The best kitchen step trash cans are designed to make your life easier without much thought. They should blend seamlessly into your kitchen, securely hold trash bags, prevent odors, and operate effortlessly with a durable pedal. After testing 13 top models, the Kohler 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can earned the top spot for its soft-close lid, wide pedal, inner bin for easy cleaning, and smudge-resistant surface. If you’re a fan of Simplehuman, the Simplehuman Rectangular Step Can is another excellent option, almost taking first place but falling just short due to Kohler’s added convenience of not requiring proprietary bags. Whether you want a sleek design, soft-close lids, dual-bin models for recycling, or options that hide trash bags, our top picks balance aesthetics and practicality. These step-on trash cans are built to last, with thoughtful features that make them stand out, ensuring your kitchen stays fresh and functional.
Best Motion-Activated Kitchen Trash Can
A Can That Offers Multiple Ways To Open, Hands- And Feet-Free
| Brand | simplehuman |
| Capacity | 58 Liters |
| Color | Black Stainless Steel |
| Opening Mechanism | Motion-Sensor |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Special Feature | Quiet Close, Sensor, Automatic |
Best Simplehuman Trash Can
A Smartly Designed Trash Can
| Brand | simplehuman |
| Capacity | 45 Liters |
| Color | Plastic Lid |
| Opening Mechanism | Step-On |
| Material | brushed stainless steel with plastic lid |
| Special Feature | Soft Close, Dent Resistant, Portable, Sturdy, Pedal, Motion Sensor, Dual Compartment, Quiet Close |
Best Kitchen Trash Can Overall
Sleek, Functional And Easy To Use
| Brand | KOHLER |
| Capacity | 13 Gallons |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Opening Mechanism | Step-On |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Indoor |
| Room Type | Kitchen |
| Special Feature | Quiet Close |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Finish Type | Stainless Steel |
Best Dual-Compartment Trash Can
A Neat, Sturdy Two-In-One Option
| Brand | Rubbermaid |
| Capacity | 10.5 Gallons |
| Color | Blue, Black, Grey |
| Opening Mechanism | Step-On |
| Material | Stainless Steel, Metal |
| Special Feature | Dual Compartment, Fingerprint Resistant, Quiet Close, Lockable |
Best Aesthetic Trash Can
A Pleasant-Looking Trash Can That Comes In Fun Colors
| Brand | Brabantia |
| Capacity | 1.3 Gallons |
| Color | White |
| Opening Mechanism | Step-On |
| Material | Alloy Steel, Plastic |
| Room Type | Restroom, Bathroom, Toilet |
| Special Feature | Soft-Closing Lid, Removable Inner Bucket, Non-Slip/Non-Scratch Base, Easy Clean Removable Bucket |
Best Value Kitchen Trash Can
A Functional Can Whose Design Makes It Look More Expensive Than It Is
| Brand | Rubbermaid |
| Capacity | 13 Gallons |
| Color | Charcoal |
| Opening Mechanism | Step-On |
| Material | Resin |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Office, Garage, Kitchen, Bathroom, Home |
| Room Type | Garage, Kitchen, Bathroom, Home Office, Dining Room |
| Special Feature | Step-On |
| Special Feature | Step-On |
Best Overall
Amazon Basics 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Trash Can with Foot Pedal
| Brand | Amazon Basics |
| Capacity | 13 Gallons |
| Color | Satin Nickel |
| Opening Mechanism | Open-Top, Step-On |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Special Feature | Quiet Close |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Finish Type | Brushed |
Best Design
Brabantia Bo Touch Top Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can
| Brand | Brabantia |
| Capacity | 9 Gallons |
| Color | Pine Green |
| Opening Mechanism | Press-Top |
| Material | Plastic, Steel |
| Special Feature | Non-Scratch/Slip base, Ideal for waste separation, Large opening, Light touch opening, Soft-closing |
Best value
FDW 13 Gallon Kitchen Step Trash Can
| Brand | FDW |
| Capacity | 13 Gallons |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Opening Mechanism | Step-On |
| Material | Stainless Steel, Polypropylene |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Indoor |
| Room Type | Kitchen, Home Office |
| Special Feature | Odor Seal |
| Shape | Oval |
| Finish Type | Brushed |
1. Simplehuman Voice And Motion Rectangular Sensor Can
Motion-activated trash cans often cause frustration with unreliable sensors, making kitchen step trash cans a more dependable and cost-effective choice. They require no power and are always ready to use. However, if you prefer a sensor can, the Simplehuman Voice and Motion Rectangular Sensor Can is your best option. It features voice control, dual power sources (plug-in or battery), and a fingerprint-resistant surface, combining convenience with smart technology. For hands-free operation, it’s a solid alternative to traditional step-on cans.
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2. Simplehuman Rectangular Step Can
The Simplehuman Rectangular Step Can stands out for its sleek, user-friendly design and is a favorite among experts for its long-lasting durability. While it narrowly missed being named the best kitchen trash can due to its reliance on proprietary bags and the lack of an inner bin, its thoughtful features make it a strong contender. The extra-long pedal ensures effortless operation, even when your hands are full, while the built-in bag caddy and odor-absorbing puck add convenience and freshness. Though the can’s shape may leave a gap if placed against a wall, its stylish appearance and 10-year warranty make it a top choice for those who value both form and function.
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3. Kohler 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can
The Kohler 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can is an excellent balance of functionality and durability. Its hands-free pedal opens and closes smoothly, making it easy to use, while the rectangular shape ensures it fits neatly beside kitchen counters without awkward protrusions. The single-piece pedal design prevents the issues often found with other mechanisms, adding to its reliability.
This trash can is compatible with any 13-gallon bags and features a removable inner bin, simplifying clean-ups in case of spills. The sturdy construction even survived a minor drop with just a small, easily fixed dent, showcasing its resilience. Additionally, the Kohler is available in seven colors, including matte black and white with copper accents, allowing it to blend effortlessly with any kitchen decor.
While it resists smudges better than expected for stainless steel, any marks clean off easily. Available in both 13-gallon and 8-gallon sizes, it fits a variety of needs, and with a 10-year warranty, it’s built to last. Though it’s pricier than some alternatives, its durability and smooth performance make it worth the investment.
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4. Rubbermaid Elite Waste and Recycling Step Trash Can
The Rubbermaid Elite Waste and Recycling Step-On Trash Can offers a practical and stylish solution for sorting waste, whether it’s trash and recycling or compost. Among the dual-bin options I tested, this model stood out for its functionality and sleek appearance. The step pedal conveniently opens both bins at once, eliminating the hassle of individual pedals for each compartment.
The interior bins are designed for easy removal and cleaning, ensuring maintenance is a breeze. The exterior features stainless steel, which does show fingerprints and smudges, but a quick wipe easily restores its shine. Available in two sizes—10.5 gallons and 15.9 gallons—this can allows you to choose the best fit for your kitchen and waste disposal needs. I tested the larger 15.9-gallon model, which has a more spacious trash bin compared to the recycling bin, a practical feature for households that generate more trash than recyclables. Overall, the Rubbermaid Elite combines efficiency and aesthetics, making it a top choice for waste sorting.
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5. Brabantia New Icon on Step Trash Can
The Brabantia NewIcon Pedal Bin is a stylish choice for those wanting a statement piece in their kitchen. Its round design fits snugly into corners, making it ideal for small spaces. Available in various colors—from muted champagne and matte stainless steel to vibrant shades like pine green and royal blue—it adds personality while complementing your decor.
The sturdy construction features a removable inner bin for easy cleaning and a user-friendly pedal for hands-free operation. While it works with any trash bag, its smaller size requires 8-gallon bags instead of the standard 13-gallon ones. The Brabantia NewIcon perfectly blends functionality with flair, making it a standout option for waste disposal.
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6. Rubbermaid Premier Series IV Step-On Trash Can
The Rubbermaid Premier Series IV Step-On Trash Can is a reliable option under $100. Made from sturdy plastic, it offers good durability without tipping over, unlike many budget models. Its dark stainless steel-finished lid mimics pricier cans, while the matte exterior resists smudges and fingerprints.
Though it lacks an inner bin, the interior ring keeps trash bags secure, preventing slipping. A lid lock adds safety for homes with pets or small children, and the long foot pedal allows for smooth, hands-free operation with a gentle closing mechanism.
Compatible with standard 13-gallon kitchen trash bags, this can fits them perfectly without overflow. While it has fewer color and size options compared to higher-end models, it delivers solid performance and features for an excellent price.
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7. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can
We were impressed with the weight and construction of this Amazon Basics trash can. It’s easy to maneuver without shifting when opening or closing the lid. The foot pedal operates smoothly, allowing the lid to rise quickly and effortlessly—unlike some models that tend to stick or fail to respond. The lid seals tightly, effectively containing odors and allowing us to wait until it’s full before emptying. Plus, its slow-closing mechanism ensures that your hands have ample time to move away once you release the pedal.
The removable interior bin makes cleanup a breeze, preventing leaks and allowing for separate cleaning. After pulling it out, you can easily wipe down the exterior. While the outer surface is designed to be smudge-resistant, it is not entirely smudge-proof, so occasional cleaning may be necessary. Overall, this trash can combines functionality and convenience, making it a solid choice for any kitchen.
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8. Brabantia Bo Touch Top Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can
With a design reminiscent of mid-century modern decor, the Brabantia bin is one of the most aesthetically pleasing options on the market, available in several chic matte colors. Despite initial concerns about the stability of its thin legs, we found the entire unit to be sturdy and functional.
Opening the bin requires just a gentle press on the top, and it remains open until you tap it to close. The unit features two removable bins: a larger one for trash and a smaller one for recycling. While it’s easy to pull out full trash bags, you’ll need to remove the entire top of the bin to do so. One standout feature is the color-coded bags, making it simple to grab the right one for each compartment without thinking twice. Overall, this Brabantia bin beautifully combines style and practicality, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
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9. FDW 13 Gallon Kitchen Step Trash Can
This stainless steel bin offers the look of a high-end model at a more accessible price point. It features a soft-closing lid and a generous opening, making it easy to add and remove trash, even with bulkier items. The pedal is straightforward and functional, providing a wider stepping surface than many other bins, which we appreciated during testing.
While the pedal is responsive, it doesn’t slam the lid against the wall, ensuring a gentle close every time. We did notice slight movement with repeated use, but it remained stable overall. Like our Best Overall pick, this bin includes a removable interior container for easy cleaning and leak prevention. Although we encountered some occasional snagging of trash bags on the lid, they never tore or leaked. Plus, this bin doesn’t require custom bags, making it a budget-friendly choice for your kitchen.
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How I Tested the Best Kitchen Trash Cans
To determine the best kitchen trash cans, I evaluated 13 different options through a series of comprehensive tests.
1. Appearance and Build Quality
I first assessed the overall appearance and feel of each can. I checked for sturdiness—did it feel solid or flimsy? I also examined the exterior for susceptibility to smudging and fingerprints, as well as how well it fit into various kitchen spaces. Additionally, I noted whether the can offered multiple size and color options.
2. Bag Compatibility and Retention
Next, I tested how well each can held standard 13-gallon trash bags, specifically Amazon Basics bags. I secured the bags using the can’s provided mechanisms and dropped a gallon jug of water into the bottom to see if the weight caused the bag to tear or sag.
3. Odor Control
To evaluate odor control, I placed three bags of natural rodent repellent—an extremely pungent substance—inside each can and closed the lid. While all cans effectively trapped odors during this test, it didn’t yield definitive results regarding their overall odor retention capabilities.
4. Ease of Use
I also examined how easy it was to open each can with full hands, simulating a typical kitchen scenario. This involved carrying a can of chickpeas and attempting to open the lid without using my hands. I evaluated how easily each can could be cleaned, looking for fingerprints and testing how simply they could be wiped away. I also considered the convenience of having an inner bin for easier cleaning, especially in the event of a ripped bag.
5. Removing Trash Bags
Finally, I tested the process of removing trash bags from each bin, looking for any potential pain points or difficulties.
Through this thorough evaluation process, I identified the best trash cans that excelled in functionality, ease of use, and aesthetic appeal.
How to Pick the Right Trash Can for Your Kitchen
Choosing the right trash can involves considering how you use your kitchen and your garbage disposal habits. Interior designer Lesley Myrick emphasizes that ease of use and aesthetic appeal are paramount. Here are key factors to keep in mind:
Size
Most kitchen trash cans typically hold 13 gallons, but your needs may vary. A smaller can may encourage you to take out the trash more frequently, which can help prevent odors. For example, some users find that a smaller bin, despite being less convenient, ultimately keeps their kitchen smelling fresher by forcing more regular disposal.
Shape
Trash cans come in various shapes—rectangular, square, oval, and round. The shape you choose should fit your kitchen’s layout. Myrick prefers pullout drawer-style cans, but if that’s not feasible, a free-standing can with a foot pedal is a great option. Cylindrical cans fit well in corners, while rectangular or oblong models can tuck neatly at the end of a countertop or island.
Opening Mechanism
Trash cans differ in how they open, impacting convenience and hygiene. Step-pedal bins are favored for their hands-free operation and effective odor control. Alternatives include sensor-activated lids, touch-top lids, butterfly-opening lids, and traditional lids that must be manually removed. Choose an opening mechanism that aligns with your trash disposal habits.
Ease of Use
Consider how you plan to use your trash can. Do you need a lid that locks to keep pets or children out? Would a lid that stays open be more practical for dumping larger amounts of trash? Additionally, think about whether a dual-compartment can for sorting waste would be beneficial for your household. Lastly, if smudges are a concern, look for a smudge-proof exterior.
Ultimately, the best trash can for your kitchen is one that fits your space and complements your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size trash can is best for a kitchen? How many gallons is a standard kitchen trash can?
Kitchen trash cans typically range from 12 to 16 gallons. According to chef Nicole Gaffney, “The best size really depends on your family size, kitchen space, and how often you cook or eat at home. Smaller cans are usually better because they prevent trash from piling up, which can lead to odors. If you compost and recycle, you may even get away with a smaller size.”
Where should you put a trash can in the kitchen?
Gaffney advises placing the trash can as close to your prep area or sink as possible. This makes it easily accessible during food preparation and cleanup, allowing you to quickly dispose of scraps before washing dishes—especially useful if you don’t have a garbage disposal.
How do you clean a kitchen trash can?
To clean a kitchen trash can, start by removing any rubbish and debris. Use hot, soapy water along with a disinfectant to eliminate odors and bacteria, then wipe it down with a microfiber cloth. For a deeper clean, mix baking soda with water and scrub both the interior and exterior. Rinse thoroughly and dry before replacing the liner. For a quick clean, Amanda Wiss, founder of Urban Clarity, recommends using antibacterial wipes. If you have a metal can, stainless steel cleaners can help keep it shiny and remove fingerprints and dust.
How can you hide a trash can in the kitchen?
If you prefer to keep your trash can out of sight, consider placing it in an empty cabinet, such as under the sink, or in a closet or pantry. This helps maintain a tidy kitchen aesthetic while keeping the trash accessible.
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