There’s a certain rhythm to a busy kitchen, a chaotic symphony of sizzling pans, chopping knives, and the constant hum of family life. But for years, our kitchen had an unwelcome percussion section: the groan of an overstuffed trash can, the crinkle of a slipping liner, and the all-too-frequent sound of me hauling yet another bag of garbage outside. Our standard 13-gallon can, a seemingly sensible choice at the time, was no match for our household. It was a constant battle, a daily reminder of our kitchen’s biggest bottleneck. Emptying the trash became a chore we’d all try to avoid, leading to precarious trash towers and the occasional spill. We knew there had to be a better way to manage our waste without sacrificing aesthetics or convenience, which led us on a search for a high-capacity, durable, and user-friendly solution.
- HOLDS 50% MORE TRASH: 19 gallon capacity is greater than traditional 13 gallon, meaning less trips taking out trash.
- SINGLE OR DUAL CAPACITY: Can use one 30G or larger liner bag for trash or two 13G or 20G liner bags for separating trash and...
What to Consider Before Buying a Kitchen Trash Can
A kitchen trash can is more than just a receptacle for waste; it’s a key component of a functional, hygienic, and pleasant kitchen environment. The right can streamlines your cleanup process, contains odors, and can even complement your decor. A poor choice, however, becomes a source of daily frustration, from wrestling with ill-fitting bags to dealing with flimsy pedals and lids that won’t close properly. The primary benefit of investing in a quality unit is reclaiming your time and reducing the mental load associated with a core household chore. It’s about making one less thing in your busy life a problem.
The ideal customer for a large-capacity, feature-rich trash can like the one we’re reviewing today is someone in a high-traffic household. This includes large families, multi-person households, or even avid home cooks who generate a significant amount of waste. Pet owners who need a sturdy, tip-proof, and securely-lidded can will also find immense value here. Conversely, this type of product might be overkill for individuals living alone, those in small studio apartments with limited space, or people who produce very little waste. For them, a smaller, more compact alternative might be a more practical and space-saving choice.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Measure your intended space carefully. A high-capacity can will naturally have a larger footprint. Consider not only the width and depth but also the height, especially the clearance needed when the lid is fully open. Ensure it fits comfortably without obstructing walkways or cabinet doors.
- Capacity/Performance: Capacity is measured in gallons or liters. A standard kitchen can is 13 gallons (50 liters). A larger 19-gallon model, like the Rubbermaid, significantly reduces how often you need to take out the trash. Performance also includes the mechanism—a durable foot pedal for hands-free operation and a slow-close lid are hallmarks of a premium product.
- Materials & Durability: Most kitchen trash cans are made from plastic, stainless steel, or a combination of both. All-stainless steel models look sleek but can be prone to dents and fingerprints. Plastic is lighter and dent-proof but can sometimes feel less premium. A hybrid design, like the Rubbermaid 19 Gallon Step-On Trash Can, often provides the best of both worlds, combining a durable plastic body with stylish, robust stainless steel components.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Look for features that make your life easier. A liner-locking system prevents bags from slipping, a fingerprint-resistant finish reduces cleaning time, and a smooth interior makes wiping it down a simple task. A removable inner bucket can be a plus, but a well-designed single-body can is often just as easy to maintain.
While the Rubbermaid 19 Gallon Step-On Trash Can is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- AUTOMATIC & HYGIENIC – The touchless sensor lid opens and closes automatically, keeping your hands clean and ensuring a noiseless,...
- CONVENIENT SIZE: 50 liter / 13.2 gallon trash can for home or office
- WASTE BIN WITH 20 GALLON CAPACITY – This 20 gallon trash can is perfect for any household and features a classic rectangular shape in...
First Impressions: Thoughtful Design Meets High-Capacity Function
Unboxing the Rubbermaid 19 Gallon Step-On Trash Can, the first thing we noticed was its presence. It’s a substantial unit, but not overwhelmingly so. The charcoal-colored body has a modern, matte finish that feels sophisticated and, importantly, looks like it can hide scuffs and dirt well. The stainless-steel rim and foot pedal provide a striking contrast, giving it a premium look that blends seamlessly with our other kitchen appliances. There was virtually no assembly required; it was ready to go straight out of the box, which is always a welcome experience.
The build quality felt solid immediately. The plastic body doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy, and the flared anti-slide base gives it a reassuring stability. We were particularly impressed with the weight and feel of the foot pedal mechanism—it felt robust, a clear indicator that this is a component built for repetitive, long-term use. The lid, while plastic, had a satisfying heft and connected securely to the body, operating with a smooth, controlled motion right from the first press. Compared to the lightweight, all-plastic cans we’ve used in the past, this felt like a significant upgrade in every way. You can see its full feature set and specifications to get a better sense of its construction.
What We Like
- Massive 19-Gallon Capacity: Dramatically reduces the frequency of taking out the trash, a huge win for busy families.
- Sturdy and Pet-Proof Design: The stable, well-balanced base and secure lid effectively deter curious pets and toddlers.
- Quiet and Smooth Operation: The slow-close lid and responsive foot pedal provide a quiet, premium user experience.
- Flexible Liner System: LinerLock technology works great for both a single large bag or two smaller bags for recycling.
Potential Drawbacks
- Quality Control Issues: A number of users report receiving units with bent or damaged lids right out of the box.
- Sticker Residue: The manufacturer’s sticker on the lid can be very difficult to remove, leaving behind an unsightly residue.
A Deep Dive into the Rubbermaid 19 Gallon Step-On Trash Can’s Performance
A trash can is used dozens of times a day, and its performance in the real world is what truly matters. We put the Rubbermaid 19 Gallon Step-On Trash Can through its paces in our busy kitchen for several weeks, evaluating everything from its massive capacity and liner system to its daily usability and durability against kids and pets. Here’s our detailed breakdown.
Capacity and Versatility: The End of Constant Trash Trips
The single most impactful feature of this trash can is its 19-gallon capacity. To put that in perspective, it holds nearly 50% more than a standard 13-gallon kitchen can. For our family, this was a revolutionary change. We went from emptying the kitchen trash every day or two, to only needing to take it out once every four or five days. This was echoed by one user with a household of nine who noted they now empty the can “once every 5 days instead of 3 times a week.” This isn’t just a minor convenience; it’s a genuine quality-of-life improvement that frees up time and mental energy.
What makes this capacity so functional is Rubbermaid’s dual-stream design and LinerLock technology. The wide interior can be used in two ways. For single-stream waste, we found a 30-gallon bag fits perfectly. The LinerLock arms grip the bag securely, and the stainless-steel rim clamps down over it, completely hiding any unsightly bag overhang and preventing the dreaded bag slippage, even when the can is packed full. For households that separate recyclables, the design accommodates two 13-gallon liners side-by-side. The internal structure has subtle guides to help position them. We tested this configuration and it works well, effectively replacing two separate bins with one streamlined unit. We do, however, confirm user feedback that suggests avoiding 20-gallon bags for the dual-stream setup, as they tend to be too large for the half-size mounts. Sticking to 30-gallon for single-stream or two 13-gallon bags for dual-stream is the optimal strategy. The sheer volume and flexibility make this a standout, and this high-capacity feature is a game-changer for large families.
Design, Durability, and the “Pet-Proof” Test
Beyond its size, the design of the Rubbermaid 19 Gallon Step-On Trash Can strikes a fantastic balance between durability and aesthetics. The hybrid construction is a smart choice. As one user aptly pointed out, all-stainless steel cans often fall victim to dents from “the little kids.” The resilient charcoal plastic body of this can resists dents and scuffs, making it ideal for the chaos of a family kitchen. The stainless steel on the rim and pedal is used strategically where it matters most for durability and style, and its fingerprint-resistant coating works surprisingly well, keeping the most-touched areas looking clean.
Its sturdiness is one of its most celebrated attributes. The flared base and a respectable item weight of 7.69 pounds make it incredibly stable. This was put to the test by our curious Golden Retriever, who has a history of nudging and investigating our trash cans. This one didn’t budge. Our findings are strongly supported by a user with a 9-pound dog who declared it the first “dog proof” can they’d found that their pet “CANNOT get to tip over.” The lid design is also key; when closed, it sits flush and is too heavy for most pets to lift with their snout. For added security, the lid lock is a brilliant feature. You can lock it closed to keep pets and toddlers out completely, or lock it in the open position for longer tasks like peeling vegetables, which is a thoughtful touch you don’t find on many other models.
Everyday Use: The Quiet Achiever
Daily interaction with a product reveals its true character, and this is where the Rubbermaid can truly shines. The hands-free operation is seamless. The large stainless-steel foot pedal is easy to target and requires minimal pressure to activate the lid. One user perfectly captured our experience, stating you “barely have to step on the foot pedal to open.” It feels responsive and solid underfoot, not spongy or flimsy like cheaper mechanisms.
The star of the show, however, is the quiet, slow-close lid. There’s no jarring “bang” or “clatter” when you take your foot off the pedal. The lid descends gently and silently, landing with a soft, satisfying thud. This small detail elevates the entire experience, lending a sense of premium quality to an otherwise utilitarian object. It’s the kind of feature you don’t think you need until you have it, and then you can’t imagine going back. While the functionality is generally excellent, it’s important to acknowledge reports from some users who received units with defective mechanisms where the lid wouldn’t open or stay open. While our test unit performed flawlessly, these reports suggest that checking the mechanism immediately upon arrival is a wise step. You can check the latest price and availability online to see if this fits your budget.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our positive experience with the Rubbermaid 19 Gallon Step-On Trash Can is largely mirrored by the majority of user feedback. Many, like one who “never thought I would be giving a review for a trashcan,” are surprised by how much they love it. Praise is frequently directed at its sleek look, sturdy build, and quiet operation. The sheer capacity is a recurring theme, with users celebrating fewer trips to the dumpster.
However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect, and it paints a clear picture of the product’s primary weakness: quality control during shipping and manufacturing. A significant number of negative reviews stem from products arriving damaged, specifically with a “bent lid so it doesn’t fully close.” This is a major issue, as a compromised lid defeats the purpose of an odor-containing and pet-proof can. Another common complaint, which we also found mildly annoying, is the sticker on the lid. One user shared a photo of the “ugly sticker imprint” that they couldn’t remove even after a year, a frustrating cosmetic flaw on an otherwise handsome product. While some users report long-term durability issues with the hinge or pedal, these seem less common than the out-of-the-box damage, which appears to be the biggest gamble for prospective buyers.
How Does the Rubbermaid 19 Gallon Step-On Trash Can Compare to Alternatives?
While the Rubbermaid 19 Gallon Step-On Trash Can excels as a primary, high-volume kitchen solution, it’s important to understand how it fits into the broader market of waste management. The alternatives provided are for entirely different, specialized use cases, highlighting that the “best” trash can depends entirely on your specific need.
1. Tiyafuro 2.4 Gallon Kitchen Compost Bin
- Lid Can Effective Prevent Odor From Escaping:" Indoor hanging compost bin with lid designed specifically as a hidden non smelling,...
- Wall Mount Trash Can:" Trash bin is easy to install hanging, mount accessory ( 1 hook, 2 adhesive hooks and 20 pcs trash bag )...
This is not a competitor but a companion product. The Tiyafuro Compost Bin is a tiny, 2.4-gallon container designed specifically for food scraps. It can be hung on a cabinet door or placed on a countertop for easy access while cooking. Someone would choose this in addition to a large can like the Rubbermaid, not instead of it. If you’re an avid gardener or live in an area with municipal composting, the Tiyafuro is an excellent, convenient tool for separating food waste, while the Rubbermaid handles all your general trash and recycling.
2. TrashAid 2.6 Gallon Bathroom Trash Can with Lid
- Effortless Press up Lid: Enjoy the convenience of our small trash can with its innovative pop up lid. Simply press the lid to open or...
- Space Saving Solution: Expertly designed to fit snugly into tight spaces and corners, our slim trash can enhances the aesthetics of...
As its name suggests, the TrashAid is a small, 2.6-gallon can built for a bathroom, office, or bedroom. Its press-top lid and compact, plastic design are perfect for low-volume, small-space applications. Comparing it to the 19-gallon Rubbermaid is like comparing a scooter to an SUV. You would buy the TrashAid for a specific room where a large, step-on can would be impractical and oversized. It serves a completely different purpose, focusing on discretion and a small footprint over capacity.
3. XPIY 4 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Lid
- 【Press to Open Lid】No more struggling with dirty hands to lift a trash can lid, just simply press the button and throw your garbage...
- 【Isolates Odors】The small trash can's lid and design help to contain and isolate odors, keeping your kitchen or office smelling...
The XPIY offers a middle ground, coming in a 4-gallon size that’s larger than a bathroom can but much smaller than a kitchen one. Its main selling point is its “dog proof” press-top lid. This could be an alternative for someone in a very small apartment who still has a curious pet and needs a primary trash can but simply doesn’t have the space for the 19-gallon Rubbermaid. However, for anyone with a standard-sized kitchen or a family, its 4-gallon capacity would prove frustratingly small for daily kitchen waste.
Our Final Verdict on the Rubbermaid 19 Gallon Step-On Trash Can
After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict is clear: the Rubbermaid 19 Gallon Step-On Trash Can is an outstanding solution for a very specific, and very common, problem. If you have a large family, pets, or are simply fed up with a small trash can that’s constantly overflowing, this product is a fantastic investment that genuinely simplifies daily life. Its massive capacity, sturdy and pet-proof build, quiet operation, and sleek design make it a top performer in its class. The LinerLock system is elegantly simple and highly effective, and the flexibility for single or dual-stream use is a major advantage.
The primary reservation we have is the reported inconsistency in shipping and quality control. Receiving a damaged unit with a bent lid would be incredibly disappointing and negates many of its key benefits. However, for those who receive a pristine unit, it performs exceptionally well. If you’re ready to end the cycle of constant trash trips and upgrade to a can that is as functional as it is stylish, we highly recommend it. For large households, it’s not just a trash can; it’s a solution. You can find the best price and order yours here.
Last update on 2025-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API