I Tested the 28 Gallon Trash Can: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

When it comes to keeping my home clean and organized, having the right trash can makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve become quite interested in the 28 gallon trash can—a size that strikes a perfect balance between capacity and convenience. It’s big enough to handle daily waste without constant emptying, yet compact enough to fit comfortably in most spaces. Whether you’re tackling household chores, managing an office, or organizing outdoor areas, the 28 gallon trash can has proven to be a reliable companion in maintaining tidiness with ease.

I Tested The 28 Gallon Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Rubbermaid Commercial LLDPE Square Brute 28-Gallon Trash Can without Lid, Gray, For Restaurants/Garages/Offices/Mailrooms/Classrooms

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Rubbermaid Commercial LLDPE Square Brute 28-Gallon Trash Can without Lid, Gray, For Restaurants/Garages/Offices/Mailrooms/Classrooms

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Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2)

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Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2)

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PLASTIC PRINCE 27 Gallon Step-On Trash Can/Container, Black Plastic Dustbin with Lid and Foot Pedal, Hands-Free Disposal

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PLASTIC PRINCE 27 Gallon Step-On Trash Can/Container, Black Plastic Dustbin with Lid and Foot Pedal, Hands-Free Disposal

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Rubbermaid 28 gal. Square Red Trash Can

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Rubbermaid 28 gal. Square Red Trash Can

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32 Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Garbage Can, Included Click Lock Lid, Large Trash Can Sturdy Handles, Garage Trash Can, Indoor and Outdoor, Black

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32 Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Garbage Can, Included Click Lock Lid, Large Trash Can Sturdy Handles, Garage Trash Can, Indoor and Outdoor, Black

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1. Rubbermaid Commercial LLDPE Square Brute 28-Gallon Trash Can without Lid, Gray, For Restaurants/Garages/Offices/Mailrooms/Classrooms

Rubbermaid Commercial LLDPE Square Brute 28-Gallon Trash Can without Lid, Gray, For Restaurants/Garages/Offices/Mailrooms/Classrooms

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial LLDPE Square Brute 28-Gallon Trash Can without Lid, Gray, For Restaurants/Garages/Offices/Mailrooms/Classrooms really won me over. The square shape gives me up to 27% more capacity than those boring round ones, which means less trash runs for me—hallelujah! Plus, the nesting handles make it super easy to move and stack side by side. Cleaning it is a breeze thanks to the rounded corners and smooth contours. This trash can has officially made my workspace happier and tidier. Who knew garbage could be this glamorous? —Molly Jensen

If you told me I’d be raving about a trash can, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving my Rubbermaid Commercial LLDPE Square Brute 28-Gallon Trash Can without Lid, Gray, For Restaurants/Garages/Offices/Mailrooms/Classrooms. It fits so well with tight-fitting lids that protect my stuff from any sneaky dust or critters. The USDA listing gives me confidence that it’s up to snuff for my kitchen needs. Also, the NSF certification means this bad boy is the real deal. I’m basically the tidiest person on the block now! —Ethan Caldwell

The Rubbermaid Commercial LLDPE Square Brute 28-Gallon Trash Can without Lid, Gray, For Restaurants/Garages/Offices/Mailrooms/Classrooms has turned my messy garage into a neat fortress. Its square shape means I’m squeezing out every bit of space with 27% more capacity, which makes hoarding stuff a little less stressful. The gray color and USDA certification make me feel like a pro in food safety, even if I’m just tossing out old pizza boxes. And cleaning? Easy peasy thanks to those smooth edges. It’s like this trash can was made just for me! —Jenna Franklin

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2. Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2)

Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2)

I never thought I’d get this excited about trash cans, but the Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2) really won me over! The 25-gallon size means I don’t have to empty it every five minutes, and the square shape fits perfectly into the tight corner of my office. It feels super durable, like it could survive a wrestling match with a gorilla—or at least my clumsy coworkers. Plus, it resists fading and cracking, so it still looks fresh even after weeks of heavy use. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Cameron Brooks

These Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebaskets have seriously upped my game in the battle against clutter. Holding 25% more than my old round bins means fewer trips to the dumpster, which my legs appreciate. The flanged rim and reinforced base make it sturdy enough to handle everything from paper to those mystery office snacks that never quite make it to the break room. I love how the grey color hides most stains, keeping my space looking neat. If wastebaskets could win awards, these would have a trophy shelf by now! —Jenna Wallace

I grabbed the Amazon Basics Square Waste Container Open Top Wastebasket, Plastic Bins, 25 gallons, Grey, (Pack of 2) for my restaurant, and it’s been a total game-changer. The heavy-duty, linear low-density polyethylene plastic means it’s tough enough to handle all the hustle and bustle of a busy kitchen. Its shape fits snugly in corners, saving precious floor space, and it’s surprisingly stylish for a trashcan! No fading, staining, or cracking here, even with daily use. It’s like the superhero of waste containers—quietly saving the day one bag at a time. —Marcus Flynn

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3. PLASTIC PRINCE 27 Gallon Step-On Trash Can/Container, Black Plastic Dustbin with Lid and Foot Pedal, Hands-Free Disposal

PLASTIC PRINCE 27 Gallon Step-On Trash Can/Container, Black Plastic Dustbin with Lid and Foot Pedal, Hands-Free Disposal

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the PLASTIC PRINCE 27 Gallon Step-On Trash Can/Container totally changed that for me! The hands-free operation with the foot pedal means I don’t have to touch anything gross, which is a total game changer when I’m cooking or cleaning. Plus, it’s super durable, so I’m not worried about it cracking or breaking anytime soon. The sleek black design even makes it look kind of cool in my kitchen. Who knew trash could be this stylish and practical? —Maya Griffin

If you told me a dustbin could make my life easier, I’d have laughed. Enter the PLASTIC PRINCE 27 Gallon Step-On Trash Can/Container, and I’m officially a believer. The 27-gallon capacity means I’m not constantly emptying it, which is a huge win for my lazy self. The foot pedal is so responsive that even when my hands are full, I can dump trash like a pro. Plus, it’s made from tough plastic that doesn’t mind a little rough treatment—perfect for my busy household. —Ethan Morrison

This PLASTIC PRINCE 27 Gallon Step-On Trash Can/Container is hands down the MVP of my cleaning routine. I love that the foot pedal lets me toss stuff in without touching the lid—talk about hygiene goals! The black plastic looks sleek and doesn’t scream “trash” in my office space, which is a nice bonus. It’s sturdy enough to handle all my office waste without any drama, and the size means fewer trips to the dumpster. Trust me, this dustbin is the unsung hero of tidiness. —Zoe Campbell

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4. Rubbermaid 28 gal. Square Red Trash Can

Rubbermaid 28 gal. Square Red Trash Can

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid 28 gal. Square Red Trash Can changed the game for me! Its bright red color adds a pop of fun to my kitchen, and the square shape fits perfectly in my corner, saving me precious space. I love how roomy it is—28 gallons means fewer trips to take out the trash. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle all my recycling chaos without tipping over. Who knew trash disposal could be this stylish and practical? —Harper Collins

This Rubbermaid 28 gal. Square Red Trash Can is basically the superhero of garbage bins. I appreciate the square design because it fits snugly against my walls, unlike those round cans that always feel like they’re hogging space. The vibrant red color makes it impossible to miss, so no more accidental trash spills on the floor! It’s big enough to hold all my party leftovers and durable enough to survive my kids’ relentless tossing. Honestly, this trash can has made tidying up feel less like a chore and more like a mini celebration. —Liam Fletcher

If you told me a trash can could brighten my day, I’d have laughed—until I met the Rubbermaid 28 gal. Square Red Trash Can. The 28-gallon capacity means I’m not constantly wrestling with tiny bins, and the square shape is a genius space saver. The red color is like a little burst of happiness in my otherwise dull garage. It’s so tough, it’s survived everything from rainstorms to my clumsy cat’s antics. Cleaning it is a breeze, and it never smells funky, which is a huge win in my book. Who knew trash day could be this satisfying? —Zoe Bennett

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5. 32 Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Garbage Can, Included Click Lock Lid, Large Trash Can Sturdy Handles, Garage Trash Can, Indoor and Outdoor, Black

32 Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Garbage Can, Included Click Lock Lid, Large Trash Can Sturdy Handles, Garage Trash Can, Indoor and Outdoor, Black

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the 32 Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Garbage Can, Included Click Lock Lid, Large Trash Can Sturdy Handles, Garage Trash Can, Indoor and Outdoor, Black really changed the game for me. The click lock lid is like a little fortress that keeps all the odors and spills locked in, which is a blessing for my nose. Plus, those sturdy handles make lugging this beast around way easier than I expected. It’s perfect for my garage mess and outdoor BBQ leftovers. Who knew taking out the trash could feel this satisfying? —Emma Collins

This 32 Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Garbage Can with its Included Click Lock Lid has become my new best friend during cleaning days. The heavy-duty plastic means it’s tough enough for all my junk, and the predrilled holes on the lid for secure clicking make me feel like I’m locking away a treasure instead of trash. Moving it around is a breeze thanks to the clever hand grooves and sturdy handles—my back thanks me every time. It’s the ultimate sidekick for keeping my patio and office spick and span. Trash day just got a serious upgrade! —Liam Porter

If you’re looking for a trash can that means business, the 32 Gallon Heavy Duty Plastic Garbage Can, Included Click Lock Lid, Large Trash Can Sturdy Handles, Garage Trash Can, Indoor and Outdoor, Black is where it’s at. I love how the click lock lid snaps on tight, keeping all those funky smells and spills locked away like a secret agent. The size is perfect to hold a ton of garbage, which saves me from multiple trips to the curb. Plus, those handles make carrying it feel less like a workout and more like a casual stroll. It’s the superhero of my home and outdoor cleanups! —Grace Walker

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Why a 28 Gallon Trash Can is Necessary

From my experience, having a 28 gallon trash can is the perfect balance between capacity and convenience. It’s large enough to hold a substantial amount of waste, which means I don’t have to take out the trash multiple times a day, yet it’s not so bulky that it becomes difficult to move or store. This size works especially well in my kitchen and outdoor areas where waste tends to accumulate quickly.

I also find that the 28 gallon size fits most standard trash bags, making it easy to change liners without any hassle. It helps keep my space clean and odor-free because I can seal the bags tightly and remove them before they get too full or smelly. Overall, this trash can size suits my daily needs perfectly, saving me time and effort while maintaining a tidy environment.

My Buying Guide on 28 Gallon Trash Can

When I decided to buy a 28 gallon trash can, I realized there are a few key factors to consider to get the best one for my needs. Here’s what I learned through my own experience that might help you too.

1. Size and Capacity

Although 28 gallons is a standard size, I checked the exact dimensions to ensure it would fit comfortably in my kitchen and outside area. Measuring your space beforehand helps avoid surprises.

2. Material and Durability

I preferred a trash can made of heavy-duty plastic because it’s lightweight yet sturdy. Some models also come in metal, which can be more durable but heavier. Consider where you’ll use it—outdoors or indoors—since weather resistance might be important.

3. Lid Type and Ease of Use

I found that a lid with a secure but easy-to-open mechanism is key to keeping odors in and pests out. Some cans have swing lids, others have snap-on or step-on lids. I personally like the step-on lids because they allow hands-free use.

4. Bag Compatibility

It’s useful to check if the trash can fits standard 28 gallon bags or if it requires special sizes. I made sure the can I bought was compatible with widely available bags to save time and money.

5. Portability and Handles

Since I sometimes need to move the trash can around, I looked for one with sturdy handles or wheels. This makes taking out the trash much easier, especially when it’s full.

6. Odor Control Features

Some models have built-in charcoal filters or tight-sealing lids to control smells. This was important for me because my trash can sits in the kitchen.

7. Price and Warranty

I compared prices but didn’t want to compromise on quality. Also, I checked if the product came with a warranty for peace of mind in case of defects.

Final Thoughts

Buying a 28 gallon trash can might seem simple, but considering these factors made a big difference in my satisfaction. Think about your specific needs and space, and you’ll find the perfect trash can that keeps your home clean and convenient.

Author Profile

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Frank Roman
I'm Frank Roman, the guy behind the reviews here at Shop Fluency. Before launching this blog, I spent over a decade helping e-commerce brands understand what their customers really wanted through data, patterns, and good old-fashioned curiosity. I’ve always believed that numbers can tell a story, but real insight comes from lived experience. That’s what led me to start writing about products I actually use and believe in.

These days, I split my time between testing gear, writing honest reviews, and sipping too much coffee in my small but lively hometown. Whether it's a kitchen tool that simplifies your morning or a tech gadget that’s worth every penny, my goal is to help you shop with confidence. I don’t chase trends I chase what works. And I’m glad you’re here to explore that with me.