Choosing the best kitchen trash can can make a surprising difference in your daily routine. With models available from a range of brands and across mixed price tiers, there’s a solution for every budget and style. Features such as capacity, lid mechanisms, and material quality vary widely, so it’s important to consider your specific needs. This guide will help you compare top options and find the kitchen trash can that fits seamlessly into your home.
Top Picks
- Best budget: 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Stainless Steel — read more
- Best smart features: Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, 20 Gallon — read more
- Best large rooms: EKO 32-Gallon Round Stainless Steel Open Top Trash Can — read more
- Best premium: EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50L Step Trash Can — read more
- Best easy cleaning: PayLessHere Trash Can with Lid, 13 Gallon — read more
Comparison Table
| Product | Capacity | Material | Opening Mechanism | Dimensions (L×W×H) | Weight | Special Features | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Stainless Steel | 13 Gallons | Stainless Steel | Step-On | – | – | Fingerprint-resistant, Soft Close Lid, Removable Inner Bucket | Get Price |
| Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, 20 Gallon | 20 Gallons | Stainless Steel | Step-On | 16"L x 16"W x 29"H | 17.56 pounds | Odor Protection, Smudge Resistant, Soft Close Lid, Bag Rings, Rear Bag Storage | Get Price |
| EKO 32-Gallon Round Stainless Steel Open Top Trash Can | 32 Gallons | Stainless Steel | Open-Top | 19"L x 19"W x 32.4"H | 19.44 pounds | Fingerprint-resistant, Removable Lid, Heavy Duty, Sturdy Base, Side Handles | Get Price |
| EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50L Step Trash Can | 13.2 Gallons | Stainless Steel | Step-On | 16.9"L x 14.3"W x 25.4"H | 15 pounds | Fingerprint-resistant, Soft Close Lid, Stay-Open Lock, Removable Inner Bucket | Get Price |
| PayLessHere Trash Can with Lid, 13 Gallon | 13 Gallons | Stainless Steel | Step-On | 16"L x 11"W x 25"H | 13 pounds | Quiet Close, Removable Lid, Scratch-resistant, Hands-free | Get Price |
13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Stainless Steel
Pros
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel
- Soft-close lid reduces noise
- Removable inner bucket for easy cleaning
- Includes starter garbage bags
Cons
- No motion sensor or advanced features
- Basic design – lacks color options
- Plastic components may feel less premium
Size
Fits standard 13-gallon bags – suitable for kitchens or offices. Compact footprint for its capacity.
Look
Brushed stainless steel finish resists fingerprints. Simple, neutral design blends with most decor.
Function
Pedal mechanism is tested for durability. Lid closes softly – stays open at 90° for convenience. Removable inner bucket makes bag changes easy.
Summary
A practical, affordable choice for everyday waste needs. Lacks smart features found in higher-end bins but covers the basics well.
Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, 20 Gallon
Pros
- High 20-gallon capacity—suits busy kitchens
- Built-in odor protection
- Soft-close lid reduces noise
- Fingerprint-resistant finish
- Integrated bag storage and tidy rings
Cons
- Larger footprint—needs more space
- Heavier than plastic models
- Some users report dents on delivery
Size
This can offers a 20-gallon capacity—larger than most kitchen models. It stands 29 inches tall and is best for high-traffic areas or bigger households.
Look
The brushed stainless steel finish is modern and resists fingerprints. Its rectangular shape fits against walls but requires more floor space than smaller bins.
Function
A step-on pedal opens the soft-close lid quietly. Built-in odor control and bag storage add convenience. Bag rings keep liners neat and secure.
Summary
Compared to similar stainless steel cans, this model stands out for its size and extra features. It is heavier and bulkier than plastic options but offers more durability and odor management.
EKO 32-Gallon Stainless Steel Open Top Trash Can
Pros
- Large 32-gallon capacity—handles high-traffic waste
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel—stays clean longer
- Open top—easy, touch-free disposal
- Sturdy base—resists tipping and sliding
- Side handles—simple to move
Cons
- No lid closure—may allow odors to escape
- Large footprint—needs ample space
- Higher price than some plastic alternatives
Size
This trash can offers a substantial 32-gallon capacity—larger than most home bins and suitable for commercial or public use. Its round shape and tall profile require more floor space than standard kitchen models.
Look
The brushed stainless steel finish is modern and professional. Fingerprint resistance helps maintain a clean appearance, which is an advantage over some competitors with plastic or glossy finishes.
Function
The open-top design allows for quick, touch-free disposal. Side handles make it easier to move for cleaning or emptying. The stable, skid-resistant base helps prevent accidental tipping, which is not always found in similar large bins.
Summary
Compared to peers, this EKO model stands out for its build quality and sleek design. It is best for high-traffic areas where capacity and durability are priorities, though it may not contain odors as well as closed-lid options.
EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50L Step Trash Can
Pros
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel
- Soft-close, quiet lid
- Stay-open lid lock
- Removable inner liner with handles
Cons
- Higher price than standard cans
- Large footprint may not suit small spaces
Size
The 50L capacity suits busy kitchens or offices—holds more than many standard 13-gallon cans. Its rectangular shape maximizes space but may be bulky for compact areas.
Look
Brushed stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and fits modern decor. The design is understated yet upscale compared to plastic or basic metal bins.
Function
Step pedal is rated for long-term use—soft-close lid prevents noise. Stay-open feature and removable liner make bag changes easier than some competitors.
Summary
Compared to peers, this model offers premium build and quiet operation. It costs more than entry-level options but adds durability and convenience for high-traffic spaces.
PayLessHere Trash Can with Lid, 13 Gallon
Pros
- Large 13-gallon capacity
- Sturdy stainless steel build
- Foot pedal for hands-free use
- Soft-close lid reduces noise
- Easy to clean surface
Cons
- No dual compartment for recycling
- Bulkier than some slim models
- No automatic sensor
Size
This model offers a 13-gallon capacity—suitable for kitchens and offices. Its rectangular shape fits against walls but may take up more space than narrow alternatives.
Look
Brushed stainless steel finish gives a modern, clean appearance. The design blends into most environments without standing out.
Function
Foot pedal allows hands-free operation. The soft-close lid minimizes noise and helps contain odors. Removable inner bucket makes bag changes straightforward.
Summary
Compared to similar bins, this unit stands out for its robust build and easy maintenance. It lacks advanced features like touchless sensors or dual compartments, but excels in reliability and simplicity.
Final Verdict
For most kitchens, the best overall choice is the 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Stainless Steel. It delivers reliable performance and durability at a budget-friendly price, making it perfect for daily use without sacrificing style or practicality. If you want a larger capacity and enjoy smart features like odor control and a bag ring, the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, 20 Gallon stands out with its user-friendly design and advanced functionality. Both options provide excellent value and convenience, making them top picks for any kitchen setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most durable kitchen trash can among the reviewed models
The EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50L Step Trash Can and EKO 32-Gallon Round Stainless Steel Open Top Trash Can are highly rated for durability due to their stainless steel construction
Which trash can is best for large families
The EKO 32-Gallon Round Stainless Steel Open Top Trash Can and Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can 20 Gallon offer the largest capacities for high-traffic kitchens
Are these trash cans easy to clean
Yes all reviewed models feature stainless steel surfaces that are easy to wipe down and maintain
Which model has the highest customer rating
The EKO 32-Gallon Round Stainless Steel Open Top Trash Can has the highest rating at 4.8 stars
Do any of these trash cans have odor control features
The Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can is known for its odor protection lid to help contain smells
What is the best value option for a standard kitchen
The 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid 50L Stainless Steel and PayLessHere Trash Can with Lid 13 Gallon both offer good value with solid ratings and affordable prices
Are step pedal trash cans available among these models
Yes the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can and EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50L Step Trash Can both feature step pedals for hands free operation
How many reviews do these products have
Review counts range from 355 to 23880 depending on the model with Glad and EKO brands having the most reviews
Which trash can is best for modern kitchen aesthetics
The EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50L Step Trash Can and EKO 32-Gallon Round Stainless Steel Open Top Trash Can have sleek designs that suit modern kitchens
Are replacement parts or liners easy to find for these trash cans
Most brands like Glad and EKO offer compatible liners and replacement parts online
