I Tested the 13 Gal Recycling Bin: My Honest Review and Tips for Better Waste Sorting
When I first started paying attention to my household waste habits, I quickly realized how much of a difference having the right recycling bin could make. That’s when I discovered the 13 Gal Recycling Bin—a perfect blend of convenience and capacity that fits seamlessly into everyday life. It’s more than just a container; it’s a small but powerful tool that can help me, and maybe you too, take a simple step toward a greener, more organized home. Whether you’re new to recycling or looking to upgrade your setup, this bin has a way of making the whole process feel manageable and even a little rewarding.
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
Rubbermaid Commercial Deskside Recycling Container, Medium, Blue (FG295673BLUE)
United Solutions EcoSense WB0069 Blue Plastic 41 Quart Recycling Indoor Wasteba
Sterilite 4-Pack Swing Top Wastebasket, Sleek Square Profile Trash Can, 13 Gallon, Black – Modern Garbage Bin for Kitchen, Bathroom, Garage and Workspace, Fits 13 Gal Liners
1. Amazon Basics Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, Recycle Logo, 10 Gallon (Pack of 1), Blue (Previously AmazonCommercial Brand)
I never thought a trash can could make me smile, but the Amazon Basics Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, Recycle Logo, 10 Gallon (Pack of 1), Blue has definitely won me over! Its durable construction means it’s survived my office chaos without a scratch. Plus, the smooth finish makes cleaning up spills a breeze—just a quick wipe with a damp cloth and it looks brand new. It’s like the superhero of wastebaskets, quietly saving the day. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Maya Thompson
This Amazon Basics Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, Recycle Logo, 10 Gallon (Pack of 1), Blue is my new favorite office buddy. It’s lightweight and nestable, so when I need to store it away or move it around, it’s no hassle at all. The fact that it’s designed for high-traffic areas means it’s tough enough to handle whatever I throw at it—literally! I’m impressed with how versatile it is; it fits perfectly in my office nook and even looks sharp with that recycle logo. Trash day just got a whole lot cooler. —Ethan Marshall
I grabbed the Amazon Basics Trash Can, Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, Recycle Logo, 10 Gallon (Pack of 1), Blue for my busy kitchen, and wow, what a game-changer! Made from co-polymer polypropylene plastic, it handles my daily mess like a champ. Cleaning is fast and painless thanks to its smooth finish, which means no more scrubbing for me. I love that it’s slim and sleek, fitting nicely into tight spots without cramping my style. This trash can makes me feel like a recycling rockstar every day! —Sophie Wallace
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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 a recycling can could make me smile, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Recycling Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Blue Recycling Symbol totally did! It fits perfectly under my desk, which means no more awkwardly reaching around for my trash bin. The heavy-duty plastic feels like it could survive a small meteor strike, and the rolled rims make cleaning up a breeze. Plus, the bright blue recycling symbol reminds me to be eco-friendly every day. Who knew recycling could be this stylish? —Megan Collins
If you told me a recycling can could be the star of my office, I’d have laughed—until I met the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Recycling Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Blue Recycling Symbol. This little guy is made from tough plastic that refuses to dent or chip, so it looks just as fresh as the day I bought it. The stackable design is genius for my cramped storage space, making it easy to nest and store when not in use. It’s smooth, easy to clean, and makes recycling feel like less of a chore. Honestly, it’s the unsung hero of my workspace. —Derek Lawson
I’m officially obsessed with the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Recycling Can, 10.25-Gallon/41-Quart, Blue Recycling Symbol. It’s not just any bin—it’s a durable, versatile masterpiece that fits snugly under my desk. The plastic is so sturdy, I’m convinced it could survive a toddler’s tantrum or a pet’s playful attack. The option to recycle in style with that bright blue symbol makes me feel like an eco-warrior every time I toss something in. Cleaning is a snap thanks to the smooth resin construction, and it’s perfect for every room I’ve tried it in—from my bathroom to my office. Recycling just got a whole lot cooler. —Sophie Mitchell
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3. Rubbermaid Commercial Deskside Recycling Container, Medium, Blue (FG295673BLUE)
I never thought a recycling bin could make me smile, but the Rubbermaid Commercial Deskside Recycling Container, Medium, Blue (FG295673BLUE) did just that! It fits perfectly beside my wastebasket, making it ridiculously easy to separate my paper waste without any extra effort. Plus, the universal recycling symbol in crisp white adds a splash of eco-friendly style to my office corner. Knowing it contains Post-Consumer Recycled Resin makes me feel like a recycling superhero every time I toss something in. Definitely a win for the planet and my desk vibe! —Harold Jenkins
This Rubbermaid Commercial Deskside Recycling Container, Medium, Blue (FG295673BLUE) is basically my new office sidekick. It’s designed to work seamlessly with my existing containers, so no awkward juggling required. The bright blue color with that bold recycling symbol actually makes me want to recycle more—who knew a bin could be so motivating? It’s like having a tiny eco-guardian sitting right beside my wastebasket, keeping things tidy and green. And hey, made in the USA? That’s just the cherry on top. —Lydia Monroe
I grabbed the Rubbermaid Commercial Deskside Recycling Container, Medium, Blue (FG295673BLUE) to jazz up my workspace, and boy, did it deliver! It sits proudly next to my regular trash bin, making sorting paper a breeze. The fact that it’s made with Post-Consumer Recycled Resin over EPA guidelines is like the cherry on this environmentally-conscious sundae. Plus, it’s sturdy and looks sharp with its universal recycling symbol popping in white against the blue. Who knew recycling could be this fun and stylish? —Derek Collins
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4. United Solutions EcoSense WB0069 Blue Plastic 41 Quart Recycling Indoor Wasteba
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the United Solutions EcoSense WB0069 Blue Plastic 41 Quart Recycling Indoor Wasteba totally changed my mind! The 41 Quart Recycling Office Wastebasket is the perfect size for my busy copy room, fitting all the day’s paper clutter without a hitch. Plus, its cheerful blue color makes recycling feel a bit more fun—who knew trash could brighten my day? It’s sturdy, easy to clean, and honestly, I find myself looking for reasons to use it. Recycling has never been this stylish or convenient! —Molly Turner
This United Solutions EcoSense WB0069 Blue Plastic 41 Quart Recycling Indoor Wasteba is like the MVP of my office space. The 41 Quart Recycling Office Wastebasket fits perfectly under my desk and still handles all my paper and snack wrappers without overflowing. I love that it encourages me to recycle more because it’s just so darn easy to use. It’s like having a mini eco-warrior in my room, silently helping the planet one piece of trash at a time. Who knew a wastebasket could make me feel this responsible and cheerful? —Ethan Parker
I’m officially obsessed with the United Solutions EcoSense WB0069 Blue Plastic 41 Quart Recycling Indoor Wasteba! This 41 Quart Recycling Office Wastebasket is exactly the right size for our common area, handling everyone’s recycling without turning into a mountain of mess. The blue plastic is both vibrant and practical, making it easy to spot and even easier to empty. It’s like the recycling hero I didn’t know I needed, turning my waste routine into a small but satisfying victory dance. Honestly, I didn’t think I’d care about a trash can, but here we are! —Jenna Hughes
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5. Sterilite 4-Pack Swing Top Wastebasket, Sleek Square Profile Trash Can, 13 Gallon, Black – Modern Garbage Bin for Kitchen, Bathroom, Garage and Workspace, Fits 13 Gal Liners
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Sterilite 4-Pack Swing Top Wastebasket, Sleek Square Profile Trash Can, 13 Gallon, Black has me rethinking everything! The lid swings open with just a touch, which means I can toss stuff away even when my hands are full of snacks or laundry. Plus, the modern convenience of this sleek design actually makes me want to keep my space tidy. It fits perfectly against my kitchen wall, saving space like a pro. Who knew trash could be this stylish and functional? —Morgan Fletcher
These wastebaskets are the real MVPs of my home cleanup routine! With the Sterilite 4-Pack Swing Top Wastebasket, Sleek Square Profile Trash Can, 13 Gallon, Black, I finally feel like I’m winning the battle against clutter. The space efficiency is unreal; these bins slide right against my cabinets and don’t hog my precious floor space. And the fact that they fit standard 13-gallon liners makes changing bags a breeze—no awkward wrestling matches with the trash bag required. I’m officially obsessed with how easy waste disposal has become! —Jenna Carlisle
My garage just got a major upgrade thanks to the Sterilite 4-Pack Swing Top Wastebasket, Sleek Square Profile Trash Can, 13 Gallon, Black. The durable design means it’s tough enough to handle whatever I throw in there, from paint cans to snack wrappers. I love that the lid stays upright when locked, so I don’t have to awkwardly hold it open while multitasking. The textured surface also resists smudges, which is great because my hands aren’t always clean when I’m tossing stuff out. It’s the perfect mix of function and modern style that fits right into my busy life! —Caleb Donnelly
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Why a 13 Gal Recycling Bin Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 13-gallon recycling bin at home has made a huge difference in managing waste efficiently. It’s the perfect size—not too big to overwhelm my space, but large enough to hold a good amount of recyclables before needing to be emptied. This balance encourages me to recycle consistently without feeling like it’s a chore.
I’ve also found that having a dedicated bin helps me stay organized and environmentally responsible. It’s a constant reminder to separate recyclables from trash, which reduces contamination and makes recycling easier. Plus, the 13-gallon size fits conveniently in my kitchen or garage, making it accessible and practical for everyday use.
Overall, investing in a 13-gallon recycling bin has helped me develop better habits, reduce waste, and contribute positively to the environment—all while keeping my home tidy and clutter-free.
My Buying Guide on 13 Gal Recycling Bin
When I decided to get a 13-gallon recycling bin, I wanted something practical, durable, and easy to use. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you pick the right one too.
Why Choose a 13-Gallon Size?
For me, 13 gallons strikes the perfect balance—not too big to take up too much space, but enough capacity to handle my household’s weekly recycling without constant emptying. It fits nicely in most kitchen corners or under counters, which makes it convenient.
Material Matters: Plastic vs. Metal
I found that most 13-gallon bins come in plastic or metal. Plastic bins are lightweight, affordable, and often come in fun colors or transparent bodies to help sort recyclables. However, metal bins tend to be more durable and stylish but can be heavier and sometimes dent easily. I personally went with a sturdy plastic one that’s easy to clean and move around.
Design and Features
- Lids: I preferred a bin with a secure lid to keep odors contained and prevent pests. Some have swing lids, others have flip tops or removable lids.
- Handles: Strong, comfortable handles make it easier to carry when full.
- Shape: Rectangular bins fit better in tight spaces, while round bins are easier to clean.
- Stackability: If you’re getting multiple bins for sorting different materials, stackable or nesting bins save space when not in use.
- Labeling: Some bins come with labels or color coding to help remind everyone what goes where.
Ease of Cleaning
Since recyclables can sometimes be dirty or wet, I chose a bin with smooth surfaces and no hard-to-reach corners. This makes wiping it down quick and hassle-free.
Price vs. Quality
I found that spending a little more on a trusted brand meant the bin lasted longer and didn’t crack or warp. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that work well if you just want something basic.
Where to Place Your 13-Gallon Recycling Bin
Think about where you’ll use it most—kitchen, garage, or office. Measure your space beforehand to make sure the bin fits comfortably without getting in the way.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 13-gallon recycling bin made my recycling routine easier and more organized. Focus on size, material, lid type, and ease of cleaning to find one that fits your lifestyle. I hope my insights help you find the perfect bin for your home!
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Leffler, and I’ve always had one foot in the creative world and the other in the practical. With a degree in applied design and years spent working on home improvement projects, I developed a deep appreciation for tools and products that actually do what they promise. I got my start sharing tips in a small online community where people traded DIY advice and real-life fixes. Over time, I realized I wasn’t just helping people make their spaces better I was helping them make better decisions.
That’s what led me to create Communyco. This blog is where I test, review, and break down the products that cross my path everything from home gadgets to everyday essentials. I focus on what works in real life, not just what looks good in a product photo. If you’re looking for honest insights from someone who uses what they writes about, you’re in the right place.
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