The 13 Best Kitchen Trash Cans

I never thought I’d have strong opinions about a trash can. For years, I just bought whatever cheap plastic thing was at the store. But after the lid cracked on one and the step-pedal snapped on another, I realized a good kitchen trash can is one of those things you don’t appreciate until you have one.

A great trash can just works. The bag stays put, the lid closes quietly, and it contains the mess and the smell without being an eyesore. After going through several duds in my own kitchen, I’ve found some that are actually built to last and make daily chores a little bit easier.

These are the top rated trash cans I’ve found for 2026. I’ve looked at everything from budget-friendly workhorses to fancy stainless steel models that look like kitchen appliances.

 

 

Our Top Rated Trash Cans for 2026

simplehuman CW2024 12 Gallon Rectangular Step Trash Can

The simplehuman CW2024 costs about $170. Yes, it’s a lot for a trash can, but I see it as a long-term investment for a piece of kitchen equipment I use every single day.

This is the one I have in my kitchen now, and I’ve been using it for two seasons. The stainless steel really is fingerprint-proof, which is great with kids. The step pedal feels incredibly solid, and the silent-close lid is one of those small things that just makes it feel premium. The liner rim also holds the bag perfectly in place so it never slips down.

It even has a little pocket in the back to hold extra liners, which is surprisingly convenient. With a 10-year warranty, you know it’s built to handle years of abuse.

The Downside: The price is definitely high. It’s a serious purchase for a trash can.

 

 

Rubbermaid Classic 13-Gallon Step-On Trash Can

At around $35, the Rubbermaid Classic is a fantastic budget pick. It’s a simple, no-frills plastic can that gets the job done without any fuss.

I used one of these in my garage for years. The best part is the little arms inside that clip the bag in place, so you never have to worry about it falling in. It has a huge opening, making it easy to scrape off plates, and the pedal is surprisingly sturdy for the price.

The Downside: The lid can pop off its hinges if you’re too rough with it, but it’s easy enough to snap back on.

 

 

Ninestars DZT-50-9 13.2-Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can

This Ninestars motion sensor can is about $60. It’s a great way to get a touchless trash can without spending a fortune.

When my hands are covered in flour or raw chicken, being able to just wave my hand to open the trash is a huge help. The sensor is pretty reliable, and the opening is wide enough for scraping cutting boards clean. It’s a low-maintenance can that keeps things more hygienic.

The Downside: You do have to replace the batteries every so often, which can be a pain if you forget.

 

 

Glad GLD-74506 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can

For about $80, this Glad stainless steel can is a solid mid-range option, especially if you’re worried about smells.

The big selling point here is the Clorox odor protection built into the lid. It really does help keep kitchen smells contained. I like its shorter, wider profile, which lets it tuck into a corner nicely without sticking out too far. It feels sturdy and is a good alternative if you don’t want to spring for a simplehuman.

The Downside: It works best with Glad’s own trash bags, though you can make standard ones fit.

 

 

Best for Recycling and Tight Spaces

simplehuman 45L Rectangular Dual Compartment Step Can

This dual-compartment can from simplehuman runs about $180. It’s perfect if you’re serious about recycling but don’t want two separate bins cluttering up your kitchen.

I love this setup. One side is for trash, and the other is for recyclables, each with its own removable bin. It makes sorting so easy. The step pedal is just as solid as their other models, and the lid has a stay-open feature that’s great for longer food prep jobs. It’s a really smart, space-saving design.

The Downside: The trash side is obviously smaller than a standard can, so you’ll be taking it out more often.

 

 

Tramontina 81200/540 13-Gallon Step Trash Can

You can find this Tramontina can for around $80. This is a tough, durable can that’s built for heavy, everyday use.

It’s made of solid metal and just feels really substantial. The opening is nice and big, and the step pedal works well for hands-free operation. It’s a simple, reliable performer that will hold up well in a busy kitchen.

The Downside: The lid is a bit louder when it closes compared to more expensive models. It’s more of a “thump” than a soft close.

 

 

iTouchless 13-Gallon Sensor Trash Can

The iTouchless sensor can costs about $110. It’s a great mix of touchless tech and a compact design, especially with its built-in odor filter.

This one is great for smaller kitchens where smells can be an issue. The carbon filter really helps neutralize odors, and the sensor keeps things clean and hygienic. It has a nice fingerprint-proof finish that’s easy to wipe down, so it always looks good.

The Downside: Some users report that the sensor can be a bit finicky over time.

 

 

Better Homes & Gardens 13.2-Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can

For just $50, this slim trash can from Better Homes & Gardens is a lifesaver for small kitchens. I had an awkward narrow spot next to my pantry, and this was the perfect fit.

Its slender shape lets it slide into tight spaces where a normal can wouldn’t go. Despite being thin, it still holds a standard 13-gallon bag. The lid is quiet, and the finish resists smudges, making it a great value for small homes or apartments.

The Downside: It’s a newer model, so there aren’t a ton of long-term reviews out there yet.

 

 

Best for Large Families and Big Jobs

EKO Mirage X 80L Motion Sensor Trash Can

This EKO Mirage X is about $120. If you have a big family and are tired of taking the trash out constantly, this is your solution.

At over 21 gallons, this thing is huge. You won’t be changing the bag every day, that’s for sure. The motion sensor works great, the lid is quiet, and it even has a spot for a deodorizer. It’s a sleek-looking can that can handle a serious amount of trash.

The Downside: It needs 4 AA batteries to run the sensor, which is more than some other models.

 

 

Umbra Venti 16.5-Gallon Swing Top Trash Can

The Umbra Venti costs only $35 and is a simple, large-capacity can. It’s a classic design that just plain works.

There are no pedals or sensors to break here. The swing top is easy to use, and a hidden ring inside secures the bag so it doesn’t slip. It’s great for a garage, laundry room, or a kitchen if you don’t need a sealed lid for odor control. It’s sturdy and holds big 20-30 gallon bags.

The Downside: You have to physically touch the lid to open it, and it doesn’t seal to contain strong smells.

 

 

Glad Stainless Steel Step Can with Odor Protection

This larger 20-gallon Glad step can runs about $70. It’s built for big households that also need serious odor fighting.

It combines a massive capacity with an antimicrobial lid to keep smells locked down tight. A really neat feature is the compartment in the back for storing extra bags, so you’re always ready for a quick change. It’s a workhorse for a busy, and sometimes smelly, family kitchen.

The Downside: Like its smaller cousin, it’s designed to work best with Glad’s specific liners.

 

 

simplehuman 45L Rectangular Step Can

At $150, this is another premium option from simplehuman. It’s for someone who wants flawless function and a really clean, modern look.

This is probably one of the best-looking trash cans you can buy. It has the same great features as the other simplehuman models, like the liner pocket and the patented silent-closing lid. It just works perfectly every single time, and it looks great doing it.

The Downside: The premium price is the biggest hurdle for most people.

 

 

What I Look For In a Kitchen Trash Can

When I’m picking out a trash can, I really just focus on a few key things. First is the material. Stainless steel looks great and is easy to clean, but a good quality plastic can is more affordable and won’t dent if you knock into it.

Next is the lid. I’m a big fan of a step pedal because it’s reliable and hands-free. Motion sensors are awesome too, but they do require batteries. A simple swing-top or open-top is fine for a garage or utility room, but I want a sealed lid in my kitchen to keep odors in.

Finally, think about the size. The standard 13-gallon (or about 50-liter) size is perfect for most families of four. If you have a bigger family or just hate changing the bag, then upsizing to a 20-gallon can might be worth it. Just make sure you have the space for it!