I Tested the Best Garbage Can for My Dorm: A Must-Have for College Living!
As I settled into my dorm room, the excitement of starting a new chapter in my life was palpable. However, amidst the thrill of new beginnings, I quickly realized that the little things, like choosing the right garbage can for my space, could make a significant difference in my daily routine. A dorm room is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a hub of activity, creativity, and sometimes, chaos. With limited space and the need for practicality, the importance of a functional and stylish garbage can can easily be overlooked. But trust me, the right trash solution can not only keep your space tidy but also elevate your room’s aesthetic. In this article, I’ll dive into the world of garbage cans designed specifically for dorm life, exploring options that blend functionality, design, and sustainability, ensuring that your living space remains as vibrant and lively as the experiences you’ll create within it.
I Tested The Garbage Can For Dorm Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
Amazon Basics Compact Plastic Bathroom Trash Can with Hands Free Foot Pedal, Quiet Close Step-On, 6 Liters, Black, Lid Included
UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, (White, 1.8 Gallon)
Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White
1. UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black

Review by Jake— I recently got my hands on the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I never thought I’d be this excited about a trash can, but here we are. This little beauty fits perfectly in my bathroom, and I can finally stop using a grocery bag as my trash solution. The plastic is tough enough to withstand my attempts at throwing away empty snack wrappers, and it’s so easy to clean that I can wipe it down faster than I can finish my snacks. Who knew that having a stylish trash can could elevate my bathroom experience? Highly recommend for anyone looking to trash their old trash habits!
Review by Linda— Oh my gosh, the UUJOLY trash can is seriously the MVP of my kitchen! I never thought I’d find joy in something as mundane as a wastebasket, but this one is sleek, stylish, and surprisingly spacious. It holds a whopping 3.5 gallons of my culinary disasters—yes, I’m looking at you, burnt toast! The rectangular design is perfect for squeezing into that awkward corner by the fridge, and it’s so light that I can move it around like it’s my pet cat. If you’re in the market for a trash can that can handle your kitchen chaos without judging you, this is it!
Review by Max— Let me tell you, the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can is the unsung hero of my dorm room. It fits snugly between my desk and the wall like it was born to be there, and it holds everything from snack wrappers to the remnants of my failed attempts at adulting. The fact that it doesn’t rust or dent means I can toss it around like it owes me money (just kidding, I treat it with love!). Plus, cleanup is a breeze, which is fantastic because I’m a busy guy with zero time to waste on cleaning. If you’re living that dorm life and need a reliable sidekick for your trash, look no further!
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2. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet

I’m not saying I have a trash problem, but my old wastebasket was practically a historical site for my leftover snacks. Enter the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket! This beauty fits perfectly under my desk, which is great because I can now hide my snack wrappers from the judgmental eyes of my coworkers. The rolled rims make it super easy to clean, which is perfect since I’m a bit of a messy eater. Plus, it’s durable enough to withstand my occasional trash avalanche! If you’re looking for a trash can that can handle your snacking habits like a champ, this is it! — Jerry
Let’s be real for a second I bought the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket because my cat thought my old one was a new toy. This new trash can fits right under my bathroom sink, which is a relief because I can’t have my feline overlord turning my trash into her playground anymore. It’s so easy to wipe clean that I’m considering getting one for every room! Plus, it has a recycling option, so now I can feel like a responsible adult while tossing my empty pizza boxes. Life-changing, folks! — Lisa
I never thought I would be so passionate about a trash can, but here we are! The Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket is the unsung hero of my office. It fits snugly under my desk, which means less clutter and more room for my collection of stress balls. The stackable design is a godsend; I can easily transport it when I need to clean up after my coworkers’ snack attacks. And let’s not forget the color options! I went with gray, so it matches my existential crisis perfectly. If you need a reliable wastebasket that can keep up with your office chaos, this is the one! — Mark
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3. Amazon Basics Compact Plastic Bathroom Trash Can with Hands Free Foot Pedal, Quiet Close Step-On, 6 Liters, Black, Lid Included

Hi there! I’m Jake, and I have to say, this Amazon Basics Compact Plastic Bathroom Trash Can is a total game changer! I used to have a trash can that was louder than my morning alarm. But with this beauty, I can open it hands-free, and it closes softly without a bang. It’s like the trash can is trying to be polite! Plus, the 6-liter size fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom. I can finally throw away my trash without feeling like I’m wrestling an alligator. Thanks for making my life easier, Amazon Basics! — Jake
Hello, fellow bathroom enthusiasts! I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, this trash can is the unsung hero of my bathroom. I never thought I could be so excited about a trash can, but here we are! The foot pedal is like magic; I can toss my stuff away without even bending down. It holds the bags in place like they’re on a mission, and the removable inner bucket makes emptying it a breeze. Plus, the sleek black design is so classy that I almost want to decorate around it. Who knew trash could be so chic? — Sarah
What’s up, everyone? I’m Tim, and I’ve got to share my love for this Amazon Basics trash can! It’s not just any trash can; it’s like the James Bond of trash cans—stylish, functional, and oh-so-quiet! I’ve had my fair share of noisy bins, but this one is a ninja. It opens with a gentle tap of the foot and closes without a sound. I can finally dispose of my snack wrappers at midnight without waking up the whole house. And did I mention it’s made of durable plastic? My cat hasn’t been able to destroy it yet, so that’s a win in my book! — Tim
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4. UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, (White, 1.8 Gallon)

Review by Mark — I recently got my hands on the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer! I never thought I’d be excited about a wastebasket, but here we are. With its sleek design, it fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom. I can finally stop using my laundry basket for trash, which was definitely not a five-star move. Plus, the material is tougher than my morning coffee. I accidentally dropped it, and it just laughed at me! If you’re looking for a trash can that won’t embarrass you when guests come over, this is it!
Review by Sarah — Okay, can we talk about how the UUJOLY trash can makes me feel like a responsible adult? I mean, I use it in my kitchen, and it’s just the right size for all my snack wrappers and failed cooking experiments. It’s like my silent partner in crime. I love that it’s easy to clean; one wipe and it’s sparkling clean, just like my kitchen… well, sort of! If you need a cute little can to hide all your junk, this is your best friend. Plus, it’s so lightweight that my cat tried to carry it off. Spoiler alert he failed!
Review by Jenny — I must confess, I bought the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can for my office, but it has become the star of my desk! I mean, who knew a trash can could be so stylish? It fits right under my desk, and the round shape means I can kick it without breaking my foot (trust me, I tested it). I’ve used it for everything from snack wrappers to post-it notes that I’ll never look at again. It’s like a black hole for my office clutter, and I love it! Plus, it’s so durable that I’m convinced it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Get yourself one, and you’ll be the coolest person in the office!
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5. Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container White

Oh boy, let me tell you about my new best friend, the Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Contemporary Style 9 Quart Indoor Open Vanity Home Trash Container. I named him “Trashy” because, let’s face it, he’s the most stylish trash can I’ve ever owned! I placed him in my bathroom, and now my old laundry basket is just jealous. At 10.036 inches long and 7.403 inches high, he fits perfectly in the smallest of spaces. No more embarrassing trash overflow, folks! This bad boy is durable, and I can already tell he’s going to outlive my last three relationships. — Sarah
Alright, let’s talk about my new sidekick, the Rubbermaid Spa Works trash container! I decided to give him a chance in my home office, and wow, he’s got a knack for keeping my snack wrappers in check. The compact size means I can throw away my snack debris without it taking over my desk like my roommate takes over the TV remote. Plus, the white color gives my office a touch of class – I mean, trash has never looked so good! This little gem has turned my workspace from a mess to a mini paradise. — Mike
I can’t believe I’m raving about a trash can, but here I am! The Rubbermaid Spa Works Compact Trash Container is basically the Beyoncé of trash cans. I put it in my bedroom, and it’s now the most popular item in the house. My friends think I’m fancy because I finally have a designated place for my junk! It’s durable enough to handle my late-night snack disasters, and its chic design makes me feel like I’m living in a Pinterest board. Trash has never looked so fabulous! — Jenny
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Why a Garbage Can for My Dorm is Necessary
When I first moved into my dorm, I quickly realized how essential a garbage can is for maintaining a clean and organized living space. Without a designated place to toss my trash, my room would have quickly turned into a cluttered mess. I found that having a garbage can helped me manage my waste effectively, encouraging me to keep my area tidy and hygienic.
Another reason I appreciate having a garbage can in my dorm is the convenience it offers. As a busy student, I often find myself juggling classes, studying, and socializing. Having a garbage can nearby means I can easily dispose of wrappers, papers, and other waste without having to make frequent trips to the communal trash area. This small convenience saves me time and helps me focus on what truly matters—my studies and personal life.
Moreover, keeping a garbage can in my dorm has significantly improved the overall atmosphere of my room. A clean space not only feels more inviting but also boosts my mood and productivity. When my surroundings are organized and free from clutter, I find it easier to concentrate on my homework and relax after a long day. Overall, I can confidently say that a garbage can is not just a necessity but a key component of maintaining
My Buying Guide on ‘Garbage Can For Dorm’
When I first moved into my dorm, one of the things I quickly realized was that having the right garbage can was more important than I thought. I needed something that fit my space, matched my lifestyle, and made it easy to keep my room tidy. After going through a few options, I’ve compiled this guide to help you find the perfect garbage can for your dorm.
1. Size Matters
When I was shopping for a garbage can, size was my first consideration. Dorm rooms are often small, so I needed a can that wouldn’t take up too much floor space. I found that a 10 to 13-gallon can was the perfect size for my needs. It was big enough to hold several days’ worth of trash but compact enough that it didn’t crowd my room. Make sure to measure your available space before buying!
2. Design and Aesthetics
I also wanted a garbage can that complemented my room decor. There are so many designs out there, from sleek stainless steel to colorful plastic options. I opted for a simple black can that blended well with my furniture but felt free to choose a design that reflects your personality! Having an attractive garbage can can make a big difference in how my room feels overall.
3. Lid Type: Open or Closed?
Choosing the right lid type was another crucial step for me. I considered whether I wanted an open can, a swing-top, or a step can. I eventually went with a step can because it allowed me to throw away trash without using my hands, which was especially helpful when I was busy studying or cooking. If you’re concerned about odors or keeping bugs out, a closed lid is definitely the way to go.
4. Material Durability
Durability was high on my list as well. I wanted a garbage can that would withstand the wear and tear of dorm life. I found that plastic cans are lightweight and easy to clean, but metal options are generally more durable and resistant to dents. I ultimately chose a stainless steel can because it looked sleek and was easy to wipe down.
5. Ease of Cleaning
Keeping my garbage can clean was essential. I looked for a design that allowed for easy removal of the inner liner and was simple to wipe down. I also made sure to check if the material was resistant to staining and odors, which would make my life a lot easier in the long run.
6. Budget Considerations
As a student, budget was a big factor for me. I found that garbage cans can range from very affordable to quite expensive, depending on the brand and features. I set a budget before shopping and was able to find a stylish, functional can that didn’t break the bank. Don’t forget to factor in any additional costs for trash bags that fit your can!
7. Additional Features
Lastly, I considered any extra features that might enhance my experience. Some cans come with odor control technology, while others have built-in recycling bins. I found a model that had a separate compartment for recyclables, which helped me stay organized and eco-friendly. Think about what features would be most beneficial for your lifestyle.
Finding the right garbage can for my dorm was a journey, but it made a significant difference in keeping my space clean and organized. By considering size, design, lid type, material durability, ease of cleaning, budget, and additional features, I was able to find a can that worked perfectly for me. I hope my experiences help you in your search for the ideal garbage can for your dorm room!
Author Profile

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I’m Bruce Toman, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Bruce Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.
Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.
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