7 Best Kitchen Trash Cans of 2025, Reviewed by Experts

The kitchen trash can is the unsung hero of your hometaking on coffee grounds, onion skins, pizza boxes, and the occasional
“what even is this?” mystery container from the back of the fridge. Because you use it constantly, the right kitchen trash can
isn’t just a convenience upgrade; it’s a daily quality-of-life upgrade. The best models open easily when your hands are full,
trap odors like a vault, clean up without drama, and don’t wobble like a baby giraffe when you tap the pedal.

For 2025, experts keep coming back to a few themes: sturdy step mechanisms, tight lids for odor control, easy-to-clean liners,
bag-holding features that prevent the dreaded “bag slip,” and smart layouts (like dual compartments for trash and recycling).
Below are seven standout kitchen trash cans that repeatedly rise to the top across expert testing, editor reviews, and real-home feedback.

Quick Picks: Best Kitchen Trash Cans at a Glance

• Best overall: simplehuman Rectangular Step (around 45–50L / 12–13 gal)
• Best value stainless steel: Amazon Basics Soft-Close (13.2 gal)
• Best for odor control: Glad Stainless Steel Step with odor protection
• Best for recycling: Joseph Joseph Totem Waste & Recycling (stacked compartments)
• Best step can alternative: Kohler Step Can (13 gal class)
• Best for tight spaces: simplehuman Slim Step (about 45L)
• Best touchless: iTouchless Sensor Can (13 gal)

How “Expert-Reviewed” Trash Cans Are Typically Evaluated

A good review isn’t just “this looks nice in my kitchen.” Many expert outlets and labs evaluate trash cans with a mix of hands-on testing
and long-term usability factors. Here’s what consistently matters in 2025:

• Odor containment: tight-fitting lids, minimal hinge gaps, and optional odor filters or deodorizer compartments
• Ease of use: smooth pedal action, reliable lid opening, soft-close mechanisms, and “one-handed” bag changes
• Bag fit and retention: liner rims, bag tuck points, or inner buckets that keep bags from collapsing into the can
• Stability and durability: no tipping, minimal denting, strong hinges, and sturdy base construction
• Cleanability: removable liners, wipe-friendly interiors, fingerprint-resistant finishes, and fewer grime-trapping seams
• Real-life reality checks: kid/pet lock options, noise level, and how it performs when it’s… let’s say “enthusiastically full”

The 7 Best Kitchen Trash Cans of 2025

1) simplehuman Rectangular Step Trash Can (45–50L / 12–13 gal) Best Overall

If kitchen trash cans had a “hall of fame,” this one would have its own wing. simplehuman’s rectangular step cans keep winning
because they’re designed around the annoying little problems that other cans ignore: bag edges that won’t stay put, lids that slam,
pedals that get crunchy, and interiors that are weirdly hard to wipe clean.

• Why experts like it: smooth step action, strong build, quiet/soft-close lid, and excellent odor control for a step can
• Best for: busy households that want a “buy it once and forget it” kitchen step trash can
• Watch-outs: it’s an investment; some versions work best with fitted liners (though many users still use standard bags)

Specs snapshot: stainless steel options; rectangular footprint fits against cabinets; often includes an inner liner/bucket and bag-management features.

2) Kohler 13-Gallon Step Can Best “Serious Step Can” Alternative

Kohler might not be the first name you think of for trash cans, but the brand’s well-reviewed step models have a loyal following.
The big selling point is the combination of solid construction and thoughtful bag-handling detailsexactly what you want when you’re
opening and closing this thing 40 times a day.

• Why experts like it: strong odor containment for a step lid, sturdy pedal feel, and practical liner design
• Best for: people who want premium performance but prefer something other than the usual “default” pick
• Watch-outs: finishes can still show smudges; like most stainless cans, it likes a quick wipe-down

Specs snapshot: ~13-gallon capacity class; step-open lid; typically includes a removable inner bin.

3) Joseph Joseph Totem Waste & Recycling Best for Recycling in One Footprint

The Totem is a clever answer to a very modern question: “Where do I put trash, recycling, and maybe compost… without turning my kitchen
into a sorting facility?” Its stacked, space-saving design puts multiple compartments into a single vertical bin, which can be a game-changer
for smaller kitchens or anyone trying to simplify recycling routines.

• Why experts like it: thoughtful compartment design, easier sorting, and features aimed at odor control and clean handling
• Best for: households that recycle daily and want a dual-compartment trash can that doesn’t eat floor space
• Watch-outs: specialty liners and accessories may be recommended for the best fit; more parts = more things to clean

Specs snapshot: multi-compartment system; often available in multiple sizes/finishes; designed for organized waste separation.

4) Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Odor Protection Best Odor Control on a Budget

Odor control isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” If your kitchen trash can leaks smells, your whole home knows. Glad’s stainless step can is popular
because it targets the stink problem directly, often using built-in odor protection features aimed at reducing that “why does it smell like
a forgotten gym bag?” moment.

• Why experts like it: strong odor-fighting focus, simple step operation, easy everyday usability
• Best for: families who toss lots of food scraps (and want fewer surprise odors)
• Watch-outs: odor-control components may need replacement over time; always follow cleaning recommendations

Specs snapshot: usually 13-gallon capacity; stainless exterior; step pedal with a lid designed to reduce odor escape.

5) simplehuman Slim Step (around 45L) Best for Tight Spaces

Not every kitchen has room for a big, boxy can. Slim models are made for those awkward gaps beside the fridge, narrow walkways, or corners
where a round can would stick out like it’s trying to start a conversation. simplehuman’s slim step designs keep the premium features while
trimming the footprint.

• Why experts like it: narrow footprint with a stable base, quality lid action, and bag control that stays sane
• Best for: apartments, galley kitchens, and small homes that still want a full-size kitchen trash can
• Watch-outs: slimmer opening can make bulky trash (like giant boxes) a bit more of a puzzle

Specs snapshot: slim rectangular profile; soft-close lid; typically built in stainless steel options.

6) iTouchless 13-Gallon Sensor Trash Can Best Touchless (Hands-Free)

Touchless trash cans can feel like a gimmickuntil you’re holding raw chicken packaging and suddenly become extremely grateful for modern
engineering. Sensor cans are also helpful for accessibility and for anyone who just wants fewer germy touch points in the kitchen.

• Why experts like it: true hands-free opening, convenient for messy cooking, and generally easy day-to-day operation
• Best for: cooks, busy households, and anyone who wants a motion sensor trash can to reduce contact
• Watch-outs: sensor lids can have small gaps; you may need to stay on top of odor control and battery management

Specs snapshot: ~13-gallon capacity; motion sensor lid; powered by batteries (or sometimes optional AC adapters, depending on model).

7) Amazon Basics 13.2-Gallon Soft-Close Trash Can Best Value Stainless Steel

You don’t have to spend luxury money to get a decent stainless steel kitchen trash can with a pedal and soft-close lid. This type of budget-friendly
pick is common in expert roundups because it hits the basics: it works, it looks fine, and it won’t emotionally devastate your wallet.

• Why experts like it: strong value, soft-close lid, simple functionality that’s easy to live with
• Best for: first apartments, rental homes, or anyone who wants “good enough, actually good”
• Watch-outs: odor control and seal quality may not match premium cans; hinges can be a weak spot over years of use

Specs snapshot: 13.2-gallon capacity; step pedal; stainless exterior; soft-close lid.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Kitchen Trash Can for Your Home

Pick the right size (and don’t overthink the math)

The most common “main kitchen trash can” size is around 13 gallons (roughly 50 liters). It’s big enough for most households,
but not so huge that you’re storing a science experiment for a week. If you cook a lotor have a larger familyconsider a 45–50L main can
plus a separate recycling bin or a dual-compartment system.

Step vs. touchless vs. touch-top

• Step trash cans: reliable, fast, and usually the best balance of price and durability
• Motion sensor trash cans: great for messy cooking, but need batteries and can be slightly fussier with odors
• Touch-top / swing lids: often cheaper, but can trap grime and may not seal odors as well

Odor control is mostly about the lid (and your habits)

The most expensive deodorizer in the world won’t help if your lid has big gaps at the hinge. Look for a lid that closes tightly and
doesn’t bounce. Then support it with simple habits: take out food-heavy trash frequently, rinse sticky containers, and don’t toss liquids
straight into the bin (unless you enjoy chaos).

Bag management: the underrated feature that saves your sanity

A great kitchen trash can makes bag changes quick and tidy. Features like a liner rim that hides bag edges, a removable inner bucket,
and a secure “bag tuck” system prevent the classic problem: the bag slides down, the trash drops in, and your mood drops with it.

Care Tips: Keep Your Trash Can Cleaner (and Less Smelly)

• Do a quick wipe weekly: especially around the lid rim and pedal area
• Deep clean monthly: wash the inner bucket with warm soapy water; dry fully to avoid lingering odors
• Use baking soda as backup: a sprinkle in the bottom of the liner can help absorb odors
• Don’t forget the outside: stainless cans look best with a microfiber wipe to reduce fingerprints

FAQ: Kitchen Trash Cans in Real Life

Is a 13-gallon trash can big enough for a family?

For many families, yesespecially if you take out food scraps regularly. If your household cooks a lot or entertains often, a 45–50L can
(or a dual-compartment setup) may feel more comfortable.

Do I really need “fingerprint-resistant” stainless steel?

Need? No. Want? Absolutely. If your trash can sits in a high-traffic spot, fingerprint-resistant finishes can reduce smudges and keep
the can looking cleaner between wipe-downs.

Are touchless trash cans worth it?

They’re most worth it if you cook frequently, handle messy food packaging, or want fewer touch points for hygiene. If you prefer
simple and long-lasting, a high-quality step can is usually the safer bet.

of “Lived-With-It” Experience: What People Notice After the Honeymoon Phase

Buying a kitchen trash can is a bit like adopting a very quiet pet: it seems low-stakes until it starts influencing your daily routine.
The most common “aha” moment people report after upgrading is how much smoother the kitchen feels when the bin is easy to use.
A responsive step pedal matters more than you’d thinkespecially when you’re holding a cutting board, scraping scraps, and trying not to
drip something questionable on the floor. When the lid opens wide and closes softly, you stop doing that awkward knee-bump maneuver that
turns cooking into interpretive dance.

The second big realization is that odor control isn’t just about the words “odor filter” on the boxit’s about the seal and the hinge.
Expert reviews frequently point out that small gaps can leak smells, and everyday users notice the same thing in the real world.
If your household throws away lots of food scraps, even a great can benefits from a simple rhythm: take out the trash more often than you
think you “should,” and rinse anything that’s basically a sauce grenade. People also tend to underestimate how much the bottom of the
can matters. A tiny leak from a bag (or one soggy item) can create a lingering smell that survives multiple “it’s fine” weeks. That’s why
removable inner buckets and easy-to-wipe interiors show up so often in expert picks: they make recovery fast when life happens.

Recycling changes the equation too. In homes that actually recycle consistently, a dual-compartment or stacked system can reduce clutter
and decision fatigue. Instead of “where does this go?” you get muscle memory: trash here, recycling there. That said, multi-compartment
bins can be a little more work to cleanmore corners, more buckets, more parts. The payoff is a cleaner-looking kitchen and a simpler routine,
but it’s worth knowing up front so you don’t feel personally betrayed by your own garbage system.

Touchless models bring their own real-life lessons. People love them during messy prep (raw meat packaging, sticky hands, big family dinners),
and then discover the two ongoing chores: keeping batteries on standby and occasionally wiping down the sensor area so it doesn’t get gunked up.
Many users find a happy middle ground: a premium step can for durability, plus a smaller touchless or compost bin where hands-free matters most.
Ultimately, the best kitchen trash can isn’t the fanciestit’s the one that matches your habits, fits your space, and quietly disappears into
your day… while handling the least glamorous job in your home like a pro.

Conclusion

The best kitchen trash cans of 2025 share a simple goal: make daily life cleaner, easier, and less smelly. If you want one “do-it-all” winner,
a high-quality rectangular step can is still the safest choice. If recycling is your pain point, a smart dual-compartment system can simplify
your whole kitchen flow. And if you want hands-free convenience, a sensor can earns its keepespecially for frequent cooks. Choose the model
that fits your space, your routine, and your tolerance for taking out the trash (no judgment… okay, a little judgment).