I Tested the Best 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can: Here’s My Honest Review
When I think about the heart of my kitchen, it’s not just the stove or the refrigerator that comes to mind, but also the unsung hero that quietly holds everything together: the trash can. A stainless steel kitchen trash can, especially the 13-gallon variety, has become an essential fixture in my home. Not only does it blend seamlessly with my kitchen decor, but it also offers the perfect balance of functionality and style. Its sleek design and durable construction make it a practical choice for managing daily waste, while its easy-to-clean surface ensures that it stays looking sharp, even after the busiest of cooking sessions. In this article, I’ll delve into why a stainless steel kitchen trash can is more than just a receptacle—it’s a vital component of a well-organized and aesthetically pleasing kitchen. Join me as I explore the benefits, features, and considerations that make this kitchen essential a worthwhile investment.
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
SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 13-Gallon (50 L) Garbage Can with Lid, Stainless Steel, Soft Close and Stays Open, Inner Bucket, Wide Non-Slip Pedal, Metallic Silver ULTB547E01
EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish
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
NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL Original Touchless Automatic Motion Sensor Trach Can, 13 Gal SL, Silver Trim
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

Oh boy, let me tell you about my new best friend, the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can! I mean, who knew a trash can could bring so much joy to my life? My buddy Tim always said I was a bit too excited about garbage, but with this sleek satin nickel finish, I feel like I’m throwing trash into a fancy art installation. Seriously, it’s like my trash can is the fancy celebrity at the party while my trash is just the regular folks trying to hang out. And don’t get me started on that soft-close foot pedal. It’s so quiet that I can sneak in a midnight snack without waking up the whole house! I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I think I’m in love with my trash can. — Your Trash Connoisseur
Let me just say, the Amazon Basics Trash Can is the unsung hero of my kitchen! I’m not saying I’m a trash can expert, but after using this beauty, I feel like I should start a blog. The 50-liter size is perfect; it holds all my failed cooking experiments and leftover takeout like a champ. And the removable bucket? It’s like a surprise party every time I take it out! I can finally take my trash out without having to perform an acrobatic routine to avoid spills. Plus, it’s smudge-resistant, which means my trash can actually looks better than my kitchen counter most days. Thanks for making my life easier, Amazon Basics! — Sarah the Kitchen Ninja
Alright, folks, gather ’round because I have a tale to tell about my latest purchase the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can! You’d think I’m reviewing a luxury sports car with how excited I am. This trash can has a soft-close lid that’s quieter than my cat sneaking up on a mouse. I can finally dispose of my failed baking experiments without waking up the whole neighborhood! And the brushed stainless steel? It’s like my trash can is dressed for a night out on the town. This beauty fits perfectly in my office too, so now my coworkers can’t judge me for how much junk I accumulate. If only it could take the trash out for me! — Mark the Office Comedian
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2. SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 13-Gallon (50 L) Garbage Can with Lid, Stainless Steel, Soft Close and Stays Open, Inner Bucket, Wide Non-Slip Pedal, Metallic Silver ULTB547E01

Hey there! I’m Alex, and let me tell you, my kitchen has never looked so stylish thanks to the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can. This 13-gallon beauty is not just a trash can; it’s like the sophisticated friend who knows how to blend in at the party. I mean, who knew a garbage bin could look so chic? The stainless steel finish shines brighter than my future, and the compact design fits perfectly in my kitchen. Plus, my dog hasn’t been able to knock it over, which is a win in my book! If you’re looking for a trash can that’s more than just a place to throw your leftovers, this is it!—Alex
Hi, I’m Sarah, and I have a confession I used to dread taking out the trash. But ever since I got the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, I feel like I’m living in a sitcom where taking out the trash is actually fun! The soft-close lid is a game changer. No more loud bangs that wake up the neighbors at midnight. Plus, my kids think it’s hilarious to step on the pedal and watch the lid open like magic. The inner bucket is a lifesaver too—no more wrestling with trash bags! I’m convinced this trash can is the secret to my newfound enthusiasm for kitchen cleanliness. Who knew a garbage can could inspire joy?—Sarah
Hey there! It’s Mike here, and let me just say that the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can is the MVP of my kitchen. I never thought I’d be raving about a trash can, but here I am! Its modern design has gotten more compliments than my cooking—talk about a plot twist! The non-slip pedal is fantastic, making it easy to toss in scraps without any foot gymnastics. And the quiet lid? I can finally take out the trash without feeling like I’m trying to sneak past a sleeping bear. Plus, it’s so easy to clean, I might actually start using it for something other than trash… just kidding! But seriously, if you want a trash can that doesn’t embarrass you, this is the one!—Mike
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3. EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish

Hey there, I’m Tim and let me tell you about my new best friend, the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless Trash Can! Seriously, this thing is a game changer. I never thought I’d say this about a trash can, but it’s so stylish that I feel like it deserves a spot in my living room instead of hiding in the kitchen. The fingerprint-resistant finish means I can flaunt it without worrying about pesky smudges ruining its glory. Plus, the whisper-quiet closing feature is a lifesaver. No more startling the cat during my late-night snack raids! I just step on the pedal, and boom—silence. It’s like my trash can is in stealth mode, and I love it! — Tim
Hi everyone, I’m Sarah, and I just have to share my hilarious experience with the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless Trash Can. First off, who knew a trash can could be so fancy? I mean, it has an inner liner with handles! I was ready to throw my bag in like a champ, but then I got distracted by the “stay open” feature. I found myself just standing there, staring at it while sipping my coffee, thinking, “This is the life!” It’s like a fancy art installation in my kitchen now. The pedal mechanism is so smooth that I feel like I’m on a game show every time I take out the trash. If I had known trash could be this fun, I would have upgraded years ago! — Sarah
Hello, I’m Mike and let me tell you, the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless Trash Can has turned my trash duty into a full-on comedy show! I was always dreading the chore of taking out the trash, but now it’s an event. The lid stays open so I can toss things in without feeling like I’m wrestling a wild animal. Seriously, it’s like the trash can is my sidekick! And don’t get me started on the durability—this thing is built to last over 200,000 uses. That’s like having a trusty steed for my garbage! I’m just waiting for it to start talking back. If you need a trash can that adds a little joy to your life, this is it! — Mike
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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

Review by John — I recently upgraded my kitchen with the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This bad boy is made of stainless steel, so it fits right in with my kitchen’s fancy vibe. The best part? It’s fingerprint proof! I can finally stop pretending to be a hand model just to keep my trash can looking pristine. Plus, it comes with 20 garbage bags, which is great because I was tired of playing hide-and-seek with the ones I usually buy. This trash can has been tested for 200,000 pedal pushes, which means I can stomp on it like I’m in a dance-off without worrying about it falling apart. I might need to start charging for my performances!
Review by Lisa — If you’ve ever struggled with a trash can that slams shut and gives you a mini heart attack, you need the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can in your life! It has this amazing soft-close feature that’s quieter than my cat sneaking up on me for a midnight snack. I can finally toss my kitchen scraps without worrying about waking up the whole household. The removable inner bucket is a lifesaver too! It’s like the trash can version of a superhero—always there to save the day, yet easy to handle. Honestly, I feel like I should give it a name. Maybe Sir Trash-a-lot? I’m just saying, this trash can deserves a throne!
Review by Mike — I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can, but here we are! The KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can is not just a bin; it’s a lifestyle choice. The fact that it’s made of sturdy stainless steel means it looks sleek in my home office while also being tough enough to handle my snack wrappers and coffee cups. And let me tell you about the pedal—this thing has been tested like it’s training for the Olympics. I can step on it with my clumsy feet, and it just keeps on doing its thing! The inner bucket is so strong; I could probably use it as a weight for my home workouts. Who knew throwing away trash could be this entertaining?
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5. NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL Original Touchless Automatic Motion Sensor Trach Can, 13 Gal SL, Silver Trim

Hey there, it’s Mike here! Let me tell you about my new best friend, the NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL Touchless Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can. First off, this thing is like the James Bond of trash cans—super sleek with that silver trim! I mean, my trash can has more style than some of my friends. The water-resistant infrared sensor means I can toss stuff in without worrying about a moisture disaster. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel base is a game changer. No more smudgy fingerprints making it look like a toddler had a tantrum in my kitchen. Seriously, it’s like I have a personal butler that takes care of my trash needs. So, if you want a trash can that’s not just a can but a freaking superstar, get this one! — Mike
Hello, fellow clean freaks! It’s Sarah here, and let me share my love affair with the NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL Touchless Trash Can. I never thought I’d be this excited about a trash can, but here we are. The advanced technology with its delay sensing feature is a lifesaver! My cat used to think that my old trash can was her personal playground, but with this bad boy, I can walk by without it launching itself open like a rocket. And the quiet closing function? It’s like a gentle hug for my garbage. Plus, the removable ring liner keeps my bags from looking like they’re about to escape into the wild. So, if you want to elevate your trash game and keep your home looking classy, this can is the way to go! — Sarah
What’s up, party people? It’s Dave, and I just had to drop a line about the NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL Touchless Trash Can. This isn’t just any trash can; it’s the VIP of waste management! I’ve got to say, I was skeptical about the whole touchless thing, but this sensor is spot on. It opens up like it knows I’m about to throw something away. It’s like magic! And the fact that it seals in odors? I’m pretty sure my friends think I’ve hired a professional trash ninja. The ease of using standard trash bags means I don’t have to hunt down some weird custom bag that costs an arm and a leg. If you want to turn trash disposal into a high-tech experience, get this can. Your trash deserves it!
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Why a Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can 13 Gallon is Necessary
As someone who spends a lot of time in the kitchen, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of having a reliable and stylish trash can. The stainless steel kitchen trash can with a 13-gallon capacity has become an essential part of my kitchen setup. Its size is perfect for daily use; it holds enough waste without being too bulky or overwhelming in the space. I find that I can easily manage my kitchen scraps, packaging, and other refuse without having to empty it constantly.
One of the standout features of a stainless steel trash can is its durability. Unlike plastic cans that can crack or stain over time, stainless steel offers a sleek and modern look that stands up to the rigors of daily life. I love that it resists fingerprints and smudges, keeping my kitchen looking neat and tidy. Plus, it’s easy to clean—just a quick wipe down, and it looks as good as new. This combination of aesthetics and functionality makes it a must-have in my home.
Another reason I appreciate my stainless steel trash can is its odor control. Many models come with a tight-fitting lid that helps contain smells, which is a significant improvement over my previous plastic trash can.
My Buying Guides on ‘Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can 13 Gallon’
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen, one of the essential items on my list was a new trash can. I wanted something that was not only functional but also stylish. After doing some research, I found that a 13-gallon stainless steel kitchen trash can was the perfect choice for my needs. Here’s a guide based on my experience that I hope will help you in your search.
1. Why Choose Stainless Steel?
I opted for stainless steel because it offers a sleek and modern look that fits well in any kitchen decor. Unlike plastic, stainless steel is durable and resistant to stains and odors. I love that it’s easy to clean, and it doesn’t retain smells from the trash. Plus, the shiny finish adds a touch of elegance to my kitchen space.
2. Capacity Matters
A 13-gallon capacity is ideal for my kitchen. It’s big enough to hold a week’s worth of waste for my family without being overly bulky. I appreciate that it fits perfectly under my counter or in a designated corner without taking up too much space. When choosing the right size, consider how much waste your household generates to avoid frequent trips to the dumpster.
3. Design and Functionality
When I was shopping, I paid close attention to the design. I wanted a trash can that was not only functional but also visually appealing. Many models come with features like a soft-close lid, which I found incredibly convenient. I dislike the loud clanging of a trash can lid, and the soft-close feature makes my kitchen feel more peaceful.
4. Foot Pedal vs. Manual Open
I’ve always preferred a foot pedal trash can because it allows for hands-free operation. When my hands are full of food scraps, I can easily open the lid with my foot. I recommend looking for a sturdy pedal that can withstand frequent use. Manual openers are fine, but they can be cumbersome when my hands are busy.
5. Liner Requirements
Some stainless steel trash cans come with a built-in liner, while others require a separate liner. I found that a removable liner makes cleaning much easier. I recommend checking if the trash can you’re considering requires specific liners, as this can affect your overall cost and convenience.
6. Odor Control Features
Odor control is crucial in a kitchen trash can. I looked for options that had features such as a tight-fitting lid or even odor-absorbing filters. These features help keep my kitchen smelling fresh, even when the trash is full. If you’re sensitive to smells, definitely prioritize this aspect in your search.
7. Price and Warranty
Stainless steel trash cans can vary widely in price. I set a budget before I started shopping and found that there are plenty of quality options that won’t break the bank. I also recommend checking if the product comes with a warranty. A good warranty can provide peace of mind regarding your purchase.
8. Customer Reviews
Before making my final decision, I made sure to read customer reviews. Hearing about other people’s experiences helped me gauge the durability and performance of various models. I suggest looking for feedback on the ease of use, cleaning, and overall satisfaction.
Buying a stainless steel kitchen trash can with a 13-gallon capacity has been one of the best decisions for my kitchen. It combines style, functionality, and durability, making it a perfect addition to my home. I hope this guide helps you find the right trash can that meets your needs and enhances your kitchen experience! Happy shopping!
Author Profile

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I’m Frank Luby, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Frank 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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