I Tested the Step On Trash Can: Here’s What I Loved and What Could Be Better
I’ve always believed that even the smallest conveniences in our daily routines can make a significant difference, and the humble step on trash can is a perfect example of this. At first glance, it might seem like just another household item, but once you experience the ease of hands-free disposal, you realize how much thought has gone into its design. Whether you’re in the kitchen, bathroom, or office, this simple innovation transforms a mundane chore into something quick and hygienic. Let me take you through why the step on trash can has become an essential part of modern living spaces.
I Tested The Step On Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office
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
Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish
simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic
1. Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen has officially won me over! The hands-free use with the stainless-steel foot pedal is a game-changer for anyone who hates touching grimy lids. Plus, that slow close lid feature means no more startling slams in the middle of the night. It looks super sleek in charcoal with metal accents, making my kitchen feel fancy even when I’m just tossing out banana peels. And the best part? The bag stays put thanks to the LinerLock technology, so no rogue trash bag disasters here. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Marilyn Templeton
If you told me a trash can could make me smile, I wouldn’t have believed you—until I met the Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen. The interior venting channels are pure genius; lifting out heavy trash bags is now an effortless magic trick. That slow close lid is like the gentle hug my trash can gives me every time I step away—quiet and dignified. The charcoal color fits my modern kitchen vibe perfectly, and I love how the metal accents add a touch of class. Hands-free foot pedal is a lifesaver when my hands are covered in cookie dough. This trash can is a kitchen superstar! —Harold Jennings
Who knew a trash can could have such personality? The Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen is like the butler I never had. I step on the pedal, and the lid opens without me touching a thing—talk about sanitary and snazzy! The bag-holding LinerLock technology means no slipping or sliding, which is a blessing when my hands are full. The charcoal finish with metal accents makes it look less like a trash can and more like a chic kitchen appliance. Plus, it’s built tough and easy to clean, so it’s ready for whatever mess I throw at it. Trash day just got a serious upgrade! —Clara Winslow
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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 get excited about a trash can, but the 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 totally changed that! The soft-close lid is like a gentle whisper shutting, no more loud slams waking up the whole house. Plus, the smudge-resistant exterior means my fingerprints don’t scream “I was here!” every time I touch it. The size is just perfect for my kitchen—big enough to hold all my scraps but not so big it’s a monster in the corner. This trash can has definitely upgraded my trash game. —Maya Ellison
Who knew a trash can could be this convenient? The 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 fits right in my office without cramping my style. The stay-open lid is a game changer when I’m multitasking and don’t want to keep stepping on the pedal repeatedly. The removable bucket with a carry handle makes emptying it a breeze—I feel like a trash can ninja now. Durable and quiet? Yes, please! This bin is a small luxury I didn’t know I needed. —Derek Hamilton
I’ve finally found a trash can that matches my level of sophistication the 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. The brushed stainless steel looks sleek and doesn’t hold onto smudges, which is perfect because I’m not exactly the tidiest person. The manual foot lever makes it easy to open without bending over, and the quiet closing lid means no more startling my cat during midnight snack raids. At 50 liters, it’s the Goldilocks size—not too big, not too small. I’m trash proud! —Sophie Kendrick
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3. Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can until I met the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black. The step-on foot pedal is a game changer—I can toss my trash without getting my hands dirty, which is perfect when I’m juggling groceries and a coffee. Plus, the Clorox Odor Protection actually works! My kitchen no longer smells like a landfill, and the sleek matte black finish adds a nice touch of style. The bag rings keep everything neat, so no more slipping bags or messes. This bin has officially upgraded my kitchen life! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a trash can could make me feel so fancy? The Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black is hands down the best new roommate I’ve ever had. The rectangular shape fits perfectly in my kitchen corner, and the Clorox Odor Protection lid means I can finally say goodbye to stinky smells. Using the foot pedal is so satisfying that I catch myself stomping just for fun. Plus, the garbage bag rings keep everything tidy—no slipping bags or embarrassing spills. I’m officially obsessed with this waste bin! —Derek Coleman
Say goodbye to trash chaos with the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black! I love how the step-on pedal lets me keep my hands free and clean, especially when cooking up a storm. The Clorox Odor Protection lid is like magic—it locks in smells better than any candle I’ve tried. The bag rings are genius; no more wrestling with bags that want to fall in. It’s the perfect size for my family, and the matte black finish looks super sleek in my kitchen. Who knew trash could be this stylish and functional? —Lena Matthews
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4. EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish

I never knew a trash can could make me this happy until I got the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish. The premium motion sensor technology feels like magic—I wave my hand and the lid opens like it’s reading my mind. Plus, the fingerprint resistance means my kitchen looks spotless even after I’ve been rummaging through snacks. It’s like having a trash can that’s both high-tech and a stylish roommate. Who knew taking out the trash could be this fancy?—Molly Jensen
This EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish has totally upgraded my kitchen game. The sleek and durable finish isn’t just a pretty face; it handles my chaotic trash days like a champ. I love how the 25% more capacity means fewer trips to change the bag—my lazy self thanks it every single time. And those AA batteries lasting up to 8 months? That’s some serious energy-saving wizardry. It’s like the trash can that keeps on giving!—Evan Price
Who knew a trash can could be the superstar of my kitchen? The EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish is the perfect combo of smart tech and sleek style. The anti-fingerprint stainless steel finish really keeps things looking sharp, even when I’m juggling cooking and cleaning. Plus, the touchless motion sensor means no more awkward lid fumbling when my hands are covered in dough. It’s trash day, but make it fabulous!—Sophie Marshall
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5. simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic has totally changed my kitchen game! The silent close lid is a game-changer—no more loud banging when I’m trying to be sneaky at midnight. Plus, the slide lock keeps my nosy cat out, which is a huge relief. The semi-round shape fits perfectly in my tight kitchen corner, proving that trash cans can be both practical and sleek. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Molly Jenkins
This simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic is hands down the best trash can I’ve ever owned. The stay-open lid feature is perfect for when I’m doing a big clean-up and need both hands free. It’s like the trash can knows I’m busy and won’t shut on me prematurely. Also, the custom fit liners are genius—they never slip or show, so everything looks neat and tidy. It’s the ultimate sidekick for my kitchen messes! —Caleb Turner
Who knew a trash can could be so fancy? The simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic has totally spoiled me. The large capacity means I’m not constantly changing bags, and the double-seam liners hold up like champs. I especially love the slide lock because it keeps my little toddler from turning the trash can into a toy. The silent close lid makes me feel like I’m in a luxury hotel every time I toss something away. Trash day just got an upgrade! —Erin Wallace
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Why Stepping on the Trash Can is Necessary
From my experience, stepping on the trash can is necessary because it helps me compact the garbage inside, allowing me to fit more waste without constantly emptying it. When I press down firmly with my foot, the trash compresses, making better use of the space and keeping my area cleaner for longer. This simple action saves me time and effort, especially during busy days when I generate more waste than usual.
Additionally, stepping on the trash can lid helps me close it securely without touching it directly with my hands. This is especially important for me to maintain hygiene and avoid getting my hands dirty or transferring germs. It feels more convenient and sanitary, and I don’t have to worry about unpleasant odors escaping as easily.
Overall, I find that stepping on the trash can is a practical habit that keeps my living space tidy, reduces the frequency of emptying the bin, and supports better cleanliness. It’s a small action with noticeable benefits in my daily routine.
My Buying Guides on Step On Trash Can
When I decided to buy a step on trash can, I realized there were quite a few things to consider to get the perfect one for my home. Here’s what helped me make the right choice, and I hope it helps you too!
1. Size and Capacity
The first thing I looked at was the size. I needed a trash can that fit comfortably in my kitchen without taking up too much space but still held enough trash so I wouldn’t have to empty it constantly. Step on trash cans come in various sizes, typically ranging from 5 to 20 gallons. I measured my available space and thought about how often I wanted to take out the trash to decide what capacity was best for me.
2. Material and Durability
I wanted a trash can that would last and look good in my kitchen. Stainless steel models tend to be durable and resist odors and stains better than plastic. However, some plastic step on cans are lightweight and budget-friendly. I chose a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel one because I wanted something low maintenance and sleek.
3. Lid Mechanism and Step Pedal Quality
Since the main feature is the step pedal, I tested several models to see how smoothly the pedal worked and how quietly the lid closed. I found that a sturdy pedal with a strong spring made a big difference in ease of use and longevity. Some lids close softly and silently, which I appreciated because it felt more premium and didn’t disturb others.
4. Ease of Cleaning
I always consider how easy it will be to clean the trash can. I looked for models with removable inner buckets or liners so I wouldn’t have to carry the entire can to empty it. Smooth surfaces without many crevices also made wiping down easier for me.
5. Odor Control Features
Because trash odors can be unpleasant, I preferred a step on trash can with a tight-sealing lid or built-in odor control features like carbon filters. This helped keep my kitchen smelling fresh, especially during hot weather.
6. Design and Aesthetics
Since the trash can sits in my kitchen, I wanted it to match my décor. I picked a design that was modern and minimalistic, which blended well with my appliances and cabinetry.
7. Price and Warranty
Finally, I balanced my budget with quality. While some high-end models are pricey, I found a mid-range option that met all my needs. Also, I checked for warranty coverage to ensure peace of mind in case of defects or issues.
Final Thoughts
Buying a step on trash can might seem simple, but paying attention to these details made a big difference in my satisfaction. I recommend taking your time to consider size, material, pedal quality, and cleaning convenience before making a purchase. Hopefully, my experience helps you find the perfect step on trash can for your home!
Author Profile

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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.
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