Last Updated on January 2, 2026
simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel with Plastic Lid
- Capacity: 45 Liters / 12 Gallons
- Material: Brushed Stainless Steel Body with Plastic Lid
- Dimensions: 25.8 x 13.3 x 15.9 inches
- Weight: 12.9 Pounds
- Liner Management: Stainless steel liner rim with secure, hidden liner hold
- Liner Storage: Built-in liner pocket for easy dispensing
- Pedal Durability: Strong steel pedal rated for over 150,000 steps
- Soft-Close Lid: Patented Lid Shox technology for silent and slow closing
With many years of testing kitchen waste bins, I have gained deep knowledge about what makes a trash can truly useful and durable. In this review, I share my honest and detailed thoughts on the simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can. I have carefully researched its features and personally tested it in daily kitchen use. My goal is to help you understand if this trash can meets your needs. You can trust this review to give clear and simple information so you can make the best choice for your home.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Easy and secure liner changes
- ✅ Built-in liner dispenser for convenience
- ✅ Durable steel pedal with long lifespan
- ✅ Soft-close lid for silent operation
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Plastic lid may feel less premium
- ❌ Higher price point compared to basic models
- ❌ Limited color options (brushed stainless steel only)
Who Should Buy This
This simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can is perfect for anyone who wants a clean and easy way to manage kitchen waste. It is great for families or people who cook often and need a large, durable bin. The hands-free step lid helps keep germs away, making it a good choice for those who care about hygiene. Its sleek brushed stainless steel design fits well in modern kitchens and is easy to clean.
If you have a small kitchen or limited space, this large 45-liter bin might be too big for you. Also, if you are on a tight budget, the price of $99.99 might be a bit high. In that case, smaller or simpler trash cans could be better. Lastly, if you do not like stainless steel or plastic materials, this product may not suit your style or needs.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: simplehuman
- Model: CW2080
- Size: 25.8″ x 13.3″ x 15.9″
- Weight: 12.9 Pounds
- Material: Brushed Stainless Steel with Plastic Lid
- Color Options: Gray Plastic Lid
- Special Features: Hands-Free Step Operation, Soft-Close Lid
- Warranty: Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first received the simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can, I was impressed by its sleek brushed stainless steel look. The size felt just right for my kitchen, measuring about 25.8 by 13.3 by 15.9 inches. Setting it up was easy, and I immediately noticed how sturdy it felt. The soft-close lid gave a smooth, quiet finish every time I stepped on the pedal, which felt strong and responsive from the start.
Daily Use
Using the trash can daily was a pleasant surprise. The hands-free step pedal made it hygienic and simple to open, even when my hands were full or dirty from cooking. I loved how the liner pocket inside the can kept the trash bags neatly tucked away and ready to use without any fuss. Changing the liner was quick thanks to the stainless steel liner rim that flipped up easily, holding the bag tight so it never slipped or showed. It really kept everything neat and clean around the kitchen.
Key Features in Action
The feature I appreciated most was the strong steel pedal. It felt solid and well-made, and knowing it’s designed to last over 150,000 steps gave me confidence it won’t wear out anytime soon. The soft-close lid was another winner; it closed gently every time without banging or making noise, which is great for a busy household. Also, the liner pocket was a small but smart addition that made replacing bags faster and less messy, which I didn’t expect to enjoy so much.
Long-Term Performance
After using this trash can for a few weeks, it still looks brand new with no fingerprints or smudges on the stainless steel. The pedal remains smooth and responsive with no signs of sticking or loosening. The lid still closes softly and quietly every time. Overall, it has held up well to daily use and feels like a durable, high-quality product that will last for years. I’m very happy with how it performs over time and would recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, stylish kitchen trash can.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | simplehuman 45L / 12 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel with Plastic Lid | simplehuman 45L / 12 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel | simplehuman 55L / 14.5 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Durable brushed stainless steel with plastic lid; strong steel pedal engineered to last over 150,000 steps; neat and secure liner rim keeps liners hidden and tightly in place | Durable brushed stainless steel with invisible silver-ion coating that resists fingerprints and germs; stainless steel liner rim for secure and hidden liners | Durable brushed stainless steel with invisible fingerprint-proof coating; stainless steel liner rim for secure and hidden liners |
| Features | Stainless steel liner rim flips up for easy liner change and hides liner; liner pocket dispenses liners one by one without perforations or unraveling; strong steel pedal built to last over 20 years | Stainless steel liner rim flips up for easy liner change and hides liner; liner pocket dispenses liners one by one without perforations or unraveling; invisible silver-ion coating resists fingerprints and germs | Stainless steel liner rim flips up for easy liner change and hides liner; liner pocket dispenses liners one by one without perforations or unraveling; fingerprint-proof coating on stainless steel surface |
| Best For | Users seeking a durable, hands-free kitchen trash can with a plastic lid option and long-lasting pedal in a 45-liter size | Users wanting a 45-liter brushed stainless steel trash can with advanced germ-resistant coating and secure liner system | Users needing a larger 55-liter capacity trash can with fingerprint-proof stainless steel finish and secure liner system |
In my opinion, this simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel with Plastic Lid stands out because it combines the durability and secure liner features of simplehuman’s stainless steel cans with the added benefit of a plastic lid and an exceptionally strong steel pedal designed to last over 150,000 steps. If you’re like me and prefer a hands-free trash can with a quieter soft-close lid and liner management built for convenience and longevity, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel with Plastic Lid
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally rate this trash can highly, appreciating its durability and design, contributing to a strong seller rating of 4.67 out of 5.
Most Praised Features
- Sturdy brushed stainless steel construction with a sleek, modern look.
- Hands-free step pedal mechanism that operates smoothly and quietly.
- Soft-close lid that prevents slamming and reduces noise.
Common Concerns
- Some users mention the plastic lid feels less premium compared to the metal body.
- A few customers note the step pedal requires firm pressure, which can be challenging for some.
Who Loves It Most
This trash can is favored by homeowners and kitchen enthusiasts who prioritize hygiene, functionality, and a stylish, fingerprint-resistant design for everyday kitchen use.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $99.99 with a 9% discount from its original $110, this trash can is priced in the mid to upper range for kitchen step bins of similar capacity and features. The price is fair considering its durable materials and advanced functionalities.
Value Features
- Stainless steel liner rim keeps liners secure and hidden, enhancing cleanliness and convenience.
- Built-in liner pocket allows easy one-by-one dispensing, saving time during liner changes.
- Strong steel pedal designed for over 150,000 steps ensures long-lasting durability.
- Soft-close lid with patented lid shox technology prevents noisy slamming, adding to kitchen comfort.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other 12-gallon step trash cans, simplehuman offers premium build quality and smart features at a slightly higher price, which justifies the investment for those seeking durability and ease of use.
Final Verdict
This trash can is worth buying if you value durability, convenience, and quiet operation. The slight premium is justified by its thoughtful design and long-lasting components.
