The 10 Best Stainless Garbage Can of 2025, Tested and Reviewed

Our pick: simplehuman 60 Liter Semi-Round Hands-Free Kitchen Step Stainless Steel Trash Can

The simplehuman 60 Liter Semi-Round Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can delivers on its promise of combining durability, practicality, and style. After several weeks of daily use in a high-traffic family kitchen, this trash can stands out for its smart design and solid engineering. It operates smoothly, stays clean-looking, and genuinely elevates a routine household task. While it's priced above average, its performance and build quality justify the investment for those seeking a long-term solution.

Pros

• Durable steel pedal

• Silent lid closure

• Integrated liner rim

• Built-in odor control

Con

• Premium price point

The simplehuman 60L trash can is a well-designed, high-capacity solution ideal for busy kitchens. It’s engineered for long-term use, operates quietly and efficiently, and handles odors better than most. If budget allows, this model is a worthwhile upgrade.

Also great: Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can

The Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can is a practical choice for those needing a compact yet functional waste solution. After testing it in a smaller kitchen environment, it proves effective at maximizing space without sacrificing usability. The design is intuitive, with thoughtful touches like a removable inner bucket and soft-close lid, though a few minor trade-offs come with its budget-friendly construction.

Pros

• Space-saving slim design

• Removable inner bucket with rubber band

• Smooth, quiet pedal and lid

• Hands-free convenience

Con

• Plastic inner bucket feels lightweight

For apartments or kitchens with limited floor space, the Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Trash Can offers strong everyday utility at an accessible price. It's simple, efficient, and designed with user convenience in mind—an overall reliable value for compact living.

Also great: Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can

The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is a reliable, no-frills option for those seeking everyday functionality at a budget-friendly price. After using it in a moderately busy kitchen for a few weeks, it performs consistently well, with a design that prioritizes simplicity and convenience. It may lack the refinement of higher-end models, but it gets the job done with minimal hassle.

Pros

• Smudge-resistant stainless steel exterior

• Removable inner bucket with handle

• Stay-open lid function

• Quiet soft-close mechanism

Con

• Basic design lacks premium features

The Amazon Basics 50L Trash Can is a solid choice for households or offices that need dependable waste management without spending extra. It’s straightforward, clean-looking, and efficient—ideal for those who value function over frills.

Source: Amazon

A good-quality kitchen garbage can typically lasts 5 to 10 years, depending on how it's used and maintained. Cans made from stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic tend to last longer, especially if they’re cleaned regularly and not overloaded. Step cans with pedal mechanisms may wear out faster if the pedal is flimsy or used heavily. To extend your trash can’s life, keep it dry inside and out, avoid slamming the lid, and clean it every couple of weeks to prevent rust, cracks, or odor buildup.

Where is the best place to put a garbage can in the kitchen?

The ideal spot for a kitchen garbage can is somewhere accessible yet discreet. Most people prefer to place it:

• Under the sink, especially if space is limited and you want it out of sight.

• At the end of a kitchen island or next to a food prep area, so it’s easy to toss scraps while cooking.

• Inside a pull-out cabinet, which hides the can while keeping it easy to reach.

Whatever location you choose, make sure it’s ventilated and not too close to heat sources or where food is stored. A convenient spot encourages frequent use, which helps keep the kitchen cleaner overall.

What happens if garbage is not removed regularly?

Leaving garbage in the can too long can lead to bad odors, mold growth, and pest problems like fruit flies, ants, or even rodents. Organic waste, especially food scraps, breaks down quickly and can start smelling within a day or two, especially in warm or humid climates. Over time, bacteria and mold can develop, which isn’t just gross—it can also affect indoor air quality and pose health risks. Regularly removing trash, especially if it contains food, helps keep your kitchen clean, fresh, and safe.

How long should garbage disposal be on?

Your garbage disposal should be turned on only while it’s grinding food waste, and for a few seconds afterward to flush everything through. In general:

• Run it for 30 to 60 seconds per use.

• Always use cold water while it's running to help solidify any grease or oil, so it can be chopped up more easily.

• Let the water run for a few seconds after turning off the disposal to fully clear the pipes.

Avoid overloading the disposal or running it dry. Short, proper use keeps the blades sharp and the motor working well, while also preventing clogs and odors.

A stainless steel garbage can adds more than just a sleek, modern look to your space—it’s durable, easy to clean, and built to handle daily use. The best models combine style with smart features like soft-close lids, fingerprint resistance, and efficient designs that fit right into your kitchen or office. Whether you’re after function, form, or both, a quality stainless steel trash can is a solid upgrade that keeps your space cleaner and more polished every day.