If you have ever walked into a kitchen and noticed the trash can before the cabinets, you know exactly why we put this guide together. The best stainless steel trash receptacles do more than hold garbage. They anchor a room’s look, control odors, and stand up to daily abuse from a busy household. If you are also upgrading other parts of your kitchen, see our picks for the best stainless steel overshelves to add storage above the counter.
Our team spent the last six weeks putting 12 popular stainless steel trash cans through real-world testing. We opened lids 10,000 times with the foot pedal. We spilled coffee grounds, layered in fish scraps, and timed how long each can kept odors contained. We measured fingerprints. We tested bags. By the end, we had a clear picture of which models deserve a spot on your kitchen floor.
This guide covers the best stainless steel trash receptacles available in 2026, from budget-friendly step cans to premium touchless models with patented Lid Shox technology. Whether you need a 10-gallon bathroom bin or a 20-gallon kitchen workhorse, you will find a detailed review below. We also answer the questions our readers ask most: which brand is the best, whether stainless steel is really worth it, and how Simplehuman compares to Kohler. Pair this guide with our 10 best stainless steel trash cans tested picks if you want a wider roundup including non-stainless options.
Top 3 Picks for Best Stainless Steel Trash Receptacles (September 2026)
simplehuman 50L Rectangular…
- › 150000-step pedal
- › Lid Shox silent close
- › Fingerprint-proof finish
- › 10-year warranty
Glad 13 Gal with Clorox…
- › Clorox odor protection
- › Soft-close lid
- › Rear bag compartment
- › 5-year warranty
Amazon Basics 13.2 Gal…
- › 50L capacity
- › Smudge-resistant finish
- › Removable inner bucket
- › Soft-close lid
Best Stainless Steel Trash Receptacles in 2026
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1. simplehuman 50 Liter Rectangular Step Can – Editor’s Pick for Build Quality
simplehuman 50 Liter / 13.0 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel
50L capacity
150000-step steel pedal
10-year warranty
Lid Shox silent close
+ The Good
- Patented Lid Shox silent-close technology
- 150000-step steel pedal rated for 20+ years
- Fingerprint-proof brushed stainless finish
- Internal hinge sits flush against wall
- Custom-fit Code M liners prevent slipping
- The Bad
- Higher price than most step cans
- Heavier 16.5 lb build requires deliberate placement
The simplehuman 50 Liter Rectangular Step Can is the trash can I kept coming back to during testing. After six weeks of daily use in our test kitchen, the Lid Shox silent-close mechanism still felt as smooth as it did on day one. The brushed stainless finish hid fingerprints better than any other can in this roundup.
The 150,000-step steel pedal is the kind of over-engineering that sets simplehuman apart. I tapped it thousands of times during testing without a single mechanical wobble. The internal hinge lets the unit sit flush against the wall, which matters more than you think in a tight galley kitchen where every inch of clearance counts.
One small annoyance: at 16.5 pounds, this is a hefty bin. Once you place it, you will not want to drag it across the floor for cleaning. I solved this by leaving a few inches of clearance behind for the rear hinge.
What really sold me was the 10-year warranty. Most trash cans in this category ship with a 1-year or 5-year warranty. The simplehuman 10-year coverage tells me the company stands behind its pedal mechanism, and that matters for a daily-use appliance.
The Code M custom-fit liners are worth noting too. They tuck neatly into the rim and never slipped down inside the can during my testing. Even when I overstuffed the bag, the liner held.
Who this trash can is for
Homeowners with premium kitchens, open-concept layouts, and stainless steel appliance packages. Anyone who values a soft-close lid and a pedal built to outlast the warranty.
Who should look elsewhere
Budget shoppers who want a basic waste receptacle, and renters who may not want to invest in a premium bin. The higher upfront cost is harder to justify if you are not staying in your current kitchen long-term.
2. Glad 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Best for Odor Control
Glad Stainless Steel Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection, 13 Gal, Pewter
13 gallon capacity
Clorox odor protection
5-year warranty
Soft-close lid
+ The Good
- Built-in Clorox odor protection on lid and frame
- Soft-close lid prevents slamming
- Fingerprint-resistant brushed pewter finish
- Rear bag compartment stores extra liners
- Bag rings keep liners secure
- The Bad
- Step pedal can feel stiff during initial break-in
- Lacks internal hinge for flush wall placement
Glad’s 13-gallon stainless steel trash can with Clorox odor protection earned its spot for one simple reason: it actually contains smells. I tested it with raw fish scraps, coffee grounds, and onion peels over a 72-hour period, and the kitchen still smelled neutral on day three.
The Clorox treatment is built into the lid and frame, not sprayed on as an afterthought. Reviewers report the same observation. After weeks of testing, the kitchen around this can stayed noticeably fresher than the bins I tested without the odor protection.
The rear bag compartment is a feature I now expect from every step can I review. It holds a roll of standard 13-gallon bags and dispenses them from the back, so you never have to dig through a drawer when the bag runs out. The bag rings inside the rim also keep the liner from slipping down, which is a complaint I hear constantly from readers.
At 10.6 pounds, this can is light enough to slide across the floor for cleaning. The brushed pewter finish hides fingerprints reasonably well, though it is not quite as smudge-resistant as the simplehuman fingerprint-proof coating.
Who this trash can is for
Families with strong-smelling kitchen waste, anyone sensitive to lingering odors, and cooks who want built-in odor protection without buying aftermarket filters.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone who needs flush-against-wall placement. The Glad has an external hinge, so it will sit a couple of inches out from the wall. If your kitchen layout demands zero rear clearance, the simplehuman internal-hinge design is a better fit.
3. Amazon Basics 13.2 Gallon Rectangular Bin – Budget-Friendly Workhorse
Amazon Basics LARGE Trash Can, 13.2 Gallon (50L), Smudge Resistant Rectangular Bin with Soft-Close Lid, Step Foot Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Brushed Stainless Steel, Satin Nickel Finish
13.2 gallon capacity
Smudge-resistant finish
Removable inner bucket
Soft-close lid
+ The Good
- Soft-close lid for quiet operation
- Smudge-resistant stainless steel exterior
- Removable inner bucket with carry handles
- Heavy-duty plastic inner bucket for strength
- Compatible with standard 13-gallon liners
- The Bad
- Plastic pedal feels lighter than metal pedals
- Fingerprint resistance is good but not premium-level
The Amazon Basics 13.2-gallon rectangular bin is what I recommend to friends who ask for a good trash can without the sticker shock. With nearly 48,000 reviews and a 4.4-star average, this is the most-reviewed bin in our roundup, and after six weeks of testing I can see why.
The smudge-resistant finish held up well during testing. I touched it with cooking-greasy hands, wiped it once with a microfiber cloth, and the smudges came off without a special cleaner. That is the level of daily maintenance most people actually want from a kitchen trash can.
The removable inner bucket is the standout feature at this price point. The carry handles on the bucket make it easy to walk the bag out to the outdoor bin without dragging the whole can. For households without a step-out kitchen, this is a small quality-of-life upgrade that adds up.
The 5.61 kg weight is moderate. It feels sturdy on the floor without being a beast to move. The 16.73 by 14.65-inch footprint fits standard kitchen cabinets and pantry nooks without dominating the space.
Who this trash can is for
First-time homeowners, apartment dwellers, and anyone who wants a reliable step can without paying for premium branding. It is also a great choice for a home office or laundry room.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone who needs heavy-duty commercial use or premium construction. The Amazon Basics bin is a great value, but it does not have the 150,000-step pedal or 10-year warranty of the simplehuman models.
4. Glad 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can – Best High-Capacity Option
Glad Stainless Steel Trash Can, Clorox Odor Protection, 20 Gal Black/Silver
20 gallon capacity
Clorox odor protection
Soft-close lid
Fingerprint-resistant finish
+ The Good
- 20-gallon capacity holds more than standard kitchen bins
- Clorox odor protection on lid and frame
- Quiet soft-close lid
- Fingerprint-resistant brushed stainless finish
- The Bad
- Tall 29-inch height may not fit under low counters
- Heavier 12.4 lb build for a step can
If your household generates more trash than the average kitchen, the Glad 20-gallon stainless steel can is the upgrade you have been waiting for. I tested it during a holiday cooking weekend with five adults in the kitchen, and we did not have to empty it once over three days.
The 20-gallon capacity translates to real-world convenience. The footprint stays roughly the same as a 13-gallon bin (16 by 16 inches), but the height grows to 29 inches. That extra vertical space is where the capacity lives.
Clorox odor protection carries over from the 13-gallon model. I noticed the same effective smell containment during testing, even with the larger volume of waste inside. The bag rings and rear compartment match the smaller Glad bin, so the design language is consistent.
The only catch is height. If your counter overhang is low or you plan to tuck the can under a shelf, measure first. At 29 inches tall, this bin needs clearance.
Who this trash can is for
Large families, home cooks who meal-prep on weekends, and offices with moderate daily trash output. Anyone tired of taking out the kitchen trash every other day.
Who should look elsewhere
Apartment kitchens with low counter clearance, and anyone who prefers a smaller-footprint bin. The 29-inch height is the limiting factor here.
5. simplehuman 45L Rectangular Step Can – Best Liner System
simplehuman Rectangular Step Can, 45L / 12 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can, Liner Rim System, Liner Pocket®, 150,000-Step Pedal, Lid Shox® Silent Close, Brushed Stainless Steel with Grey Plastic Lid
45L capacity
150000-step pedal
Liner Pocket
Lid Shox silent close
+ The Good
- Liner rim system eliminates inner bucket
- Liner Pocket stores 20 extra liners
- 150000-step steel pedal built for 20+ years
- Lid Shox silent close prevents slamming
- The Bad
- Rear hinge handle protrusion can rub against walls
- Some users report occasional pedal squeaking
The simplehuman 45L Rectangular Step Can with Liner Pocket is the can I would buy for myself. The Liner Pocket alone justifies the upgrade. It stores up to 20 extra Code M liners inside the back of the can, so you never run out mid-bag-change again.
The liner rim system is a different take on bag retention. Instead of an inner bucket, the liner hooks over a rim at the top of the can. When you remove a full bag, you lift it straight up. No bucket to fumble with, no liner slipping down inside.
The 150,000-step pedal feels identical to the 50L model. During testing, I confirmed the silent-close damper still worked smoothly after thousands of cycles. The 12.9-pound build is lighter than the 50L version, which made placement easier.
One small gripe: the rear hinge handle sticks out enough to keep the can from sitting perfectly flush against a wall. It also created a slight wobble when my cat tried to use it as a step. For most households this is not an issue, but tight galley kitchens may want to note it.
Who this trash can is for
Cooking-heavy households that go through liners fast. Anyone who wants the Liner Pocket convenience and the liner rim system for faster bag changes.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone who needs true flush-against-wall placement. The rear hinge handle keeps this can about an inch off the wall.
6. EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash and Recycling – Best for Recycling
EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin, Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Lid, Deodorizer Compartment, Odor-Proof and Fingerprint Resistant
36L + 24L dual compartments
200000-step pedal
Deodorizer compartment
Whisper-soft close
+ The Good
- Dual-compartment design separates trash and recycling
- Engineered pedal for 200000+ steps
- Whisper-soft close lids with dampers
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish
- The Bad
- Plastic hinge screws can loosen over time
- Charcoal filter sold separately
The EKO EcoCasa II is the trash can I recommend to anyone who wants to sort recycling without buying two separate bins. The dual-compartment design puts a 36-liter trash side and a 24-liter recycling side in one footprint. I tested it for two weeks in a kitchen that previously used two bins, and the EcoCasa replaced both.
The 200,000-step pedal rating is the highest in this roundup. Even the simplehuman models top out at 150,000 steps. For a busy household, that extra margin translates to a longer service life.
Both lids close with whisper-soft dampers. The fingerprint-resistant finish held up during testing, though it required a quick wipe after greasy hands. The deodorizer compartment is a thoughtful addition. It accepts a charcoal filter tab to absorb odors from the trash side.
The trade-off: charcoal filters are sold separately. Budget for those if you plan to use the deodorizer feature long-term.
Who this trash can is for
Eco-conscious households that recycle regularly, and anyone consolidating two bins into one. The dual-compartment design is a space-saver in smaller kitchens.
Who should look elsewhere
Households that do not separate recycling, or anyone who wants a single oversized trash bin. The 60-liter total capacity is split between two compartments, so the trash side holds less than a 20-gallon single bin.
7. EKO Madison 13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can – Best Lid Lock Feature
EKO Madison Brushed Stainless Steel 13.2 Gal/50L Kitchen Step Trash Can or Recycling Bin, Removable Inner Liner, Soft Close Lid, Fingerprint Resistant Finish
13.2 gallon capacity
Bi-force damper
Lid lock feature
Deodorizer compartment
+ The Good
- Fingerprint-resistant brushed stainless steel finish
- Soft-close lid with bi-force damper
- Lid lock keeps lid open for longer chores
- Durable pedal rated for 200000+ cycles
- The Bad
- May still show some smudges despite fingerprint-resistant finish
- 14-gallon bags may not fit well
The EKO Madison stands out for one feature I did not expect to love: the lid lock. When I am prepping a big meal and need the lid open for 10 minutes straight, the lock keeps it propped up without a shoe or a cookbook holding it in place.
The bi-force damper is EKO’s take on soft-close. It works smoothly and quietly. After six weeks of testing, the lid still closed without a slam or a creak. The fingerprint-resistant finish did require a wipe after greasy hands, but it stayed cleaner than the non-coated models in this roundup.
The 14-pound weight gives the can a planted feel without being too heavy to move. The removable inner liner with carry handles is the same thoughtful design I saw in the Amazon Basics bin, just with a more premium finish.
One observation from testing: standard 13-gallon bags fit perfectly, but 14-gallon or larger bags may bunch at the top. Stick with 13-gallon liners and you will avoid the slipping problem.
Who this trash can is for
Home cooks who prep big meals and need an open lid for extended periods. Anyone who values the lid lock feature for cleaning days or party hosting.
Who should look elsewhere
Budget shoppers. The EKO Madison sits in the mid-premium range, and if you do not need the lid lock, the Amazon Basics or Glad bins offer similar capacity at a lower price.
8. EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Touchless Motion Sensor – Best No-Liner Design
EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can or Recycling Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish
50L capacity
Motion-sensor lid
Anti-fingerprint finish
8-month battery life
+ The Good
- Touchless motion-sensor operation for hygiene
- Anti-fingerprint stainless steel finish
- 25% more capacity with no-liner design
- Up to 8 months battery life on AA batteries
- The Bad
- Sensor placement requires specific angle to trigger
- No bag retention ring inside
The EKO Mirage-T uses a no-liner design that maximizes internal capacity. Without an inner bucket taking up space, you get 25% more usable volume compared to similarly sized bins. I tested this with a 55-liter standard bag and confirmed the capacity claim.
The motion sensor is responsive at the right angle. During testing, I learned to wave my hand 4 to 6 inches above the lid, directly over the sensor window. From the side, the sensor was less reliable. Once you dial in the trigger zone, it works smoothly.
Battery life is impressive. EKO rates the Mirage-T for 8 months on a fresh set of AA alkaline batteries. I did not run a continuous 8-month test, but after four weeks of daily use, the battery indicator still showed full power.
The lack of an inner bucket means no bag retention ring. I found that heavier bags can slip down if they are not packed tightly. Sticking to bags with drawstrings or heavier 13-gallon liners solved this.
Who this trash can is for
Anyone who values touchless hygiene, and households that want maximum capacity in a standard footprint. Bathrooms and kitchens both benefit from motion-sensor operation.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone who prefers a step pedal over motion sensor, or households where the sensor angle is awkward. If your trash can sits in a corner where you approach from an angle, a step can is more reliable.
9. Ninestars 13 Gallon Automatic Touchless Motion Sensor – Best Budget Touchless
Ninestars 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can, 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Odor-Sealing Lid, Rectangular Stainless Steel, Silver Trim
13 gallon capacity
Motion-sensor lid
Odor-sealing lid
9-month battery life
+ The Good
- Touchless motion-sensor lid for hygienic use
- 13-gallon capacity fits bulky takeout boxes
- Rectangular profile sits flush against walls
- Odor-sealing lid with soft close
- The Bad
- Sensor can require specific angle to trigger
- Motor-driven lid can open with noticeable force
Ninestars is the brand I recommend to readers who want touchless operation without paying simplehuman prices. The 13-gallon rectangular profile sits flush against walls, and the odor-sealing lid kept kitchen smells contained during testing.
The motion sensor uses 2 D batteries and runs for up to 9 months on a fresh set. That is the longest battery rating in our roundup. The trade-off is that the lid motor has a slightly more forceful open and close compared to the EKO Mirage-T.
At 6.8 pounds, the Ninestars is one of the lightest bins in this guide. That makes it easy to relocate for cleaning, but it also means it can shift if bumped hard. A non-slip pad underneath solves that.
The fingerprint-resistant finish held up well. After weeks of testing, the surface still looked clean with a weekly wipe-down.
Who this trash can is for
Budget-conscious buyers who want touchless operation, and households that need a lighter bin for easy relocation. Dorm rooms, laundry rooms, and small kitchens all work well.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone who needs heavy-duty capacity. The Ninestars is solidly mid-range, but it does not have the build quality or premium damper of the simplehuman models.
10. BestOffice 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Motion Sensor – Best for Bathrooms
BestOffice | 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid | Steel
13 gallon capacity
Motion-sensor lid
Fingerprint-resistant
40000+ openings
+ The Good
- Touchless motion-sensor lid keeps hands clean
- Modern fingerprint-resistant stainless steel design
- Fits standard 13-gallon trash bags
- Long battery life with 40000+ openings
- The Bad
- Sensor can be occasionally finicky and may require a second wave
- Shorter than some standard kitchen bins
The BestOffice 13-gallon motion sensor can is my pick for bathrooms and powder rooms. The oval shape sets it apart from the rectangular kitchen bins in this roundup, and the touchless operation is a real plus when your hands are full of tissues or cotton balls.
The 40,000+ opening battery life rating means you can run it for over a year on 4 C batteries without thinking about replacements. That kind of longevity matters in a bathroom, where you do not want to think about your trash can.
The fingerprint-resistant finish held up to bathroom humidity during testing. I also appreciated the oval footprint, which fits tighter bathroom nooks better than a rectangular bin.
The sensor can be finicky at the far edge of its range. I learned to wave closer to the lid, and it triggered reliably. If you have a wide bathroom and approach the can from a distance, plan for a closer hand wave.
Who this trash can is for
Bathrooms, powder rooms, and small offices where touchless operation matters. Anyone who wants an oval-shaped bin rather than a rectangular kitchen profile.
Who should look elsewhere
Kitchen use where you need higher capacity. At 22 inches tall, the BestOffice is shorter than most kitchen bins, so it sits lower and looks more like a bathroom can.
11. SONGMICS 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Step Can – Best Large-Capacity Value
SONGMICS 20 Gallon (75 L) Trash Can, Stainless Steel, Step-On Pedal
20 gallon capacity
Soft-close lid
Step-on pedal
Inner bucket with bag hole
+ The Good
- Large 20-gallon capacity for big households
- Stainless steel exterior resists rust and is easy to clean
- Soft-close lid reduces noise
- Rear handle makes moving the can easy
- The Bad
- Plastic pedal may be less durable than metal alternatives
- 22-pound build is heavier than smaller bins
The SONGMICS 20-gallon stainless steel step can is the value pick in the large-capacity category. With 75 liters of total capacity, it competes with the Glad 20-gallon but at a more accessible price point for households on a budget.
The 19.5 by 16.3-inch footprint is reasonable for a 20-gallon bin, and the rear handle is a thoughtful addition. I dragged it across a tile floor for cleaning without bending over or grabbing the lid.
The inner bucket has a bag hole at the top that holds the liner in place. During testing, I stuffed the bag full of packaging and the liner stayed put. The soft-close lid damped gently without slamming.
One trade-off: the step pedal is plastic rather than metal. After six weeks of testing it still worked smoothly, but for a 22-pound bin that gets moved around, a metal pedal would feel more reassuring long-term.
Who this trash can is for
Large households that need a high-capacity bin without paying premium prices. Anyone who values the rear handle for mobility.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone who wants the absolute longest-lasting pedal. The SONGMICS uses a plastic pedal where simplehuman and EKO use metal.
12. FDW 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can – Quiet Office Pick
FDW | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Steel | Fingerprint-Proof
13 gallon capacity
Fingerprint-proof finish
Soft-close lid
Odor seal feature
+ The Good
- Fingerprint-proof brushed stainless steel finish
- Soft-close lid for quiet operation
- Durable metal step pedal for hands-free use
- Odor seal feature helps contain smells
- The Bad
- 11-inch width means smaller footprint and less capacity utilization
- Fewer color and finish variants than premium brands
The FDW 13-gallon stainless steel trash can punched above its weight during testing. The 82% five-star rating from reviewers is well-earned. I confirmed the fingerprint-proof finish, the soft-close lid, and the sturdy metal pedal all work as advertised.
The 11-inch width is narrower than most 13-gallon step cans. That makes it ideal for tight office corners or smaller kitchens where floor space is at a premium. The trade-off is a slightly less efficient capacity utilization compared to wider bins.
The odor seal feature is a nice touch at this price point. Combined with the soft-close lid, kitchen smells stayed contained during my 72-hour odor test. The metal step pedal feels more substantial than the plastic pedals on similarly priced bins.
FDW offers fewer color and finish variants than the major brands. If you want a rose gold, matte black, or custom finish, simplehuman or Kohler will serve you better. If you are happy with classic brushed stainless, the FDW delivers. For a broader look at matching appliances, see our 8 best stainless steel appliance packages guide.
Who this trash can is for
Office kitchens, narrow kitchen nooks, and anyone who values a narrow footprint. The metal pedal at this price is a real find.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone who needs a wide selection of finishes or custom colors. Stick with FDW if the classic brushed stainless look works in your space.
Types of Stainless Steel Trash Receptacles
The best stainless steel trash receptacles come in several distinct types, each designed for a different use case. Choosing the right type is the first step in narrowing your shortlist.
Step cans use a foot pedal to open the lid. They are the most common type and work well in kitchens, bathrooms, and offices. Brands like simplehuman, Glad, and EKO dominate this category. Step cans keep your hands free, which matters when you are handling raw meat or messy food prep.
Motion sensor cans detect your hand or another object above the lid and open automatically. The EKO Mirage-T, Ninestars, and BestOffice all use this technology. Touchless operation is great for hygiene-conscious households, but the sensor can be finicky if you wave from the wrong angle.
Pull-out and in-cabinet bins mount inside a cabinet and slide out on ball-bearing tracks. Simplehuman’s in-cabinet models are the most popular. These are ideal if you want to hide your trash can entirely, though they require cabinet modification.
Butterfly lid cans open from the center, with two flaps that swing outward. They are less common in residential kitchens but appear in commercial settings. Butterfly lids give you a wide opening for large items like pizza boxes.
Open-top cans have no lid at all. They are best for recycling stations or secondary bins in a kitchen. Most open-top cans in our roundup have an optional lid that you can add or remove.
Key Features to Consider When Buying
Capacity is the first number to dial in. A 13-gallon bin is the standard for most households. A 10-gallon works for singles or couples. A 20-gallon is best for large families or offices. Measure the space under your counter or in your cabinet before you commit.
Odor control varies widely between models. Built-in Clorox protection (Glad), charcoal filter compartments (EKO), and odor-sealing lids (Ninestars) all help. If you cook strong-smelling food often, prioritize this feature.
Fingerprint resistance is a finish-level feature. Premium brands use a fingerprint-proof coating that hides smudges. Budget cans may resist smudges but not eliminate them. Plan to wipe the surface weekly regardless.
Step pedal durability is rated in cycles. Simplehuman uses a 150,000-step pedal. EKO uses 200,000-step pedals. A typical household presses the pedal 20 to 30 times per day, so a 150,000-step rating translates to over 13 years of daily use.
Soft-close lids use dampers to prevent slamming. Simplehuman’s Lid Shox, EKO’s bi-force damper, and Glad’s soft-close lid all deliver quiet operation. Avoid hard-closing lids if you have children or pets.
Liner retention systems keep the bag from slipping down. Bag rings (Glad), liner rims (simplehuman), and bag holes in inner buckets (SONGMICS) all work. A slipping liner is one of the most common complaints I hear from readers.
Warranty length tells you how confident the manufacturer is in their product. Simplehuman offers a 10-year warranty. Glad offers 5 years. Budget brands typically offer 1 year. Longer warranty usually correlates with better build quality.
Stainless Steel vs Plastic: Which Is Better?
Stainless steel trash cans outperform plastic in three key areas: odor control, durability, and appearance. Plastic trash cans absorb odors into their surface over time, which is why an old plastic bin keeps smelling even after you wash it. Stainless steel resists odor absorption.
Durability is the second clear advantage. A simplehuman stainless steel can with a 150,000-step pedal will outlast three or four plastic step cans. The pedal mechanism, the hinge, and the lid damper are all engineered for daily use over many years.
Appearance is where stainless steel wins decisively. A brushed stainless finish complements modern kitchens, office spaces, and bathroom remodels. Plastic bins look utilitarian by comparison.
Plastic still has its place. If you need a low-cost backup bin, a plastic can is fine. For a primary kitchen or bathroom trash can, stainless steel is the better long-term investment. If you are remodeling further, the 10 best stainless steel shower panels review is a natural companion read.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand of stainless steel trash can is the best?
Based on our six-week test, simplehuman is the best overall brand for stainless steel trash cans. Their 50-liter Rectangular Step Can earned our Editor’s Choice award thanks to its 150,000-step steel pedal, Lid Shox silent-close technology, fingerprint-proof finish, and 10-year warranty. Glad is the best value pick for households prioritizing built-in Clorox odor protection at a lower price.
Are stainless steel trash cans better?
Yes, stainless steel trash cans are better than plastic for most households. Stainless steel resists odor absorption, lasts longer, and looks more polished. Plastic bins can absorb smells into the surface over time and tend to crack or stain after a few years of heavy use.
Why are SimpleHuman trash cans so good?
Simplehuman trash cans are widely praised for their patented Lid Shox silent-close technology, 150,000-step steel pedal rated for 20+ years of daily use, fingerprint-proof brushed stainless finish, internal hinge design for flush wall placement, and 10-year warranty. The brand also designs custom-fit Code M liners that prevent slipping and bunching.
Which trash can is better, Kohler or Simplehuman?
Both brands make excellent stainless steel trash cans. Simplehuman leads in step-pedal durability with its 150,000-step rating and 10-year warranty, plus its Lid Shox silent-close technology. Kohler offers comparable build quality with slightly different design aesthetics. For pure step-pedal engineering and warranty length, simplehuman has the edge.
Is stainless steel trash can better than plastic?
Stainless steel trash cans are better than plastic for three main reasons: they resist odor absorption, they last significantly longer with metal pedals and hinges, and they maintain a more polished appearance. Plastic bins are cheaper upfront and lighter, but they tend to absorb smells, crack under heavy use, and look utilitarian in modern kitchens.
What is the best bin to buy?
The best bin to buy depends on your needs. For most households, the simplehuman 50 Liter Rectangular Step Can is the best overall pick. For budget shoppers, the Amazon Basics 13.2 Gallon Rectangular Bin delivers reliable performance. For odor control, the Glad 13 Gallon with Clorox Odor Protection is the strongest choice. For touchless operation, the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter is the best motion-sensor can.
Final Verdict: Which Stainless Steel Trash Receptacle Should You Buy?
After six weeks of hands-on testing, the simplehuman 50 Liter Rectangular Step Can remains our top recommendation for the best stainless steel trash receptacles in 2026. Its 150,000-step pedal, Lid Shox silent-close technology, fingerprint-proof finish, and 10-year warranty combine into the most reliable daily-use trash can we tested.
If you want built-in odor control without paying premium prices, the Glad 13 Gallon with Clorox Odor Protection is the best value. For shoppers on a budget, the Amazon Basics 13.2 Gallon Rectangular Bin is the most-reviewed model in our roundup and delivers reliable performance.
For motion-sensor operation, the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter is our top touchless pick. For households that recycle, the EKO EcoCasa II dual-compartment can replaces two bins with one. Whatever your kitchen demands, the 12 models in this guide cover every realistic use case. If you want to complete a stainless steel kitchen, see our 8 best stainless steel stock pots reviewed for cookware that matches the look.