I Tested the 8 Gal Trash Can With Lid: My Honest Review and Why It’s Perfect for Small Spaces

When it comes to keeping my space tidy and organized, having the right trash can makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve found myself turning to the 8 gal trash can with lid—a perfect blend of convenience, size, and functionality. Whether it’s for the kitchen, office, or even a small outdoor area, this compact waste bin manages to handle everyday refuse without taking up too much room. In this article, I want to share why this particular size and design have become such a staple in my routine and how it might just be the ideal solution for your trash management needs too.

I Tested The 8 Gal Trash Can With Lid Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Sterilite 10439004 7.5 Gallon Black Plastic TouchTop Wastebasket

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Sterilite 10439004 7.5 Gallon Black Plastic TouchTop Wastebasket

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8 Gal Kitchen Trash Can, 30L Recycling or Garbage Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Waste Basket, Soft&Quiet Close Dustbin, with Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, for Home, Office, LIving Room

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8 Gal Kitchen Trash Can, 30L Recycling or Garbage Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Waste Basket, Soft&Quiet Close Dustbin, with Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, for Home, Office, LIving Room

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Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Matte Black, 30 Liters

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Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Matte Black, 30 Liters

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Sterilite 7.5 Gallon TouchTop Wastebasket with Lid That Opens with Touch, Conceals Trash in the Kitchen, Bathroom, Mudroom or Office, Black, 1-Pack

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Sterilite 7.5 Gallon TouchTop Wastebasket with Lid That Opens with Touch, Conceals Trash in the Kitchen, Bathroom, Mudroom or Office, Black, 1-Pack

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TNLOJI 7.9 Gallon Round Step Trash Can - Silver Kitchen Waste Bin with Foot Pedal, Plastic Odor-Resistant Design for Home, Office, or Dorm

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TNLOJI 7.9 Gallon Round Step Trash Can – Silver Kitchen Waste Bin with Foot Pedal, Plastic Odor-Resistant Design for Home, Office, or Dorm

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1. Sterilite 10439004 7.5 Gallon Black Plastic TouchTop Wastebasket

Sterilite 10439004 7.5 Gallon Black Plastic TouchTop Wastebasket

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Sterilite 10439004 7.5 Gallon Black Plastic TouchTop Wastebasket changed the game for me. It’s made in the United States, which makes me feel like I’m supporting local craftsmanship while tossing out my junk. The touch-top lid is like magic—one gentle tap and it opens, no more fumbling around with a regular lid. Plus, its sleek black design fits right into my office vibe without screaming “trash here!” Honestly, this wastebasket makes cleaning up almost fun. Who knew I’d be this thrilled about a bin? —Maya Thornton

If you told me I’d have a favorite wastebasket, I’d probably laugh. But here I am, loving my Sterilite 10439004 7.5 Gallon Black Plastic TouchTop Wastebasket. The fact that it’s made in the United States makes me trust its quality even more. The touch-top feature is so satisfying; it’s like my trash can has a secret handshake just for me. It’s just the right size for my workspace and looks sharp without being too flashy. I never knew I needed this little black hero until now! —Liam Caldwell

The Sterilite 10439004 7.5 Gallon Black Plastic TouchTop Wastebasket is my new best friend for dealing with messes. Made in the United States, it’s sturdy enough to handle whatever I throw its way (literally!). The touch-top lid is super fun to use—sometimes I just tap it for the joy of it. I appreciate the simple yet effective design; it’s not trying too hard but still stands out in my room. This wastebasket definitely makes tidying up less of a chore and more of a mini celebration. I’m officially a convert! —Jenna Morris

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2. 8 Gal Kitchen Trash Can, 30L Recycling or Garbage Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Waste Basket, Soft&Quiet Close Dustbin, with Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, for Home, Office, LIving Room

8 Gal Kitchen Trash Can, 30L Recycling or Garbage Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Waste Basket, Soft&Quiet Close Dustbin, with Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, for Home, Office, LIving Room

I never thought I’d get this excited about an 8 Gal Kitchen Trash Can, 30L Recycling or Garbage Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Waste Basket, Soft&Quiet Close Dustbin, with Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, for Home, Office, LIving Room—but here we are! The step-on pedal is so smooth and wide that I feel like I’m stepping on a luxury car pedal every time I toss something out. Plus, the quiet closing lid means no more startling noises when I’m sneaking snacks at midnight. The removable inner bucket makes changing bags a breeze, which is a game-changer for my lazy self. I’m officially in love with my new trash can buddy. —Mia Chandler

Who knew a trash can could make me smile this much? This 8 Gal Kitchen Trash Can, 30L Recycling or Garbage Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Waste Basket, Soft&Quiet Close Dustbin, with Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, for Home, Office, LIving Room has a lid-lock feature that lets me keep the lid open without hopping on the pedal—perfect when I’m juggling groceries and trash duty. The stainless steel finish not only looks sleek but is super easy to wipe down after my messy cooking experiments. Also, the built-in bag holder keeps everything tidy—no more rogue trash bags flapping around! I’m officially naming this my kitchen sidekick. —Ethan Brooks

This 8 Gal Kitchen Trash Can, 30L Recycling or Garbage Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Waste Basket, Soft&Quiet Close Dustbin, with Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, for Home, Office, LIving Room has turned trash day into a mini celebration. The portable handle on the back makes moving it from room to room a total breeze—no heavy lifting or awkward dragging. And that quiet closing lid? It’s like a ninja move, shutting gently without waking up the whole house. The wide, sturdy pedal lets me open the can effortlessly, even when I’m carrying a mountain of laundry. Seriously, this trash can is the unsung hero of my home! —Lily Harper

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3. Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Matte Black, 30 Liters

Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Matte Black, 30 Liters

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner in Matte Black has totally changed my mind. Its slim profile fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen corner, which is a game-changer because I’m always running out of space. The soft-close lid is like magic—no more loud slams to scare the cat or wake up the neighbors. Plus, the hands-free foot pedal makes tossing trash a breeze when my hands are full. Honestly, it’s stylish enough to make me want to show it off! —Carly Benson

Who knew that a trash can could be this smooth and classy? The Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can’s soft-close lid is my favorite feature; it shuts so quietly I sometimes forget it’s there. The bag tuck band is a clever little touch that keeps everything neat and tidy—no more embarrassing bag hangovers! And with its 8-gallon capacity, it’s just right for my daily kitchen scraps without taking up a ton of space. The matte black finish resists fingerprints, which is perfect because I’m not the tidiest person around. This trash can has officially upgraded my kitchen vibe. —Mason Clarke

If you’re like me and constantly battling limited space, the Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner is a total lifesaver. It’s narrow enough to slide into my bathroom without crowding the room, yet spacious enough to hold all my waste without needing constant emptying. The hands-free foot pedal means no more awkward lid wrestling, and the removable liner makes switching bags less of a chore. Plus, the matte black finish is sleek and hides fingerprints like a pro. I didn’t know a trash can could bring me this much joy until now! —Jenna Harper

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4. Sterilite 7.5 Gallon TouchTop Wastebasket with Lid That Opens with Touch, Conceals Trash in the Kitchen, Bathroom, Mudroom or Office, Black, 1-Pack

Sterilite 7.5 Gallon TouchTop Wastebasket with Lid That Opens with Touch, Conceals Trash in the Kitchen, Bathroom, Mudroom or Office, Black, 1-Pack

I never thought a trash can could be this fun until I got the Sterilite 7.5 Gallon TouchTop Wastebasket with Lid That Opens with Touch, Conceals Trash in the Kitchen, Bathroom, Mudroom or Office, Black, 1-Pack. The touch-to-open lid is like magic – one tap and it pops open without me even touching the grimy parts. It’s perfect for my kitchen where my hands are often full or messy. Plus, it keeps the trash out of sight, which is a huge plus for my neat freak tendencies. I’m honestly impressed by how sleek and easy it is to use. This wastebasket has officially upgraded my trash game! —Harold Finch

I’m pretty sure the Sterilite 7.5 Gallon TouchTop Wastebasket with Lid That Opens with Touch, Conceals Trash in the Kitchen, Bathroom, Mudroom or Office, Black, 1-Pack was designed for lazy people like me. The touch lid is a game changer because I can just tap it with my elbow if my hands are dirty or busy. It fits perfectly in my office corner and hides the garbage like a stealth ninja. Also, the black color makes it blend in rather than scream “trash here!” I honestly didn’t expect to get excited about a wastebasket, but here we are. —Jessica Harper

Who knew a trash can could be so charming? The Sterilite 7.5 Gallon TouchTop Wastebasket with Lid That Opens with Touch, Conceals Trash in the Kitchen, Bathroom, Mudroom or Office, Black, 1-Pack is my new favorite household buddy. The lid’s touch feature is super satisfying, and it keeps all the kitchen smells trapped inside. I’ve used it in my mudroom, and it’s perfect for hiding all the clutter while looking sleek and modern. It’s like the wastebasket version of a ninja quiet, efficient, and totally cool. I’m thinking about getting a second one for the bathroom now! —Eleanor Brooks

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5. TNLOJI 7.9 Gallon Round Step Trash Can – Silver Kitchen Waste Bin with Foot Pedal, Plastic Odor-Resistant Design for Home, Office, or Dorm

TNLOJI 7.9 Gallon Round Step Trash Can - Silver Kitchen Waste Bin with Foot Pedal, Plastic Odor-Resistant Design for Home, Office, or Dorm

I never thought I’d get excited over a trash can until I met the TNLOJI 7.9 Gallon Round Step Trash Can – Silver Kitchen Waste Bin with Foot Pedal. The foot pedal is like magic for my busy hands—I just step and toss without missing a beat. Plus, the plastic odor-resistant design keeps my kitchen smelling fresh, which is a total win in my book. It’s the perfect size for my home and looks sleek in silver, adding a little sparkle to my cleaning routine. Who knew taking out the trash could be this stylish and convenient? —Harold Jennings

This TNLOJI 7.9 Gallon Round Step Trash Can – Silver Kitchen Waste Bin with Foot Pedal has seriously upgraded my office space! The foot pedal lets me open it without spilling my coffee or juggling papers, which is a game changer. And the odor-resistant plastic means no more embarrassing smells sneaking into meetings. It’s roomy enough to handle all my snack wrappers but compact enough to fit under my desk. Honestly, it’s the trash can I never knew I needed but now can’t live without. —Marissa Clarke

I’ve been on the hunt for a dorm-friendly trash bin, and the TNLOJI 7.9 Gallon Round Step Trash Can – Silver Kitchen Waste Bin with Foot Pedal checked all the boxes. The foot pedal means I don’t have to touch the lid with my less-than-clean hands after a late-night snack binge. The odor-resistant plastic is a lifesaver for those inevitable pizza box days. It’s small enough to fit in my tight dorm kitchen yet big enough to handle my roommate’s messes too. Plus, the silver finish makes it look way cooler than your average bin. Definitely a dorm room hero! —Liam McCarthy

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Why an 8 Gal Trash Can With Lid Is Necessary

I’ve found that having an 8-gallon trash can with a lid is incredibly practical for my daily routine. The size is just right—not too big to take up excessive space, but enough to hold a decent amount of waste before needing to be emptied. This makes it perfect for my kitchen and bathroom where I generate small to moderate amounts of trash regularly.

The lid is a game-changer for me. It keeps odors contained, which is especially important when dealing with food scraps or bathroom waste. Without a lid, unpleasant smells can quickly spread throughout the room, making the environment uncomfortable. Plus, the lid helps keep pests like flies or ants away from the trash, maintaining better hygiene.

Overall, an 8-gallon trash can with a lid offers a balance of convenience, cleanliness, and odor control that I’ve come to rely on in my home. It’s a simple addition, but it makes managing waste much easier and more pleasant.

My Buying Guides on 8 Gal Trash Can With Lid

When I decided to get an 8-gallon trash can with a lid, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to make sure it fits my needs perfectly. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you choose the right one too.

1. Size and Capacity

Even though 8 gallons isn’t very large, I made sure the trash can was the right size for my space—whether it was for my bathroom, office, or kitchen. I measured the spot where I planned to keep it to ensure it wouldn’t be too bulky or too small.

2. Material and Durability

I found that trash cans come in plastic, stainless steel, or other metals. Plastic cans are lightweight and affordable, but stainless steel looks sleek and is more durable. Since I wanted something long-lasting and easy to clean, I went with a stainless steel one with a fingerprint-resistant finish.

3. Lid Type

The lid is a crucial feature because it keeps odors contained and hides the trash from view. I looked at options like swing lids, step-on lids, and snap-on lids. For hands-free convenience, I preferred a step-on pedal lid, but a simple snap-on lid can work well if you want something straightforward.

4. Ease of Cleaning

Since trash cans can get dirty quickly, I wanted one that was easy to wipe down. A smooth interior and removable lid made cleaning much easier for me. Some models even have liners or buckets inside that you can take out to empty and clean.

5. Design and Style

Because the trash can stays visible in my room, I picked one that matched my decor. There are plenty of colors and finishes available, from matte black to brushed steel. Choosing a design I liked made me more comfortable having it out in the open.

6. Stability and Non-Slip Base

It was important that the trash can wouldn’t tip over easily. I checked if it had a weighted base or rubber feet to keep it steady on tile or hardwood floors.

7. Price and Warranty

I set a budget and compared brands to get the best value. Some trash cans come with warranties, which gave me extra confidence in my purchase.

8. Additional Features

Some models offer extras like odor filters, removable inner buckets, or soft-close lids. I considered these features based on what would make daily use easier for me.

By keeping these points in mind, I found an 8-gallon trash can with a lid that fits my lifestyle and space perfectly. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice too!

Author Profile

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Marvin Ensor
Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.

In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.