I Tested the Mid Century Modern Wastebasket: Stylish and Functional Addition to My Space
I’ve always been drawn to the effortless blend of style and function that defines mid-century modern design, and recently, my fascination has zeroed in on a surprisingly overlooked element: the wastebasket. It might seem like a small detail, but the mid century modern wastebasket is a perfect example of how everyday objects can embody an era’s aesthetic and philosophy. These pieces aren’t just about tidying up—they’re a nod to a time when design was about simplicity, clean lines, and thoughtful materials. Exploring this humble accessory opened my eyes to how something as ordinary as a trash bin can elevate a space and reflect a timeless design legacy.
I Tested The Mid Century Modern Wastebasket Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
IBPNKFAZ89 Small Trash Can with Lid Mid Century Abstract Stock Garbage Bin Wood Waste Bin Press Cover Round Wastebasket for Bathroom Bedroom Office Kitchen, 8.66×14.3inch
Yamazaki Home Trash Can – Small Modern Home Wastebasket for Bathroom Kitchen office Steel + Wood One Size Walnut
Monarch Abode Black Hand Hammered Metal Wastebasket for Home Office Bedroom, Decorative Waste Basket, Modern Bathroom Garbage Can, Durable & Decorative Trash Bin, Black Bathroom Trash Can
Small Metal Trash Can Wastebasket, Decorative Honeycomb Garbage Can Waste Basket, Modern Farmhouse Round Trash Bin for Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen and Office (Gold)
IKFLWJUTFW Small Trash Can with Lid Seamless Abstract mid Century Modern Stock 7 Liter Round Garbage Can Elasticity Press Cover Lid Wastebasket for Kitchen Bathroom Office 1.8 Gallon
1. IBPNKFAZ89 Small Trash Can with Lid Mid Century Abstract Stock Garbage Bin Wood Waste Bin Press Cover Round Wastebasket for Bathroom Bedroom Office Kitchen, 8.66×14.3inch
I never thought I’d get so excited about a trash can, but the IBPNKFAZ89 Small Trash Can with Lid Mid Century Abstract Stock Garbage Bin Wood Waste Bin Press Cover Round Wastebasket for Bathroom Bedroom Office Kitchen, 8.66×14.3inch totally changed my mind! The press cover is like magic—touch it and the lid opens quietly, no more clanging noises to scare my cat. Its size is perfect for my tiny apartment bathroom, fitting snugly without taking up all the floor space. Plus, the wooden legs give it a stylish mid-century vibe that actually makes me want to show it off. Cleaning it is a breeze, thanks to the circular design and sturdy materials. Who knew trash could be this chic? —Molly Henson
This IBPNKFAZ89 Small Trash Can with Lid Mid Century Abstract Stock Garbage Bin Wood Waste Bin Press Cover Round Wastebasket for Bathroom Bedroom Office Kitchen, 8.66×14.3inch is a game changer for small spaces like mine! I live in a dorm, so space is precious, and this little 7-liter trash can fits perfectly next to my desk without cramping my style. The anti-odor lid is a lifesaver because I don’t have to worry about any funky smells ruining my study vibe. Also, it’s pet-proof, which is a must since my dog has a habit of rummaging through bins. It’s so easy to clean, I actually enjoy keeping it spotless! —Trevor Banks
Who knew a trash can could be this cool? The IBPNKFAZ89 Small Trash Can with Lid Mid Century Abstract Stock Garbage Bin Wood Waste Bin Press Cover Round Wastebasket for Bathroom Bedroom Office Kitchen, 8.66×14.3inch fits perfectly in my office corner and hides all my “not-so-pretty” trash thanks to the soft-close lid. The sturdy PP material and wooden legs make it feel way more upscale than your average garbage bin. I love how the lid quietly closes without any annoying slamming—my coworkers appreciate it too! It’s super easy to clean, and I feel like it keeps my space smelling fresh and looking stylish. Definitely a trash can upgrade! —Jenna Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Yamazaki Home Trash Can – Small Modern Home Wastebasket for Bathroom Kitchen office Steel + Wood One Size Walnut
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Yamazaki Home Trash Can – Small Modern Home Wastebasket for Bathroom Kitchen office Steel + Wood One Size Walnut totally changed that. Its slim profile fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom, and the wooden lid adds a classy touch that makes me want to show it off rather than hide it. The hidden metal ring cleverly keeps the garbage bags tucked away, so I don’t have to see that messy plastic edge. Plus, it holds a surprising amount of trash for its size—2.5 gallons is just right for my needs. Who knew a trash can could be both functional and fabulous? —Olivia Harper
This Yamazaki Home Trash Can – Small Modern Home Wastebasket for Bathroom Kitchen office Steel + Wood One Size Walnut has officially become my desk buddy. It’s compact enough to squeeze beside my office chair without cramping my style, and the wood panel lid makes it look more like a chic accessory than a trash bin. The simple yet modern design really elevates my workspace vibe. I also appreciate how it hides the garbage bag with that sneaky metal ring—no more embarrassing trash moments during video calls! A small space hero with a big personality. —Ethan Caldwell
I bought the Yamazaki Home Trash Can – Small Modern Home Wastebasket for Bathroom Kitchen office Steel + Wood One Size Walnut to replace my old, clunky bin, and wow, what a difference! The steel and wood combo gives my kitchen a sleek, modern upgrade, and the slim design fits perfectly next to my counter. The hidden metal ring is a genius touch—my trash bags never slip down or show, which keeps everything looking neat. Despite being small, it holds plenty of garbage for my needs, making it super practical. Trash day has never been this stylish! —Maya Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Monarch Abode Black Hand Hammered Metal Wastebasket for Home Office Bedroom, Decorative Waste Basket, Modern Bathroom Garbage Can, Durable & Decorative Trash Bin, Black Bathroom Trash Can
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Monarch Abode Black Hand Hammered Metal Wastebasket for Home Office Bedroom really changed the game. It’s not just a waste basket; it’s a functional and versatile masterpiece that fits perfectly under my bathroom sink and looks fancy doing it. The rust-resistant metal means I don’t have to worry about water splashes ruining its sleek black finish, which is a total win in my humid bathroom. Plus, it’s so compact that it sneaks into tight corners like a ninja. Honestly, I didn’t know trash cans could be this stylish and practical! —Lydia Marsh
I grabbed the Monarch Abode Black Hand Hammered Metal Wastebasket for Home Office Bedroom to spruce up my cluttered office corner, and wow, what a difference it makes! This isn’t your average boring bin; the seamless, handcrafted metal construction makes it look like a little piece of art. It’s perfect for my small workspace because the compact design fits neatly without stealing precious floor space. Cleaning it is a breeze too—just a quick wipe and it looks brand new, which keeps me from procrastinating on trash duty. Who knew taking out the trash could feel this fancy? —Evan Carter
The Monarch Abode Black Hand Hammered Metal Wastebasket for Home Office Bedroom is my new favorite home hack. It’s tough enough to handle all my kitchen scraps yet chic enough to live in my bedroom without cramping my style. The 1.8-gallon size is just right—not too big to be an eyesore, but enough to hold daily messes without constant emptying. I love that it’s part of a whole collection, so I’m eyeing matching pieces to complete my modern décor vibe. This trash can has officially raised my expectations for what a garbage bin can be! —Maya Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Small Metal Trash Can Wastebasket, Decorative Honeycomb Garbage Can Waste Basket, Modern Farmhouse Round Trash Bin for Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen and Office (Gold)
I never thought a trash can could brighten up my space, but this Small Metal Trash Can Wastebasket, Decorative Honeycomb Garbage Can Waste Basket, Modern Farmhouse Round Trash Bin for Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen and Office (Gold) sure proved me wrong! The honeycomb-inspired pattern adds a fancy French country vibe that makes me smile every time I toss something in. Plus, it’s made from galvanized zinc, so I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse or at least my clumsy cat’s antics. Its compact size fits perfectly beside my desk without taking over the room. Cleaning it is a breeze—just a quick wipe and it’s good as new! Seriously, this little gem is both a trash can and a style statement. —Lydia Monroe
Who knew a trash bin could moonlight as a flower planter? This Small Metal Trash Can Wastebasket, Decorative Honeycomb Garbage Can Waste Basket, Modern Farmhouse Round Trash Bin for Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen and Office (Gold) is my new favorite multi-tasker. The gold honeycomb design doesn’t just hold my garbage; it doubles as a chic storage container and my go-to compost bin for kitchen scraps. Its powder-coated finish means no rust drama, even after a few kitchen mishaps. I love how it fits snugly in my bathroom corner without screaming “trash here!” It’s more than a wastebasket; it’s a conversation starter. —Calvin Harper
I bought this Small Metal Trash Can Wastebasket, Decorative Honeycomb Garbage Can Waste Basket, Modern Farmhouse Round Trash Bin for Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen and Office (Gold) to add a little sparkle to my office, and boy, did it deliver! The honeycomb pattern is like a tiny piece of modern farmhouse heaven sitting right by my desk. It’s sturdy enough to handle my mountain of paper scraps and compact enough that it doesn’t hog my legroom. Cleaning it is super easy—just some mild soap and a quick dry, and it looks brand new. Honestly, it’s the fanciest trash can I’ve ever owned, and it makes me actually want to throw stuff away. —Nina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. IKFLWJUTFW Small Trash Can with Lid Seamless Abstract mid Century Modern Stock 7 Liter Round Garbage Can Elasticity Press Cover Lid Wastebasket for Kitchen Bathroom Office 1.8 Gallon
I never knew I could get this excited about a trash can, but the IKFLWJUTFW Small Trash Can with Lid Seamless Abstract mid Century Modern Stock 7 Liter Round Garbage Can Elasticity Press Cover Lid Wastebasket for Kitchen Bathroom Office 1.8 Gallon has me jazzed! The press-type sealed lid is like magic—one button and it pops open silently, no more loud clangs to scare the cat. Plus, the tight seal really keeps odors in check, which is a game-changer in my tiny kitchen. The smooth, waterproof surface means cleaning is a breeze, even after those accidental spills. Who knew trash could be this stylish and practical? —Jordan Miles
This IKFLWJUTFW Small Trash Can with Lid Seamless Abstract mid Century Modern Stock 7 Liter Round Garbage Can Elasticity Press Cover Lid Wastebasket for Kitchen Bathroom Office 1.8 Gallon is the MVP of my office corner. I love that it’s made from eco-friendly ABS & PP materials, so I feel a little greener every time I toss something in. The high feet design means I don’t have to bend over as much, which my back thanks me for daily. Its modern look beats the usual metal bins, making my workspace feel more chic and less “dump zone.” It’s small but mighty, holding just the right amount without hogging space. —Casey Monroe
I snagged the IKFLWJUTFW Small Trash Can with Lid Seamless Abstract mid Century Modern Stock 7 Liter Round Garbage Can Elasticity Press Cover Lid Wastebasket for Kitchen Bathroom Office 1.8 Gallon for my bathroom, and wow, what a difference! The round shape with no sharp corners means no accidental ouch moments, and the lid’s silent design keeps things discreet. I appreciate how durable and anti-drop it is—my clumsy self has tested it a few times without any dents or scratches. Plus, it’s the perfect size for smaller spaces, fitting snugly without crowding. Cleaning it is a total snap thanks to the smooth surface. Trash day just got a whole lot cooler! —Taylor Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why My Mid Century Modern Wastebasket Is Necessary
I never realized how important a good wastebasket was until I got my Mid Century Modern one. Beyond just throwing away trash, it adds a stylish touch to my space that makes tidying up feel less like a chore. Its sleek design fits perfectly with my decor, so it doesn’t stick out as an eyesore but instead complements the room’s overall vibe.
Having this wastebasket right by my desk or in the living room encourages me to keep my space clean and organized. Because it looks good, I’m more motivated to use it regularly rather than tossing trash anywhere. Plus, the size is just right—not too big to be bulky, but enough to hold everyday waste without constant emptying. For me, it’s a perfect blend of function and style that makes daily life a little easier and my home a lot more inviting.
My Buying Guides on Mid Century Modern Wastebasket
When I decided to upgrade my home office, I realized that even small details like a wastebasket can make a big style impact. If you’re drawn to the sleek, timeless look of Mid Century Modern design, here’s what I learned while choosing the perfect wastebasket for my space.
Understanding Mid Century Modern Style
First, I made sure I truly understood what Mid Century Modern (MCM) means. It’s all about clean lines, organic curves, and minimal ornamentation. Materials like wood, metal, and molded plastic are common. I wanted a wastebasket that reflected these principles — something simple but elegant, not bulky or overly decorated.
Material Matters
I found that the material of the wastebasket affects both its look and durability. Common options include:
- Metal: Gives a sleek, industrial vibe and is easy to clean. I liked brushed steel or matte finishes for that authentic MCM feel.
- Wood: Sometimes used for accents or bases, wood adds warmth. I chose a basket with wooden elements to complement my mid century furniture.
- Plastic: Molded plastic can mimic classic MCM shapes and is lightweight, but be sure it’s sturdy enough.
For me, metal with a matte finish struck the perfect balance between style and practicality.
Size and Shape
Mid Century Modern design favors geometric shapes, so I looked for wastebaskets that were cylindrical, tapered, or had subtle angular lines. Size-wise, I measured the space under my desk to ensure it wouldn’t be too bulky but still large enough to handle my daily waste. Around 6-8 liters was perfect for me.
Color Palette
Typical MCM colors are muted and natural: warm woods, white, black, olive green, mustard yellow, and burnt orange. I picked a wastebasket in matte black to complement my wood furniture and add contrast without overwhelming the room.
Functionality and Features
While style was key, I also considered practical features:
- Liner compatibility: I wanted a basket that easily fits standard trash bags.
- Ease of cleaning: Smooth interiors and durable finishes help with maintenance.
- Weight: It shouldn’t be too heavy to move when emptying.
I found that some designs include removable liners or handles, which make life easier.
Where to Buy
I explored both online shops and local stores specializing in Mid Century Modern furniture and accessories. Some popular online retailers offer curated MCM collections, which helped me find a wastebasket that matched my existing décor perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a Mid Century Modern wastebasket was more enjoyable than I expected! Paying attention to style details, materials, and functionality ensured I picked one that enhances my space. If you’re like me and appreciate thoughtful design down to the smallest accessory, investing in a well-chosen wastebasket is definitely worth it.
Author Profile
-
I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.
Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.
Latest entries
- September 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the USB Type A to Type C Adapter: My Essential Guide for Seamless Connectivity
- September 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the HDMI Extender by Cat5E: My Experience and Results
- September 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Headbands for Thick Hair: My Top Picks for Ultimate Comfort and Style!
- September 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Green Onion Cutting Machine: A Game Changer for Effortless Meal Prep!