Let’s face it, the kitchen trash can is the workhorse of your home. It handles everything from coffee grounds to sticky food packaging, and if it’s not up to the job, you’ll know it. A great trash can does more than just hold waste; it keeps odors contained, looks tidy, and makes your daily routine smoother.
This guide breaks down ten top-rated kitchen trash cans, each with unique strengths. Whether you prioritize hands-free operation, a quiet close, or a design that hides smudges, you’ll find clear, honest reviews to help you choose the right one for your space.
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EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Tra…
Best forHands-free hygiene
- Motion sensor lid
- Anti-fingerprint finish
ConsiderRequires batteries
SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can …
Best forQuiet step operation
- Built-in odor filter
- Quiet-close lid
ConsiderFilter needs replacement
EKO Madison Brushed Stainless Steel 13.2 Gal/50L Kitchen Step Trash Can or …
Best forDurable daily use
- Heavy-duty pedal
- Soft-close lid
ConsiderNo odor control
KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Ki…
Best forValue with bonus bags
- Includes 20 bags
- Sturdy ABS inner bucket
ConsiderNo odor filter
EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Tras…
Best forLarge households
- 20-gallon capacity
- Rear bag storage
ConsiderTakes up more floor space
BestOffice | 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid | Steel
Best forAutomatic touchless use
- Sensor lid operation
- Fingerprint-resistant
ConsiderBatteries not included
Glad Premium Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection, 13 Gallon, Black
Best forBuilt-in odor control
- Clorox odor protection
- Sturdy steel pedal
ConsiderPlastic body may scratch
Amazon Basics LARGE Trash Can, 13.2 Gallon (50L), Smudge Resistant Rectangu…
Best forBudget-friendly reliability
- Soft-close lid
- Removable inner bucket
ConsiderNo odor control
SONGMICS Trash Can, 13 Gallon (50 L), Stainless Steel, with Lid, Pedal
Best forStylish kitchen decor
- Elegant fluted design
- Soft-close lid
ConsiderNo odor filter
Ninestars 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can, 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Garbag…
Best forSpace-saving touchless
- Odor-sealing lid
- Fingerprint-resistant
ConsiderRequires batteries
EKO Mirage-T Touchless Sensor Trash Can – Seamless Hands-Free
Brand: EKO
A premium touchless option that combines hygiene, style, and extra capacity.
The EKO Mirage-T takes the hassle out of trash disposal with its premium motion sensor. You simply wave your hand, and the lid opens smoothly, making it perfect for when your hands are full or messy. The sensor is responsive, and the lid closes just as seamlessly, so you never have to touch the bin.
Its anti-fingerprint stainless steel finish is a standout feature, keeping the exterior looking clean and smudge-free even after heavy use. The no-liner design cleverly maximizes capacity by 25%, so you can fit more waste before needing a change. This touchless model is ideal for busy kitchens where hygiene and convenience are top priorities.
- Motion sensor lid
- Anti-fingerprint finish
- 25% more capacity
- Requires batteries
- Higher price point
SIMPLI-MAGIC 13.2 Gal Step Trash Can – Quiet and Filtered
Brand: SIMPLI-MAGIC
A quiet, filtered step can that balances function and freshness.
The SIMPLI-MAGIC step trash can is designed with everyday convenience in mind. Its quiet-close lid prevents slamming, which is a blessing in a busy kitchen. The durable metal foot pedal allows hands-free operation, and the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel keeps the exterior looking sharp without constant wiping.
A built-in odor filter holder is a thoughtful addition, helping to neutralize smells and keep your kitchen fresh. The removable plastic liner makes bag changes and cleaning a breeze, and the stay-open lid lock is handy for longer tasks. It’s a reliable, practical choice for any household.
- Built-in odor filter
- Quiet-close lid
- Removable liner
- Filter needs replacement
- Plastic liner may crack
EKO Madison Step Trash Can – Sturdy and Soft-Close
The EKO Madison is a heavy-duty step trash can built to last. Its rugged pedal mechanism is designed for years of daily use, and the bi-force damper ensures the lid opens and closes softly, preventing any annoying banging. The spacious 13.2-gallon capacity works well for both kitchen waste and recycling.
The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel construction is both durable and stylish, resisting smudges and keeping its sleek look. The removable inner liner simplifies emptying and cleaning, while the stay-open lid lock is a practical feature for when you’re doing a big clean-up. This is a solid, dependable choice.
- Heavy-duty pedal
- Soft-close lid
- Fingerprint-resistant
- No odor control
- Lid lock may wear
KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can – Sturdy with Bonus Bags
The KdbK 13-gallon trash can comes with a thoughtful bonus: 20 high-quality garbage bags, so you can start using it right away. The sturdy stainless steel construction with a brushed surface is both anti-fingerprint and easy to clean, maintaining a neat appearance.
The built-in bi-force damper allows for both automatic and manual closing, gently pulling the lid shut at a controlled pace to avoid slamming. The removable ABS inner bucket is strong and impact-resistant, adding to the bin’s durability. This is a practical, well-rounded option for any kitchen.
- Includes 20 bags
- Sturdy ABS inner bucket
- Soft-close lid
- No odor filter
- Pedal may feel stiff
EKO Hudson 20 Gallon Step Trash Can – Large Capacity with Storage
The EKO Hudson is a generously sized 20-gallon trash can that reduces the frequency of bag changes, making it ideal for large families or heavy kitchen use. Its fingerprint-resistant stainless steel construction is both stylish and practical, resisting smudges and keeping its sleek look.
A unique feature is the rear compartment designed to stash extra 13-gallon trash bags, keeping them tidy and within reach. The durable stainless steel foot pedal is built to last over 200,000 steps, ensuring long-term reliability. This is a high-capacity, well-thought-out solution for demanding kitchens.
- 20-gallon capacity
- Rear bag storage
- Durable pedal
- Takes up more floor space
- Heavier when full
BestOffice 13 Gallon Touchless Trash Can – Automatic and Hygienic
Brand: BestOffice
A hygienic, touchless bin that keeps hands clean and odors contained.
The BestOffice touchless trash can offers automatic, hygienic operation with its sensor lid that opens and closes on its own. This keeps your hands clean and ensures a noiseless, sanitary experience, which is especially useful when cooking or handling messy items.
Its modern, durable design features a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish and a sleek oval body that fits well in kitchens and bathrooms. Powered by 4 C batteries (not included), it supports over 40,000 openings for long-lasting use. The lid helps minimize odor, and the surface is easy to maintain.
- Sensor lid operation
- Fingerprint-resistant
- Long battery life
- Batteries not included
- Sensor may be sensitive
Glad Premium Trash Can – Odor Protection with Clorox
Brand: Glad
A practical step can with effective odor protection and a strong pedal.
The Glad Premium trash can is designed with Clorox Odor Protection built into the lid, actively working to keep your kitchen smelling fresh. This is a standout feature for those who want to minimize unpleasant smells without extra filters or sprays.
The redesigned step pedal is made of premium stainless steel for exceptional strength and durability. Interior bag rings secure your trash bag in place, preventing it from slipping down. The classic rectangular shape in a sleek matte black finish adds a modern touch to any kitchen.
- Clorox odor protection
- Sturdy steel pedal
- Bag rings secure liner
- Plastic body may scratch
- No soft-close lid
Amazon Basics 13.2 Gal Trash Can – Simple and Reliable
Brand: Amazon Basics
A dependable, affordable step can that gets the job done quietly.
The Amazon Basics trash can offers a straightforward, reliable solution for everyday waste disposal. Its 13.2-gallon capacity is ideal for most kitchens, and the stay-open lid feature allows for easy, hands-free use when needed.
The smudge-resistant stainless steel exterior keeps the bin looking clean, while the heavy-duty plastic inner bucket provides durability and easy removal for emptying. The manual foot lever and soft-close lid ensure quiet operation, making it a no-fuss choice for any home.
- Soft-close lid
- Removable inner bucket
- Smudge-resistant
- No odor control
- Basic design
SONGMICS Trash Can – Elegant Fluted Design with Soft Close
Brand: SONGMICS
A stylish and functional step can that adds elegance to any kitchen.
The SONGMICS trash can stands out with its fluted design, adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen. It’s a timeless modern piece that complements various decor styles, making it more than just a functional bin.
Effortless opening is achieved via the foot pedal, or you can manually lift the lid to 90 degrees to keep it open for longer tasks. The lid closes slowly and quietly, preventing slamming. Made from premium stainless steel, it’s robust and rust-resistant, and the detachable inner bucket makes emptying and liner changes quick and mess-free.
- Elegant fluted design
- Soft-close lid
- Rust-resistant steel
- No odor filter
- Pedal may require more force
Ninestars 13 Gallon Touchless Trash Can – Odor-Sealing Lid
Brand: Ninestars
A touchless bin that seals in odors and fits neatly against the wall.
The Ninestars touchless trash can offers wave-to-open convenience, keeping your hands clean and your cooking flow uninterrupted. Its 13-gallon capacity handles bulky items like takeout boxes, while the rectangular profile fits flush against your kitchen wall, saving space.
The precision-fit lid closes softly and securely, automatically sealing in odors to keep your kitchen smelling fresh. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel stays looking clean with minimal effort, and the removable inner bucket simplifies emptying. This is a smart, space-efficient choice for modern kitchens.
- Odor-sealing lid
- Fingerprint-resistant
- Space-efficient design
- Requires batteries
- Sensor may need adjustment
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right kitchen trash can involves balancing capacity, convenience, and style. This guide highlights key factors to consider, from operation type to odor control, helping you make an informed decision that fits your daily routine and kitchen space.
- Capacity: Consider your household size and how often you take out the trash. A 13-gallon can is standard for most kitchens, but larger families might prefer a 20-gallon model to reduce trips. Smaller capacities are fine for offices or bathrooms.
- Operation Type: Choose between step pedals, touchless sensors, or manual lids. Step pedals offer hands-free operation with a foot press, while sensor models open automatically with a wave, ideal for messy hands. Manual lids are simpler but require touching.
- Odor Control: Look for features like built-in filters, odor-sealing lids, or special coatings. Some models include filter holders, while others use a tight-fitting lid to contain smells. Consider your needs if you frequently dispose of strong-smelling waste.
- Material and Finish: Stainless steel is durable and resists fingerprints and smudges, but it can dent. Plastic is lighter and more affordable but may scratch. Matte finishes hide smudges better than glossy ones. Choose a material that matches your kitchen's style and durability needs.
- Ease of Cleaning: Removable inner buckets and liners make emptying and cleaning much easier. Look for models with stay-open lids and smooth surfaces that are simple to wipe down. Some bins have bag rings to keep liners in place, preventing slips and messes.
Conclusion
Selecting the best kitchen trash can comes down to your specific needs. If you value hands-free hygiene, touchless models like the EKO Mirage-T or Ninestars are excellent. For those who prefer a classic step pedal, the SIMPLI-MAGIC and EKO Madison offer quiet, durable performance. Large households will appreciate the EKO Hudson’s 20-gallon capacity and bag storage.
Ultimately, the right choice balances capacity, operation, and odor control to suit your lifestyle. Whether you prioritize style, convenience, or budget, this list provides a solid starting point to find a trash can that keeps your kitchen clean and fresh.
Steven Settles is an ISCET-certified master in appliance repair. He has aced the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam, showcasing his exceptional diagnostic and repair skills. With an in-depth understanding of the latest repair technologies and a keen eye on evolving industry standards, Steven is a go-to expert for any appliance issue.