Here’s an overview of the Best Kitchen Cans that we’ll explore today:
Kitchen trash cans are an essential yet often overlooked part of our daily lives. They are not just about holding waste; they contribute to the overall hygiene, convenience, and even aesthetic appeal of your kitchen. With options ranging from manual step-on mechanisms to motion-sensor lids, choosing the right trash can can be surprisingly complex. For this review, we’ve analyzed five popular kitchen trash cans, evaluating them on durability, functionality, design, and value for money. Our selection includes models from Amazon Basics, simplehuman, Glad, Ninestars, and Sterilite, with prices ranging from $61.97 to $79.99. Each product was tested in a real-world kitchen environment to assess its performance under daily use.
1. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal
- Brand: Amazon Basics
- Manufacturer: Amazon Basics
The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is a premium option with a brushed stainless steel finish. It boasts a 50-liter capacity, a soft-close lid, and a removable inner bucket for easy cleaning. The smudge-resistant exterior ensures it maintains its sleek appearance over time. Its stay-open lid feature is perfect for longer kitchen tasks, and the manual foot pedal offers hands-free convenience.
During testing, the soft-close lid performed flawlessly, delivering a quiet and smooth operation. The stainless steel construction feels sturdy and resists fingerprints well, making it ideal for families with kids. However, at $79.99, it is the most expensive option in this comparison, and its larger size may not be suitable for smaller kitchens. The inner bucket design makes bag replacement straightforward, but the lack of odor control features is a drawback.
Pros
- Sleek, smudge-resistant stainless steel finish
- Soft-close lid with quiet operation
- Removable inner bucket for easy cleaning
- Stay-open lid for convenience during longer tasks
Cons
- Higher price point compared to other models
- Lacks built-in odor control features
2. simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock
- Brand: simplehuman
- Manufacturer: simplehuman
The simplehuman Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can is designed for high-traffic areas, featuring a 50-liter capacity, a semi-round shape for space efficiency, and a patented silent close lid. Its slide lock system ensures the lid stays securely shut, making it a great option for households with pets or young children. The black plastic construction is lightweight yet durable, and the matte finish resists dents and scratches.
In our tests, the lid lock proved effective at keeping curious pets out, and the silent close mechanism worked as advertised. While the plastic material is less premium than stainless steel, it offers excellent durability and is easy to clean. The semi-round shape fits well in tighter spaces, but the proprietary liner system can be inconvenient if you prefer using standard trash bags. Overall, this model is ideal for families needing a practical, pet-proof solution.
Pros
- Silent close lid with patented technology
- Slide lock for added security
- Space-efficient semi-round design
- Durable and lightweight plastic construction
Cons
- Proprietary liners required for optimal fit
- Plastic material feels less premium than stainless steel
3. Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal
- Brand: Glad
- Manufacturer: Glad
The Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can combines affordability and functionality with its Clorox odor protection lid, which effectively blocks odors. The foot pedal allows hands-free operation, and the built-in bag rings keep trash bags securely in place. Its rectangular shape and matte black finish give it a modern look that fits well in most kitchens.
This model excels in odor management, making it a great choice for households that prioritize hygiene. The foot pedal is responsive and durable, while the bag rings simplify bag replacement. However, the plastic construction lacks the premium feel of stainless steel models, and the lid’s durability could be improved. Overall, it’s a solid mid-range option for families seeking practicality and odor control.
Pros
- Clorox odor protection for effective odor management
- Hands-free operation with durable foot pedal
- Bag rings prevent bag slippage
- Modern and sleek design
Cons
- Plastic construction feels less durable
- Lid may not be as robust over time
4. NINESTARS DZT-50-28 Automatic Touchless Motion Sensor Rectangular Trash Can
- Brand: Ninestars
- Manufacturer: Ninestars
The NINESTARS DZT-50-28 is the budget-friendly option in this comparison, offering a touchless motion sensor lid for convenience and hygiene. Its fingerprint-resistant stainless steel base keeps it looking clean, while the removable ring liner ensures trash bags stay securely in place. The water-resistant infrared sensor is designed to prevent accidental activation.
In real-world use, the motion sensor was responsive and reliable, but it requires 2 D batteries, which are not included. The quiet-close lid functioned well, adding to the overall user experience. However, the smaller dimensions make it less suitable for larger households. At $61.97, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a touchless trash can on a budget.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Touchless motion sensor for hygiene
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel base
- Quiet-close lid
Cons
- Requires batteries (not included)
- Smaller size may not suit larger households
5. STERILITE 10458004 Touch Can
- Brand: Sterilite
- Manufacturer: Sterilite
The Sterilite 10458004 Touch Can is a simple, no-frills option with a 13-gallon capacity and a press-top opening mechanism. Its lightweight plastic construction and polished finish make it easy to clean and move around. The titanium-colored latch adds a touch of style to its otherwise basic design.
While the press-top mechanism is easy to use, it lacks the convenience of hands-free operation. The plastic material feels less durable compared to other models, and the lack of advanced features like odor control or soft-close lids limits its appeal. However, its affordability and lightweight design make it suitable for smaller households or secondary use in areas like laundry rooms.
Pros
- Affordable and lightweight
- Easy-to-clean polished finish
- Simple press-top mechanism
Cons
- Lacks hands-free operation
- Plastic construction feels less durable
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about kitchen canss to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Choosing the right kitchen cans can truly enhance your game.
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