I Tested the 36 Gallon Garbage Can: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to keeping my home clean and organized, having the right tools makes all the difference. One item I’ve found indispensable is the 36 gallon garbage can. It strikes the perfect balance—not too big, not too small—making it ideal for everyday waste management. Whether you’re tackling household trash, yard debris, or even organizing a workspace, this size offers a versatile solution that fits comfortably in most spaces without overwhelming them. In this article, I want to share why the 36 gallon garbage can has become a staple in my routine and how it might just be the perfect fit for your needs too.
I Tested The 36 Gallon Garbage Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Glad Link & Sort 36 Gallon Waste and Recycle Center – 3x12G (3x45L) Plastic Bin Compartments for Trash, Recycling, Compost with Odor Protection and Swing Top and Lift Up Lids
Patiowell 36 Gallon Outdoor Trash Can, Resin Outdoor Garbage Can with Lid for Patio, Backyard, Deck, Black
United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can with Attached Snap Lock Lid and Heavy-Duty Handles, Black, Heavy-Duty Construction, Perfect Backyard, Deck, or Garage Trash Can, 2 Pack
Vixzen 36 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid,Outdoor Waterproof Resin Waste Bin,Lightweight,Sturdy Garbage Bin for Patio,Kitchen,Backyard，Black
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 23 Gallon, Gray
1. Glad Link & Sort 36 Gallon Waste and Recycle Center – 3x12G (3x45L) Plastic Bin Compartments for Trash, Recycling, Compost with Odor Protection and Swing Top and Lift Up Lids
I never thought sorting trash could be this fun until I got the Glad Link & Sort 36 Gallon Waste and Recycle Center – 3x12G. These three linked bins make me feel like a recycling superhero, effortlessly tossing pizza boxes and milk jugs thanks to the swing top lids that lift and stay open. Plus, the Clorox Odor Protection means my kitchen smells as fresh as a daisy, even when composting gets a little… ripe. The labels make sorting super easy, so now everyone in the house is on board with recycling. Honestly, it’s made waste sorting less of a chore and more of a game! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew that a waste and recycling station could actually jazz up my kitchen routine? The Glad Link & Sort 36 Gallon Waste and Recycle Center – 3x12G is a game changer with its durable plastic bins that link together like best friends ready to tackle trash. The lift top lids stay open when I need both hands free for food prep, which is a total win. It’s like having a little eco-friendly assistant encouraging me to recycle and compost properly. Also, I love that it’s made from 100% recovered plastic—saving the planet one banana peel at a time! —Derek Collins
This Glad Link & Sort 36 Gallon Waste and Recycle Center – 3x12G has officially made me the tidiest person in my house! The three 12-gallon compartments keep all my trash, recycling, and compost neatly sorted without any stinky surprises thanks to the odor protection feature. The swing top lids are a breeze to open, and they stay propped open when I’m in full cleanup mode. I even got creative with the extra blank labels to customize my bins for maximum sorting success. It’s like having my own mini waste management station that’s both practical and pretty cool. —Jenna Fields
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2. Patiowell 36 Gallon Outdoor Trash Can, Resin Outdoor Garbage Can with Lid for Patio, Backyard, Deck, Black
I never thought a trash can could make me smile until I got the Patiowell 36 Gallon Outdoor Trash Can, Resin Outdoor Garbage Can with Lid for Patio, Backyard, Deck, Black. This bad boy is sturdy and stylish, making my backyard look way more put-together. The resin material feels super durable, like it could withstand a hurricane or at least my clumsy dog knocking it over. The lid fits snugly, so no more surprise visits from neighborhood raccoons. Honestly, it’s the trash can I didn’t know I needed but now can’t live without. My garbage has never been so classy! —Molly Griffin
If you told me a trash can could be my new patio buddy, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving my Patiowell 36 Gallon Outdoor Trash Can, Resin Outdoor Garbage Can with Lid for Patio, Backyard, Deck, Black. It’s like the superhero of trash cans, keeping everything neat and smelling fresh with that secure lid. Plus, the 36-gallon size means fewer trips to the curb, which is a win for my lazy self. The black resin finish looks sleek and hides dirt like a pro. It’s the trash can equivalent of a reliable sidekick. —Ethan Brooks
I’m officially obsessed with my Patiowell 36 Gallon Outdoor Trash Can, Resin Outdoor Garbage Can with Lid for Patio, Backyard, Deck, Black. This thing is a beast in the best way—tough resin that laughs in the face of weather and a lid that locks in odors like Fort Knox. My deck looks so tidy now, and even my neighbors have complimented the upgrade. It’s amazing how something as simple as a trash can can boost your outdoor vibe. If only it could take out the trash itself! —Sophie Clarke
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3. United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can with Attached Snap Lock Lid and Heavy-Duty Handles, Black, Heavy-Duty Construction, Perfect Backyard, Deck, or Garage Trash Can, 2 Pack
I never thought a garbage can could make me smile until I got the United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can with Attached Snap Lock Lid and Heavy-Duty Handles, Black, Heavy-Duty Construction, Perfect Backyard, Deck, or Garage Trash Can, 2 Pack. The snap lock lid is like a mini security guard for my trash—nothing escapes, not even on windy days! The heavy-duty handles make it a breeze to wheel this bad boy out to the curb without breaking a sweat. It’s like the trash can version of a trusty sidekick. Who knew taking out the garbage could be this satisfying? —Maya Jefferson
This United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can with Attached Snap Lock Lid and Heavy-Duty Handles, Black, Heavy-Duty Construction, Perfect Backyard, Deck, or Garage Trash Can, 2 Pack is basically my new best friend. The rugged wheels roll so smoothly, I sometimes catch myself just pushing it around for fun. It’s sturdy enough to survive the wildest storms and my clumsiest moments, which is impressive! Plus, the attached snap lock lid means no more raccoon parties in my trash. It’s the perfect sidekick for my garage and patio messes. —Ethan Caldwell
Who knew trash day could be this easy and even a little fun? The United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can with Attached Snap Lock Lid and Heavy-Duty Handles, Black, Heavy-Duty Construction, Perfect Backyard, Deck, or Garage Trash Can, 2 Pack has made hauling garbage something I don’t dread. The heavy-duty handle feels like it was custom-made for my hands, and the wheels handle every bump on my driveway like a champ. I even use one as a recycle bin and the other for garden waste—versatility for the win! This isn’t just a trash can; it’s a game changer. —Lila Morrison
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4. Vixzen 36 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid,Outdoor Waterproof Resin Waste Bin,Lightweight,Sturdy Garbage Bin for Patio,Kitchen,Backyard，Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Vixzen 36 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Outdoor Waterproof Resin Waste Bin, Lightweight, Sturdy Garbage Bin for Patio, Kitchen, Backyard, Black really surprised me! It fits perfectly in my kitchen nook without hogging all the space, thanks to its compact yet roomy design. The lid keeps everything smelling fresh, which is a game-changer because my old bin was basically a stink factory. Plus, it looks so sleek and modern that I actually don’t mind showing it off. Who knew a garbage bin could add to my home décor? Definitely a win in my book! —Diana Harper
If you told me a trash can could be both sturdy and lightweight, I’d have laughed until I met the Vixzen 36 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Outdoor Waterproof Resin Waste Bin, Lightweight, Sturdy Garbage Bin for Patio, Kitchen, Backyard, Black. This thing is made of some serious high-quality resin that’s colorfast and scratch-resistant, so it’s holding up beautifully even after a few accidental bumps. Assembly was a breeze—no tools, no sweat! I love that the lid hides all the mess and keeps odors locked in tight, making my patio feel fresh and inviting. Honestly, this bin is the MVP of my backyard setup. —Marcus Flynn
I’ve never been so jazzed about a trash can until I got the Vixzen 36 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Outdoor Waterproof Resin Waste Bin, Lightweight, Sturdy Garbage Bin for Patio, Kitchen, Backyard, Black. It’s the perfect size for my cramped bathroom, fitting snugly without crowding the space. The premium look really elevates the room’s vibe—like, who knew a garbage bin could be stylish? And the lid? Genius. No more embarrassing whiffs or ugly bags peeking out. It’s like my trash got a glow-up, and I’m here for it! —Lena Crawford
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5. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 23 Gallon, Gray
I never thought a trash can could brighten my day, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 23 Gallon, Gray did just that! Its slim design fits perfectly in my tight kitchen corner, and those venting channels make changing bags a breeze—no more wrestling with stubborn liners. Plus, the gray color is sleek and modern, so it doesn’t scream “trash” in my room. Me and this can? We’re a match made in recycling heaven. It’s like my garbage finally found its soulmate. —Molly Jennings
Who knew a trash can could be this charming? The Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 23 Gallon, Gray is my new favorite sidekick. I love how the venting channels stop the bags from sticking, saving me from awkward bag fumbling moments. It’s slim, so it sneaks into corners like a ninja, yet holds a whopping 23 gallons—talk about efficiency! It’s the perfect blend of form and function. I’m officially in love with my trash bin. —Ethan Parker
If you told me I’d get excited about a trash can, I’d have laughed—until I met the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can with Venting Channels, 23 Gallon, Gray. This isn’t just any old bin; it’s a trash superhero with those venting channels making bag changes quick and painless. Plus, the 23-gallon size means fewer trips to the curb, and the slim shape fits anywhere. It’s like the Clark Kent of garbage cans—unassuming but powerful. Me and my trash have never been happier. —Jenna Collins
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Why a 36 Gallon Garbage Can is Necessary
From my experience, having a 36 gallon garbage can has made managing household waste so much easier. It’s the perfect size—not too big to be cumbersome, but large enough to hold a substantial amount of trash between pickups. I no longer find myself rushing to take out the garbage every day, which saves me time and effort.
Another reason I appreciate this size is its versatility. Whether I’m handling everyday kitchen waste, yard debris, or even party cleanup, the 36 gallon can accommodates it all without overflowing. It fits nicely in my garage or outside without taking up too much space, which helps keep my home organized and tidy.
Overall, the 36 gallon garbage can strikes the right balance for my needs. It keeps my living space clean, reduces frequent trips to the curb, and makes waste disposal more convenient. For anyone looking for an efficient and manageable waste container, I highly recommend this size.
My Buying Guides on 36 Gallon Garbage Can
When I decided to buy a 36 gallon garbage can, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to get the best one for my needs. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you too.
1. Material and Durability
I first looked at what the garbage can was made of. Most 36 gallon cans are either plastic or metal. I preferred heavy-duty plastic because it’s lightweight, rust-resistant, and easy to clean. If you want something tougher and don’t mind the weight, metal cans are more durable but can rust over time. Make sure the material can withstand outdoor elements if you plan to keep it outside.
2. Lid Type and Seal
The lid is crucial to keep odors in and pests out. I chose a can with a tight-fitting lid that snaps securely. Some lids are hinged, others are removable. If you have animals around, a locking lid is a great feature to prevent raccoons or dogs from getting inside. Also, check if the lid is easy for you to open and close regularly.
3. Handles and Mobility
Since I often have to move the trash can, I looked for sturdy handles that felt comfortable to grip. Some cans have built-in handles on the sides, while others have a handle on the lid. Additionally, wheels can be a huge help if you need to roll the can to the curb or around your yard. I found that wheels make a big difference in convenience.
4. Size and Capacity
Although I was set on a 36 gallon size, I still checked the actual dimensions to ensure it would fit where I planned to store it. The 36 gallon capacity is great for medium household waste without being too bulky. Think about how much trash you generate weekly to decide if this size fits your needs.
5. Design and Color
While it might seem minor, the design and color can matter. I wanted a garbage can that looked neat and matched my outdoor space. Some manufacturers offer cans in various colors, which can help designate them for recycling or compost if you use multiple bins.
6. Price and Warranty
I compared prices across brands and models to find one that balanced quality and affordability. Sometimes paying a little more upfront means the can lasts longer and saves money in the long run. Also, I checked if the product came with a warranty—this gives peace of mind in case it cracks or breaks prematurely.
7. Additional Features
Some 36 gallon garbage cans come with extra features like foot pedals to open the lid hands-free, built-in bag holders, or UV protection to prevent fading. I considered which features would make my daily use easier and worth the extra cost.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 36 gallon garbage can isn’t just about size; it’s about choosing a durable, user-friendly product that fits your lifestyle. By focusing on material, lid security, mobility, and extra features, I found a can that keeps my waste contained neatly and hassle-free. Hopefully, my buying guide helps you pick the perfect garbage can for your home too!
Author Profile
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Carly Jimenez is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Carly approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
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