Cleanzine: your weekly cleaning and hygiene industry newsletter 29th October 2026 Issue no. 1232
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Rubbermaid's 34-gallon Brute earns 2026 Pro Tool Innovation Award
Rubbermaid Commercial Products' Brute 34-gallon Trash Can with Lid has received a 2026 Pro Tool Innovation Award (PTIA) in the Disposal category.
The recognition builds on nearly six decades of Brute innovation and honours the latest evolution of a brand trusted across commercial and jobsite environments since 1968. The redesigned container combines increased capacity with features that improve lifting, emptying, transport, and liner changes for professionals.
The judges' comments read:
"The Rubbermaid BRUTE 34-gallon Trash Can provides two more gallons than standard 32-gallon containers. I wish every trash can had the full-grip bottom handle on this model that really helps when lifting and dumping heavy loads. Judges also loved the integrated liner cinches which help secure bags and make them faster to replace. An integrated venting-channel design also reduces suction, letting you remove liners more easily and quickly. This can is built to last."
Clint DeBoer, general manager for the PTIA, says:
"Each year, the Pro Tool Innovation Awards honour those products that shake up the industry and carve new pathways for performance, ergonomics, features, and value.
"We are thrilled to see the level of innovation this year continue to make often dramatic strides. This awards program showcases just how much product development is leveraging new technologies and manufacturing efficiencies to make a real impact for consumers."
The latest redesign carries Brute's legacy of innovation forward by addressing everyday pain points around capacity, lifting, emptying, liner changes, and transporting long-handled tools.
Robert Posthauer, president, commercial segment of Newell Brands, (of which Rubbermaid Commercial is a part) says:
"This recognition reflects our commitment to designing products around the needs of the people who do essential work every day. The 34-gallon Brute builds on an icon professionals have trusted for decades, pairing proven durability with thoughtful innovations that make demanding jobs easier. We are proud to continue evolving Brute around the real needs of professionals."
The 34-gallon Brute delivers a true 34-gallon capacity, two gallons more than standard 32-gallon containers, helping users collect more waste before emptying. A full-grip bottom handle and foot hold improve lifting and emptying. Integrated liner cinches and venting channels simplify liner changes, while the QuickClip system helps transport long-handled tools alongside the container.
Engineered to resist cracking, crushing, and warping, the container retains the reinforced base, ribbed rim, and robust handles associated with Brute durability and is backed by a 10-year limited warranty.
29th October 2026