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RV trash cans might not be your top priority when outfitting your rig, but they should be. After all, if you choose the wrong one, everyone will notice. But if you choose the right one, nobody will see.
It will simply do its job without causing a fuss. And you and your family will only smell the burgers grilling and not last night’s leftovers in the trash.
Where Should You Put Your Trash Can in Your RV?
And that leads us to the critical question of where to put these inconspicuous RV trash cans.
It needs to be easily reachable yet not underfoot. We all know that RVs have limited space, and many don’t have a space explicitly meant for trash. Or recycling, for that matter.
So, where is the best place to put your trash can in the RV? Some people like to put it outside, but you have to worry about animals getting into it.
Others store their trash cans in the bathroom, but you must worry about the smell. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide where to put your trash can, but here are a few things to keep in mind.
Think about where you’ll be doing most of your cooking and spending most of your time. If you’re spending a lot of time in the kitchen, you’ll want to keep your trash can nearby so it’s easy to access.
Storing a small trash bin there may work if you have space under a cabinet or sink. A better option for you might be a trash basket hanging over a lower kitchen cabinet.
If you’re more likely to be cooking and spending time outside, a collapsible bin or bag holder could be the best option for you instead.
Wherever you decide to put your trash can, just make sure that it’s not in the way and won’t create any problems for you or your RV. A well-placed trash can is functional and noticed only when needed.
What Is the Average Size of an RV Trash Can?
The average size of an RV trash can will vary depending on your and your household’s needs.
However, most RV trash cans are between 10 and 20 gallons. Some are larger, with a capacity of up to 30 gallons, and some are as small as two gallons.
When shopping for an RV trash can, consider your household size and how often you’ll need to empty it. You’ll need to unload it more often if it is too small.
On the other hand, if it is too large, it may take up too much space in your RV. Don’t ponder too long, though.
While you may have to try out a few to get the right size, in the end, it’s less about the trash can and more about the fun you’re having while filling it up.
Best RV Trash Cans for Any Sized Rig
Whether you have a small RV or a super-size one, finding the proper trash can that fits the space while still being functional can be challenging.
But with many different types of RV trash cans on the market, you’ll find the one that’s right for you.
It might be collapsible or heavy-duty. Or it might hang over a cabinet door, or it could be freestanding. It might even be a kit with a toilet brush hidden inside.
Check out these best RV trash cans to get you started on the best one for your trash needs.
10-Gallon Wastebasket
- 10 gallon wastebasket for use in commercial environments
- Appropriate for offices, public spaces, restaurants, schools, hospitals, and other high-traffic areas
Size: 10 Gallon
Perfect For: Large RVs, Small RVs, RV bathrooms, Outdoor RV Kitchens, etc.
About: If you’re looking for high-quality and affordable RV trash cans, look no further than this 10-gallon one.
This durable and reliable RV trash can is perfect for everyday use and comes in black, gray, or blue with the recycle logo. It’s made from durable polypropylene, weighs just under three pounds, and measures 15.5 inches long by 11.5 inches wide by 19.75 inches high.
It’s also stackable for easy storage and portability. Plus, at about $20, it’s an excellent value for your money.
Pop-Up Recycle Bin
- Zip closure keeps wasps and insects away
- Made of heavy-duty polyethylene fabric
Size: From 14-33 Gallons
Perfect For: Large RVs, Small RVs, RV bathrooms, Outdoor RV Kitchens, etc.
About: Looking for an easy way to recycle and store your trash on the go? Check out the pop-up recycle bin.
One of these 33-gallon RV trash cans is perfect for when you’re moving and need a place to stash trash and recyclables.
Simply spring it open when you need it and fold it to just 1 inch high when you’re finished. The zippered top lid ensures that odors stay in and bugs stay out.
Plus, stake it down for extra security. And if 33 gallons is too much for you, there are a variety of sizes from which to choose. So grab one or more for all your indoor and outdoor recycling and trash needs.
Pro Tip: Once your trash situation is under control, it’s time for a good cleaning. Check out the RV Cleaning Products Every Experienced RVer Owns!
1.5-Gallon Small Trash Can
- COMPACT DESIGN: This rectangular trash can features built-in handles and is the perfect size for storing inside...
- PORTABLE: The built-in handles make this garbage bin easy to transport from room-to-room as needed; Ideal of emptying...
Size: 1.5 Gallons
Perfect For: Small RVs and RV bathrooms
About: If you’re looking for a sleek and slender trash can that’s perfect for small spaces, the slim plastic mDesign trash can is for you.
This stylish little wastebasket is made of durable shatter-resistant plastic and features an open top with handles for easy access.
It’s perfect for storing inside cabinets, under counters, or anywhere else you need to tuck it away in the RV.
It comes in various colors to match any decor and measures 10.75 inches long by 5 inches wide by 10 inches high. mDesign made this trash can with RVs in mind.
Hanging Trash Can with Lid
- ❤【New Design】 The trash cans hanging above the cabinet doors save you from having to walk next to the large trash...
- ❤【Flexible Installation】 Provide two installation methods: door hanging + wall-mounted, suitable for most cabinet...
Size: 2.37 Gallons
Perfect For: Small RVs
About: This door-mounted trash can is perfect for hanging directly under the sink to catch food scraps and other garbage. The lid seals to reduce odors and prevent spills, and it can hold typical garbage bags or grocery store plastic bags.
Plus, it can be hung or freestanding on the floor, making it super easy to use in any space, especially small RVs.
Stainless Steel Trash Bag Holder
- Hang on the kitchen door, cabinet door, pantry door, or anywhere else. Great for kitchens, laundry rooms, utility rooms,...
- Environmentally friendly: Works great with reusable grocery bags. Big opening makes it easy to fill. Spend less time...
Size: Holds up to 11 pounds of trash
Perfect For: Small RVs and Outdoor RV Kitchens
About: Like most people, the last thing you want in your RV is another smelly trash can. Try out this stainless steel trash bag holder instead. It’s perfect for holding those pesky cooking scraps, tissue, and laundry lint using grocery store plastic bags.
Plus, it can hang on any door in your kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom, making it easy to access when needed and keeping trash bins out from underfoot.
Keep in Mind: Save space in your RV kitchen with some of these RV Storage Ideas!
Bathroom Trash Can and Toilet Brush Set
- 4 in 1 function: 1 removable bathroom trash can, 1 toilet brush and toilet brush holder, 1 tissue box and garbage bag...
- Removable trash can: The removable inner trash can is designed with a handle, easy to empty and clean. The garbage bag...
Size: 0.6 Gallons
Perfect For: RV bathrooms
About: Looking for the perfect way to keep your RV bathroom clean and tidy? Look no further than this fantastic bathroom trash can and toilet brush set.
This all-in-one set includes a compact trash can, tissue holder, and a toilet brush neatly tucked inside. The brush is uniquely angled for better cleaning and can be stored away quickly when not in use.
The narrow size of this set is only 2.8 inches wide, making it sleek and functional for any RV bathroom. Plus, the white design will look great with any decor.
Who said RV trash cans couldn’t be stylish?
Stormate Collapsible Garbage Bag Holder
- [VERSATILITY]: The Stormate Collapsible Garbage Bag Holder can be used in RVs, boats, cars and trucks, at home, or when...
- [CONVENIENCE]: Perfect combination between capacity and storability, the Garbage Bag Holder folds to a compact 14-1/2" x...
Size: 13 Gallons
Perfect For: Small RVs and Outdoor RV Kitchens
About: One of these collapsible RV trash cans is easy to store away when it’s time to hit the road but does the job nicely when it’s time for use. It’s perfect for any 13-gallon trash bag or bigger and comes with a lid to help keep odors out.
It’s great for indoor and outdoor use, making it a great addition to indoor and outdoor kitchens. Why not pick up two?
Camco Cabinet Mount Trash Can
- Ideal for Tight Spaces: Great for tight spaces in RVs, boats, dorms, kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms and other...
- Helps Save Space: Mounts to your wall, cabinet door or pantry door to help save space and stay in place while traveling
Size: 0.75 and 1.25 Gallons
Perfect For: Small RVs
About: Looking for a sleek and modern way to dispose of your trash while traveling? Look no further than the Cabinet Mount Trash Can.
This versatile RV trash can is perfect for small spaces like RVs and mounts easily to any wall, cabinet, or closet door using adhesives.
The swing top lid makes disposal quick and easy, and the can stays in place while you’re on the move.
Best of all, it’s affordable at around $20. Don’t let a little trash ruin your next road trip. Get yourself a Camco Cabinet Mount Trash Can.
Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can
Size: 23 Gallons
Perfect For: Large RVs
About: Just because you’re on the road doesn’t mean you don’t produce a lot of trash. And when you’re living in close quarters, you need a garbage can that won’t leak and can hold up to the task.
The Slim Jim Plastic Rectangular Trash/Garbage Can fills this need.
The open-top hard plastic design is functional and high quality, with ergonomic handles and heavy-duty construction. Plus, the narrow design fits easily into tight spaces.
One of these RV trash cans also has built-in venting channels, making removing trash bags easy without a fight. And if you need a lid, no problem; it can be purchased separately.
This trash can is perfect for those heavy-duty needs in large RVs.
Trailersphere Collapsible Bin
- TRASH / RECYCLE DIVIDER (removable): We make the only collapsible bin on the market that one side is for trash and the...
- LID STORAGE: Sophisticated design offers built-in storage at the lid for quick access to extra trash bags or small...
Size: 13 Gallons
Perfect For: Outdoor RV Kitchens
About: A multi-functional bin is necessary when traveling in an RV. The Trailersphere Collapsible Bin is just that tool.
Use it as a trash can, a recycle bin, or laundry storage. Whatever you use it for, know it will hold up to the task.
Made from waterproof and tear-resistant materials, it does the job required and easily stores away when not needed. It has an optional divider making this a perfect bin for use as a trash can and recycling container.
Stake it down when used outdoors, or use it freestanding indoors. With a zippered lid, it will also hold whatever you need. This RV trash can might just become your best friend.
Keep in Mind: Are you looking for a portable camping sink for your next camping trip? These are our top picks!
How to Keep Your RV Trash Can Fresh
One of the challenges of having an RV is keeping the trash can fresh. No matter how long you are parked or driving, the trash can start to smell.
You can do a few things to keep your RV trash cans fresh.
First, ensure you line the bottom of the can with a garbage bag. Lining it will help to keep any spills contained. Second, try to empty the trash every day or two.
If you let it go too long, the odor will become overpowering. Finally, consider adding a small amount of baking soda to the bottom of the trash can.
The powder will help to absorb any odors that do occur. Following these simple tips, you will keep your RV trash can fresh and smelling brand new.
Keep Reading: Loved these trash can options? Then check out The Best Camper Accessories for Inside Your RV to keep shopping!
Keep Your Trash Contained With a Reliable RV Trash Can
No one likes dealing with trash, but it’s a necessary part of life. If you’re living in an RV, you must be extra careful where you put your trash.
And now that you have many options for your RV trash needs, whatever you choose, your waste is handled in reliable RV trash cans.
Knowing that your trash will no longer be blowing in the wind, you can finally head out onto the open roads, wherever the wind may blow you.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
