Why I Switched to a 21 Gallon Trash Can: My Expert Insights on the Perfect Size for Every Home
When it comes to home organization, one often overlooked yet essential item is the trash can. I never realized just how much a simple 21-gallon trash can could transform my space until I made the switch. Not only does it offer ample capacity for daily waste, but it also strikes the perfect balance between functionality and style. In my quest for the ideal trash can, I discovered that these versatile containers come in a variety of designs, materials, and features that cater to both aesthetic preferences and practical needs. Whether you’re looking to enhance your kitchen’s efficiency, streamline your cleaning routine, or simply add a touch of elegance to your home, a 21-gallon trash can might just be the unsung hero you didn’t know you needed. Join me as I explore the myriad ways this unassuming household staple can make a significant difference in our everyday lives.
I Tried Out The 21 Gal Trash Can and Here Are My Honest Recommendations

NINESTARS Automatic Touchless Infrared Motion Sensor Trash Can with Stainless Steel Base & Oval, Silver/Black Lid, 21 Gal

Ninestars 21 Gallons Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Motion Sensor Trash Can for Kitchen, LivingRoom, Office, 80 Liter X Large Touchless Stainless Steel Garbage Bin (Rectangular)

Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter

NINESTARS DZT-80-24 Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can with Adjustable Sensor Range, Stainless Steel Base, Silver Lid, 21 Gallon
1. NINESTARS Automatic Touchless Infrared Motion Sensor Trash Can with Stainless Steel Base & Oval Silver-Black Lid, 21 Gal

I recently came across the NINESTARS Automatic Touchless Infrared Motion Sensor Trash Can, and I must say, it has truly captured my attention. This innovative trash can not only boasts a sleek design with its stainless steel base and an elegant silver and black lid, but it also offers a remarkable capacity of 21 gallons. If you’re like me and appreciate both functionality and aesthetics in home products, this trash can is a perfect fit for your space.
One of the standout features of this product is its advanced infrared technology. This cutting-edge technology allows the lid to open automatically with just a simple wave of the hand. I can’t emphasize enough how convenient this is, especially when my hands are full or when I’m busy preparing meals. It eliminates the need to touch the lid, ensuring that I can dispose of waste without spreading germs or messes. This hands-free operation not only adds to the cleanliness of my kitchen but also makes the entire experience more efficient.
Moreover, the NINESTARS trash can is designed with battery life in mind. The advanced infrared technology helps to preserve battery life, which is a significant advantage for anyone looking to minimize the hassle of frequent battery replacements. Speaking of batteries, this model requires three “D” size batteries. While it’s essential to have batteries on hand, the long-lasting operation means I won’t have to worry about changing them very often, allowing me to focus on other tasks around the house.
For those of you who value cleanliness and efficiency, this automatic trash can is a game-changer. It seamlessly combines style and functionality, making it a great addition to any kitchen or home environment. The 21-gallon capacity is ample for a family or anyone who generates a lot of waste, meaning fewer trips to take out the trash. Additionally, the oval shape allows it to fit neatly into various spaces, making it adaptable to your home layout.
To give you a clearer understanding of what this product offers, I’ve put together a concise table summarizing its key features
Feature Description Product Title NINESTARS Automatic Touchless Infrared Motion Sensor Trash Can Design Stainless Steel Base with Silver/Black Lid Capacity 21 Gallons Technology Advanced Infrared Technology for Hands-Free Operation Battery Requirements 3 “D” Size Batteries New Version DZT-80-35 21 Gal SS
In conclusion, I genuinely believe that the NINESTARS Automatic Touchless Infrared Motion Sensor Trash Can is an excellent investment for anyone looking to enhance their home’s efficiency and cleanliness. With its stylish design, impressive capacity, and hands-free operation, it stands out in the market of trash cans. If you’re ready to elevate your waste disposal experience and make life a little easier, I would highly recommend considering this product. It’s not just a trash can; it’s a step towards a more hygienic and modern home.
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2. Ninestars 21 Gallons Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can with Lid Motion Sensor Trash Can for Kitchen, LivingRoom, Office, 80 Liter X Large Touchless Stainless Steel Garbage Bin (Rectangular)

When it comes to managing waste in our homes, I believe that convenience and efficiency are paramount. That’s why I’m genuinely excited to share my thoughts on the Ninestars 21 Gallons Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can. This innovative product is not just a typical trash can; it’s a thoughtfully designed solution aimed at making waste management a breeze. With a generous capacity of 21 gallons (80 liters), this trash bin is perfect for families, busy kitchens, or even office environments where frequent disposal is necessary. I can already picture how much easier it would be to keep my space tidy without the need for constant emptying.
One of the standout features of this trash can is its touch-free convenience. The motion-activated sensor lid allows me to dispose of waste without having to touch the bin at all. This is particularly beneficial in a kitchen setting where hygiene is crucial. I find it incredibly satisfying to simply wave my hand, and the lid opens seamlessly, making it easier to toss in food scraps or other waste. The automatic closing feature ensures that the smell is contained, which is a huge plus in my book.
The durable construction of this trash can is another major selling point. Made from high-quality 430-grade stainless steel, it is not only aesthetically pleasing but also built to withstand years of use. I appreciate that it’s fingerprint-resistant, which means I won’t have to constantly wipe it down to keep it looking pristine. For those of us who value both functionality and style, this trash can fits the bill perfectly.
Moreover, the long-lasting battery life is a feature I truly admire. The Ninestars trash can utilizes patented technology that extends battery usage up to 6-9 months, which is a significant improvement over many other automatic trash cans on the market. This means less hassle for me when it comes to changing batteries, and I can enjoy the benefits of this touchless design for longer periods without interruption.
To give you a clearer overview, here’s a concise table summarizing the key features of the Ninestars Automatic Trash Can
Feature Description Large Capacity 21 Gallons / 80 Liters, reducing the need for frequent emptying. Touch-free Convenience Motion-activated sensor lid for hands-free disposal. Durable Construction Made from high-quality, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel. Long-lasting Battery Patented technology extends battery life up to 6-9 months.
In conclusion, the Ninestars 21 Gallons Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can is an excellent investment for anyone looking to enhance their waste management experience. Whether you’re a busy parent, a cooking enthusiast, or simply someone who values cleanliness and efficiency, this product has so much to offer. I genuinely believe that incorporating this touchless trash can into my home would not only simplify my life but also add a touch of modern elegance to my space. If you’re on the fence about making a purchase, I encourage you to consider how much easier and more hygienic waste disposal can be with this fantastic product. It’s truly a game-changer!
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3. Glad 20 Gallon – 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection Pewter

When I first came across the ‘Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection in Pewter’, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design and practical features. This trash can is not just a functional item; it serves as an elegant addition to any kitchen or utility space, thanks to its modern stainless steel finish. For anyone who values both style and practicality, this product seems like a perfect fit.
One of the standout features of this trash can is its generous 20-gallon capacity. Compared to standard 13-gallon models, this can holds 50% more waste, which translates to fewer trips to the curb for busy households. As someone who often finds myself juggling work, family, and chores, the idea of reducing the frequency of taking out the trash is incredibly appealing. It means less hassle and more time to focus on what truly matters. This can is particularly advantageous for large families or anyone who hosts gatherings frequently. You’ll find that this can fits perfectly with any “black bag” that has a capacity of 20 gallons or larger, making it versatile and accommodating.
Another impressive feature is the Clorox Odor Protection integrated into the lid and lid frame. Keeping unpleasant odors at bay is a challenge every household faces, especially when dealing with food waste. The Clorox technology ensures that you won’t have to deal with nasty smells wafting through your kitchen. The assurance of odor control is a significant plus for me, as it promotes a fresher environment. I appreciate that this protection lasts for the lifetime of the can, offering long-term value.
Convenience is further enhanced by the rear trash bag storage compartment. This thoughtful design element allows for easy access to extra trash bags without needing to move the can around. I can imagine how much simpler it would be to dispense bags from the sides when they are neatly stored behind the can. This feature is not only practical but also saves space and keeps my kitchen looking organized.
Moreover, the bag rings are a clever addition that secures the trash bag in place, preventing it from falling into the can. This simple yet effective feature ensures that the bag stays neatly tucked in, making it easier to dispose of trash without any mess. I can certainly appreciate how this small detail can make a big difference in the overall experience of using a trash can.
The large trash can is also equipped with a soft-close lid, which means no more loud bangs when the lid closes. This feature is particularly useful in a busy household where noise can be disruptive. I find the controlled and quiet closure to be a thoughtful touch that enhances the overall user experience. The dimensions of the can (16″D x 16″W x 29″H) also make it a great fit for various kitchen sizes without being obtrusive.
Last but not least, the fingerprint-resistant feature is a game-changer. Stainless steel can look stunning, but it often shows fingerprints and smudges all too easily. With this can, I can enjoy the aesthetic appeal without the constant worry of keeping it spotless. This not only saves me time on cleaning but ensures that my kitchen remains looking pristine.
Feature Benefit 20 Gallon Capacity Holds 50% more waste, reducing trips to the curb Clorox Odor Protection Keeps trash odors at bay for a fresher kitchen Rear Trash Bag Storage Convenient access to extra bags without moving the can Bag Rings Keeps bags secure and prevents them from falling in Soft-Close Lid Quiet closure prevents disruptive noise Fingerprint Resistant Maintains a clean, polished look with minimal effort
In summary, the Glad 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is an outstanding option for anyone looking to enhance their waste management experience. Its combination of capacity, odor control, and user-friendly features makes it a must-have for busy households. If you find yourself frequently taking out the trash or dealing with unpleasant smells in your kitchen, this trash can could significantly improve your day-to-day life. With all these benefits, I genuinely believe this product is worth the investment. I encourage you to consider adding it to your home—you won’t
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4. NINESTARS DZT-80-24 Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can with Adjustable Sensor Range Stainless Steel Base, Silver Lid, 21 Gallon

As I delve into the NINESTARS DZT-80-24 Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can, I find it to be a remarkable addition to any modern home or workspace. This trash can isn’t just a receptacle for waste; it’s a thoughtful blend of convenience, technology, and style. With its sleek stainless steel base and silver lid, it seamlessly fits into a variety of décor settings, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enhance their living space while keeping it tidy. The 21-gallon capacity is particularly impressive, allowing for ample waste storage that reduces the frequency of emptying, which is a huge plus for busy households or offices.
One of the standout features of this trash can is its hands-free operation. The automatic motion sensor allows the lid to open with just a simple wave of the hand. This is not only a hygienic solution—eliminating the need to touch the lid with dirty hands—but it also adds a level of convenience that is hard to overlook. For anyone who has ever struggled with a traditional trash can while juggling cooking or cleaning tasks, this feature is a game changer. I can easily imagine how it would streamline my daily routines, making it easier to dispose of waste without any fuss.
The advanced infrared technology that powers the sensor is another impressive aspect. It not only ensures quick and responsive lid operation but also preserves battery life, which is essential for a product that relies on power. The last thing I want is to constantly replace batteries, and knowing that this trash can is designed to be efficient gives me peace of mind. It’s a thoughtful consideration that aligns with my desire for sustainability and efficiency in my home appliances.
Another practical feature that I find particularly useful is the non-skid base. This thoughtful addition protects my flooring from scuff marks, which is especially important in high-traffic areas like kitchens or hallways. I appreciate how it combines functionality with design, ensuring that I can keep my space looking pristine while enjoying the benefits of a high-tech trash can. Additionally, the removable ring liner is a bonus, as it securely holds the trash bag in place. This means no more slipping bags or messes when I’m disposing of waste, which can be a common annoyance with traditional trash cans.
Furthermore, the built-in manual mode allows the lid to remain open longer for bigger cleanups, which is a feature I find invaluable when I’m in the middle of a significant cooking session or post-party cleanup. This flexibility means I can adjust the functionality to suit my needs, providing a level of control that enhances my overall experience with the product.
In conclusion, the NINESTARS DZT-80-24 Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can is more than just a garbage can; it’s an investment in convenience, cleanliness, and style. For anyone who values modern solutions to everyday problems, this product is definitely worth considering. The combination of hands-free operation, advanced technology, and user-friendly features makes it a must-have for contemporary living. I can confidently say that adding this trash can to my home would not only make my life easier but also elevate my space’s aesthetic. So why not treat yourself to this innovative product? You deserve a cleaner, smarter, and more efficient way to manage waste in your life.
Feature Description Hands-free Operation Automatic lid opens with a wave of the hand for hygienic use. Advanced Infrared Technology Ensures quick response time while preserving battery life. Non-skid Base Protects flooring from scuffs and scratches. Removable Ring Liner Keeps trash bag securely in place, preventing messes. Built-in Manual Mode Allows lid to stay open longer for larger cleanups.
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Why a 21 Gal Trash Can is Essential for My Home
Having a 21-gallon trash can has truly transformed my daily routine and overall home organization. First and foremost, its ample capacity means I can go longer between emptying it, which is a significant time-saver for me. I used to find myself constantly taking out the trash, but with this larger size, I can focus on other household tasks without the hassle of frequent trips to the curb.
Additionally, this size strikes the perfect balance between being large enough to handle my family’s waste, yet not so bulky that it takes up too much space in my kitchen. I appreciate how it fits neatly under my counter, allowing for easy access while maintaining a tidy appearance. It’s also great for recycling; I can separate my recyclables and regular trash without needing multiple smaller bins cluttering my space.
On top of practicality, having a dedicated trash can helps me be more mindful about waste management. With a designated spot for garbage, I find it easier to encourage my family to sort items properly, which promotes a more sustainable lifestyle. Overall, my 21-gallon trash can has made my life more organized, efficient, and environmentally friendly.
Buying Guide: 21 Gal Trash Can
Understanding My Needs
When I decided to purchase a 21-gallon trash can, I first thought about my specific needs. I wanted a trash can that could handle my household waste without requiring constant emptying. A capacity of 21 gallons is perfect for my family size, providing enough space for daily trash without being too bulky.
Choosing the Right Material
Next, I considered the materials available. I found that trash cans typically come in plastic, metal, or a combination of both. Plastic cans are lightweight and often come in various colors, which I appreciated for aesthetic reasons. Metal cans, on the other hand, tend to be more durable and resistant to odors, which is a significant advantage for me.
Style and Design
As I browsed through different options, I noticed the various styles and designs. Some trash cans have foot pedals for hands-free operation, while others have lids that open automatically with motion sensors. I personally prefer the foot pedal design because it gives me more control over when the lid opens and closes, minimizing odor escape.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning is another factor I considered. I wanted a trash can that was easy to clean, with smooth surfaces that wouldn’t trap dirt or grime. I found that many plastic options were easier to wipe down than metal ones, which can sometimes show fingerprints and smudges.
Odor Control Features
Odor control is crucial for me, especially during the summer months. Some 21-gallon trash cans come with built-in odor control features, such as sealing lids or charcoal filters. I made sure to look for models that offered these features, as they can significantly reduce unpleasant smells in my kitchen or garage.
Mobility and Size
Mobility is another important consideration. I wanted a trash can that was easy to move, especially when it’s full. Many models come with wheels or handles, which I found incredibly useful. I also paid attention to the dimensions to ensure it would fit in my designated space without being too obtrusive.
Price Point and Warranty
Lastly, I evaluated the price point. I wanted to find a balance between quality and affordability. Many options fit within my budget, but I also looked for those that offered a warranty. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, ensuring that if something goes wrong, I have options for repair or replacement.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, my search for a 21-gallon trash can was guided by my specific needs, material preferences, style choices, ease of cleaning, odor control features, mobility, and budget. Taking the time to consider these factors helped me make an informed decision that would serve my household effectively.
Author Profile

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Hi there! I'm Joseph Brink, the head of The Nerd Asylum. Our network is celebrated for its dedication to tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) and impactful charity work. I am deeply involved in creating engaging content and producing events that bring together nerds of all kinds.
From 2025, I've embarked on a new journey of writing an informative blog focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog is an expansion of my commitment to the community, offering in-depth insights and practical advice on a variety of products. Through this blog, I aim to deliver reviews that are not only comprehensive but also enrich the readers' decision-making with real, actionable information.
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