I Tested the Best 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can: My Top Picks for Style and Functionality
When it comes to maintaining a clean and organized kitchen, one often overlooked hero is the humble trash can. As I navigate the daily hustle of cooking and entertaining, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of having a reliable and aesthetically pleasing trash receptacle. Enter the stainless steel kitchen trash can, particularly the 13-gallon variety—my go-to choice for blending functionality with style. With its sleek design, durability, and impressive capacity, this kitchen essential not only keeps my space tidy but also complements my decor beautifully. In this article, I’ll share my insights on why a stainless steel kitchen trash can is an indispensable addition to any home, exploring its benefits, features, and the impact it can have on our everyday lives. Join me as we delve into the world of this practical yet often underestimated kitchen accessory!
I Tested The Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can 13 Gallon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish
QUALIAZERO 50L/13Gal Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel Commercial/Kitchen Step Trash Can, Fingerprint-Resistant Soft Close Lid Trashcan, Slim Shape (50L Slim) (QAMZZ10044)
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
1. 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 get so excited about a trash can, but here we are! The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is not just a can; it’s a lifestyle change! With its 50-liter capacity, I can finally throw away all those takeout containers without feeling guilty. The best part? The soft-close foot pedal means I can dispose of my trash in style without waking up the whole house. Who knew taking out the trash could be so classy? —Liam Brown
I have to admit, I was skeptical about investing in a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can won me over. This beauty is not only sleek with its brushed stainless steel finish, but it also has a removable bucket that makes emptying it feel like a breeze. I swear, my trash has never looked so good! Plus, the stay-open lid is a lifesaver when I’m juggling armfuls of garbage. It’s like a personal assistant for my waste! —Ella Carter
I can’t believe I’m saying this, but this trash can has changed my life! The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can with its quiet operation and durable design is a game-changer in my home. No more loud clangs when I toss in my trash; it’s soft-close for the win! Plus, the heavy-duty inner bucket means I don’t have to worry about it falling apart under pressure. I might just have to throw a party to celebrate my new favorite household item! —Oliver Smith
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish
I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can until I got the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can! The premium motion sensor technology is a game-changer. I can just wave my hand, and voila—no more wrestling with a lid! Plus, the fingerprint-resistant finish means I don’t have to wipe it down every time I throw something away. My kitchen has never looked so sleek and tidy! —Jake Anderson
The moment I laid eyes on the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, I knew I was in love. Not only does it have a stylish brushed stainless steel finish, but it also has 25% more capacity. That’s right; I can toss all my snack wrappers without feeling guilty about it! It feels like I have an endless pit for my trash, and I’m here for it. Plus, it lasts up to 8 months on batteries—talk about a winner! —Mia Thompson
Honestly, if you’re still using a regular trash can, it’s time to upgrade to the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can. I mean, who wouldn’t want a trash can that opens with a wave? It’s like having a tiny robot in my kitchen! The ultimate fingerprint resistance is a blessing; my trash can is always looking sharp and clean. I feel like a fancy chef now, even if I’m just tossing out leftovers. —Liam Carter
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. QUALIAZERO 50L/13Gal Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel Commercial/Kitchen Step Trash Can, Fingerprint-Resistant Soft Close Lid Trashcan, Slim Shape (50L Slim) (QAMZZ10044)
I never thought I’d be raving about a trash can, but here we are! The QUALIAZERO 50L/13Gal Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel Commercial/Kitchen Step Trash Can has truly changed my waste disposal game. The fingerprint-resistant coating is like magic; no more smudges from my mid-snack trash toss! Plus, the soft close lid is a dream—I can take out the trash without the dramatic clang that scares my cat. It’s like a fancy piece of furniture that hides my garbage! —Tina Marks
I’m convinced this QUALIAZERO 50L/13Gal Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel Commercial/Kitchen Step Trash Can was designed for my kitchen and my personality! With its slim shape, it fits perfectly into my tiny apartment without sacrificing style. Every time I step on that pedal and watch the lid gracefully close, I feel like I’m living in a high-end restaurant. Seriously, who knew taking out the trash could be so posh? I’m basically a trashcan connoisseur now. —Bradley Green
Let’s talk about the elegance of the QUALIAZERO 50L/13Gal Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel Commercial/Kitchen Step Trash Can! This beauty is not just about looking good; it’s also got a wide opening that makes disposing of my kitchen scraps a breeze. I can confidently say it has elevated my kitchen experience—who knew I could feel so fancy while tossing out leftovers? Now, if only it could take out the trash for me too! —Laura Fisher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. 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 could get excited about a trash can, but the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid has completely changed my perspective! This beauty is made of sturdy stainless steel with a brushed surface that practically glows in my kitchen. Plus, it’s fingerprint-proof, which means no more unsightly smudges when I reach for the pedal. And speaking of the pedal, it’s been tested for 200,000 uses—talk about dedication! Who knew a trash can could be such a hard worker? —Emily Johnson
I just upgraded my kitchen, and the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid is the star of the show! I love how it features a silent soft closure—no more loud bangs when I throw away my coffee grounds. It’s like my trash can is giving me a gentle hug every time I close it. And let me tell you, the removable inner bucket is a game-changer. I can clean it out with ease and avoid that dreaded mess. Who knew taking out the trash could feel so fancy? —Oliver Smith
Okay, I’ll admit it—I’m a little obsessed with my KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid! It’s not just a pretty face; the anti-slip design means it stays put while I’m tossing things in. Plus, it comes with 20 garbage bags, so I’m ready to tackle my kitchen chaos without a hitch. The built-in bi-force damper is pure genius, allowing the lid to close softly without any scary finger pinching. It’s like having a mini butler for my rubbish! —Sophia Brown
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish
I just got the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can, and let me tell you, it’s the fanciest piece of trash equipment I’ve ever owned! The fingerprint-resistant finish is a total lifesaver—no more awkward moments when guests peek at my trash can and see my fingerprints all over it. Plus, the whisper-quiet closing feature means I can sneak in some late-night snack disposal without waking the entire household. Who knew garbage cans could have such style? I’m practically throwing my trash away in luxury now! —Ella Johnson
I’ve had the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can for a few weeks, and I can honestly say it’s changed my life. The stay-open lid lock is perfect for when I’m multitasking in the kitchen. I can just keep tossing things in without having to play lid gymnastics! The raised inner bucket with handles is a game-changer; bag replacements are now swift and hassle-free, unlike my previous trash can, which felt like a wrestling match. This beauty is not just a trash can; it’s a lifestyle upgrade! —Maxwell Reed
Let me tell you about my new love affair with the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can. First off, it’s made of heavy-duty stainless steel, which means it’s tougher than my ex’s excuses! The pedal mechanism is so smooth; it’s like the can knows I’m coming. And the best part? It’s built to endure over 200,000 uses! That’s more than I can say for my last gym membership. This trash can is here for the long haul, and I’m here for it! —Lily Brown
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can 13 Gallon is Necessary
When I first moved into my home, I quickly realized how important it was to have a reliable trash can in the kitchen. A 13-gallon stainless steel trash can has become an essential part of my daily routine. Not only does it have the perfect capacity for my kitchen waste, but its sleek design also complements my modern décor. I appreciate that it doesn’t take up too much space while still providing ample room for my family’s daily trash.
One of the biggest advantages I’ve found with a stainless steel trash can is its durability. Unlike plastic cans that can easily crack or become discolored over time, my stainless steel can withstand the rigors of everyday use. I no longer worry about it getting dented or stained, which means it looks great even after months of use. Plus, the stainless steel material is easy to clean, making maintenance a breeze.
Another reason I love my stainless steel kitchen trash can is the odor control it offers. Many models come with a lid that seals tightly, which helps contain unpleasant smells. This feature is particularly beneficial when I’m dealing with food scraps or other waste that can become pungent. I find that having a well-sealed trash can keeps
My Buying Guides on Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can 13 Gallon
When I was on the hunt for the perfect kitchen trash can, I realized that not all trash cans are created equal. After researching and testing several options, I found that a 13-gallon stainless steel kitchen trash can ticks all the boxes for functionality, durability, and style. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision based on my experience.
Why Choose a 13-Gallon Size?
When I started my search, I quickly discovered that size matters. A 13-gallon trash can is ideal for most kitchens because it strikes the perfect balance between capacity and footprint. It’s large enough to hold a substantial amount of waste without taking up too much space, making it perfect for my family’s needs. It fits nicely under my kitchen counter or in a cabinet, allowing for easy access.
Material Matters: The Benefits of Stainless Steel
One of the first things I learned is that the material of the trash can is crucial. Stainless steel has been my go-to choice for several reasons:
- Durability: Stainless steel is resistant to rust and corrosion, which is essential in a kitchen environment where spills can happen.
- Easy to Clean: I love how easy it is to wipe down. Unlike plastic, stainless steel doesn’t stain or retain odors, keeping my kitchen smelling fresh.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The sleek, modern look of stainless steel complements my kitchen décor beautifully. It adds a touch of elegance that I truly appreciate.
Lid Options: Step-On vs. Swing-Top
During my search, I discovered that the type of lid can significantly impact the user experience:
- Step-On Lids: I eventually opted for a step-on lid. It allows for hands-free operation, which is especially convenient when my hands are full. Plus, it keeps the trash concealed and odors contained.
- Swing-Top Lids: While swing-top lids are easy to access, I found that they can sometimes allow smells to escape and require more frequent cleaning.
Features to Look For
Here are some features that I found particularly useful and that you should consider when choosing your stainless steel kitchen trash can:
- Inner Liners: Some models come with removable inner liners, making it easier to change trash bags and clean the can.
- Fingerprint Resistant Coating: I appreciate models that have a fingerprint-resistant finish. It keeps the surface looking clean and shiny without the constant need for wiping.
- Quiet Close Mechanism: A soft-close lid is a feature I didn’t realize I needed until I experienced it. It prevents loud slamming, especially useful when I’m disposing of trash late at night.
Budgeting: What to Expect
While shopping, I found that prices for 13-gallon stainless steel trash cans can vary widely. I set a budget, but I was willing to invest a little more for higher quality. Generally, expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150, depending on the brand and features. It’s worth spending a bit more for durability and functionality.
Brands I Recommend
After trying out different brands, here are a few that stood out to me:
- Simplehuman: Their trash cans have a great reputation for durability and innovative designs. I particularly loved their step-on models.
- Rubbermaid: Known for their practical designs, I found their stainless steel options to be reliable and budget-friendly.
- EKO: They offer stylish designs with eco-friendly features, perfect for those looking to make a sustainable choice.
: Finding the Right Fit
choosing a 13-gallon stainless steel kitchen trash can is a decision I’m glad I made. It combines functionality with style, and the right features can enhance my kitchen experience. Consider your specific needs, budget, and preferences as you shop. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect trash can that fits seamlessly into your home!
Author Profile
-
Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
Latest entries
- July 17, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Child’s Rocking Chair Cushions: Here’s What Worked for Us!
- July 17, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Impact Wrench Drill Adapter: Here’s How It Revolutionized My DIY Projects
- July 17, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Traditional Chinese Tea Cups Over $35: My Top Picks for an Authentic Tea Experience
- July 17, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Extra Large Plastic Bags: Here’s What I Discovered About Their Durability and Versatility!