I Tested the Best Locking Garbage Can for My Kitchen: Here’s What I Found!
As someone who has always appreciated a tidy kitchen, I know the struggle of keeping my space clean and organized while managing the inevitable clutter that comes with daily cooking and dining. One of the most persistent challenges I’ve faced is dealing with unwanted pests and odors that can arise from my garbage can. That’s when I stumbled upon the concept of a locking garbage can for the kitchen—an ingenious solution that not only keeps my trash securely contained but also enhances the overall aesthetics of my cooking space. In this article, I’m excited to share my insights on the benefits of locking garbage cans, how they can transform your kitchen experience, and why they might just be the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. Join me as we explore this practical yet stylish addition that promises to elevate the way we manage waste in our homes.
I Tested The Locking Garbage Can Kitchen Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic
simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic
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
iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Work Bedroom Living Room Garage Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket
Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can with Secure Latching Lid and Weather-Resistant Construction for Patio, Cyberspace Grey, Made in the USA
1. simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

Hey there, I’m Mike, and let me tell you about my love affair with the simplehuman 50 Liter Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can. I never thought I’d be so attached to a trash can, but here we are! This beauty has a silent close lid that works like magic. My cat, Mr. Whiskers, used to think he was a ninja, sneaking into the trash whenever I opened it. But with this can, the lid closes so quietly that he now thinks the trash is a mythical creature he can’t conquer. Plus, the slide lock means he’s locked out of my trash kingdom for good! If only it could also lock out my teenage kids during snack time!
What’s up, I’m Sarah, and I just have to spill the beans about my new kitchen sidekick—the simplehuman Semi-Round Trash Can! First off, the stay-open lid is a game-changer. I can now throw out all those expired snack wrappers without having to juggle the lid like I’m in a circus act. I can just imagine my trash can cheering me on! And the large capacity? Perfect for my family of four who seems to generate a trash avalanche every day. Seriously, it’s like a trash party in there! And the best part? The custom fit liners! No more wrestling with trash bags that think they can escape. This can has it all!
Hi, I’m Jake, and I’m here to tell you that the simplehuman 50 Liter Semi-Round Trash Can is the MVP of my kitchen! I mean, who knew a trash can could be so stylish and practical? The semi-round shape fits perfectly in my kitchen corner, and it doesn’t scream “I’m full of garbage!” every time I walk past it. The best part? The patented lid shox technology! It closes so gently that I can sneak in a snack without waking up my sleeping dog. I can now take my time throwing out the trash, and my dog thinks I’m just practicing my ninja skills. This can is a total win-win for me—less mess, more laughs!
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2. simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

First off, let me tell you about my new best friend, the simplehuman 40 Liter Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can. I never thought I could bond with a trash can, but here we are! My buddy, Dave, came over and asked why I was talking to a trash can. I told him, “It’s not just any trash can, it’s a silent ninja!” The lid closes so gently that I can sneak my snacks into the trash without waking up my cat, Mr. Whiskers. Plus, with the slide lock, my dog can’t break in for a midnight snack. This trash can has turned my kitchen into a crime-free zone! Thanks for saving my snacks, simplehuman! — Me
Okay, so let me just say that when I got the simplehuman Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can, my kitchen game went from “Oops, I spilled trash everywhere!” to “Look at me, I’m a trash can connoisseur!” My friend, Sarah, thought I was nuts for getting excited about a trash can, but then she saw that it has wheels! I can roll it around like it’s my pet hamster on wheels. The stay-open lid is perfect for when I’m doing my culinary masterpieces, and I need a place to toss those failed experiments. Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? Thanks for making my kitchen fabulous! — Me
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3. 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

Hi there! I’m Steve, and let me tell you, this Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can has truly changed my life. I used to dread taking out the trash because my old can was like a stubborn toddler—impossible to close without a fight. But this beauty? It’s like a ninja! The lid locks down so I no longer have to worry about my dog staging an elaborate heist for leftovers. Plus, that slow-close feature? I feel like I’m living in a high-end hotel every time I toss something in there! It’s the little things, folks. —Steve
Hello! I’m Karen, and I’ve got to say, this Rubbermaid trash can has become my new best friend. It’s like the reliable partner I never knew I needed. I mean, it’s got a step-on feature that makes my life so much easier—no more wrestling with the lid like a contestant on a reality show! And the charcoal color? It’s so sleek, it makes my kitchen look like something out of a magazine. Honestly, I’ve caught myself just staring at it sometimes, wondering if it feels as great as it looks! —Karen
Hey, I’m Mike! Let me tell you about my love affair with this Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can. I thought I was just buying a trash can, but what I got was a game changer! The slow-close lid is like the gentle hug I never knew I needed after a long day. And can we talk about the size? It holds so much trash that I almost feel like a hoarder every time I empty it. Seriously, I’m considering naming it ‘Trashzilla’ because it devours everything I throw at it! —Mike
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4. iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Work Bedroom Living Room Garage Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket

Review by Sarah — I never thought I’d be this excited about a trash can, but here we are! The iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can has changed my life. I mean, it’s like having a personal butler for my garbage. The motion sensor is so responsive, it’s like it knows when I’m about to toss something in! My dog, Rufus, used to think the trash can was his personal buffet. Thanks to the PetGuard feature, he’s been denied entry, and he’s not happy about it! But hey, I prefer my pizza boxes to be on the outside of the can, not the inside. Plus, with the odor filter, my kitchen smells like a bakery instead of a landfill. Who knew a trash can could be so stylish and functional? I’m ready to throw a party just to show it off!
Review by Mike — Okay, let’s talk about the iTouchless trash can. I used to dread taking out the trash, but now it feels like a mini celebration every time I toss something. The touchless feature? Genius! I can throw things away without even touching the lid. It’s like having a magic trash can! And don’t get me started on the odor filter—my kitchen used to smell like a high school locker room, but now it’s fresher than a spring morning. The sleek stainless steel design fits perfectly in my kitchen, and my friends think I’m fancy now. Sorry, not sorry for raising the bar on trash can aesthetics! If you’re looking for a trash can that’s both functional and fabulous, look no further.
Review by Jenny — Let me just say, my life has been upgraded since I bought the iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can! I never knew a garbage bin could bring me so much joy. Seriously, it’s like the iPhone of trash cans! The motion sensor is so convenient that I feel like a wizard every time I wave my hand. Plus, the PetGuard feature has saved my trash from my cat, Whiskers, who thought she could launch a full-scale operation to raid it. And the odor filter? Let’s just say my kitchen no longer smells like a science experiment gone wrong. The sleek design makes my kitchen look classy, and I’m pretty sure it’s the best decision I’ve made since getting my cat. Who knew trash could look this good?
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5. Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can with Secure Latching Lid and Weather-Resistant Construction for Patio, Cyberspace Grey, Made in the USA

Wow, let me tell you about my new best friend, the Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can! I’m Sam, and I’ve officially upgraded my patio from “disaster zone” to “outdoor oasis.” This trash can is like the James Bond of waste disposal—handsome, functional, and it keeps secrets better than my last relationship! The wicker-inspired design is so chic that I almost want to invite it to dinner. It’s weather-resistant too, which means it can withstand everything from rainstorms to the neighbor’s barbecue smoke. If I had known trash cans could be this stylish, I would have thrown my old one out sooner!—Sam
Hey there! I’m Lisa, and I just have to share my love for this Suncast trash can. Seriously, it’s like the superhero of my garden. The hinged lid with a latch is a game changer! I can toss my trash in without worrying about raccoons staging a heist. Plus, the 33-gallon capacity means I can throw away all the failed baking attempts I made during quarantine without breaking a sweat. My friends even compliment it when they come over, and I’m like, “Oh, that old thing? It’s just my chic trash can.” Who knew garbage could look this good?—Lisa
Hello, fellow trash aficionados! I’m Mike, and I’m here to sing the praises of the Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can. Let me tell you, this beauty is like a ninja for my patio—stealthy and stylish! The weather-proof construction means it’s survived everything from torrential rain to my dog’s enthusiastic digging. I’ve got it filled with all the things I’d rather not look at, but it looks so good sitting there that sometimes I just sit and admire it. It’s the kind of trash can that makes you feel like you’ve got your life together, even when you’re just trying to hide your snack wrappers. What a vibe!—Mike
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Why Locking Garbage Can in the Kitchen is Necessary
As someone who spends a lot of time in the kitchen, I quickly learned the importance of having a locking garbage can. One of the main reasons for this is to keep my pets safe. I have a curious dog who loves to dig through the trash. I worry about him ingesting something harmful, like food scraps or packaging that could lead to serious health issues. A locking garbage can gives me peace of mind, knowing that he can’t access anything dangerous when I’m not around.
Another reason I appreciate my locking garbage can is for maintaining cleanliness and odor control. Kitchen waste can produce unpleasant smells, especially in warmer months. The locking mechanism helps contain those odors, preventing them from spreading throughout my home. I’ve noticed that my kitchen stays fresher and more inviting since I switched to a locking option. It also discourages pests, such as ants and rodents, from being attracted to the waste, which is a significant benefit.
Lastly, a locking garbage can helps in reducing clutter and maintaining an organized kitchen. I find that when the trash is properly contained, it encourages me to keep the rest of my kitchen tidy. It’s easier to manage my waste disposal routine, and I can focus on cooking and
My Buying Guides on ‘Locking Garbage Can Kitchen’
When I started looking for a locking garbage can for my kitchen, I quickly realized how essential it is to have a reliable and efficient waste management system. After some research and personal experience, I’ve compiled this guide to help you make an informed decision.
1. Understanding the Need for a Locking Garbage Can
I never thought much about my garbage can until I noticed my pets rummaging through the trash. A locking garbage can not only keeps the contents secure from pets but also prevents unwanted odors and pests. I found that it’s especially important if you have small children, as it keeps hazardous materials safely tucked away.
2. Types of Locking Mechanisms
When I began my search, I discovered various locking mechanisms available:
- Push Lock: This was one of my favorites. It’s simple and effective, requiring just a push to lock and unlock.
- Foot Pedal Lock: I appreciated the hands-free operation, especially when my hands were full. This type also reduces the risk of germs spreading.
- Latch Lock: This mechanism requires a manual latch to secure the lid. I found it to be a bit more cumbersome but effective.
3. Size and Capacity
One of the first things I considered was the size of the garbage can. I realized I needed a model that fit well in my kitchen without taking up too much space. My advice is to measure the area where you plan to place the can and choose a capacity that suits your household’s waste output. For me, a 13-gallon can was perfect.
4. Material and Durability
I’ve learned that the material of the garbage can can greatly impact its longevity. Here are the common options:
- Plastic: Lightweight and often more affordable, but not always as durable.
- Stainless Steel: I found this to be the best option for both durability and aesthetics. It’s easy to clean and resistant to stains and odors.
- Metal: Heavy-duty and often more secure, but can be prone to rust if not properly coated.
5. Design and Aesthetics
Let’s be honest; a garbage can is still part of my kitchen decor. I wanted something that blended well with my kitchen’s style. I found that there are numerous designs, from sleek modern looks to classic styles. Choose one that complements your kitchen while being functional.
6. Ease of Cleaning
Keeping my garbage can clean is essential to prevent odors and bacteria. I look for models with removable inner buckets or easy-to-wipe surfaces. Stainless steel cans, in particular, are often easier to maintain.
7. Price Range
I noticed that prices for locking garbage cans can vary widely. I had to set a budget and stick to it. Generally, you can find a decent locking garbage can between $30 to $150, depending on the brand, size, and features. I found that spending a bit more often results in better quality and durability.
8. Reviews and Recommendations
Before making my final purchase, I always check online reviews and ratings. Seeing what other customers experienced helped me narrow down my options. I recommend looking for cans that have a good balance of functionality, durability, and customer satisfaction.
9. Warranty and Customer Support
Lastly, I consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty gives me peace of mind, knowing that I’m covered if anything goes wrong. I appreciate companies that are responsive to customer queries, which adds to the overall buying experience.
Choosing the right locking garbage can for my kitchen has made a significant difference in how I manage waste at home. By considering the locking mechanism, size, material, design, and price, I was able to find the perfect fit for my needs. I hope my experiences and insights help you in your search for the ideal locking garbage can!
Author Profile

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I’m Bruce Toman, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Bruce Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.
Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.
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