9 Best Small Kitchen Trash Cans of 2026

Lightweight, space-smart, and refreshingly no-frills—this 3.5-gallon workhorse from UUJOLY is a quiet champion in cluttered corners. Its rectangular footprint slips effortlessly under sinks or between vanities, solving the eternal battle for floor space in small kitchens and half-baths. Crafted from durable, chip-resistant plastic, it shrugs off daily bumps and wipes clean in seconds, making it a go-to for high-traffic areas like dorms or kids’ rooms where spills and scuffs are part of the routine.

In real-world use, the 10.5” x 7.8” x 11.1” frame proves ideal for spot-filling narrow gaps—think laundry nooks or RV galley kitchens—without sacrificing usability. The raised bottom keeps the base from grinding against rough flooring, extending its life over time. While it won’t handle heavy food waste or bulky packaging like larger bins, it excels at holding dry trash, paper scraps, or bathroom waste. Just don’t expect odor containment—the open lid design means it’s best paired with scented bags or in well-ventilated zones.

Compared to stainless steel contenders, this model trades premium looks for practical affordability and featherlight portability. It’s not built to impress with soft-close tech or sleek finishes, but it outshines in simplicity and ease of movement. Perfect for renters, college students, or anyone needing a no-fuss, under-sink solution, it delivers where it matters: function over flair. While the SONGMICS ULTB543E01 offers a quieter, more polished experience, the UUJOLY wins on weight and wallet-friendliness.

Sleek, stable, and engineered for peace, the SONGMICS ULTB543E01 is a standout in the world of compact kitchen cans. Its 5.2-gallon stainless steel body combines chic minimalism with serious durability, resisting rust and fingerprints thanks to a smudge-resistant finish. The real magic? A soft-close lid that halts mid-air, gliding shut without a whisper—perfect for late-night trips to the bin in quiet homes. Add in non-slip base pads, and you’ve got a can that stays put, even when curious pets nudge it.

During testing, the inner bucket with wide opening and side handles made bag changes a one-hand affair—no more wrestling with torn liners or grimy fingers. At just under 12 inches wide, it fits snugly in tight corners or beside narrow appliances, while the 90° stay-open lid lets you toss multiple items without re-pedaling. The 20L capacity handles daily kitchen scraps for one or two people with ease, though larger households may find themselves emptying it daily. It’s not the slimmest option, so tight under-cabinet spaces might be a squeeze.

When stacked against the Home Zone Living 8-gallon model, the SONGMICS trades capacity for compact elegance and superior noise control. It’s the ideal pick for modern apartments, studio kitchens, or minimalist bathrooms where aesthetics and silence matter. While the Amazon Basics B07PBV7Q3H offers more volume, this SONGMICS bin delivers a quieter, more refined experience. For those who value design and daily convenience over brute storage, this is a top-tier choice.

When capacity meets slim sophistication, the Home Zone Living 8-gallon can hits a rare sweet spot. Its space-savvy narrow profile slides into tight gaps where most bins won’t fit—perfect for galley kitchens or laundry closets—yet holds enough to manage daily family waste without constant emptying. The hands-free foot pedal delivers smooth, reliable operation, while the soft-close lid shuts with a whisper, making it ideal for shared living spaces or early-morning cleanups.

Real-world use reveals a well-thought-out design: the removable inner liner lifts out cleanly for quick bag swaps, and the bag tuck band is a game-changer—no more flapping plastic or messy overhang. At 8 gallons, it outperforms smaller rivals like the TIPGO or UUJOLY models, handling food waste, packaging, and paper with ease. The stainless steel build resists dents and wipes clean effortlessly, though it does show smudges more than brushed finishes. It’s not the quietest pedal mechanism, but it’s durable and responsive.

Compared to the SONGMICS ULTB543E01, this model offers 2.8 extra gallons of capacity in a similarly slim footprint, making it a better fit for active households. While pricier than budget picks, it justifies the cost with smarter storage and long-term usability. The Amazon Basics B07PBV7Q3H comes close in size but lacks the bag retention system. For those who want maximum utility in a narrow space, this is the definitive best overall choice—balancing function, form, and daily practicality.

Don’t let the modest price fool you—this 3.1-gallon Amazon Basics can packs premium features into a budget-friendly shell. Its smudge-resistant brushed finish keeps it looking clean despite frequent use, a rare perk in this price range. The soft-close foot pedal operates with satisfying smoothness, and the lid stays open when needed—ideal for quick cleanups—before gliding shut without a slam. For small kitchens or powder rooms, it’s a quiet, reliable performer that doesn’t skimp on essentials.

Measuring 11.3” x 9.9” x 15.1”, it fits neatly under most cabinets or beside toilets, though the slightly wider footprint may not suit ultra-narrow gaps. The removable inner bucket makes disposal mess-free, and the carry handle allows easy transport to larger outdoor bins. While the 3.1-gallon capacity limits heavy-duty use, it’s perfect for paper waste, bathroom trash, or office scraps. The plastic inner liner is durable but can feel flimsy compared to metal counterparts.

Against the TIPGO B0CKRD6GJQ, it offers a more balanced footprint and better stability, though the TIPGO has a slightly superior pedal mechanism. It’s not as spacious as the Home Zone Living model, but it delivers 90% of the function at half the cost. For renters or first-time buyers who want stainless steel elegance without the premium tag, this Amazon Basics model is the smartest budget bet—proving that value doesn’t mean compromise.

The TIPGO 1.6-gallon bin is a masterclass in quiet efficiency, built for spaces where noise and odor are non-negotiables. Its soft-close lid seals tightly, eliminating both clatter and stink—making it a top pick for bedrooms, en-suites, or pet-friendly homes. The stay-open function at 90° lets you toss multiple items hassle-free, while the engineered foot pedal is rated for 150,000 steps—far exceeding typical household wear. At just 6 liters, it’s not for heavy use, but it excels in precision placement.

With a slim, vertical profile, it tucks into tight bathroom gaps or beside nightstands with ease. The removable inner bucket features a clever bag-lock hole, keeping liners secure and reducing slippage. The matte black stainless steel resists smudges better than shiny finishes and adds a modern touch. However, the small capacity means daily emptying in active households, and the narrow opening can make bag loading tricky with bulkier liners.

Pitted against the ITCPRL 2-pack, this TIPGO model offers superior lid mechanics and odor control, though you get only one can. While the Glad under-cabinet bin saves floor space, this one wins on daily usability and quiet operation. For those who prioritize whisper-quiet function and pet-proof sealing, this is the best soft-close lid option—delivering luxury-level performance in a minimalist package.

Revolutionizing under-cabinet storage, the Glad Roommate bin is the ultimate space hacker for kitchens drowning in clutter. Its dual-lid design—slide front and flip-back—gives you full control over access, whether you’re scraping scraps during dinner prep or doing a deep clean. The real innovation? No-drill hanging system—use the over-door hook or adhesive mount to suspend it inside or outside a cabinet, keeping floors spotless and workflow seamless.

At 12L (3.1 gallons), it’s modest in volume but maximized for utility. The 7” depth fits even shallow cabinets, and the white finish brightens dark corners. It’s ideal for compost scraps, recycling, or daily trash—just swap modes depending on the task. However, the plastic build feels less durable than metal cans, and the hanging mechanism requires a smooth, flat surface for the adhesive to hold. In high-humidity areas, long-term stickiness may waver.

Compared to the Tiyafuro hanging compost bin, this Glad model offers easier installation and dual-lid versatility, though it lacks a full odor seal. While the UUJOLY plastic can sits under-counter too, it doesn’t hang. For those who want to liberate floor space and streamline kitchen flow, this is the best under-cabinet design—a clever, clutter-busting solution that redefines where trash belongs.

When you need maximum capacity in a slim silhouette, the Amazon Basics 5.3-gallon bin rises to the challenge. At 20L, it holds nearly twice as much as entry-level models, making it a workhorse for busy households without sacrificing footprint. Its 12.4” x 7.3” profile is ultra-narrow, slipping into tight gaps beside fridges or between furniture, while the 15.4” height provides depth without top-heaviness. The soft-close lid and foot pedal operate smoothly, and the smudge-resistant steel keeps it looking clean with minimal effort.

In practice, the removable bucket with carry handle makes disposal a breeze, and the stay-open lid is perfect for multi-item dumping sessions. It’s ideal for offices, living rooms, or kitchens where trash piles up fast. However, the narrow width means bulky items like crumpled boxes won’t fit, and the pedal requires firm pressure—less ideal for kids or elderly users.

Versus the Home Zone Living 8-gallon, it trades some capacity for greater vertical slimness, making it better for ultra-tight spaces. While the SONGMICS ULTB543E01 has a quieter close, this one offers more volume and better value per gallon. For those who need large capacity in a pencil-thin frame, this is the best large-capacity slim can—proving big function can come in narrow packages.

Double the function, half the hassle—that’s the promise of the ITCPRL 2-pack 4-gallon cans, and it delivers. The pop-up lid mechanism is a joy: a light press opens or closes the top, making it effortless for kids or elderly users. Each bin features a tight-sealing lid that locks in odors and keeps pets out—crucial for bathroom or bedroom use. Made from thickened ABS plastic, they’re lightweight yet sturdy, and the bag-fixing ring ensures liners stay put, maintaining a clean, flush look.

At 10” x 7” x 13.98”, they fit neatly in tight corners, under sinks, or beside toilets. The 4-gallon capacity strikes a sweet balance—roomy enough for daily use, compact enough for small zones. Being a 2-pack, you can coordinate bathroom and bedroom, or use one for recycling and one for compost. However, the pop-top lid isn’t foot-activated, so hands-free use isn’t an option, and the plastic doesn’t feel as premium as stainless steel.

Compared to the TIPGO single can, this set offers better value and dual placement, though it lacks soft-close tech. While the UUJOLY model is cheaper per unit, it doesn’t seal odors or offer pop-up convenience. For those who want two reliable, odor-proof bins with smart design, this is the best pop-up lid (2-pack)—a practical, no-compromise duo.

For composters who demand clean, odor-free countertop living, the Tiyafuro hanging bin is a revelation. Its lid creates an airtight seal, locking in smells without charcoal filters—no recurring costs, no maintenance. The included mounting kit lets you hang it inside a cabinet door or under a sink, keeping floors clear and waste within arm’s reach. At 2.4 gallons, it’s sized perfectly for daily food scraps, holding a week’s worth for most couples before needing a dump.

The ABS plastic build is both lightweight and rigid, resisting cracks and odors over time. The smooth interior wipes clean in seconds, with no crevices for gunk to hide. Whether used as a compost pail, bathroom bin, or RV trash holder, it adapts seamlessly. However, the hanging hook limits swing space, so ensure your cabinet door opens wide enough. And while the lid seals well, frequent opening can wear the seal over time.

Against the Glad under-cabinet bin, this Tiyafuro model wins on odor control and compost-specific design, though it lacks dual-lid flexibility. While the ITCPRL cans offer two units, this one excels in dedicated, mess-free composting. For eco-conscious kitchens that want a tidy, wall-mounted waste solution, this is the best for compost or hanging use—a small bin with a big impact.