10 Best Kitchen Trash Cans That Look Like Part of Your Décor
Your kitchen may look immaculate, but a flimsy trash can ruins the effect immediately. When you’re investing in home essentials, don’t overlook this daily-use item that impacts both aesthetics and function. The right trash can prevents odors, contains messes, and complements your design—while the wrong choice leads to constant frustration. Whether you need a sleek stainless model with touch-free technology or a simple swing-top for budget-conscious households, our top ten selections will transform this overlooked necessity into your kitchen’s unsung hero.
Table of Contents
Quick Overview
- Stainless steel trash cans offer durability, fingerprint resistance, and modern aesthetics while resisting dents and corrosion better than plastic options.
- The 13-gallon capacity is standard for most households, while 7-9 gallons works for singles and 21 gallons suits larger families.
- Soft-close and foot pedal mechanisms provide quiet, hands-free operation without requiring batteries or touching potentially germy surfaces.
- Rectangular or slim-profile cans use up to 30% less floor space than round alternatives and fit flush against walls.
- Look for models with odor control features, bag-securing systems, and removable inner buckets for easier cleaning and maintenance.
| Sterilite 4-Pack Swing Top 13-Gallon Wastebaskets |
| Best Multi-Pack | Capacity: 13 gallon | Opening Mechanism: Swing-top | Material: Plastic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Soft-Close Trash Can |
| Sleek Minimalist Pick | Capacity: 7.9 gallon/30 liter | Opening Mechanism: Foot pedal | Material: Stainless steel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| BestOffice 13 Gallon Touchless Stainless Steel Trash Can |
| Best Touchless | Capacity: 13 gallon | Opening Mechanism: Motion sensor | Material: Stainless steel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Amazon Basics Rectangular Trash Can 13.2 Gallon Stainless Steel |
| Most Spacious | Capacity: 13.2 gallon/50 liter | Opening Mechanism: Foot pedal | Material: Stainless steel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| EKO Mirage-T 13.2 Gallon Touchless Trash Can |
| Premium Sensor Choice | Capacity: 13.2 gallon/50 liter | Opening Mechanism: Motion sensor | Material: Stainless steel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Glad 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can |
| Best Odor Control | Capacity: 13 gallon/50 liter | Opening Mechanism: Foot pedal | Material: Stainless steel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| NEWBULIG 21 Gallon Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can |
| Best Dual-Compartment | Capacity: 21 gallon/80 liter | Opening Mechanism: Foot pedal | Material: Stainless steel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| STERILITE 10458004 Touch Can White 13 Gallon |
| Most Affordable | Capacity: 13 gallon/49 liter | Opening Mechanism: Press-top | Material: Plastic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Rubbermaid Premier Step-On Trash Can 12.4 Gallon |
| Quietest Operation | Capacity: 12.4-13 gallon | Opening Mechanism: Foot pedal | Material: Resin with stainless steel accents | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Lid |
| Most Durable | Capacity: 13 gallon/50 liter | Opening Mechanism: Foot pedal | Material: Stainless steel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Sterilite 4-Pack Swing Top 13-Gallon Wastebaskets
For busy households juggling multiple needs, the Sterilite 4-Pack Swing Top 13-Gallon Wastebaskets offer a practical solution to waste management across your home.
These sleek, square-profile bins fit neatly against walls or cabinets, making them perfect for tight spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. You’ll appreciate the touch-activated swing-top lid that locks upright for one-handed disposal, minimizing mess during daily use.
Each bin’s textured surface resists smudges and wipes clean easily. With 13-gallon capacity compatible with standard trash liners, you’re getting four durable containers that maintain a modern black aesthetic while handling your waste disposal needs efficiently.
- Capacity:13 gallon
- Opening Mechanism:Swing-top
- Material:Plastic
- Shape:Square
- Special Features:Locking lid
- Finish Type:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Four-pack value set
- Additional Feature:Space-saving square design
- Additional Feature:Textured smudge-resistant surface
Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Soft-Close Trash Can
The Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Soft-Close Trash Can provides an ideal solution for those seeking a sleek, functional kitchen waste receptacle without breaking the bank. With its 7.9-gallon capacity and compact 13.8 x 11.8 x 25-inch dimensions, it fits conveniently in most kitchen spaces.
You’ll appreciate the brushed stainless steel exterior with smudge-resistant satin nickel finish that maintains a clean appearance despite daily use. The foot pedal offers hands-free operation, while the soft-close lid guarantees ultra-quiet performance. For extended access, use the stay-open lid option. The removable plastic inner bucket with carry handle makes emptying and cleaning effortless, whether at home or office.
- Capacity:7.9 gallon/30 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Foot pedal
- Material:Stainless steel
- Shape:Rectangular
- Special Features:Soft-close, stay-open lid
- Finish Type:Smudge-resistant, satin nickel
- Additional Feature:Ultra-quiet lid operation
- Additional Feature:Removable inner bucket
- Additional Feature:Stay-open lid option
BestOffice 13 Gallon Touchless Stainless Steel Trash Can
Enjoy hands-free convenience with the BestOffice 13 Gallon Touchless Stainless Steel Trash Can, perfect for busy cooks and cleanliness-conscious homeowners. This 13-gallon oval can features an infrared sensor that opens the lid when your hand comes within 6 inches, creating a hygienic, touchless experience.
You’ll appreciate its premium stainless steel construction with fingerprint-resistant brushed finish. The sloping lid design helps seal in odors while fitting neatly against walls. Powered by 4 C-cell batteries (not included), it supports over 40,000 openings. Manual open/close buttons provide backup when needed. Standard supermarket trash bags fit perfectly.
- Capacity:13 gallon
- Opening Mechanism:Motion sensor
- Material:Stainless steel
- Shape:Oval
- Special Features:Hands-free, infrared sensor
- Finish Type:Fingerprint-resistant brushed
- Additional Feature:40,000+ lid operations
- Additional Feature:6-inch sensor range
- Additional Feature:Manual buttons available
Amazon Basics Rectangular Trash Can 13.2 Gallon Stainless Steel
Busy professionals seeking both functionality and style will appreciate Amazon’s stainless steel rectangular trash can. The 13.2-gallon capacity offers generous space for kitchen waste without overwhelming your room’s footprint.
You’ll find the soft-close lid particularly valuable—it operates silently via foot pedal, perfect for early mornings when noise matters. The smudge-resistant brushed stainless steel exterior maintains its sleek appearance despite daily use.
For convenience, this model includes a removable inner bucket with handle, making trash day less messy. The stay-open lid option provides hands-free access when you’re tackling bigger kitchen cleanups at home or in the office.
- Capacity:13.2 gallon/50 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Foot pedal
- Material:Stainless steel
- Shape:Rectangular
- Special Features:Soft-close, stay-open lid
- Finish Type:Smudge-resistant, satin nickel
- Additional Feature:Smudge-resistant exterior
- Additional Feature:Inner bucket carry handle
- Additional Feature:Durable office/home design
EKO Mirage-T 13.2 Gallon Touchless Trash Can
Smart sensors elevate the EKO Mirage-T 13.2 Gallon Touchless Trash Can for tech-savvy homeowners seeking hands-free convenience. The brushed stainless steel design resists fingerprints and sits flush against walls, maximizing kitchen space.
You’ll appreciate the soft-close lid that operates silently and the touch switch that keeps the lid open when needed. Its removable inner rim secures standard 13-gallon bags while keeping them hidden from view. With no liner, you’ll get 25% more usable capacity than comparable models.
Powered by AA batteries lasting up to 8 months, this rectangular bin offers practicality with its 4.3-star rating from nearly 12,000 reviewers.
- Capacity:13.2 gallon/50 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Motion sensor
- Material:Stainless steel
- Shape:Rectangular
- Special Features:Touchless, soft-close, stay-open
- Finish Type:Fingerprint-resistant brushed
- Additional Feature:8-month battery life
- Additional Feature:25% more usable capacity
- Additional Feature:No assembly required
Glad 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can
The Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can stands out as an ideal solution for families and professionals who need reliable odor control in high-traffic areas. Its rectangular design (18″W × 14.7″D × 25″H) fits seamlessly in kitchens and offices while providing generous 50L capacity.
You’ll appreciate the built-in Clorox Odor Protection in the lid that fights smells for the can’s lifetime. The reinforced stainless steel foot pedal offers hands-free operation, preventing unnecessary contact with germs. Inside, clever bag rings keep trash bags secure and prevent them from falling in, while hiding unsightly bag overhang for a cleaner appearance.
- Capacity:13 gallon/50 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Foot pedal
- Material:Stainless steel
- Shape:Rectangular
- Special Features:Clorox odor protection
- Finish Type:Matte black
- Additional Feature:Clorox odor protection
- Additional Feature:Interior bag rings
- Additional Feature:Tucks excess bag slack
NEWBULIG 21 Gallon Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can
Families seeking a practical waste management solution will appreciate the NEWBULIG 21 Gallon Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can. This spacious 80-liter bin features dual removable buckets, making recycling effortless.
You’ll love the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish that resists smudges and scratches. The soft-close mechanism guarantees quiet operation, while the industrial-grade pedal withstands 150,000+ uses. For extended tasks, engage the pedal lock to keep the lid open at 90°.
At 18.2″ x 15.8″ x 28.4″, it fits well in kitchens, offices, or outdoor spaces. The sealed lid effectively controls odors and keeps pets out.
- Capacity:21 gallon/80 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Foot pedal
- Material:Stainless steel
- Shape:Rectangular
- Special Features:Dual buckets, soft-close
- Finish Type:Fingerprint-resistant polished
- Additional Feature:Dual inner buckets
- Additional Feature:150,000+ pedal uses
- Additional Feature:Indoor/outdoor compatible
STERILITE 10458004 Touch Can White 13 Gallon
Practical and space-efficient, the STERILITE 10458004 Touch Can offers a sleek solution for kitchens where every inch matters. This 13-gallon rectangular bin features a convenient press-top opening mechanism and fits neatly against your wall to maximize floor space.
Made of crack-resistant plastic with a polished white finish and titanium-colored latch, this lightweight trash can weighs just 3.6 pounds while providing generous 49-liter capacity. You’ll appreciate its no-assembly design and stylish appearance that complements modern kitchens.
With a 3.9-star rating from nearly 300 customers, this indoor bin proves you don’t need to sacrifice aesthetics for functionality in your waste management solution.
- Capacity:13 gallon/49 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Press-top
- Material:Plastic
- Shape:Rectangular
- Special Features:Crack resistant
- Finish Type:Polished
- Additional Feature:Crack resistant design
- Additional Feature:Titanium-colored latch
- Additional Feature:Polished finish surface
Rubbermaid Premier Step-On Trash Can 12.4 Gallon
Stepping into modern kitchen design, the Rubbermaid Premier Step-On Trash Can offers homeowners seeking both functionality and style a premium 12.4-gallon solution.
The charcoal rectangular bin features smudge-resistant stainless steel accents on both the rim and pedal, complementing modern kitchen appliances. You’ll appreciate the thoughtful engineering—a flared anti-slide base for stability and integrated LinerLock technology that securely hides trash bags.
Its convenient step-on mechanism pairs with a slow-close lid for quiet operation, while the discrete lid lock keeps contents secure from pets. When dealing with heavy garbage, the interior venting channels make bag removal remarkably easier. American-made in Winfield, Kansas, this 5.54-pound unit combines durability with sleek aesthetics.
- Capacity:12.4-13 gallon
- Opening Mechanism:Foot pedal
- Material:Resin with stainless steel accents
- Shape:Rectangular
- Special Features:Soft-close, lid lock, LinerLock
- Finish Type:Fingerprint-resistant
- Additional Feature:LinerLock technology
- Additional Feature:Interior venting channels
- Additional Feature:Anti-slide flared base
13 Gallon Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Lid
A kitchen sentinel that stands the test of time, the 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Lid offers premium durability with its pedal tested for 200,000 uses and a projected service life exceeding 25 years.
You’ll appreciate the brushed, anti-fingerprint stainless steel surface that’s easy to clean, while the ABS handle and base prevent slipping during use. The removable inner bucket features a small hole to secure your garbage bag, and it’s compatible with standard 13-gallon supermarket bags.
The bi-force damper guarantees silent soft closure, and the 90° stand-up feature keeps the lid open hands-free when needed. Customer service is always available for quality issues.
- Capacity:13 gallon/50 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Foot pedal
- Material:Stainless steel
- Shape:Not specified
- Special Features:Soft-close, 90° stand-up lid
- Finish Type:Anti-fingerprint brushed
- Additional Feature:25-year service life
- Additional Feature:Includes 20 garbage bags
- Additional Feature:Built-in bi-force damper
Factors to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Trash Cans
When choosing your kitchen trash can, you’ll need to weigh several essential factors that affect daily functionality. Consider the appropriate capacity for your household’s waste output, the type of opening mechanism that suits your routine, and the construction material that offers the right balance of durability and aesthetic appeal. Don’t overlook features like odor control systems and space-efficient designs that maximize utility while minimizing the can’s footprint in your kitchen.
Capacity and Size
Selecting the right capacity and size for your kitchen trash can guarantees both functionality and convenience in your daily routine. Measure your available space first, ensuring 2-4 inches of clearance around all sides for easy access and lid operation.
For a single person, a 7-9 gallon can typically suffices, while family kitchens usually require at least 13 gallons (50L). Remember that the actual usable volume may be less than advertised if the can has features like inner buckets or thick walls that affect bag compatibility.
Don’t forget to take into account lid type and clearance height—swing, step, soft-close, or sensor lids all need different amounts of vertical space. If you’re planning to separate recyclables, choose appropriately sized cans that maintain a manageable combined footprint in your kitchen space.
Opening Mechanism
Choose the right opening mechanism for your kitchen trash can to balance hygiene, convenience, and durability. Foot pedals offer hands-free operation without batteries, typically lasting 100,000+ uses with minimal maintenance.
Motion sensors provide the most hygienic experience, automatically opening when your hand approaches, but they’ll need battery replacements and occasional recalibration. Touch-top lids maintain a sleek profile but require physical contact, potentially transferring germs.
If noise is a concern, look for models with soft-close or damper-equipped lids that prevent slamming—perfect for homes with children or busy kitchens. Swing-top designs allow quick one-handed disposal with self-closing action, though they might not completely seal odors or keep pests out like other mechanisms can.
Material and Durability
The material of your kitchen trash can directly influences how long it will serve your household and how well it stands up to daily abuse. Stainless steel options with brushed or fingerprint-resistant finishes excel in high-traffic kitchens, resisting dents and corrosion better than plastic alternatives.
If you prefer lighter weight, heavy-duty polypropylene or ABS plastics offer crack resistance and won’t rust when exposed to moisture, though they’re more prone to scratching and discoloration over time.
For maximum longevity, look for reinforced lids, metal pedals rated for 100,000+ presses, and removable inner buckets that protect the exterior from leaks. Don’t overlook important hardware details—sealed hinges, soft-close dampers, and corrosion-resistant components prevent premature failure from kitchen moisture, grease splatters, and repeated daily use.
Odor Control Features
Inevitably, kitchen waste produces unpleasant odors that can quickly permeate your living space if left unchecked. To combat this, look for trash cans with airtight seals or gasketed rims that minimize airflow and contain smells within the can.
Advanced odor-fighting models incorporate carbon or activated charcoal filters that neutralize odors rather than merely masking them. You’ll also want to take into account designs with sealed inner buckets or bag-retention rings that prevent gaps where smells might escape.
Touchless or soft-close lids reduce the time your trash is exposed to open air, limiting odor release when you discard items. Finally, non-porous materials like stainless steel or coated plastics resist absorbing smells and make cleaning easier—an important factor since residue buildup can become a persistent source of odors.
Space Efficiency
Within the constraints of modern kitchens, maximizing every square inch becomes essential when selecting a trash can. Before purchasing, measure your available width and depth carefully, including clearance for door swings and foot pedals. Rectangular or slim-profile models offer significant space savings, using up to 30% less floor space than round alternatives while sitting flush against walls and cabinets.
Choose capacity based on your household needs: small kitchens typically accommodate 7-13 gallon bins, while larger households may require 13-21+ gallons. Don’t oversize—select the smallest unit that meets your waste volume.
Pay attention to lid operation mechanics. Make certain your can’s opening style—whether swing, step, or touchless—won’t interfere with surrounding cabinets, countertops, or appliances. For tight spaces, look for recessed pedals, vertical-opening lids, or soft-close mechanisms that minimize clearance requirements.
Bag Compatibility
Selecting trash bags that properly fit your kitchen can saves you from dealing with slippage, overflow, and waste leakage. First, confirm your can’s volume and shape—a 13-gallon rectangular can requires different bags than a narrow 7.9-gallon model.
Pay attention to your can’s design features. Models with removable buckets, liner rings, or hidden rim systems each require specific bag types for effective fit. Some cans work best with gusseted bags, while others need drawstring or flat-top liners.
If your trash can advertises “no-liner” or reduced internal rim designs for more usable space, you’ll likely need slightly larger bags than the stated capacity suggests. For kitchen waste containing food scraps or liquids, invest in odor-control bags with higher tensile strength to prevent unfortunate tears and leaks.
Conclusion
You’ll find your perfect kitchen trash can among these top picks, balancing features like touchless tech, soft-close lids, and odor control. Whether you’re cramped for space or need a family-sized bin, there’s a solution that fits like a glove. Remember, the right trash can isn’t just a disposal solution—it’s an investment in your kitchen’s efficiency and cleanliness that you’ll appreciate every single day.
