13 Gallon Trash Can

The standard size for a kitchen trash can is the 13 gallon trash can. This has become the standard over the years, though the size is rather arbitrary. However, we should embrace this arbitrariness. When you go to a store to buy trash bags, often they are sold as “tall kitchen trash bags”. This gives us the option of choosing from a wide variety of brands, while still remaining certain that they will fit our particular trash can.

So what are our choices as far as a 13 gallon trash can is concerned?

There are 3 broad classes of 13 gallon trash can styles that I think anyone thinking about buying a new trash bin should consider.

1. Plastic Garbage Bin

It is hard to argue with the simple functionality of a good plastic 13 gallon trash can. The best thing about these waste bins is their extremely affordable price. It is quite feasible to find a great waste bin that will last for many years for less than $20. Plastic containers are also usually much more durable and able to hold their shape better than the other 13 gallon trash can styles I will hereafter discuss.

2. Stainless Steel Waste Bin

These waste bins are often thought of as more fashionable than their plastic counterparts. They are very often sleek and elegant in their design. Many homeowners have lately been redesigning and remodeling their entire kitchens with all stainless steel appliances. In these cases, it makes absolute sense to add a stainless steel garbage can into the mix to compliment the rest of the kitchen. One of the most popular makers of stainless steel trash cans is Simple Human.

3. Touch Free Trash Can

Some people dislike the idea of even touching their 13 gallon trash can. In all seriousness, trash cans (and in particular their lids) are a place where viruses and bugs can accumulate and spread from person to person. Touch Free trash cans (also called touchless trash cans) are often completely automatic. An infrared sensor can determine if you are trying to throw away a piece of garbage so that you never even have to touch it. This is about as high class (and as expensive) as you can go in your trash can quest unless you upgrade to a trash compactor.

So which is the best 13 gallon trash can? In all honesty, I really can’t give you a definitive answer to that. Each one has its benefits and drawbacks. Plastic cans are extremely budget friendly and durable. It’s hard to deny the convenience and “wow” factor that touchless trash cans provide. These are the waste bins that get the most compliments and questions from guests. Stainless steel trash cans are arguably the most attractive garbage bins out of all of them.

So, the 13 gallon trash can that you ultimately choose will be up to your own individual tastes and preferences. Your budget might play a large role in your decision. Luckily, there’s no reason to overpay when there are resources like this website to help guide you. Just make sure that you check the prices of a wide range of manufacturers, and you’re sure to land a killer deal.