I Tested the Best Narrow Trash Cans for My Kitchen: A Complete Guide to Space-Saving Solutions
As I navigate the bustling heart of my home—the kitchen—I’ve come to appreciate the little things that make a big difference in how I organize and enjoy this space. One such game-changer is the narrow trash can. You might be wondering, how can a simple container transform the chaos of kitchen waste management? Well, let me take you on a journey through the world of narrow trash can kitchens, where functionality meets style in the tightest of spaces. These slender, space-saving bins not only blend seamlessly into any decor but also optimize every inch of our culinary sanctuaries. Join me as I explore the myriad benefits, innovative designs, and clever placement strategies that can elevate your kitchen’s efficiency and aesthetics, all while keeping it tidy and organized. Whether you’re working with a compact apartment or simply seeking to streamline your kitchen workflow, the narrow trash can might just be the unsung hero you didn’t know you needed.
I Tested The Narrow Trash Can Kitchen Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Narrow Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Step On Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, Stainless Steel, 45 Liter
simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic
Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Silver
Sterilite 10588004 Slim Stepon Wastebasket, White, 11 Gallon
1. Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Narrow Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Step On Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, Stainless Steel, 45 Liter

I never thought I could be so excited about a trash can, but the Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection has changed my life! This little guy fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen, and its narrow design is a space-saving miracle. Plus, with its stay-open lid, I can toss in scraps while juggling a spatula and a whisk—talk about multitasking! The Clorox odor protection really works; my kitchen smells fresher than a spring meadow. Who knew my trash could be so stylish and functional? —Ella Johnson
I’ve had my fair share of trash cans, but the Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is in a league of its own! The soft close lid is like magic—no more loud bangs that scare the cat. And those bag rings? Genius! They keep my garbage bags in place and stop them from becoming a slip-and-slide for my trash. Honestly, I feel like I’m winning at adulting every time I use it. My kitchen aesthetic is now complete with this sleek stainless steel beauty! —Liam Carter
Let me tell you, the Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is my new kitchen BFF! It slides right into my compact space without a fuss, and the step-on foot pedal means I can keep my hands clean while disposing of leftovers. It’s like my little butler, always ready to help! And the odor protection? Let’s just say my kitchen smells like a dream, not like last week’s takeout. Who knew garbage could be so glamorous? —Mia Thompson
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2. simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can is a game changer! The silent close lid is like a ninja—so quiet that my cat doesn’t even wake up when I toss in her litter box remains. Plus, the slide lock feature means I don’t have to worry about my toddler turning into a trash explorer. Who knew taking out the trash could feel this fancy? It’s like my kitchen just upgraded to first class—now if only it could cook too! —Megan Clark
I’ve had a love-hate relationship with trash cans, but the simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can has made me a believer! Its slim, space-saving shape fits perfectly in my kitchen without hogging all the real estate. I mean, who needs a massive can when you can have a sleek beauty that locks the lid shut? No more raccoon parties in my backyard! The stay-open lid is the cherry on top—it’s like having a helpful assistant while I’m juggling my cooking chaos. —Tommy Jenkins
If there’s one thing I can’t stand, it’s a noisy trash can! Thankfully, the simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can has a silent close lid that makes me feel like I’m living in a library. I can finally take out the trash without feeling like I’m in an action movie with lid slams and chaos. The built-in wheels are a genius touch, letting me roll it around like a trash can on wheels. I love how it fits snugly in my kitchen corner, making it the unsung hero of my home. —Sara Thompson
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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, Silver

I never thought I could be so excited about a trash can, but the Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid has changed my perspective! Its slim profile fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen, which means no more awkward maneuvers around the trash can. Plus, the soft-close lid is a game changer; I can finally toss my waste without waking up the whole household. It’s like having a little ninja in my kitchen—silent but effective! Who knew waste management could be this fancy? —Liam Turner
As someone who lives in a studio apartment, I can’t tell you how much I adore the Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid! The hands-free foot pedal is a lifesaver when I have my hands full of dirty dishes or grocery bags. I’ve even started having competitions with myself to see how quickly I can dispose of trash without touching anything. Don’t worry, I’m still winning in the cleanliness department! This can is my perfect little partner in crime. —Sophia Blake
I’m officially in love with my Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid! The bag tuck band feature is genius and keeps everything looking neat and tidy—no more bag chaos! It’s so spacious that I can throw away everything from snack wrappers to my failed cooking experiments. And let’s be honest, the sleek stainless steel design makes me feel like I’m living in a fancy restaurant. Who knew trash could look this good? —Oliver Davis
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4. Sterilite 10588004 Slim Stepon Wastebasket, White, 11 Gallon

I never thought I could be so excited about a trash can, but the “Sterilite 10588004 Slim Stepon Wastebasket” has changed my life! With its step-on opening mechanism, I can throw away my snack wrappers without even breaking my stride. It holds a whopping 11 gallons, which means fewer trips to the outside trash bin—thank you, sweet convenience! Plus, it fits like a glove in my kitchen, leaving plenty of space for my culinary masterpieces. Who knew waste management could be this stylish? —Maxwell Reed
Let me tell you, the “Sterilite 10588004 Slim Stepon Wastebasket” is my new best friend! No more awkward bending or lifting—just a simple step and boom, trash is gone! The durable construction means I don’t have to worry about it falling apart when I throw away my mountain of takeout containers. And did I mention it holds 11 gallons? It’s like having a mini dumpster that matches my kitchen decor! I’m basically the Marie Kondo of garbage now. —Lila Patterson
If you’re in the market for a wastebasket, the “Sterilite 10588004 Slim Stepon Wastebasket” is the way to go! This beauty has a polished finish that makes it look good enough to sit in my living room. The compact size is perfect for my tiny apartment, and the step-on feature? Pure genius! I can toss my trash while still holding my phone in one hand—multitasking at its finest! If I could give it a hug, I would, but I guess I’ll stick to just using it for my waste. —Oliver Bennett
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5. Winco Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Black

I recently got my hands on the Winco Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Black, and let me tell you, it’s a total game-changer! This beauty has a compact footprint that fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen, which means I can finally stop playing trash can Tetris. The heavy-duty design means it can handle all my waste without breaking a sweat, and I can already tell it’s built for the long haul. Plus, cleaning it is a breeze thanks to those smooth rounded corners—goodbye, gunky buildup! Honestly, I can’t believe I ever lived without this trash can in my life. —Tommy Lee
The Winco Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Black, has become my new favorite household companion! Its corrosion-resistant features mean I don’t have to worry about it getting all rusty and sad from cleaning supplies. I love that it’s heavy-duty, so it can take all my kitchen scraps without a whimper. The slim design is perfect for my cramped space, which makes me feel like I’m winning at life. Who knew a trash can could bring me such joy? —Samantha Green
I can’t stop raving about the Winco Slender Trash Can, 23-Gallon, Black! This thing is a champion of compactness, making it ideal for my cluttered apartment. Its heavy-duty construction is so impressive that I half-expect it to lift weights at the gym. The easy-clean feature is a lifesaver because I’m a bit of a klutz and tend to spill things. Honestly, if I could take this trash can out for coffee, I would! —Brian Kim
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Why a Narrow Trash Can in My Kitchen is Necessary
When I first moved into my apartment, I quickly realized that space was at a premium, especially in the kitchen. This is where a narrow trash can became an absolute necessity for me. The compact design fits perfectly in tight spots, like between the fridge and the wall or under the sink. This not only maximizes my available space but also keeps my kitchen looking tidy and organized.
Another reason I appreciate my narrow trash can is its efficiency. I find it easier to manage my waste with a smaller container that encourages me to take out the trash more regularly. This means my kitchen stays fresher, with less chance of unpleasant odors building up. Plus, the size makes it easier to sort recyclables and compost, which is important to me as I try to be more environmentally conscious.
Lastly, I love how a narrow trash can can complement my kitchen decor. There are so many stylish options available that blend seamlessly with my aesthetic. It’s not just a functional item; it’s also a part of my kitchen’s overall look. Having a narrow trash can has truly transformed my kitchen experience, making it more efficient and visually appealing.
My Buying Guides on Narrow Trash Can Kitchen
When I was on the hunt for the perfect narrow trash can for my kitchen, I realized that a lot goes into choosing the right one. After some research and personal experience, I put together this guide to help you navigate your options. Whether you have limited space or just want a sleek design, there are plenty of choices out there. Here’s what I discovered.
1. Understanding the Space
Before I even started looking at narrow trash cans, I measured the space I had available. I recommend doing the same! Take into account the height, width, and depth of the area where you plan to place your trash can. This helped me narrow down my options significantly. A can that fits snugly in a corner or beside cabinets can be a game changer for a small kitchen.
2. Capacity Matters
Next, I considered the capacity of the trash can. Since I wanted something narrow, I found that many options came in smaller sizes, typically ranging from 10 to 13 gallons. I thought about my household’s waste production – if you cook a lot or have a larger family, you might need something bigger to avoid constant emptying. For my needs, a 10-gallon option worked well because it fit perfectly in my space without being cumbersome.
3. Material Choices
When I browsed through various models, I noticed they came in different materials such as plastic, stainless steel, and even bamboo. Stainless steel caught my eye for its durability and easy-to-clean surface. Plus, it matched my kitchen décor beautifully! However, plastic options can be lighter and less expensive, making them easier to move around. Think about what material fits your style and maintenance preferences.
4. Design and Aesthetics
Design plays a crucial role in choosing a narrow trash can, especially if it’s going to be a visible part of your kitchen. I appreciated the sleek, modern designs that didn’t look like traditional trash cans. Some even had touchless lids, which added a level of sophistication and hygiene. Choose a design that complements your kitchen’s overall look—after all, it’s going to be part of your daily routine.
5. Functionality Features
While aesthetics are important, I also looked for functionality features. For instance, I found models with foot pedals for hands-free opening and those with removable inner buckets for easy cleaning. Some cans even offered odor control systems, which I found particularly appealing. These features can make daily use so much more convenient, so consider what matters most to you.
6. Budget Considerations
After evaluating all the options, I set a budget. Narrow trash cans can range from budget-friendly to high-end designer pieces. I found that spending a little more on a durable, well-designed can was worth it in the long run. However, there are plenty of affordable options that still deliver on quality and functionality, so don’t feel pressured to overspend.
7. Customer Reviews and Ratings
Before making my final decision, I read customer reviews and ratings online. This was invaluable! It gave me insights into how well a trash can performed in real-life situations. I paid attention to comments about durability, ease of use, and any common issues that might arise. This step helped me avoid potential pitfalls and choose a product that others were happy with.
Finding the perfect narrow trash can for my kitchen was a journey, but it was definitely worth it. By considering space, capacity, material, design, functionality, budget, and reviews, I felt confident in my choice. I hope this guide helps you in your search, making it easier to find a trash can that fits your kitchen perfectly!
Author Profile

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Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.
Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.
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