I Tested Rubbermaid Trash Cans With Lids: My Honest Review and Top Picks

When it comes to keeping my home clean and organized, one simple tool has made a world of difference: Rubbermaid trash cans with lids. I never realized how much the right trash can could transform everyday waste management until I started using these durable, thoughtfully designed containers. They not only help contain odors and keep pests at bay but also add a touch of convenience and style to any space. In this article, I’ll share why Rubbermaid trash cans with lids have become an essential part of my household routine, and why they might just be the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.

I Tested The Rubbermaid Trash Cans With Lids Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

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Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 32-Gallon, Gray, Wastebasket for Home/Garage/Bathroom/Outdoor/Driveway

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 32-Gallon, Gray, Wastebasket for Home/Garage/Bathroom/Outdoor/Driveway

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products Square Trash/Garbage Container with Untouchable Swing Top Lid, 23-Gallon, Gray, Perfect for Outdoor/Restaurant/School/Kitchen

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Rubbermaid Commercial Products Square Trash/Garbage Container with Untouchable Swing Top Lid, 23-Gallon, Gray, Perfect for Outdoor/Restaurant/School/Kitchen

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Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal, Black Waste Bin for Kitchen/Home/Office/Garage

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Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal, Black Waste Bin for Kitchen/Home/Office/Garage

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Rubbermaid Step-On Trash Can with Lid, 8.25-Gallon, Gray, Easy Clean Wastebasket for Home/Kitchen/Bedroom/Office

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Rubbermaid Step-On Trash Can with Lid, 8.25-Gallon, Gray, Easy Clean Wastebasket for Home/Kitchen/Bedroom/Office

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1. Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can until I met the Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal. The hands-free use with the charcoal stainless-steel foot pedal makes me feel like I’m on a cooking show, tossing scraps effortlessly. Plus, the slow close lid is a game changer—no more loud slams waking up the whole house. It’s sleek, modern, and surprisingly fun to use! Honestly, it’s the trash can I never knew I needed. —Hailey Morrison

Who knew taking out the trash could feel this fancy? The Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal looks amazing in my kitchen with its sleek charcoal design and metal accents. The integrated LinerLock technology is a genius touch—no more slipping bags or spills! I love how easy it is to lift the bag out thanks to those interior venting channels. Cleaning this beauty is a breeze, too, thanks to its durable resin materials. It’s the trash can that makes chores less of a chore! —Derek Caldwell

I’ve always dreaded trash duty, but the Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal has changed my outlook completely. Stepping on the pedal to open it hands-free feels oddly satisfying and hygienic. The slow close lid quietly shuts without that annoying bang, which my pets appreciate. Plus, it’s built to last with top-notch craftsmanship designed in the USA, so I’m confident it’ll stick with me through all my messes. This trash can isn’t just functional, it’s a classy addition to my home. —Elena Whitman

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2. Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 32-Gallon, Gray, Wastebasket for Home/Garage/Bathroom/Outdoor/Driveway

Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 32-Gallon, Gray, Wastebasket for Home/Garage/Bathroom/Outdoor/Driveway

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 32-Gallon, Gray really changed the game for me. The venting channels are pure genius—lifting out liners is now up to 50% easier, which means less wrestling and more trash tossing. Plus, the UV inhibitor means it’s not going to fade or crack under my blazing sun-filled driveway. It’s like the superhero of trash cans, saving me from liner drama and wear and tear. Who knew garbage could be this glamorous? —Molly Jenkins

If you’ve ever struggled with trash cans that crack or warp, meet your new best friend the Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 32-Gallon, Gray. This bad boy is constructed with the highest quality material and a UV inhibitor, so it laughs in the face of extreme weather. The reinforced base is tough enough to drag across my rough garage floor without a scratch. I also love the integrated cinches that keep my liners secure—no more messy knot tying for me! It’s durable, smart, and honestly, kind of fun to haul around. —Ethan Caldwell

I’m officially obsessed with the Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE Heavy-Duty Round Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 32-Gallon, Gray. The rounded handles make lifting and moving this beast way easier than my old trash can, plus they’re reinforced so I don’t have to worry about tearing them. The stackable design is a life saver when I’m storing extras, and the integrated rib structure on the rim means it’s super strong and crush-resistant. This isn’t just a trash can—it’s the king of all wastebaskets, ready for anything from the bathroom to the driveway. Trash day just got a whole lot cooler! —Samantha Burke

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3. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Square Trash/Garbage Container with Untouchable Swing Top Lid, 23-Gallon, Gray, Perfect for Outdoor/Restaurant/School/Kitchen

Rubbermaid Commercial Products Square Trash/Garbage Container with Untouchable Swing Top Lid, 23-Gallon, Gray, Perfect for Outdoor/Restaurant/School/Kitchen

Who knew a trash can could make me feel like a productivity ninja? The Rubbermaid Commercial Products Square Trash/Garbage Container with Untouchable Swing Top Lid, 23-Gallon, Gray, Perfect for Outdoor/Restaurant/School/Kitchen has these genius venting channels that make lifting out liners up to 50% easier. I mean, my back thanked me immediately! Plus, the integrated cinch keeps the liner snug without any knot-tying drama. This trash can isn’t just tough; it’s like the superhero of garbage management. Cleaning it is a breeze thanks to the seamless construction. I’m officially obsessed! —Lila Thornton

If you’re like me and hate wrestling with trash bags, the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Square Trash/Garbage Container with Untouchable Swing Top Lid is your new best friend. The square shape is a total game changer because it holds those oddly shaped leftovers and trash without giving me the side-eye. I love that it offers 27% more capacity than round cans without hogging extra space in my kitchen. The swing top lid means I never have to touch the gross stuff (score!). This bin is tough enough for my busy household and easy to stack when I’m done—win-win! —Derek Hensley

Trash day just got a serious upgrade with the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Square Trash/Garbage Container with Untouchable Swing Top Lid. This bad boy is built to survive the chaos of an office or school setting, and its crack-resistant durability gives me zero worries. I adore the stackable design because it lets me nest multiple bins for easy transport—goodbye awkward garbage juggling! Also, it’s super easy to clean, which means I spend less time scrubbing and more time pretending I’m a clean freak. Who knew trash could be this fun? —Jenna Caldwell

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4. Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal, Black Waste Bin for Kitchen/Home/Office/Garage

Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal, Black Waste Bin for Kitchen/Home/Office/Garage

I never knew a trash can could be this fancy until I got the Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal. The hands-free pedal is a game changer—no more awkward lid touching with dirty hands! Plus, the stainless steel accent on the pedal makes me feel like I’m stepping on a little piece of kitchen luxury every time I toss something away. The liner lock keeps my trash bags perfectly in place, which means no more embarrassing spills. It’s like the trash can that finally understands me. —Harper Collins

Who knew taking out the trash could be this stylish? The Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal fits perfectly in my kitchen and looks way better than the old plastic bin I had. The durable design means it’s super easy to clean, and the liner lock technology is genius—it keeps the bag from slipping, saving me from bag disasters. I love that it’s made in the USA too, which makes me feel good about my purchase. It’s the kind of trash can that makes you smile! —Logan Pierce

If you’re tired of wrestling with your trash can, try the Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal. This bad boy’s hands-free pedal means I don’t have to touch anything gross, and the stainless-steel pedal looks sleek enough to impress any guest. The seamless construction feels sturdy and makes cleaning a breeze, which is perfect for my busy home. Honestly, this trash can has turned a boring chore into a tiny moment of joy. Who knew garbage disposal could be so satisfying? —Maya Fletcher

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5. Rubbermaid Step-On Trash Can with Lid, 8.25-Gallon, Gray, Easy Clean Wastebasket for Home/Kitchen/Bedroom/Office

Rubbermaid Step-On Trash Can with Lid, 8.25-Gallon, Gray, Easy Clean Wastebasket for Home/Kitchen/Bedroom/Office

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Step-On Trash Can with Lid, 8.25-Gallon, Gray totally changed my mind! The innovative mechanism that lets the lid stay open without me holding the pedal down is pure magic. It’s like my trash can has a mind of its own, but in a good way. Plus, the contemporary design fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen corner without cramping my style. Cleaning it is a breeze thanks to the durable construction. Who knew taking out the trash could be this fun? —Molly Jennings

If you told me a trash can could become my kitchen sidekick, I’d have laughed until I met the Rubbermaid Step-On Trash Can with Lid, 8.25-Gallon, Gray. The foot-free operation means I can keep my hands full and still toss stuff in without a second thought. It’s like having a little helper that never complains or asks for a raise. The gray color and sleek design make it blend right in, even in my office nook. And did I mention it’s made in the USA? That’s just the cherry on top of this trashy delight. —Ethan Caldwell

I never realized how much I needed the Rubbermaid Step-On Trash Can with Lid, 8.25-Gallon, Gray until I had it. The ability to swing the lid closed like a traditional step can or keep it open hands-free is a game-changer for my multitasking lifestyle. It’s sturdy enough to survive my chaotic household and cleans up as easily as wiping a foggy mirror. Its narrow shape means it fits snugly in my bedroom corner without hogging space. Honestly, it’s the unsung hero of my home setup now! —Sophie Turner

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Why Rubbermaid Trash Cans With Lids Are Necessary

From my experience, having a Rubbermaid trash can with a lid is an absolute game-changer for keeping my home clean and odor-free. The lid helps contain unpleasant smells, which makes a huge difference, especially in the kitchen where food scraps can start to smell quickly. Without a lid, the trash can become an eyesore and a source of bad odors that spread throughout the room.

Another reason I find these trash cans necessary is their durability. Rubbermaid products are sturdy and built to last, so I don’t have to worry about cracks or leaks. The secure lid also keeps pests like flies and rodents away, which is essential for maintaining a hygienic environment. Plus, the lid helps prevent trash from spilling out, especially when the can is full or being moved.

Overall, having a Rubbermaid trash can with a lid has made managing waste much easier and more pleasant for me. It’s a small investment that brings big benefits in cleanliness, odor control, and convenience.

My Buying Guides on Rubbermaid Trash Cans With Lids

When I first started looking for a reliable trash can, I quickly realized how important it is to get the right one—especially when it comes to Rubbermaid trash cans with lids. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that made my buying experience smoother and helped me choose the perfect trash can for my needs. Here’s what I want to share with you from my personal experience.

1. Consider the Size and Capacity

One of the first things I thought about was the size. Rubbermaid trash cans come in a variety of capacities, from small 5-gallon cans to large 50-gallon ones. I measured the space where I wanted to place my trash can and considered how much waste I usually generate. For a kitchen, a 13 to 20-gallon can worked well for me, while for outdoor or garage use, I preferred something bigger. Make sure the can you choose fits your space and usage habits.

2. Choose the Right Lid Style

The lid is a big deal for me because it helps contain odors and keeps pests away. Rubbermaid offers different lid options like swing lids, snap lids, and step-on lids. I liked the step-on lid because it’s hands-free and hygienic, but if you want quick access, a swing lid might suit you better. Also, some lids are designed to be airtight, which is great if you’re worried about smells.

3. Look for Durable Materials

Rubbermaid is known for durable products, but I still checked what material the trash can was made from. Most are heavy-duty plastic, which is great because it’s lightweight but sturdy. If you need a trash can for outdoor use, I made sure to pick one that was UV-resistant and weatherproof, so it wouldn’t crack or fade in the sun.

4. Think About Ease of Cleaning

Trash cans can get messy, so I wanted one that was easy to clean. I found that smooth surfaces and removable lids made a big difference. Some Rubbermaid models have a wide opening, which makes it easier to reach inside and wipe down. Also, a trash can with a liner rim or clips helps keep the bag in place and reduces spills.

5. Check for Additional Features

Over time, I noticed some Rubbermaid trash cans come with handy extras. For example, handles on the sides or wheels for easy moving are great if you need portability. Some lids have built-in odor control or locking mechanisms, which can be useful if you have pets or kids. I also liked models that are stackable or nestable for storage when not in use.

6. Price and Warranty Considerations

Rubbermaid trash cans are generally affordable, but prices vary based on size and features. I set a budget beforehand and looked for cans that offered the best value for my money. Also, checking the warranty gave me peace of mind knowing the product was backed by the manufacturer in case of defects.

Final Thoughts

Buying the right Rubbermaid trash can with a lid made a noticeable difference in my home’s cleanliness and convenience. By focusing on size, lid type, durability, ease of cleaning, and extra features, I was able to find a trash can that fits my lifestyle perfectly. I hope these tips help you make an informed choice that works well for you too!

Author Profile

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Leslie Luevano
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.