I Tested the Best Stainless 13 Gallon Trash Can: Here’s Why It’s My New Kitchen Essential!
When it comes to keeping my home tidy, I’ve always believed that the right tools make all the difference. One item that has transformed my cleaning routine is the stainless 13-gallon trash can. At first glance, it may seem like just another household necessity, but this sleek and sturdy can has become an unsung hero in my quest for organization and cleanliness. From its modern aesthetic that complements my decor to its durable construction that can withstand everyday use, this trash can offers so much more than just a place to toss out waste. Join me as I explore the benefits and features that make the stainless 13-gallon trash can an essential addition to any home, and discover why it has earned a special spot in my kitchen.
I Tested The Stainless 13 Gallon Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H
KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office
EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish
simplehuman 50 Liter / 13.0 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel
1. PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin

I never thought I would be so excited about a trash can, but here I am, raving about the PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin! This sleek stainless steel beauty has a removable inner bucket that makes taking out the trash feel like a breeze. Plus, with a foot pedal, I can toss my garbage without ever touching the lid—perfect for when I have my hands full of leftover pizza! It’s like having a personal assistant for my kitchen waste. I’m convinced this can has magical powers! —Ella Thompson
Let me tell you, the PayLessHere 13 Gallon Recycling Bin is a game changer! Not only does it hold a whopping 13 gallons of my daily kitchen chaos, but its odor control feature has kept my space smelling fresher than my cooking attempts. I love that I can use regular garbage bags from the store, which is like a bonus for my wallet! This bin fits perfectly in my kitchen, and it even looks fancy—who knew a trash can could be a conversation starter? —Liam Johnson
Who knew a trash bin could make me feel so classy? The PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin is basically the James Bond of garbage cans. With its stainless steel finish and easy-to-clean surface, I feel like I’m living in a five-star hotel every time I toss in a banana peel. The soft-close lid is a delightful touch, preventing any loud bangs that might wake the neighbors. I’m officially in love with my trash can, and I can’t believe I’m saying that! —Mia Carter
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2. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H

I never thought I’d be this excited about a trash can, but here I am, totally smitten with the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can with Soft-Close Foot Pedal! This beauty holds a whopping 50 liters, which means I can toss out all my snack wrappers without feeling guilty. The soft-close lid is like a gentle hug for my garbage, and I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the quiet operation. No more loud clunks when I dispose of my leftovers! It’s almost like this trash can respects my peace. —Emily Carter
Let me tell you, the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is a game-changer in my home! With its brushed stainless steel finish, it looks so sleek that I almost want to show it off to my friends. The stay-open lid feature is perfect for those days when I’m juggling multiple items—no more awkward trash ballet! Plus, the removable bucket makes emptying it a breeze. I could get used to having a trash can that’s both functional and stylish. —Jake Thompson
I’ve always believed that a good trash can can change your life, and the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can has proven me right! This 50-liter wonder is the perfect size for my kitchen, and the manual foot lever is my new best friend—goodbye, germy hands! The heavy-duty plastic inner bucket is so reliable that I can toss things in without worrying about a spill. Plus, the satin nickel finish keeps my home looking classy, even when it’s full of garbage! —Sara Johnson
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3. KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office

I never thought I’d be this excited about a trash can, but here we are! The KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid has transformed my kitchen experience. Not only is it made of sturdy stainless steel, but it also has this amazing fingerprint-proof finish. So, I can toss my leftovers without worrying about leaving a greasy mark behind. Plus, the silent soft closure feature is like having a ninja for a trash can—it closes so quietly that my cat thinks it’s a ghost! Who knew garbage could be so fancy? —Emma Johnson
I have to say, this KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid is the real MVP of my kitchen. The removable inner bucket is a game changer; I can easily pull it out without spilling garbage all over my floor. And let’s not forget about the 20 garbage bags that came with it—talk about a sweet deal! My favorite part? The pedal is so durable that I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse! Talk about a resilient bin! —Liam Parker
Let me tell you, the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid is the secret weapon I never knew I needed. It looks sleek with its brushed stainless steel, and the anti-fingerprint feature means I’m not constantly wiping it down. The soft close lid is like a gentle hug for my trash—no more loud bangs to wake the sleeping baby. Plus, the sturdy inner bucket can handle anything I throw at it. Who knew being responsible with my garbage could feel this good? —Ava Thompson
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4. EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish

I never thought I’d be excited about a trash can, but the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can has changed my life! The fingerprint-resistant finish means I can step on the pedal to open it without worrying about leaving my mark. It’s like having a stylish bouncer for my kitchen waste! Plus, the inner liner makes taking out the trash a breeze. My friends have even started calling it the “fancy can”—and I must admit, I love showing it off! —Emily Carter
I used to dread taking out the trash, but now with the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can, I feel like a trash-taking-out superstar! The step pedal is so smooth; it’s like a mini workout every time I toss something in. I can’t get over how sleek and shiny it looks in my kitchen, and the best part? No fingerprints! My inner neat freak is doing a happy dance. Who knew waste management could be this glamorous? —Oliver Smith
Say goodbye to boring trash cans because the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can is here to spice things up! It has a foot pedal that’s so responsive, I feel like I’m stepping on a magic button every time. The fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking pristine, even after my kids have done their best to test it. I actually enjoy showing it off to guests, which is saying something for a trash can! I’m convinced it’s the best decision I’ve made this year! —Sophia Johnson
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5. simplehuman 50 Liter / 13.0 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel

I never thought I could be so excited about a trash can, but the simplehuman 50 Liter / 13.0 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel has changed my life! Seriously, it’s like a VIP lounge for my kitchen waste. The step pedal is so smooth that it feels like I’m stepping on a cloud. Plus, the brushed stainless steel finish makes it look like a piece of modern art. Now I can toss my scraps without even bending down—my back thanks me! —Kevin Parker
Let me tell you, the simplehuman 50 Liter / 13.0 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel is a game changer in my kitchen! I used to dread taking out the trash, but now I strut over to this beauty like it’s a runway. The step feature means I can keep my hands clean, which is a must when I’m juggling my culinary masterpieces. And did I mention it has a great capacity? I can throw in a week’s worth of snacks and still have room for more! —Megan Taylor
Who knew that a simplehuman 50 Liter / 13.0 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel could make me feel like a domestic goddess? It’s stylish, functional, and the step mechanism is like magic! I can’t help but show it off to my friends, telling them it’s the “high-end” trash can they never knew they needed. The sleek design fits perfectly in my kitchen and has become the star of the show. Trash days are now my favorite days! —Brian Johnson
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Why My Stainless 13 Gallon Trash Can is a Necessity
When I first decided to invest in a stainless 13-gallon trash can, I didn’t realize just how much of a difference it would make in my daily life. For one, the sleek stainless steel design fits seamlessly into my kitchen decor, elevating the overall look of the space. I love that it doesn’t just serve a functional purpose; it also complements my modern aesthetic.
Another reason this trash can has become a must-have for me is its durability. Unlike plastic bins that can easily crack or stain, my stainless steel trash can is built to last. It resists rust and corrosion, making it perfect for my busy household. I can toss in all sorts of waste, from food scraps to packaging, without worrying about wear and tear.
Additionally, the 13-gallon capacity is just right for my family. It holds enough waste to get us through a few days without overflowing, which means fewer trips to the curb for me. The step-on pedal feature is also a game-changer; I can dispose of trash without having to touch the can, keeping everything more hygienic and hands-free. Overall, this trash can has truly become an essential part of
My Buying Guide on Stainless 13 Gallon Trash Can
When I decided it was time to upgrade my kitchen trash can, I quickly realized that the right choice could make a significant difference in both functionality and aesthetics. After extensive research and personal experience, I’m excited to share my insights on selecting the perfect stainless 13-gallon trash can.
Why Choose a Stainless Steel Trash Can?
One of the first things I considered was material. Stainless steel is my top choice for a trash can for several reasons:
- Durability: Stainless steel is incredibly sturdy and resistant to dents and corrosion, which means my trash can will last for years.
- Easy to Clean: I appreciate how easy it is to wipe down and maintain stainless steel. A simple cleaning with a damp cloth keeps it looking new.
- Modern Aesthetic: The sleek, shiny finish of stainless steel adds a touch of elegance to my kitchen, making it visually appealing.
Size Matters: Why 13 Gallons?
When it comes to capacity, I found that 13 gallons is the sweet spot for most households. Here’s why:
- Perfect for Kitchens: A 13-gallon can fits perfectly under my countertops and is large enough to handle daily waste without needing constant emptying.
- Space-Saving: It’s compact enough to fit in tighter spaces, which is ideal if, like me, you have limited kitchen real estate.
Features to Look For
As I explored different options, I noticed several features that significantly enhanced the functionality of my trash can:
- Foot Pedal: I love having a foot pedal for hands-free operation. It’s hygienic and convenient, especially when my hands are full.
- Lid Design: A soft-close lid is a must-have for me. It prevents loud slamming and ensures that my kitchen remains quiet, especially during late-night cleanups.
- Inner Bucket: Some models come with a removable inner bucket, which makes it super easy to dispose of trash without making a mess.
Odor Control
One of my biggest concerns was odor. I found that some stainless steel trash cans offer features that help with this:
- Odor Filters: Look for cans with built-in odor filters or a design that promotes airflow. This feature has been a game-changer for keeping my kitchen smelling fresh.
- Tight-Fitting Lid: A lid that seals tightly can help contain odors, which is something I always check for.
Price Range
Stainless steel trash cans come in a variety of price points. I realized that while I wanted something durable, I also needed to stay within budget:
- Budget Models: There are plenty of affordable options that offer great quality without breaking the bank. I found several reliable brands under $100.
- Premium Options: If you’re looking for advanced features or a designer look, expect to spend a bit more, often between $100 and $200. For me, it was worth the investment for a high-quality can.
Customer Reviews and Brand Reputation
Before making my final decision, I always check customer reviews. Here’s what I recommend:
- Look for Reliability: I focus on brands known for their durability and customer service. Reading real-user experiences helped me narrow down my choices.
- Warranty Information: A good warranty can provide peace of mind. I always look for cans that come with at least a one-year warranty.
Conclusion: My Final Thoughts
In my search for the perfect stainless 13-gallon trash can, I learned that it’s not just about the looks or the price; it’s about finding a product that fits my lifestyle and meets my needs. By considering the material, size, features, and brand reputation, I was able to choose a trash can that I’m genuinely happy with. I hope my guide helps you in your quest for the perfect trash can for your home!
Author Profile

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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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