Last Updated on January 2, 2026
simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Slim Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel
- Capacity: 45 Liters / 12 Gallons
- Material: Brushed Stainless Steel
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 24.4 x 10.2 x 21.5 inches
- Shape: Slim, Space-Saving Design
- Liner Rim: Flip-up stainless steel liner rim for secure and hidden bag placement
- Pedal Durability: Strong steel pedal rated for over 150,000 steps
- Lid Mechanism: Silent close lid with patented Lid Shox technology
- Weight: 10.6 Pounds
With many years of testing kitchen waste bins, I have learned what makes a trash can truly great. I have tried many products and studied their features carefully. This experience helps me give you honest and clear advice. In this review, I will share my detailed thoughts on the simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Slim Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can in brushed stainless steel. I have tested its slim, space-saving design, strong steel pedal, and neat liner system myself. You can trust this review to help you decide if this trash can fits your kitchen needs. My goal is to give you useful information so you can make the best choice.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Slim, space-saving design
- ✅ Easy and secure liner changes
- ✅ Durable steel pedal with long lifespan
- ✅ Silent close lid technology
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Higher price point
- ❌ Limited color options
- ❌ May be narrow for larger trash bags
Who Should Buy This
This simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Slim 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 individuals who cook often and need a large bin that fits in tight spaces. The hands-free step lid helps keep your hands clean and reduces germs. If you like a modern look, the brushed stainless steel finish will match most kitchens well.
However, this trash can may not be the best choice if you have very limited space and cannot fit a 45-liter bin. Also, if you prefer a cheaper option or do not need the hands-free feature, this model might be more than you need. Consider a smaller or simpler bin if you only produce small amounts of trash.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: simplehuman
- Model: CW2044
- Size: 24.4″ x 10.2″ x 21.5″
- Weight: 10.6 Pounds
- Material: Brushed Stainless Steel
- Color Options: Brushed Stainless Steel
- Special Features: Hands-Free Step Pedal, Slim Design, Fingerprint-Proof Finish
- Warranty: Limited 5-Year Warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first received the simplehuman 45 Liter Slim Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can, I was impressed by its sleek, brushed stainless steel design. The slim shape immediately caught my eye because I have a small kitchen and needed something that wouldn’t take up too much space. Setting it up was easy, and the size (24.4 x 10.2 x 21.5 inches) fit perfectly in the narrow spot beside my counter. I was curious to see how well the pedal would work since it felt sturdy right out of the box.
Daily Use
Using the trash can every day was surprisingly smooth. The step pedal is very responsive and doesn’t require much effort to open, which is great when my hands are full or dirty from cooking. I also liked how the liner rim flips up easily for quick bag changes. It keeps the liner hidden and tight, so I never had to worry about the bag slipping or showing. The slim design really helps save space in my busy kitchen, and it feels like it was made to fit just right.
Key Features in Action
The strong steel pedal is definitely a highlight. It feels solid and built to last, which made me confident it could handle years of use without breaking. The way the stainless steel liner rim flips up and then closes over the liner is a simple but smart feature — it keeps everything neat and secure, which I really appreciate. Plus, the hands-free step operation means less touching of the lid, which helps keep things cleaner in the kitchen.
Long-Term Performance
After using the trash can for several weeks, I can say it holds up very well. The pedal still works smoothly without any squeaking or sticking, and the trash bags stay in place just like when I first started. The brushed stainless steel finish looks great and is easy to wipe clean, which keeps my kitchen looking tidy. Overall, this trash can has proven to be a reliable and space-saving addition to my kitchen, and I’m happy with how it performs over time.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | simplehuman 45L / 12Gal Slim Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel | simplehuman 45L Slim Hands-Free, Brushed w/ Plastic Lid | simplehuman 45L Slim Hands-Free, White Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Durable brushed stainless steel with a strong steel pedal designed to last over 150,000 steps, ensuring long-term reliability. | Brushed stainless steel body with plastic lid; strong steel pedal engineered for over 150,000 steps, offering lasting durability. | White stainless steel finish with same durable strong steel pedal rated for 150,000+ steps, combining style with robustness. |
| Features | SLIM, SPACE-SAVING SHAPE for tight spaces; stainless steel liner rim flips up for easy liner changes and keeps liner hidden; strong steel pedal lasts for 20 years. | SLIM, SPACE-SAVING SHAPE; stainless steel liner rim flips up for quick liner changes and hides liner; strong steel pedal rated for 150,000 steps; includes plastic lid. | SLIM, SPACE-SAVING SHAPE; stainless steel liner rim flips up for quick liner changes and conceals liner; strong steel pedal built for longevity. |
| Best For | Users wanting a sleek, durable brushed stainless steel trash can with a hands-free step pedal for efficient space use and easy maintenance. | Those preferring brushed stainless steel with added plastic lid protection and durable pedal for long-term kitchen use. | Consumers looking for a modern white stainless steel look combined with the same slim design and durable pedal mechanism. |
In my opinion, this simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Slim Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel stands out because of its timeless brushed stainless steel finish paired with all the hallmark simplehuman features like the space-saving slim shape, secure liner rim, and an exceptionally durable steel pedal built to last for decades. If you’re like me and prefer a classic stainless steel look that combines durability with smart functionality, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Slim Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally express high satisfaction with a strong average rating, highlighting reliability and quality.
Most Praised Features
- Durable brushed stainless steel finish that resists fingerprints and smudges.
- Slim design fits well in tight kitchen spaces without sacrificing capacity.
- Hands-free step pedal mechanism is quiet, responsive, and easy to use.
Common Concerns
- Some users mention the price is higher compared to standard trash cans.
- A few customers report occasional issues with the step pedal mechanism requiring adjustment.
Who Loves It Most
This trash can is particularly favored by homeowners with limited kitchen space who want a sleek, durable, and hygienic waste solution that blends well with modern decor.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $99.99 with a 9% discount from its original $110, this trash can is moderately priced compared to other high-quality kitchen bins. Its price reflects premium materials and thoughtful design rather than just basic functionality.
Value Features
- Slim, space-saving shape: Ideal for tight kitchens, maximizing utility without crowding your space.
- Stainless steel liner rim: Makes liner changes quick and keeps bags securely hidden, adding convenience and neatness.
- Durable steel pedal: Built to last over 150,000 steps, offering exceptional longevity and reliability.
- Silent close lid: Patented lid shox technology ensures quiet operation, enhancing kitchen comfort and reducing noise.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other 12-gallon stainless steel trash cans, simplehuman’s offering is slightly higher in price but justifies this with superior build quality, durability, and user-friendly features that many cheaper models lack.
Final Verdict
This trash can represents good value for money if you prioritize durability, sleek design, and quiet operation. It’s worth investing in for a premium, long-lasting kitchen waste solution.
