8 Best Budget & Cheap Trash Cans to Buy in 2026

This sleek, space-savvy trash can punches well above its weight in both design and durability. With its patented screw-thread shape, the DAJITRE 1.8-gallon bin stands out with a modern flair that feels far more premium than its price suggests. The slim round profile makes it a hero in tight spots—sliding effortlessly behind toilets, under vanities, or between narrow cabinets—where bulkier bins simply won’t fit. Crafted from super-strong polypropylene, it resists dents and cracks while offering a smooth surface that wipes clean in seconds, solving the common pain point of grimy, stained plastic bins.

In real-world use, this can handles daily bathroom or desk waste without issue, though its 1.8-gallon capacity means frequent emptying if used in high-traffic areas like kitchens. The 7.8″ diameter and 10″ height strike a smart balance between footprint and function, making it ideal for apartments, dorms, or RVs where every inch counts. While it lacks a lid—so it won’t trap odors or keep pets out—it excels as a minimalist, no-fuss solution for dry or low-odor waste. It’s not built for heavy-duty disposal, but that’s not its purpose.

Compared to basic square bins like the ZXJ model, the DAJITRE offers a more distinctive, sculptural look that elevates a room’s aesthetic. It’s the go-to choice for renters or minimalists who want a durable, attractive bin without spending more. While the N. NETDOT pack includes lids and higher capacity, the DAJITRE wins on design innovation and space efficiency, delivering standout style in a market flooded with forgettable plastic cans.

Don’t let its ultra-affordable tag fool you—the ZXJ 1.8-gallon trash can delivers surprising resilience and clean-lined appeal. Built from shatter-defending plastic, this square bin shrugs off drops and dents, making it a rugged companion for high-traffic or kid-filled spaces. Its compact 7.8 x 6.5 x 9.5-inch footprint fits snugly in corners, under sinks, or beside nightstands, proving especially useful in dorms or tiny homes where space is at a premium. The smooth surface wipes clean in seconds, tackling the universal frustration of sticky, grimy bins with zero elbow grease.

During testing, the square design proved more stable than round counterparts, resisting tipping even when brushed against. The 1.8-gallon capacity handles daily paper, wrappers, or bathroom waste just fine, but it’s best suited for light-duty use—overflow is likely in kitchens or offices with heavy disposal needs. It performs admirably in dry areas, though its open top offers no defense against spills or smells. While it lacks visual flair compared to threaded or mesh designs, its modern, understated look blends seamlessly into offices, kids’ rooms, or guest bathrooms without drawing attention.

When stacked against the DAJITRE, the ZXJ trades design uniqueness for practicality and affordability. It’s not as stylish, but it’s rock-solid and budget-first—perfect for college students or landlords stocking multiple units. Though the UUJOLY offers color variety, the ZXJ’s durability and crisp geometry make it a smarter pick for those prioritizing function over form. It’s the workhorse of budget bins, offering reliable performance where it counts.

The UUJOLY 1.8-gallon trash can is a no-nonsense, highly adaptable bin that nails the essentials for small-space living. Its round shape and elevated bottom make it a standout for placement under sinks or between tight fixtures, where floor contact often leads to moisture damage—this design reduces wear and prolongs life. Made from chip-resistant, rust-proof plastic, it holds up to daily wear without cracking or staining, a common flaw in cheaper bins. The 7.8 x 6.5 x 10-inch dimensions offer a slim fit while maximizing vertical space, ideal for bathrooms or laundry nooks.

In real use, the bin handles routine disposal with ease, and its smooth interior allows for quick wipe-downs—no scrubbing needed. It’s perfect for cotton pads, tissue, or office paper, but like most open-top cans, it’s not suited for smelly kitchen waste. The lack of a lid means odors escape freely, and pets can easily access contents. However, its multi-color availability lets users match or accent their decor—something few budget bins offer. It’s a smart pick for renters, parents, or anyone needing multiple coordinated bins across rooms.

Compared to the ZXJ, the UUJOLY wins on design flexibility and elevated base, giving it a slight edge in longevity and fit. While it doesn’t have the DAJITRE’s patented look or the N. NETDOT’s odor control, it strikes a sweet spot between function and customization. For those who want a clean, durable bin that fits narrow gaps and comes in their preferred shade, the UUJOLY delivers practical value with a touch of personality—making it a top contender for compact, multi-room setups.

This trio of lidded warriors redefines what budget trash cans can do—offering odor control, pet resistance, and sleek style in one smart package. Each 2.6-gallon (10L) bin features a secure pop-up lid that snaps shut, effectively trapping smells and keeping curious cats or dogs out—a game-changer for pet owners tired of messy scatters. Made from premium-grade ABS plastic, these cans feel solid, resist cracks, and maintain a clean black finish that hides scratches and fingerprints. The slim 2.6-gallon profile fits neatly in bathrooms, under desks, or beside beds without crowding the room.

In daily use, the lids work smoothly, opening with a light tap and closing tightly to contain odors from damp wipes, diapers, or kitchen scraps. The 10-liter capacity is noticeably roomier than 1.8-gallon models, reducing emptying frequency. However, the pop-up mechanism can feel a bit stiff at first and may wear over time with heavy use. The smooth surfaces wipe clean easily, but the interior corners can trap residue if not lined with bags. Still, for high-moisture areas like bathrooms or laundry rooms, the sealed design is a major upgrade over open bins.

When compared to single open cans like the DAJITRE or ZXJ, the N. NETDOT pack offers far greater functionality and value per bin. It’s not as large as the Rubbermaid 10.25-gallon can, but it wins with lidded convenience and multi-room coverage. Ideal for families, pet owners, or anyone needing hygienic, odor-free disposal in multiple rooms, this set delivers premium features at a budget price, making it the most practical all-around upgrade from basic wastebaskets.

This 3-pack bundle with bonus accessories is a rare find in the budget bin world—delivering convenience, versatility, and peace of mind right out of the box. Each 1.8-gallon can features a distinctive threaded design that adds visual interest without sacrificing function, standing out from the sea of plain plastic bins. The thickened PP plastic feels sturdy, resisting dents and impacts—perfect for high-traffic homes or kid’s rooms. But the real win? Three included rolls of extra-thick garbage bags, solving the all-too-common problem of buying a bin only to realize you don’t have compatible liners.

In real-world testing, the cans performed reliably in bathrooms and offices, holding daily waste without leaking or warping. The round shape fits tight spaces, and the smooth interior makes cleaning a breeze—just rinse or wipe. Beyond trash, their multi-functional design shines: they double as toy bins, plant pots, or even shoe-washing basins, adding unexpected utility. However, like all open-top cans, they offer zero odor control, making them better for dry waste. The white finish also shows stains more easily than darker models.

Compared to the N. NETDOT pack, this set trades lids for accessories and adaptability. While it doesn’t seal smells, it offers greater creative use and included supplies—a major plus for new renters, college students, or organizers. The Lysam brand backs it with a 1-year warranty and 24-hour support, a rare touch in this price range. For those who want ready-to-use, multi-purpose bins with long-term support, this pack delivers unmatched bundle value and flexibility.

When big capacity meets rock-solid build, the Rubbermaid Commercial wastebasket stands tall—literally and figuratively. With a massive 10.25-gallon (41QT) capacity, this bin is built for high-traffic zones like offices, lobbies, or shared apartments where frequent emptying isn’t practical. Its heavy-duty plastic construction resists dents, chips, and peeling, surviving years of abuse in commercial settings—a rarity in budget cans. The rolled rim adds strength and ease of cleaning, while the stackable design allows for efficient storage when not in use, a feature most home bins ignore.

In real use, it fits neatly under most standard desks and vanities, defying expectations for such a large bin. The smooth resin surface wipes clean in seconds, resisting grime and odors when lined properly. It’s ideal for offices, basements, or laundry rooms where you need one bin to handle a day’s worth of paper, packaging, or laundry waste. However, its size makes it overkill for small bathrooms or nightstands, and the lack of a lid means odors can escape if used for kitchen scraps.

Against the N. NETDOT or DAJITRE, the Rubbermaid wins on raw durability and capacity, but sacrifices portability and odor control. While it doesn’t have a lid or modern styling, it’s the tank of budget bins—built to last in environments where flimsy plastic won’t cut it. For those needing a no-maintenance, high-volume solution under $15, this Made-in-USA workhorse offers unmatched long-term value and industrial-grade resilience.

The DUNCHATY 6.5-gallon mesh trash can is a breath of fresh air—literally—thanks to its ventilated, see-through design that combats odor and moisture buildup like no other. The rust-resistant metal mesh ensures longevity, even in damp areas like bathrooms or laundry rooms, where plastic bins often degrade. Its 6.5-gallon capacity offers ample space for daily waste, and the round 11.6″ x 13.4″ footprint fits neatly under desks or in corners. The open top allows for quick disposal, and the see-through body makes it easy to spot when it’s time to empty—no guessing games.

In practice, the airflow design excels at preventing musty smells, especially when used for paper, dry waste, or recyclables. It’s a top pick for home offices, craft rooms, or garages where ventilation matters. However, the open mesh isn’t suitable for wet or smelly trash, as liquids leak and odors escape freely. The metal construction is sturdy but can feel cold or industrial in cozy spaces. While it’s easy to wipe down, dust and lint can cling to the mesh, requiring more frequent cleaning than solid bins.

Compared to the Rubbermaid, the DUNCHATY trades capacity for smart airflow and modern aesthetics. It’s not as large, but it solves a unique problem: trapped moisture in storage areas. For those prioritizing odor prevention and durable, see-through design, this mesh can is a standout. It’s the ideal hybrid between function and form—delivering ventilation-focused performance in a market dominated by sealed, stagnant bins.

The Feiupe 2-pack brings double the function without doubling the footprint, making it a clever choice for those who need matched bins across multiple rooms. Each 1.6-gallon can is crafted from durable polypropylene that resists cracks and wipes clean effortlessly—perfect for bathrooms, offices, or beside beds. At 7.5″ x 7.5″ x 9.1″, they’re slightly smaller than 1.8-gallon models, but still spacious enough for daily dry waste. The round, minimalist design blends into any decor, offering a clean, modern look without flair or frills.

In real use, the pair works well as coordinated units—one in the bathroom, one in the home office—eliminating the mismatched bin problem. The lack of lids means no odor protection, but the smooth interiors make cleaning simple. While the capacity is modest, it’s sufficient for low-traffic areas. The real limitation? Sizing precision—the 1.6-gallon volume is slightly less than competitors, so it fills faster. Still, for renters or new homeowners setting up multiple rooms, the dual-pack convenience saves time and money.

Against the UUJOLY 3-pack, the Feiupe offers fewer units but better value per bin in a sleek black finish. It doesn’t include bags or have a threaded design, but it delivers consistent, no-fuss performance where it matters. For those who want a matched pair of durable, compact bins, the Feiupe set is a smart, space-conscious upgrade from single, generic wastebaskets.