Last Updated on December 25, 2025
We’ve all been there—trying to toss something away while our hands are full or messy. Struggling to open a trash can lid with sticky fingers or dirty hands can be really frustrating.
It slows you down and makes a simple task feel like a hassle. That’s why choosing the right step-on kitchen trash can can truly change your daily routine. With a good foot pedal, soft-close lid, and odor protection, taking out the trash becomes cleaner and easier.
It keeps your kitchen neat and your hands free. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best options like the Glad and Rubbermaid step-on cans that make trash disposal smooth and stress-free. Keep reading to find the perfect kitchen trash can that fits your needs and makes life just a little bit better.
Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can
The Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can is ideal for homeowners and office users seeking a reliable and hygienic waste disposal solution. This plastic kitchen waste bin with odor protection is perfect for those who want to keep their spaces clean and odor-free, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and workspaces. If you prefer a hands-free, convenient design that simplifies trash management, this bin is an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Odor protection lid helps maintain a fresh environment by sealing in unpleasant smells.
- Hands-free step on foot pedal allows for easy and hygienic opening without touching the lid.
- Equipped with garbage bag rings to keep trash bags securely in place and prevent slipping.
- Compact dimensions (25.0″ height, 18.0″ width, 14.5″ length) fit well in most kitchens or office spaces.
- Durable black plastic construction offers a sleek appearance and long-lasting use.
Cons:
- The 13-gallon size may be too small for larger families or commercial use requiring bigger capacity.
- The plastic foot pedal, while convenient, may wear out faster with heavy or frequent use.
- Limited color options available, with only black offered.
Featuring a sturdy build from Glad and manufactured by Volume Distributors, Inc., this trash can combines functionality with practical design. The odor protection lid is a standout feature that keeps foul smells contained, making it ideal for kitchens where food waste is common. The hands-free foot pedal enhances hygiene by allowing users to open the bin without using their hands, reducing the spread of germs. Additionally, the integrated garbage bag rings provide a hassle-free way to secure bags, avoiding messes and making trash removal simpler.
Its compact yet ample size of 13 gallons fits conveniently in most spaces without being intrusive, while the black color adds a sleek, modern touch. This trash can’s lightweight design, at just 5.4 pounds, also makes it easy to move and clean. Overall, the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can is a practical and efficient waste bin that offers convenience, cleanliness, and odor control for everyday use.
To buy this product, click here.
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can
The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is ideal for homeowners and office users who value a combination of style and functionality in their waste management solutions. If you are looking for a durable, easy-to-clean trash can with a modern design that fits seamlessly into kitchens, offices, or bathrooms, this 50L/13.2 Gal trash can with a soft-close foot pedal is perfect for you.
Pros:
- Smudge-resistant brushed stainless steel finish keeps the trash can looking clean and sleek.
- Soft-close foot pedal ensures quiet and hands-free operation.
- Generous 50-liter capacity accommodates large amounts of waste.
- Compact dimensions of 16.7×14.7×25.9 inches fit well in various spaces.
- Durable construction from Amazon Basics assures long-lasting use.
Cons:
- The weight of 13.2 pounds may make it less portable for some users.
- Limited to a satin nickel color, which may not match all decor styles.
The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can features a brushed stainless steel body with a smudge-resistant coating, which helps maintain a clean and polished appearance even with frequent use. The soft-close foot pedal allows users to open the trash can quietly and hygienically without using their hands, making it convenient for busy kitchens or offices. Its generous 50L capacity makes it suitable for households or workplaces that generate a significant amount of waste.
Its compact yet spacious design, measuring 16.7×14.7×25.9 inches, allows it to fit comfortably in tight spaces while still providing ample room for trash. The durable construction from the trusted Amazon Basics brand ensures reliability, while the elegant satin nickel finish adds a modern touch to any environment. Overall, this trash can combines practicality with style, making it a great addition to your home or office.
To buy this product, click here.
Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can
The Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can is ideal for homeowners and office users seeking a reliable and stylish waste bin that combines functionality with odor control. If you need a kitchen trash can that is both spacious and equipped with convenient features like a stainless steel foot pedal and odor protection, this product is a perfect choice. It suits individuals who prioritize cleanliness and ease of use in their waste management.
Pros:
- Odor protection lid helps keep unpleasant smells contained.
- Stainless steel step-on foot pedal allows for hands-free operation, enhancing hygiene.
- Garbage bag rings keep bags securely in place, preventing slipping.
- Compact 13-gallon capacity fits well in most kitchens without taking up excessive space.
- Durable black plastic construction ensures long-lasting use and an elegant look.
Cons:
- Some users may find the 13-gallon size too small for larger households.
- Plastic body may show scratches over time.
- The step-on pedal mechanism might require occasional maintenance to stay smooth.
Featuring a height of 25 inches and a width of 20.25 inches, this trash can fits comfortably in most kitchen layouts. The sturdy plastic construction combined with a black premium finish not only adds to its durability but also complements modern kitchen decor. Its odor protection lid is designed to trap unwanted smells, making it an excellent choice for those who want a fresh-smelling kitchen environment.
The stainless steel step-on foot pedal enables users to open the lid without using their hands, which is especially beneficial when handling food waste or maintaining cleanliness. Additionally, the built-in garbage bag rings ensure that trash bags stay firmly in place, reducing the hassle of loose or slipping liners. Overall, this trash can offers a blend of convenience, style, and practicality for everyday kitchen waste management.
To buy this product, click here.
Qualiazero Stainless Steel Step-on Kitchen Trash Can
The QUALIAZERO 50L / 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Step-On Kitchen Trash Can is ideal for homeowners, office managers, and commercial space operators seeking a stylish yet functional waste disposal solution. If you want a trash can that combines a modern design with practical features like a soft-close lid and fingerprint-resistant surface, this product fits perfectly. Its slim rectangle shape makes it suitable for spaces where floor area is limited but capacity cannot be compromised.
Pros:
- Soft-close lid prevents slamming and reduces noise.
- Made from durable stainless steel with a fingerprint-resistant finish for easy maintenance.
- Includes a removable liner for hassle-free trash bag changes.
- Large 50L / 13-gallon capacity suitable for heavy use in home, office, or commercial environments.
- Slim rectangle design saves space while maintaining ample volume.
- Step-on pedal allows hands-free operation, enhancing hygiene.
Cons:
- Slightly heavier weight (11.9 pounds) may make moving it less convenient.
- Silver color may show smudges despite fingerprint resistance in high-traffic areas.
- Dimensions might be too large for very small kitchens or tight corners.
The QUALIAZERO kitchen trash can features a thoughtfully engineered soft-close lid that minimizes noise and prevents accidental slamming, creating a quieter environment in busy kitchens or offices. Its stainless steel construction not only provides durability but also a sleek, modern look that complements contemporary interiors. The fingerprint-resistant finish ensures that the surface remains clean and smudge-free, reducing the need for frequent wiping.
With a 50-liter capacity, this trash can caters well to households and workplaces with moderate to heavy waste output. The removable liner simplifies the process of changing trash bags, making maintenance quick and hygienic. Additionally, the step-on pedal offers convenient hands-free operation, which is especially beneficial in maintaining cleanliness during cooking or office tasks. The slim rectangle shape optimizes the use of floor space without sacrificing volume, making it an excellent choice for both compact and larger rooms.
To buy this product, click here.
Rubbermaid Premier Series Iii Step-on Trash Can
The Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can is ideal for individuals seeking a durable and stylish waste solution for their home, kitchen, garage, apartment, or office. If you want a hands-free, hygienic trash can with a modern design and reliable functionality, this 12.4-gallon charcoal-colored model with a stainless steel rim is perfect for you.
Pros:
- Durable stainless steel rim adds elegance and resists rust
- Generous 12.4-gallon capacity suitable for everyday household use
- Convenient step-on pedal for hands-free operation
- Compact dimensions (24.625″ H x 12.25″ W x 16″ L) fit well in tight spaces
- Versatile use for multiple environments including kitchen, office, garage, and apartments
Cons:
- May require occasional cleaning to maintain the sleek stainless steel finish
- Step pedal mechanism might feel stiff initially
The Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can features a robust construction with a stylish black charcoal color and a polished stainless steel rim that enhances any room’s decor. Its step-on pedal provides a hygienic, hands-free way to dispose of waste, reducing contact with germs and making it ideal for kitchens and offices. The can’s 12.4-gallon capacity holds a significant amount of trash, minimizing the frequency of emptying while fitting comfortably in limited spaces thanks to its compact dimensions.
Additionally, the trash can’s versatility allows it to be used in various settings such as the home, garage, apartment, or office. Its sturdy build ensures long-lasting performance, while the sleek design keeps spaces looking neat and modern. Users will appreciate the balance of functionality, size, and aesthetic appeal that this Rubbermaid product offers, making it a practical and stylish waste disposal solution.
To buy this product, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Benefits Of A Step On Kitchen Trash Can?
Step on trash cans offer hands-free operation, improving hygiene and convenience. They prevent odor escape with tight lids and reduce contact with germs.
How Does Odor Protection Work In Glad Trash Cans?
Glad trash cans feature sealed lids with odor-blocking technology. This design traps unpleasant smells inside, keeping your kitchen fresh and clean.
Are Stainless Steel Trash Cans Fingerprint-resistant?
Yes, models like Amazon Basics and QUALIAZERO use fingerprint-resistant finishes. This keeps the trash can looking clean and sleek longer.
What Size Trash Can Fits A 13-gallon Kitchen Bag?
Most step on trash cans listed hold about 13 gallons or 50 liters. This size matches standard kitchen garbage bags for easy replacement.
Do All Step On Trash Cans Have Soft-close Lids?
Many premium models, such as Amazon Basics and QUALIAZERO, include soft-close lids. This feature prevents loud slamming and extends product life.
Can These Trash Cans Be Used In Offices Or Garages?
Yes, trash cans like Rubbermaid Premier Series are versatile. They suit home kitchens, offices, garages, and commercial spaces efficiently.
Conclusion
Choosing the right step-on kitchen trash can makes daily waste disposal easier and cleaner. These trash cans help keep your hands free and reduce odors in the kitchen. Features like soft-close lids and fingerprint-resistant surfaces add convenience and style. Sizes from 12 to 13 gallons fit most kitchen needs without taking too much space.
Whether you prefer plastic or stainless steel, there is a model to match your taste and home decor. Using a step-on trash can also helps maintain better hygiene by limiting contact with the lid. With options like removable liners and bag rings, changing trash bags becomes quick and less messy.
Investing in a quality step-on kitchen trash can keeps your kitchen neat and fresh. It’s a simple addition that offers practical benefits every day. Small changes like this improve your kitchen’s function without extra effort.
