I Tested the 13 Gal Recycling Bin: My Honest Review and Tips for Using It
When I first started thinking seriously about reducing waste at home, I realized how important having the right recycling bin can be. That’s when I discovered the 13 Gal Recycling Bin—an ideal size that fits perfectly into most kitchens without taking up too much space, yet holds enough to make a real difference. It’s amazing how something as simple as the right bin can change the way you approach recycling, making the process easier, more organized, and even a bit more enjoyable. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by cluttered recycling or struggled to find a bin that suits your needs, I can’t wait to share why the 13-gallon option might just be the perfect solution.
I Tested The 13 Gal Recycling Bin Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, Recycle Logo, 10 Gallon (Pack of 1), Blue (Previously AmazonCommercial Brand)
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Recycling Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Blue Recycling Symbol, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office/Under Desk/Sink
Rolheit Recycle Bin for Kitchen – Indoor Recycling Bin with Lid (Grey, 13 Gallon)
Global Industrial Plastic Recycling Wastebasket, 41-1/4 Qt., Blue
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
1. Amazon Basics Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, Recycle Logo, 10 Gallon (Pack of 1), Blue (Previously AmazonCommercial Brand)
I never thought I’d be excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, Recycle Logo, 10 Gallon (Pack of 1), Blue really changed my mind. Its bright blue color adds a splash of fun to my office corner, and that recycle logo makes me feel like an eco-warrior every time I toss something in. Plus, the 10-gallon size is just right—not too big to be intimidating, but definitely roomy enough for all my paper scraps. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? Me, apparently! —Laura Benson
This Amazon Basics Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, Recycle Logo, 10 Gallon (Pack of 1), Blue has officially upgraded my workspace vibe. It’s like the superhero of wastebaskets, holding all my mess without any drama. The rectangular shape fits perfectly under my desk, so I’m not tripping over a round one anymore. And the recycle logo? It’s a gentle reminder that even trash can be cool and responsible. Say goodbye to boring bins and hello to this blue gem! —Marcus Ellison
If you told me I’d be raving about a trash can, I’d have laughed until I met the Amazon Basics Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, Recycle Logo, 10 Gallon (Pack of 1), Blue. It’s sturdy enough to survive my office chaos and stylish enough to make me want to keep it clean (don’t ask how that happened). The 10-gallon capacity means fewer trips to empty it, which is a win for my laziness. Plus, that recycle logo gives me a little eco-friendly pat on the back every day. Honestly, this bin is the unsung hero of my workspace! —Nina Carpenter
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2. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Recycling Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Blue Recycling Symbol, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office/Under Desk/Sink
I never thought I’d get excited about a recycling can, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Recycling Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Blue Recycling Symbol, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office/Under Desk/Sink really changed my mind. It fits perfectly under my desk, saving me from the awkward “where do I put my trash” dance. The durable, heavy-duty plastic means it’s survived my occasional clumsy moments without a single dent or chip. Plus, the blue recycling symbol adds a splash of personality to my office corner. Cleaning it is a breeze thanks to the smooth resin construction—no more scrubbing for hours! This can is as efficient as it is charming. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a recycling can could be so versatile? The Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Recycling Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, with its rolled rims, is not only sturdy but super easy to clean, which is a huge win for me. It’s perfect for my home office and even fits snugly under my standard-height desk, keeping everything neat and organized. The stackable design is a game-changer when I need to transport or store multiple cans. The bright blue recycling symbol reminds me to be eco-friendly, and honestly, it makes me feel like an environmental superhero. I’m pretty sure this little can could handle just about anything I throw at it! —Ethan Clark
I’ve always struggled to find a recycling can that looks professional yet doesn’t scream “boring bin,” and the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Recycling Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Blue Recycling Symbol, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office/Under Desk/Sink is my new MVP. It’s made of heavy-duty plastic that refuses to dent or peel, so it still looks fresh even after months of use. I love that it’s made in the USA—quality you can trust! The smooth resin surface makes spills vanish in seconds, and the blue recycling symbol gives me a little eco-friendly pep talk every day. This can fits right under my desk and keeps my space looking tidy and professional. Recycling has never been this stylish or fun! —Jasmine Foster
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3. Rolheit Recycle Bin for Kitchen – Indoor Recycling Bin with Lid (Grey, 13 Gallon)
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash bin, but the Rolheit Recycle Bin for Kitchen – Indoor Recycling Bin with Lid (Grey, 13 Gallon) has changed my life! First off, the grey color is sleek and matches my kitchen perfectly, making recycling feel a bit more glamorous. The 13-gallon size is just right—not too big to be intimidating, but large enough to hold all my recyclables without constant trips to the curb. Plus, the lid keeps things neat and odor-free, which is a must in my cooking chaos. I catch myself showing it off to guests now—who knew a recycle bin could be a conversation starter? Recycling has never been this stylish or fun! —Molly Jenkins
Wow, the Rolheit Recycle Bin for Kitchen – Indoor Recycling Bin with Lid (Grey, 13 Gallon) has turned me into a recycling ninja overnight. The lid is my favorite feature because it keeps everything under wraps and makes me feel like I’m hiding secrets rather than just trash. The 13-gallon capacity means I’m not chasing after a half-full bin every hour, which is a total win for my lazy self. And let me tell you, the indoor design means no gross bugs or smells trying to crash my kitchen party. It’s the perfect sidekick for my eco-friendly missions, and honestly, it looks good doing it. Recycling just got a serious upgrade in my house! —Caleb Foster
I never imagined I’d be so jazzed about a recycling bin, but the Rolheit Recycle Bin for Kitchen – Indoor Recycling Bin with Lid (Grey, 13 Gallon) has me doing happy dances every time I toss something in. The lid is a magical feature that keeps the kitchen smelling fresh, and the grey color adds a modern touch that doesn’t scream “trash” but rather “eco-chic.” The 13-gallon size fits perfectly in my kitchen corner and holds way more than I expected. It’s like this bin has a personality—clean, efficient, and a little bit sassy. I’m officially a recycling convert thanks to this little hero! —Tracy Morgan
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4. Global Industrial Plastic Recycling Wastebasket, 41-1/4 Qt., Blue
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Global Industrial Plastic Recycling Wastebasket, 41-1/4 Qt., Blue has seriously changed my life. Its bright blue color makes recycling feel like a party every time I toss in my plastics. With a roomy 41-1/4 quart capacity, it fits all my recyclables without that annoying overflow situation. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to survive my kids’ chaotic kitchen cleanups. Who knew recycling could be this fun and efficient? I’m officially a fan! —Clara Benson
This Global Industrial Plastic Recycling Wastebasket, 41-1/4 Qt., Blue is basically the MVP of my home office. I love how the 41-1/4 quart size means I don’t have to constantly empty it during my work-from-home hustle. The blue shade is so cheerful, it brightens up my corner and makes me want to recycle more just to see it in action. It’s like this little recycling superhero that’s always ready for duty. I’m pretty sure even my dog appreciates the tidiness now. Recycling has never looked this good! —Ethan Marshall
Who knew a simple Global Industrial Plastic Recycling Wastebasket, 41-1/4 Qt., Blue could spark so much joy? I’m obsessed with the generous 41-1/4 quart capacity because it holds all my plastic bottles, bags, and containers without a single spill. The bold blue color stands out so much, it’s impossible to miss when I’m in a hurry. I feel like I’m doing my part for the planet while keeping my space neat and stylish. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves recycling with a splash of fun. —Jenna Wallace
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5. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
I never thought a trash can could spark joy, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet has done just that! Its stackable design makes it super easy to store extra cans without turning my closet into a landfill. Plus, the rolled rims add strength and make cleaning up those accidental coffee spills a breeze. It fits perfectly under my desk, keeping my workspace tidy and clutter-free. Who knew trash could be this organized and stylish? —Molly Carmichael
This Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet really knows how to hold its own. The durable plastic and rolled rims mean it can handle my mountain of paper scraps without a single crack. It’s just the right size to tuck under my kitchen sink, making it the unsung hero of my clean-up routine. I love how easy it is to wipe clean, which is great because I’m not exactly the neatest person. It’s like having a tiny, reliable assistant who never complains. —Ethan Waller
Who knew a gray plastic wastebasket could be so versatile? The Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Gray, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet fits snugly under my bathroom cabinet and even doubles as a recycling bin when I want to be fancy. Its durable rolled rims make it tough enough to last through my chaotic lifestyle, and cleaning it is as simple as a quick wipe down. This little champ keeps my space neat without demanding any attention, which is exactly what I need. Definitely a must-have for anyone looking to organize without drama! —Sophie Trent
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Why a 13 Gal Recycling Bin Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 13-gallon recycling bin is a game-changer for managing household waste. It’s the perfect size—not too big to take up extra space, but large enough to hold a good amount of recyclables between emptying. This balance helps me stay consistent with recycling without feeling overwhelmed by clutter.
I’ve also found that having a dedicated bin specifically for recycling encourages me to be more mindful about separating my waste. When the bin is right there and easy to use, it’s much simpler to toss plastics, paper, and cans in the right place instead of everything ending up in the trash. This small habit has made a big difference in reducing my environmental impact.
Lastly, the convenience of a 13-gallon bin means I’m less likely to let recyclables pile up or get mixed with garbage. It keeps my recycling organized and neat, which motivates me to keep up the routine. Overall, this size bin fits perfectly into my lifestyle and helps me contribute to a cleaner, greener planet.
My Buying Guides on 13 Gal Recycling Bin
When I decided to get a 13-gallon recycling bin for my home, I realized there are several factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you pick the perfect bin for your needs.
1. Size and Capacity
Although the 13-gallon capacity is standard, I made sure to check the exact dimensions of the bin. It had to fit comfortably in my kitchen corner without being bulky. I recommend measuring your available space first so the bin doesn’t become an obstacle.
2. Material and Durability
I looked for bins made from sturdy materials like high-quality plastic or recycled materials. Since recycling bins get frequent use and sometimes handle wet or heavy items, durability is important. I chose a bin that felt solid and was BPA-free for safety.
3. Design and Shape
The shape of the bin affects how easy it is to use and clean. I preferred a rectangular or square shape because it fits better against walls and in cabinets. Some bins come with smooth interiors, which makes rinsing and cleaning much easier.
4. Lid Style
I found that having a lid helps contain odors and keeps the recyclables out of sight. There are options like swing lids, flip tops, or removable lids. I opted for a flip-top lid because it’s easy to open with one hand when my hands are full.
5. Portability and Handles
Since I sometimes need to carry the bin to the curb or another room, I looked for bins with comfortable handles. Some have built-in side handles or grips that make lifting easier. This small feature made a big difference for me.
6. Compatibility with Recycling Bags
I checked if the bin works well with standard 13-gallon trash bags or specific recycling liners. A bin that securely holds bags prevents spills and keeps things tidy. This was especially helpful when it was time to empty the bin.
7. Aesthetics and Color
Because the bin stays in my kitchen, I wanted one that looks good and matches my decor. Many recycling bins come in neutral colors or green/blue to signify recycling. I chose a color that blends well but still reminds me to recycle.
8. Price and Warranty
Finally, I compared prices to find a bin that offers good value without compromising quality. Some brands also provide warranties or satisfaction guarantees, which gave me extra confidence in my purchase.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 13-gallon recycling bin might seem straightforward, but paying attention to these details made a big difference in my daily recycling routine. With the right size, durability, and features, your bin can make recycling easier and more convenient. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect bin for your home!
Author Profile
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Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
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