The 10 Best Kitchen Wastebasket of 2025

Our pick: Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can

The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is a well-designed, functional unit that fits seamlessly into both home and office settings. With its brushed stainless steel exterior and soft-close lid, it combines aesthetics with everyday convenience. During testing, it performed reliably across various scenarios—from daily kitchen use to moderate office waste disposal. The construction feels solid, and the smudge-resistant finish helps maintain a clean appearance with minimal effort. While it doesn't include high-end sensor features, it meets the expectations for its price point with practical, user-friendly elements.

Pros

• Smudge-resistant stainless steel finish

• Soft-close, stay-open lid

• Removable inner bucket with carry handle

• Generous 50-liter capacity

Con

• No hands-free sensor feature

This trash can from Amazon Basics delivers on durability and ease of use, offering good value for those seeking a dependable, low-maintenance waste solution. It's a solid choice for users who prefer a manual pedal-operated unit with quiet performance and a modern look.

Also great: QUALIAZERO 50L/13Gal Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel

The QUALIAZERO 50L/13Gal Step Trash Can stands out as a robust and practical solution for both commercial and home environments. Constructed with high-quality 430 stainless steel and ABS plastic, it delivers durability and longevity even in demanding settings. The fingerprint-resistant coating effectively minimizes smudges, keeping the exterior looking clean with minimal maintenance. The D-shaped design and large, wide opening facilitate easy trash disposal, while the soft-close lid ensures quiet operation. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of locations, from kitchens and offices to outdoor spaces and vehicles. Overall, it balances functionality and style effectively.

Pros

• High-quality 430 stainless steel with fingerprint-resistant coating

• Large, wide opening for easy access

• Soft-close lid for quiet operation

• Versatile for multiple environments

Con

• Slightly bulky footprint for smaller spaces

The QUALIAZERO step trash can is a durable, well-crafted product that combines modern design with hands-free convenience. It is an excellent choice for users needing a heavy-duty trash can that stays clean and operates quietly, suitable for a variety of settings.

Also great: Rubbermaid 2806TP-WHT 36QT Open Wastebasket

The Rubbermaid 2806TP-WHT 36QT Open Wastebasket (Pack of 2) offers a straightforward and reliable solution for waste disposal needs. Constructed from durable plastic with reinforced rims and sides, these rectangular bins are designed to withstand daily use. Their compact dimensions—18.4"L x 11.7"W x 8.8"H—make them suitable for placement under desks, sinks, or in tight spaces. The open-top design ensures easy access, and the smooth finish facilitates effortless cleaning. While the white color complements various interiors, it's worth noting that the plastic material may show wear over time.

Pros

• Durable plastic construction with reinforced rims

• Compact size ideal for confined spaces

• Smooth finish for easy cleaning

• Affordable pack of two

Con

• Plastic material may show wear over time

The Rubbermaid 2806TP-WHT 36QT Open Wastebasket set provides practical and space-efficient solutions for everyday waste disposal. While the plastic construction is durable, it may exhibit signs of wear with extended use. Nonetheless, for those seeking reliable and budget-friendly wastebaskets, this pack offers solid value.

Source: Amazon

When choosing the best waste bin for a kitchen, several factors come into play, such as size, material, ease of use, and odor control. The ideal kitchen waste bin should be spacious enough to handle daily trash without requiring constant emptying, yet compact enough to fit conveniently in your kitchen layout.

Stainless steel bins are highly recommended because they are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to odors and stains. Additionally, bins with a hands-free operation—like step-on pedals or motion sensors—help maintain hygiene by minimizing contact. Some advanced models come with features like inner liners for easy bag changes, tight-sealing lids to contain odors, and compartments for separating recyclables from regular waste. Ultimately, the best kitchen waste bin combines practicality, durability, and user-friendly design.

Why is SimpleHuman So Expensive?

SimpleHuman is known for its premium kitchen and home products, particularly their waste bins. The higher price point stems from several factors that contribute to its perceived value and performance.

First, SimpleHuman products are designed with meticulous attention to detail, using high-quality materials such as fingerprint-proof stainless steel and durable plastics. Their bins often include innovative features like quiet-close lids, custom-fit liners, and motion sensor technology, which enhance convenience and functionality.

Moreover, SimpleHuman invests heavily in product testing and design to ensure durability and user satisfaction. The brand also focuses on aesthetic appeal, offering sleek and modern designs that complement contemporary kitchens. These factors combined lead to a higher production cost, which is reflected in the retail price. Consumers pay a premium for the reliability, innovation, and stylish finish that SimpleHuman provides.

What is the Best Garbage Can for a Kitchen?

The best garbage can for a kitchen depends largely on your household’s needs, kitchen size, and lifestyle. However, generally speaking, a garbage can that offers a balance between capacity, odor control, and ease of use ranks highest.

Look for cans with features such as a strong, well-fitting lid to keep smells contained, and a mechanism that allows hands-free opening, which improves hygiene. A size between 10 to 13 gallons is typically sufficient for most kitchens, as it accommodates daily waste without frequent emptying. Additionally, bins with removable inner buckets or liners simplify cleaning and trash removal.

For homes focused on sustainability, dual-compartment bins that separate recyclables and compostable waste are very useful. Ultimately, the best kitchen garbage can is one that fits your space, meets your capacity needs, controls odors effectively, and makes waste disposal as effortless as possible.

What Do You Put in a Kitchen Waste Bin?

A kitchen waste bin primarily holds everyday household trash generated during meal preparation and cleanup. This includes food scraps like vegetable peelings, fruit cores, coffee grounds, and leftover food that is no longer edible.

In addition to organic waste, kitchen bins often collect non-recyclable packaging such as plastic wrappers, used paper towels, disposable plates, and broken kitchen items. However, many households now practice waste sorting, so recyclable materials like plastic containers, glass bottles, and aluminum cans are separated and placed in designated recycling bins rather than the kitchen waste bin.

In some homes, a separate compost bin is used for biodegradable food waste, reducing what goes into the general kitchen waste bin and supporting environmental sustainability. Proper sorting helps reduce landfill waste and makes kitchen cleanup more organized and eco-friendly.