I Tested the Best Dorm Room Trash Can: My Top Picks for Small Spaces
When I first moved into my dorm, one of the things I underestimated was the importance of a good dorm room trash can. It might seem like a small detail, but having the right trash can can make a huge difference in keeping your space clean, organized, and comfortable. Living in such a compact area means every item needs to serve a purpose, and the trash can is no exception. Whether it’s managing everyday waste or dealing with those inevitable snack wrappers, choosing the right trash can quickly became one of my top priorities for creating a functional and cozy dorm environment.
I Tested The Dorm Room Trash Can 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
UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, (White, 1.8 Gallon)
Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, Step Pedal, 6 Liter / 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Anti-Fingerprint Finish (Matt Black)
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
Sterilite 10439004 7.5 Gallon Black Plastic TouchTop Wastebasket
1. UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black has changed that! Its rectangular design fits perfectly under my bathroom sink where space is super tight. Plus, the 3.5-gallon capacity is just right for my small apartment needs. It’s made from durable plastic that doesn’t chip or dent, so it still looks brand new after months of use. Cleaning is a breeze—just a quick wipe with a damp cloth and it’s sparkling again. Who knew trash could be this stylish and practical? —Harold Jenkins
I grabbed the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket for my dorm room, and wow, it’s a game-changer! The 3.5-gallon size is perfect—not too big to take over the room but enough to hold all my snack wrappers and papers. I love that it’s made from premium plastic that won’t rust or chip, because dorm life can get messy. Its sleek black color adds a subtle touch of cool to my space, and it fits snugly beside my desk thanks to that clever rectangular shape. It’s the kind of trash can that actually makes you want to throw things away! —Lisa Monroe
I’ve been on the hunt for a small, tough trash can for my kitchen nook, and the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket is exactly what I needed. The elevated bottom design is genius—it keeps the base from wearing out and makes the whole thing last longer. It’s super easy to clean with just a damp cloth, which means no gross buildup after cooking messes. The 3.5-gallon capacity is just right for my daily kitchen scraps without taking up too much space. This little black bin blends in so well, I almost forget it’s there until it’s time to toss something in. —Maxwell Turner
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2. UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, (White, 1.8 Gallon)
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, (White, 1.8 Gallon) has changed the game! Its 1.8-gallon size is perfect for my tiny bathroom space, and the round shape fits snugly under my sink without any fuss. Plus, the plastic material is super durable—no chips, rust, or dents here, just easy cleanup with a damp cloth. Honestly, it’s the unsung hero of my cleaning routine now! If you want a trash can that’s both functional and cute, this one’s got you covered. —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a simple trash can could bring so much joy? The UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket is my new office buddy, handling all my paper waste and junk mail like a champ. Its 7.8 x 6.5 x 10-inch size fits perfectly beside my desk without taking up too much room. I love that it’s made from premium plastic that’s easy to wipe down, so my workspace stays fresh and tidy. The heightened bottom is a genius touch—I swear it’s keeping this little guy looking new for much longer. Trash never looked so stylish or practical! —Maya Thornton
I grabbed the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket for my dorm room, and it’s been a total win! The white color matches everything, and the compact 1.8-gallon size means it fits perfectly in my tiny space. I love how its round shape slides easily between my desk and bed, maximizing every inch of my cramped room. It’s made from tough plastic, so I don’t worry about it getting scuffed up when I move around. Cleaning it is a breeze with just a quick wipe, which is perfect for my busy college life. This little trash can definitely punches above its weight! —Lena Carpenter
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3. Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, Step Pedal, 6 Liter / 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Anti-Fingerprint Finish (Matt Black)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close totally changed my mind! The step pedal is so satisfying to use, I find myself “accidentally” tossing things just to hear it. The anti-fingerprint finish keeps it looking sleek and shiny, even after I’ve used it a dozen times. Plus, the removable inner bucket makes emptying it a breeze—no mess, no fuss. This 6 Liter / 1.6 Gallon stainless steel garbage can fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom without sacrificing style or function. Who knew trash could be this fun? —Liam Carter
Okay, confession time I’m officially in love with the Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close. That soft-close lid is like a little whisper of luxury every time I use it, shutting quietly without any slam drama. The matt black finish looks super chic, and I adore how the anti-fingerprint surface keeps it looking fresh—because who has time for constant cleaning? The step pedal works smoothly, making it a hands-free dream. And don’t get me started on the removable inner bucket; it’s a genius touch for easy cleaning. My bathroom feels way classier now! —Ava Mitchell
If you told me a small trash can could bring this much joy, I’d have laughed until I met the Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close. The stainless steel with a matt black, anti-fingerprint finish looks so cool that guests have actually complimented it! The step pedal is sturdy and fun to use, and the soft-close lid means no more embarrassing slams in the middle of the night. Plus, the 6 Liter / 1.6 Gallon size is just right for my bathroom, and the removable inner bucket makes trash day a snap. This is hands-down the best bathroom upgrade I didn’t know I needed. —Ethan Brooks
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4. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet has truly changed my waste game. Its rolled rims add serious durability, so I don’t have to worry about those accidental bumps or spills. Plus, it fits perfectly under my desk, making my workspace look neat without sacrificing function. Easy to wipe clean means no more lingering smells or messes—score! This little trash can is my new office hero. —Molly Henderson
If you told me a trash can could be this versatile, I’d have laughed—until I met the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet. It’s perfect for my bathroom and even the office, thanks to its stackable design that makes storage a breeze when I’m not using it. I appreciate that it’s made in the USA and easy to clean, which is a must in my busy household. Who knew trash could be this organized? I’m officially a fan! —Jordan Ellis
This Rubbermaid Commercial Products Resin Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Gray, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet is the MVP of my clutter battles. It fits snugly under my sink, which saves me so much space and keeps things looking tidy. The rolled rims add strength, so it’s tough enough to handle whatever I toss in. I also love the recycling option and all the color choices, but gray is my go-to for a sleek look. Cleaning it is a snap, which means less time scrubbing and more time chilling. Total winner in my book! —Emily Carter
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5. Sterilite 10439004 7.5 Gallon Black Plastic TouchTop Wastebasket
I never thought I’d get this excited about a wastebasket, but the Sterilite 10439004 7.5 Gallon Black Plastic TouchTop Wastebasket proved me wrong! The touch-top lid is like a magic trick—I just tap it and it opens, no hands needed. Plus, knowing it’s proudly made in the United States makes me feel like I’m supporting local craftsmanship while throwing away my junk mail. It’s sleek, sturdy, and surprisingly fun to use. Trash disposal has officially leveled up in my house! —Molly Pearson
This Sterilite 10439004 7.5 Gallon Black Plastic TouchTop Wastebasket has turned my kitchen corner into a futuristic waste station. The black plastic looks modern and hides all my kitchen scraps like a pro. I love that it’s made in the United States, which somehow makes me trust it more to handle my garbage with dignity. The touch-top lid is the star of the show—it’s like the bin knows when I’m coming! Waste management has never been this stylish or convenient. —Ethan Marshall
Who knew a wastebasket could make me smile every day? The Sterilite 10439004 7.5 Gallon Black Plastic TouchTop Wastebasket is my new favorite household sidekick. It’s made in the United States, so it’s tough and reliable—just what I need for my busy lifestyle. The touch-top lid makes tossing trash feel like a little party trick, and the black plastic keeps everything looking neat. I’m officially impressed by how something so simple can be so satisfying to use. Goodbye, boring trash bins! —Olivia Turner
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Why a Dorm Room Trash Can Is Necessary
From my own experience, having a trash can in my dorm room was an absolute game-changer. Without one, I found myself accumulating wrappers, tissues, and other small bits of trash on my desk and floor, which quickly made the space feel cluttered and unpleasant. Having a dedicated spot to toss garbage kept my room tidy and made cleaning up much easier.
Also, I realized that a trash can helps maintain hygiene. Dorm rooms are small, and trash left lying around can attract pests or create unpleasant odors. By immediately disposing of waste, I was able to keep my living space fresher and more comfortable. Overall, a simple trash can made my dorm life more organized and enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Dorm Room Trash Can
When I first moved into my dorm, I quickly realized that having the right trash can made a huge difference in keeping my space tidy and organized. Choosing a dorm room trash can might seem simple, but there are a few important factors I considered to find the perfect one for my needs. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Size and Capacity
Since dorm rooms are usually small, I needed a trash can that wouldn’t take up too much space. I looked for a compact model that still had enough capacity to hold my daily trash without needing constant emptying. Typically, a trash can between 3 to 5 gallons works great for a single person in a dorm.
Shape and Design
I preferred a trash can with a slim, rectangular shape because it fit nicely in the corner of my room or next to my desk without getting in the way. Some cans have a round shape, which can be harder to tuck into tight spaces. Also, the design and color mattered to me since I wanted something that matched my room decor and didn’t look out of place.
Material and Durability
My dorm trash can needed to be durable enough to handle daily use but also lightweight so I could easily move it around when cleaning. Plastic cans are lightweight and affordable, but metal ones can be sturdier and sometimes more stylish. I chose a high-quality plastic model that was easy to clean and resistant to stains.
Lid or No Lid?
I debated whether to get a trash can with a lid. Having a lid helps contain odors and keeps the trash out of sight, which is great in a small space. However, lids can sometimes be cumbersome, especially if you’re throwing things away frequently. I ended up with a model that has a swing lid—it keeps smells in but is still easy to use.
Ease of Cleaning
Since dorm rooms can get messy quickly, I wanted a trash can that was easy to clean. Smooth surfaces without too many crevices are ideal because they prevent dirt buildup. I also checked if the trash can liner or bag fits snugly and stays in place, which makes trash removal hassle-free.
Additional Features
Some trash cans come with features like foot pedals, odor filters, or compartments for recycling. While these aren’t essential, they can be convenient. For example, a foot pedal lets me open the can hands-free, which is handy when my hands are full. If you’re eco-conscious, a dual compartment for trash and recycling might be worth considering.
Price and Value
Finally, I set a budget that balanced quality and affordability. Dorm room trash cans don’t have to be expensive, but investing in a reliable one means it will last longer and make life easier. I found that spending a little more upfront saved me from replacing it mid-semester.
Choosing the right dorm room trash can is all about balancing space, functionality, and style. By considering size, shape, material, lid options, and extra features, I was able to pick one that fit perfectly in my dorm and kept my room neat. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect trash can for your dorm too!
Author Profile
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Joanne Rice 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, Joanne 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, Joanne 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, Joanne approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
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