Few things sour a kitchen faster than the trash. The right bin does the quiet work of containing the mess, sealing in smells, and keeping curious pets and toddlers out, all while looking like it belongs next to your cabinets.
This guide covers where a bin should live, how to judge one before you buy, and the models worth your money, from cabinet slide-outs to touchless stainless steel.
We weighed every pick on how well it seals odors, how simple it is to wipe clean, and how it stands up to daily use in a busy kitchen.
Our Top Picks

- Hides inside your cabinet
- Two 27-quart bins
- Full-extension slides

- Quiet soft-close lid
- Removable inner bucket
- Smudge-resistant steel
- Silent lid & lock
- Strong steel pedal
- Extra durable plastic

- Tight-sealing lid
- Soft-close pedal
- Removable inner bucket

- Includes 20 trash bags
- Fingerprint-proof steel
- Soft-close damper

- Rear bag storage
- Matte fingerprint-proof finish
- 20-gallon capacity

- Touchless motion sensor
- Odor-sealing lid
- Fingerprint-resistant steel

- Built-in odor filter holder
- Soft-close lid
- Space-saving flush design
- Two 8-gallon color-coded buckets
- Dual AbsorbX odor filters
- Soft-close air damper
Our Review Criteria: Capacity has to match the household: a kitchen bin that fills before trash day fails no matter how good the lid is. We sized each pick against typical family output, then weighed lid seal and charcoal filtration for odor control, pedal and body durability, and how easily each can takes a liner and wipes clean. Non-porous stainless steel earned extra weight where odor resistance mattered most, and we compared manufacturer specs against patterns in verified owner feedback. Every model listed was confirmed available at publication, with discontinued cans swapped for current replacements.
Where Should You Put a Kitchen Trash Can?
If you want a minimalist look, wedge the bin between appliances or at the end of a counter so it does not stick out. In smaller kitchens, hiding the trash inside a cabinet is often the smartest move. Slide-out units keep waste out of sight, help contain odors, and free up valuable floor space.
How To Choose the Right Trash Can
The right bin comes down to a handful of features. Here is what to weigh before you spend.
Product Reviews
We compared product specs, independent reviews, and real user feedback to sort the best bins from the forgettable ones. Each pick was judged on odor control, opening mechanism, build quality, and design.
Here are the 11 best kitchen trash cans you can buy right now.
Rev-A-Shelf Double Pull-Out Waste Bin
Best Slide-In Trash Can
It ships with two 27-quart bins (about 6.75 gallons each, roughly 13.5 gallons of total capacity), which makes it easy to split trash and recycling in one spot. The heavy-duty wire frame rides on full-extension, ball-bearing slides, so the whole caddy glides out for full access instead of forcing you to reach into a dark cupboard.
Installation is a four-screw, bottom-mount job, and the containers use standard 12-gallon kitchen bags. You do need a cabinet opening of roughly 11.5 to 15 inches, so measuring first is not optional here. An add-on door-mount kit lets the bins slide out automatically when you open the cabinet.
Pros
- Keeps floor space clear and hides the trash completely.
- Two bins make sorting trash and recycling simple.
- Full-extension slides pull out for easy access.
- Keeps pets and kids away from the garbage.
- Uses standard 12-gallon bags.
Cons
- Each 6.75-gallon bin fills up fast.
- Needs a compatible cabinet and a bit of installation.
Product Specs
| Size | 13.5 gallons total / two 27-quart bins |
| Material | Steel wire frame, plastic bins |
| Lid | No, cabinet door blocks odors |
| Odor-Control | No |
| Opening Mechanism | Slide-out caddy |
Amazon Basics Soft-Close Step Trash Can
Best Soft-Close Can
The brushed, smudge-resistant stainless finish wipes clean and sits flush against a wall thanks to its rectangular shape. A soft-close lid drops shut quietly instead of clanging, and a stay-open feature holds the lid up when you are peeling vegetables or changing the bag.
Inside sits a removable plastic bucket with a carry handle, so hauling a leaky liner to the sink is straightforward. At 14.7 by 16.7 by 25.9 inches, it takes up a standard footprint. There is no charcoal filter here, so you rely on the lid seal for odor control, and the lid feels a touch lighter than pricier steel cans.
Pros
- Quiet soft-close lid.
- Removable inner bucket with a carry handle.
- Smudge-resistant brushed stainless finish.
- Stay-open lid for longer tasks.
- Rectangular shape sits flush against the wall.
Cons
- No odor filter, so it leans on the lid seal.
- Lid feels lighter than premium steel cans.
Product Specs
| Size | 13.2 gallons / 14.7 x 16.7 x 25.9 inches |
| Material | Brushed stainless steel, plastic inner bucket |
| Lid | Yes, soft-close |
| Odor-Control | No |
| Opening Mechanism | Foot pedal |
Simplehuman Semi-Round Step Trash Can
Best Plastic Kitchen Trash Can
Plastic may not have the shine of steel, but the color options (black, mocha, stone, and white) blend into most kitchens, and the can carries a generous five-year warranty. The steel pedal is rated for 150,000 steps, which works out to 20 uses a day for two decades, so wear is not a worry.
For pet owners, the standout is the slide lock. Flip it and the lid stays shut, so dogs and toddlers cannot nose their way into the garbage. The lid also closes slowly and silently instead of slamming.
Pros
- Slide lock keeps pets and kids out.
- Steel pedal built for long-term use.
- Silent-close lid avoids banging.
- Flat back sits flush against the wall.
- Backed by a 5-year warranty.
Cons
- Lightweight plastic can slide on smooth floors.
- Priced high for a non-metal bin.
Product Specs
| Size | 13 gallons / 14 x 18.9 x 26.5 inches |
| Material | Durable plastic and steel pedal |
| Lid | Yes |
| Odor-Control | No |
| Opening Mechanism | Foot pedal |
SONGMICS Stainless Steel Step Trash Can
Best Stainless Steel Can
At 13 gallons it hits the household sweet spot, and the lid seals tightly around the rim. That snug fit slows odors, letting food waste sit a day or two longer before it starts to announce itself. A removable inner bucket with a bag hole on the back tucks the liner edges out of sight and secures the bag.
Everyday use is easy. Step on the pedal to open, or lift the lid fully and it stays put while you clean out the fridge. A handle on the back helps you move it when you need to. The main trade-off is the lack of a dedicated odor filter, so a very smelly kitchen may still want charcoal added.
Pros
- Rust-resistant stainless body, easy to wipe clean.
- Tight lid seal slows odors.
- Removable inner bucket hides and holds the bag.
- Stay-open lid frees your hands.
- Back handle makes it easy to move.
Cons
- No dedicated charcoal filter.
- Fingerprints still show on the brushed surface without regular wiping.
Product Specs
| Size | 13 gallons (50 liters) |
| Material | Stainless steel, plastic inner bucket |
| Lid | Yes, soft-close |
| Odor-Control | No |
| Opening Mechanism | Foot pedal |
KdbK Stainless Steel Step Trash Can
Best Value
The 13-gallon can fits standard grocery-store bags, and the bi-force damper handles closing two ways: press the lid and it glides shut slowly and quietly, or pop it to a 90-degree stand-up position where it stays open hands-free for chores. The steel pedal is rated for 200,000 presses.
The sturdy ABS inner bucket resists cracking if it takes a knock, and a small hole in the back holds the bag edge in place. There is no charcoal filter, so odor control comes down to the lid seal, but for the money this is a lot of can.
Pros
- Includes 20 trash bags in the box.
- Anti-fingerprint brushed stainless finish.
- Soft-close lid with a hands-free stay-open position.
- Durable removable ABS inner bucket.
- Pedal rated for 200,000 presses.
Cons
- No dedicated odor filter.
- Lesser-known brand with a shorter track record.
Product Specs
| Size | 13 gallons (50 liters) |
| Material | Brushed stainless steel, ABS inner bucket |
| Lid | Yes, soft-close |
| Odor-Control | No |
| Opening Mechanism | Foot pedal |
EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Trash Can
Most Stylish
Looks aside, it is a serious workhorse at 20 gallons (75 liters), enough capacity for a big family or a high-traffic kitchen. A clever rear compartment stores a roll of spare 13-gallon bags, so a fresh liner is always within reach when you change the bag. The bi-force damper lid opens and closes softly instead of banging.
The stainless foot pedal is rated for more than 200,000 steps, so it should hold up for years. The trade-offs are size and bag logistics: at 20 gallons it has a larger footprint and eats through bigger bags, so it is overkill for a small apartment.
Pros
- Matte, fingerprint-resistant stainless finish.
- Rear compartment stores spare bags.
- Roomy 20-gallon capacity.
- Soft open-and-close damper lid.
- Pedal rated for 200,000-plus steps.
Cons
- Large footprint is too big for tight kitchens.
- Uses larger bags than a standard 13-gallon can.
Product Specs
| Size | 20 gallons (75 liters) |
| Material | Matte stainless steel |
| Lid | Yes, soft-close |
| Odor-Control | No |
| Opening Mechanism | Foot pedal |
Ninestars Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can
Best No-Touch Can
The 13-gallon rectangular body sits flush against a wall or island and swallows bulky takeout boxes with room to spare. The all-silver stainless finish resists fingerprints, and a removable liner ring hides the messy bag edge for a tidy look. When the lid closes, its precise fit seals stubborn food smells inside.
It runs on 2 D-cell batteries (not included) for up to about nine months per set, so there are no cords to route. As with any sensor can, the trade-off is battery upkeep, and an over-eager sensor can open if you brush past it, so keep it out of the main walkway.
Pros
- Fully touchless motion-sensor lid.
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless body.
- Rectangular shape sits flush against the wall.
- Odor-sealing soft-close lid.
- Up to nine months of runtime per battery set.
Cons
- Batteries are not included.
- The sensor can open when you simply walk by.
Product Specs
| Size | 13 gallons (50 liters) |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Lid | Yes, automatic |
| Odor-Control | No |
| Opening Mechanism | Motion sensor |
SIMPLI-MAGIC Stainless Steel Trash Can
Best Odor Control
The 13.2-gallon stainless body is fingerprint-resistant and rides on a metal foot pedal for hands-free access. Clean lines and a flush profile let it sit tight against a wall or cabinet, so it suits a compact kitchen as well as a large one. A removable plastic liner and a stay-open lid lock make bag changes and cleaning painless.
The main thing to plan for is the filter itself: it is a consumable, so you will swap in a fresh charcoal insert every few months to keep the odor control working. That is a small running cost for a noticeably fresher kitchen.
Pros
- Built-in holder for an activated carbon odor filter.
- Snug soft-close lid contains smells.
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless finish.
- Flush profile fits compact kitchens.
- Removable liner and stay-open lock ease bag changes.
Cons
- Charcoal filters are a consumable you replace every few months.
- Filter is not always included in the box.
Product Specs
| Size | 13.2 gallons (50 liters) |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Lid | Yes, soft-close |
| Odor-Control | Yes, activated carbon filter holder |
| Opening Mechanism | Foot pedal |
iTouchless SoftStep 16 Gallon Dual Trash Can and Recycle Bin
Best for Large Kitchens
Inside are two separate color-coded 8-gallon removable inner buckets, and they take standard 8 to 10 gallon bags, so there are no proprietary liners to reorder. Each side gets its own AbsorbX odor filter, and the first two filters come in the box, which means the recycling side does not turn sour between pickups.
The ergonomic step pedal opens with light pressure, and an air damper lets the lid settle shut quietly instead of banging. That damper is replaceable, so a worn one does not retire the can. The brushed stainless finish is fingerprint-proof and wipes clean. Plan for the footprint before you buy: at 18.75 inches wide and 15.25 inches deep, with a 38-inch lid-open height, it needs real clearance and will not tuck under an overhang.
Pros
- Two color-coded 8-gallon buckets make sorting simple.
- Dual AbsorbX odor filters, one per side, included in the box.
- Takes standard 8 to 10 gallon bags, no custom liners.
- Replaceable air damper for a quiet, soft close.
- Fingerprint-proof brushed stainless finish.
Cons
- Wide footprint, and the lid needs 38 inches of clearance to open.
- Carbon filters are a consumable you replace over time.
- Each 8-gallon side fills fast with bulky recyclables.
Product Specs
| Size | 16 gallons (60 liters) / two 8-gallon buckets / 18.75 x 15.25 x 26.25 inches |
| Material | Brushed stainless steel, plastic inner buckets |
| Lid | Yes, soft-close air damper |
| Odor-Control | Yes, dual AbsorbX carbon filters |
| Opening Mechanism | Foot pedal |
Glad Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection
Best Budget Pick
Interior bag rings are the other smart touch. They grip the liner at the rim so it does not slip down inside when you drop in something heavy, and they tuck the excess bag out of view. The step pedal keeps the whole thing hands-free, and the plastic body wipes clean and will not rust or dent.
It is lightweight, which makes it easy to move but also easy to slide if you stomp the pedal too hard. For a second bin, a rental, or anyone who just wants a solid can without the steel price, it covers the basics well.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price.
- Clorox odor-protection lid helps block smells.
- Interior bag rings stop liners from slipping.
- Plastic body will not rust or dent.
- Standard 13-gallon size fits common bags.
Cons
- Lightweight body can slide on smooth floors.
- Plastic can stain or hold smells over the years.
Product Specs
| Size | 13 gallons |
| Material | Plastic |
| Lid | Yes, Clorox odor-protection |
| Odor-Control | Yes, Clorox-treated lid |
| Opening Mechanism | Foot pedal |
Ninestars Step-On Trash Can Combo Set
Best for Small Kitchens
Both cans use a spring-loaded foot pedal, so the lid opens hands-free while you are holding a dripping coffee filter, and the soft-close lid settles quietly rather than clanging. The stainless bodies are smudge-proof and fingerprint-resistant, which keeps the finish looking clean in a small kitchen where the bin sits within easy reach of everything.
Cleaning is straightforward. Each can holds a removable, leak-proof inner bucket, so a split bag stays contained and the bucket lifts out for a rinse instead of forcing you to scrub the can itself. The base is non-skid, so the bin stays planted when you step on the pedal rather than sliding across a tile floor. The trade-off is capacity: 8 gallons suits one or two people, and a bigger household will be walking bags out most days.
Pros
- Compact 8-gallon footprint fits a small kitchen.
- Includes a matching 1.3-gallon mini bin for a bathroom or office.
- Leak-proof removable inner bucket lifts out for cleaning.
- Soft-close lid runs quietly.
- Non-skid base keeps the can from sliding when you step on it.
Cons
- 8 gallons is small for a large household.
- No charcoal filter, so odor control rests on the lid.
Product Specs
| Size | 8 gallons (30 liters) plus a 1.3-gallon (5-liter) mini bin |
| Material | Stainless steel, plastic inner buckets |
| Lid | Yes, soft-close |
| Odor-Control | No |
| Opening Mechanism | Foot pedal |
| Product | Best | Size | Material | Lid | Odor-Control | Opening Mechanism |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rev-A-Shelf Double Pull-Out Waste Bin | Slide-In Trash Can | 13.5 gal. | Steel wire frame, plastic bins | No | No | Slide-out |
| Amazon Basics Soft-Close Step Can | Soft-Close Can | 13.2 gal. | Brushed stainless steel | Yes | No | Foot pedal |
| Simplehuman Semi-Round Step | Plastic Kitchen Trash Can | 13 gal. | Durable plastic & steel pedal | Yes | No | Foot pedal |
| SONGMICS Stainless Step Trash Can | Stainless Steel Can | 13 gal. | Stainless steel | Yes | No | Foot pedal |
| KdbK Stainless Step Trash Can | Value | 13 gal. | Stainless steel | Yes | No | Foot pedal |
| EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Can | Stylish | 20 gal. | Matte stainless steel | Yes | No | Foot pedal |
| Ninestars Automatic Sensor Can | No-Touch Can | 13 gal. | Stainless steel | Yes | No | Motion sensor |
| SIMPLI-MAGIC Soft-Close Trash Can | Odor Control | 13.2 gal. | Stainless steel | Yes | Yes | Foot pedal |
| iTouchless SoftStep Dual Trash Can | For Large Kitchens | 16 gal. | Brushed stainless steel, plastic buckets | Yes | Yes | Foot pedal |
| Glad Step Trash Can | Budget Pick | 13 gal. | Plastic | Yes | Yes | Foot pedal |
| Ninestars Step-On Combo Set | For Small Kitchens | 8 gal. + 1.3 gal. | Stainless steel, plastic buckets | Yes | No | Foot pedal |
FAQs
Conclusion
Upgrading your kitchen trash can is a small change that pays off every single day. Whether you want the hidden convenience of the Rev-A-Shelf pull-out, the touch-free hygiene of the Ninestars sensor can, or the budget-friendly ease of the Glad step can, there is a match for your space and habits. Measure your spot, pick the features that solve your biggest annoyance, and enjoy a cleaner, fresher kitchen.














