Ever walked into your kitchen and been hit with a not-so-pleasant smell? It probably came from your garbage can! We all need one, but choosing the right kitchen garbage can can feel like a chore. There are so many choices – stainless steel, plastic, touchless, step-on… it’s enough to make your head spin!
Picking the wrong garbage can can be a real headache. You might end up with a can that’s too small, too hard to clean, or doesn’t fit your kitchen style. Nobody wants a stinky kitchen or a can that’s constantly overflowing! That’s why knowing what to look for is so important.
In this post, we’ll make choosing a kitchen garbage can easy. We’ll cover the different types, sizes, and features. You’ll learn how to pick the best can for your needs and budget. Get ready to say goodbye to garbage can woes and hello to a cleaner, fresher kitchen! Let’s dive in and find your perfect trash can match!
Our Top 5 Kitchen Garbage Can Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Kitchen Garbage Can Detailed Reviews
1. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal
Rating: 9.3/10
The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is a practical choice for your home or office. This trash can has a 50-liter (13.2-gallon) capacity. It features a soft-close lid and a convenient foot pedal. The brushed stainless steel finish resists smudges and looks good. It has a removable inner bucket for easy cleaning. The rectangular shape helps it fit in tight spaces. It’s designed for everyday use.
What We Like:
- The smudge-resistant stainless steel looks nice and is easy to clean.
- The soft-close lid is quiet and prevents slamming.
- The foot pedal makes it easy to open the trash can hands-free.
- The removable bucket makes taking out the trash simple.
- The size is good for most homes and offices.
What Could Be Improved:
- The plastic inner bucket might not be as durable as the stainless steel exterior.
Overall, the Amazon Basics trash can is a good value. It is a functional and stylish option for managing your trash.
2. Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can
Rating: 9.5/10
The Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can is a practical waste solution for your kitchen or office. This hands-free trash can offers a 13-gallon capacity and a classic rectangular shape. It features a step-on foot pedal for easy use and a lid with Clorox Odor Protection to keep smells contained. The design includes bag rings to secure your trash bags and prevent them from falling in. Its matte black finish makes it fit in any space. It is suitable for both homes and commercial use.
What We Like:
- Hands-free operation with a foot pedal is convenient.
- The Clorox Odor Protection helps block bad smells.
- The bag rings keep the trash bag in place.
- The 13-gallon size is good for most households.
- The black color fits in many different spaces.
What Could Be Improved:
- The plastic material might not be as durable as metal.
- Some users might find the step-on pedal mechanism could be sturdier.
This Glad trash can is a good choice for keeping your space clean and fresh. It is a practical and functional option for everyday waste disposal.
3. EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can
Rating: 9.5/10
The EKO Mirage-T is a touchless trash can. It uses a motion sensor to open and close the lid. This trash can is made with a brushed stainless steel finish. It has a large capacity to hold your trash. The design keeps your kitchen looking clean and modern. It offers a hands-free experience. This helps keep germs away.
What We Like:
- The motion sensor works great. It opens and closes the lid smoothly.
- The stainless steel finish looks nice. It also resists fingerprints.
- The trash can holds a lot of trash. It has 25% more space than some other cans.
- It uses AA batteries that last a long time. You won’t need to change them often.
- The design is sleek and stylish. It looks good in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price may be higher than other trash cans.
This EKO Mirage-T trash can is a good buy. It is a great choice for people who want a clean and convenient kitchen.
4. simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock
Rating: 9.4/10
The simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can is a smart choice for your kitchen. It’s a black plastic trash can designed to be both practical and stylish. It has a step pedal for easy opening and a lid that closes quietly. It also includes a special lock to keep pets and kids out of the trash. This trash can is built for busy homes.
What We Like:
- The lid closes quietly because of its special technology.
- You can lock the lid to keep unwanted guests out.
- The lid stays open when you need it to.
- The semi-round shape saves space.
- It has a large size for big families.
- Custom fit liners prevent messes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The black plastic shows smudges easily.
- The price may be higher than some other trash cans.
This simplehuman trash can is a great product. It offers many helpful features for your kitchen. You will like having this trash can in your home.
5. NINESTARS DZT-50-28 Automatic Touchless Motion Sensor Rectangular Trash Can
Rating: 8.9/10
The NINESTARS DZT-50-28 Automatic Touchless Motion Sensor Rectangular Trash Can is a smart way to handle your trash. This 13-gallon can has a sleek black trim. It uses a motion sensor to open and close the lid. This keeps your hands clean and the smells inside.
What We Like:
- Touch-free operation is super convenient. You don’t have to touch the can!
- The motion sensor is smart. It doesn’t open unless you want it to.
- The can has a water-resistant sensor. Spills won’t ruin it.
- It has a fingerprint-resistant base. The can stays clean.
- A removable ring keeps the trash bag in place.
- It’s easy to use any standard trash bags.
- The can closes quietly. This makes it last longer.
- You get a two-year . The company helps with any problems.
What Could Be Improved:
- The trash can needs 2 D batteries, which are not included.
The NINESTARS trash can is a great addition to any home. It is easy to use and helps keep your space clean and germ-free. You should consider getting this trash can today!
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Kitchen Garbage Cans
Finding the right kitchen garbage can is important. It keeps your kitchen clean and helps with trash. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
You should know what to look for when you buy a new garbage can. Here are some important features:
- Size: How big is your family? How much trash do you make? You need a can that fits your needs. Small cans are good for one person. Big cans are better for families.
- Shape: Garbage cans come in different shapes. Some are round. Others are square. Think about where you will put the can. Make sure it fits the space.
- Lid Type: There are many lid options. Some cans have step-on pedals. Others have touchless sensors. Some just have a lid you lift. Pick the one you like best.
- Liner Compatibility: Does the can use standard trash bags? Make sure the can fits the bags you buy. Some cans have special liners.
- Odor Control: Some cans have features to stop bad smells. Look for cans with filters or tight-fitting lids. This helps keep your kitchen fresh.
Important Materials
The material of the garbage can matters. It changes how it looks and works. Here are some common materials:
- Plastic: Plastic cans are cheap. They are also light. They come in many colors. They are easy to clean. But, they might not last as long.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel cans look nice. They are strong and easy to clean. They resist fingerprints. They can be more expensive.
- Steel: Steel cans are strong and durable. They are usually painted. They can rust if they get wet.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a garbage can good or bad. Here’s what to watch for:
- Durability: A good can should last a long time. Look for strong materials and good construction.
- Ease of Use: The can should be easy to open and close. The pedal should work well. The lid should stay up.
- Cleaning: Is the can easy to clean? Can you wipe it down easily? Look for smooth surfaces.
- Design: Does the can look good in your kitchen? Choose a style you like.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the garbage can. Consider these things:
- Placement: Where will you put the can? Near the sink is a good idea. This makes it easy to throw away food scraps.
- Frequency of Use: How often will you use the can? A busy kitchen needs a bigger can.
- Bag Changes: Is it easy to take the trash bag out? Does the can have a way to hold the bag in place?
- Recycling: Do you need a can for recycling? Some cans have separate compartments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about kitchen garbage cans:
Q: What size garbage can do I need?
A: It depends on your family size and how much trash you make. A small family might need a 13-gallon can. A larger family might need a bigger one.
Q: Are stainless steel garbage cans better?
A: Stainless steel cans look nice and are durable. They can be a good choice. They might cost more than plastic cans.
Q: How do I clean my garbage can?
A: You can clean it with soap and water. Wipe it down regularly. You can also use a disinfectant.
Q: What is a touchless garbage can?
A: A touchless can opens with a sensor. You wave your hand over it. This is good for keeping your hands clean.
Q: What is a step-on garbage can?
A: A step-on can has a pedal. You step on the pedal to open the lid. This is easy to use.
Q: How do I stop my garbage can from smelling?
A: Use a can with a tight-fitting lid. Change the bag often. You can also use baking soda to absorb odors.
Q: What kind of trash bags should I use?
A: Use bags that fit your can. Check the can’s description. You can also use standard kitchen bags.
Q: Where should I put my garbage can?
A: Put it in a convenient spot. Near the sink is a good idea. Make sure it’s out of the way.
Q: Are plastic or metal cans better for the environment?
A: Both can be good. Look for cans made from recycled materials. Try to recycle your trash.
Q: How long should a garbage can last?
A: A good quality garbage can should last for years. Take care of it, and it will last.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.