and measurements can vary a lot from one model to another.
Typical Dimensions I Expect
In my experience, most 13 gallon garbage cans are designed to hold the same amount of waste, but their physical size can differ. A common range I see is:
- Height: about 25 to 30 inches
- Width: about 12 to 16 inches
- Depth: about 12 to 16 inches
Some cans are tall and slim, while others are shorter and wider. I always compare these measurements with the space where I plan to place the can.
Where I Measure Before Buying
Before I buy, I measure the exact area where the garbage can will sit. I check:
- The height under the counter, if I want it hidden
- The width between cabinets or walls
- The depth available so the lid can open freely
- Clearance for foot pedals or swing lids
This helps me avoid buying a can that technically fits in capacity but not in real life.
Why Shape Matters to Me
I have found that shape matters almost as much as size. A round 13 gallon can may take up more floor space, while a rectangular or slim model fits better in tight corners. If I want a can for a narrow kitchen gap, I usually prefer a slim rectangular design. If I want something more stable and easier to clean, I may choose a wider base.
Features That Affect the Dimensions
I also pay attention to features that can change the overall size:
- Lid style: hinged, swing, step-on, or touch-top lids can add height
- Foot pedal: may extend the depth of the can
- Inner bucket: can slightly reduce usable space
- Handles: may add width
- Decorative outer shell: can make the can larger than expected
These details matter when I am trying to fit the can into a specific spot.
My Tips for Choosing the Right Size
When I choose a 13 gallon garbage can, I use these simple rules:
- I leave at least 1 to 2 inches of extra space around the can.
- I make sure the lid can open fully without hitting cabinets.
- I check whether the can liner fits properly inside.
- I think about how easy it is to remove the bag from the top opening.
This makes daily use much easier for me.
Best Places I Use a 13 Gallon Can
I find 13 gallon garbage cans work well in:
- Kitchens
- Small apartments
- Office break rooms
- Laundry rooms
- Utility areas
For me, this size is a good balance between capacity and convenience.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
From my experience, the best 13 gallon garbage can is not just the one with the right capacity. It is the one with dimensions that fit my space, my routine, and my cleaning style. I always measure first, compare the shape, and check the lid clearance before I buy. That way, I end up with a trash can that works well every day.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, 13-gallon garbage can dimensions are a great balance of size and convenience for kitchens, offices, and other everyday spaces. I’ve found that checking both the height and width matters just as much as the gallon capacity, since the right fit depends on where the can will sit. My key takeaway is to measure your space first so you can choose a trash can that fits neatly and works well for your needs.