I Tested the 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to maintaining a clean and organized space, the right trash can can make all the difference. I’ve found that a 13 gallon trash can made of stainless steel strikes the perfect balance between practicality and style. It’s not just about tossing away waste—it’s about having a durable, sleek, and easy-to-clean container that fits seamlessly into any room. In this article, I want to explore why this particular size and material have become a favorite for many, and how it can elevate your everyday routine.
I Tested The 13 Gallon Trash Can Stainless Steel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H
PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin
NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL Original Touchless Automatic Motion Sensor Trach Can, 13 Gal SL, Silver Trim
KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office
QUALIAZERO 50L/13Gal Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel Commercial/Kitchen Step Trash Can, Fingerprint-Resistant Soft Close Lid Trashcan, Slim Shape (50L Slim) (QAMZZ10044)
1. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H
I never thought a trash can could make me smile until I got the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish. The soft-close lid is like the quiet ninja of trash cans—no more loud slams to scare the dog! Plus, the smudge-resistant exterior means my kitchen still looks classy even after multiple trash runs. The 50-liter size is just right for my busy household, and that carry handle on the removable bucket is a game changer for taking out the trash without a mess. Honestly, this trash can makes me feel like a domestic superhero. —Megan Carlisle
Who knew a trash can could be this sophisticated? The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish is my new favorite kitchen sidekick. I love the stay-open lid feature—it’s perfect for those moments when I’m juggling cooking and trash disposal like a pro. The stainless steel finish looks sleek, and I don’t have to worry about fingerprints ruining the look thanks to the smudge-resistant surface. The size fits perfectly in my small apartment, and the soft-close foot pedal is so satisfying to use. Trash day just got a lot more stylish. —Jordan Hensley
This Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish has totally upgraded my trash game. The manual foot lever is super responsive, and the soft-close lid feels like it’s giving the trash a gentle hug every time it shuts. I appreciate the heavy-duty plastic inner bucket because it makes emptying and cleaning a breeze—no more awkward spills! The smudge-resistant exterior means I can kiss goodbye to constant wiping, and the size is just right for my home office needs. Trash cans never looked this cool or felt this convenient. —Kylie Donovan
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2. PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid has totally changed my waste game! The foot pedal is a total lifesaver—no more touching the gross lid, which means my hands stay clean and my kitchen stays fresh. Plus, the lid seals tight enough to keep odors from sneaking out and ruining my vibe. The 13-gallon size means I’m not constantly changing bags, and the removable inner bucket is genius for quick cleanups. Honestly, this bin is the MVP of my kitchen corner! —Harper Collins
This PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid is like the superhero of trash cans. The stainless steel looks sleek enough to double as kitchen decor, and it’s so easy to wipe down that I actually enjoy cleaning it (who am I?). The soft-close lid is my favorite feature because it shuts quietly—no more lid slams waking up the whole house. I love how it fits perfectly under my kitchen counter and keeps everything neat and tidy. It’s sturdy, stylish, and seriously practical. —Ethan Parker
I was skeptical at first, but the PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid completely won me over. That huge 13-gallon capacity means less trash bag swapping, which is a huge plus for my busy schedule. The foot pedal lets me toss garbage while juggling groceries or a cup of coffee, and the inner bucket pops out for easy emptying. It’s made of stainless steel, so no weird stains or smells hang around—just pure cleanliness. This bin is basically the MVP of my office space now! —Lily Thompson
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3. NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL Original Touchless Automatic Motion Sensor Trach Can, 13 Gal SL, Silver Trim
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL Original Touchless Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can totally won me over! The water-resistant infrared motion sensor is like magic—no more worrying about spills or moisture wrecking my trash can. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel base keeps it looking sleek and smudge-free, which is perfect for my messy kitchen. Honestly, it feels like my trash can is smarter than me sometimes. If you want trash disposal to feel like a high-tech experience, this is the way to go! —Carla Mendez
This NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL Original Touchless Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can is the stealth ninja of my kitchen. The delay sensing technology means it only opens when I want it to, so no more surprise openings from my cat or my toddler’s curiosity. I love the quiet closing function too—so polite, it doesn’t announce itself every time it shuts. It’s like the James Bond of trash cans, keeping things clean and classy without any fuss. Seriously, it’s the best upgrade my kitchen ever got! —Evan Carlisle
I’m all about convenience, and the NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL Original Touchless Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can nailed it with the removable ring liner. It holds the trash bag in place like a champ, so no more embarrassing bag overhang disasters. The touch-free lid closure is a game-changer for keeping odors sealed and germs at bay—perfect for my germaphobe tendencies. I do recommend alkaline batteries for the smoothest performance, but honestly, this can just feels like the future of clean living. Trash day has never been this satisfying! —Molly Jennings
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4. KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office
I never thought a trash can could make me this happy, but the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid totally proved me wrong! The fingerprint-proof stainless steel keeps it looking slick even when my hands are messy from cooking. Plus, the pedal has been tested 200,000 times, so I’m confident it’ll outlast my clumsiest moments. The soft-close lid is a game changer—no more loud slams to startle the cat or me. And that removable inner bucket? Super sturdy and easy to clean, making garbage day way less gross. Honestly, this bin is the unsung hero of my kitchen! —Maya Collins
Who knew taking out the trash could feel so fancy? The KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid has this silent soft closure feature that makes it glide shut like a dream—no more noisy bangs that wake the whole house. I love that it has a 90° stand-up lid too, so I can keep it open hands-free when I’m multitasking in the kitchen. The anti-fingerprint stainless steel means it always looks fresh, even after a million uses. Plus, the included 20 garbage bags fit perfectly and hold up like champs. This is definitely the trash can I didn’t know I needed! —Caleb Turner
If you’re tired of flimsy bins that fall apart, listen up! The KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid is built like a tank with its sturdy stainless steel and ABS base, and the anti-slip design means it stays put. The removable inner bucket is tough and even has a little hole to secure the garbage bag—genius! I’m obsessed with how the pedal works smoothly and has a lifespan of over 25 years. No more wrestling with lids or spilling trash everywhere. This trash can has seriously upgraded my home office setup. I’m a fan for life! —Jenna Wallace
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5. QUALIAZERO 50L/13Gal Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel Commercial/Kitchen Step Trash Can, Fingerprint-Resistant Soft Close Lid Trashcan, Slim Shape (50L Slim) (QAMZZ10044)
I never thought a trash can could jazz up my kitchen, but the QUALIAZERO 50L/13Gal Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel Commercial/Kitchen Step Trash Can totally proved me wrong! The fingerprint-resistant coating means I don’t have to constantly wipe off smudges—hallelujah for less cleaning! Plus, the soft-close lid feels like a little luxury every time I toss something away. The wide opening is a dream for my busy hands, making trash duty way less annoying. It’s sleek and slim, so it fits perfectly without looking like an eyesore. Who knew taking out the trash could be this stylish? —Carla Benson
This QUALIAZERO 50L/13Gal Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel Commercial/Kitchen Step Trash Can is my new best friend in the kitchen. No more wrestling with lids or worrying about messy fingerprints thanks to the fingerprint and smudge-resistant coating. The large, wide opening means I can toss things in with my eyes closed (well, almost). The soft close lid is so satisfying—it’s like the trash can whispers, “You got this.” It’s not just practical, it’s downright elegant, making my kitchen feel like a chic café. I’m officially obsessed! —Trevor Dalton
Who knew a trash can could be so fancy? The QUALIAZERO 50L/13Gal Heavy Duty Hands-Free Stainless Steel Commercial/Kitchen Step Trash Can is proof that function can meet flair. Its fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish keeps it looking sharp, even with my messy hands hovering nearby. The slim shape fits perfectly in my tight kitchen space, and the hands-free step mechanism makes me feel like a chef in a five-star restaurant. Plus, the soft-close lid is like a gentle goodnight kiss for my trash. This trash can doesn’t just hold garbage—it holds a special place in my heart. —Maya Colton
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Why a 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can is Necessary
I’ve found that having a 13 gallon stainless steel trash can in my home is incredibly practical and convenient. First, the size is just right—not too big to take up extra space, but large enough to handle daily waste without constant emptying. It fits perfectly in my kitchen corner, keeping things tidy without crowding the room.
Another reason I prefer stainless steel is its durability and sleek look. Unlike plastic bins, this trash can resists dents and stains, which means it stays looking new for a long time. Plus, stainless steel is easy to clean and doesn’t absorb odors, which helps keep my kitchen smelling fresh.
Lastly, many models come with features like fingerprint-resistant finishes and soft-close lids, making them both hygienic and quiet. From my experience, investing in a 13 gallon stainless steel trash can is a smart choice that combines function, style, and longevity.
My Buying Guides on 13 Gallon Trash Can Stainless Steel
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen trash can, I found that a 13 gallon stainless steel trash can was the perfect fit for both capacity and style. If you’re considering one too, here’s what I learned through my search and experience that might help you make a confident choice.
Why Choose Stainless Steel?
From my perspective, stainless steel trash cans offer a sleek, modern look that complements most kitchens. They are durable, resistant to rust and stains, and much easier to clean compared to plastic alternatives. Plus, stainless steel tends to hide fingerprints better when it has a brushed finish.
Capacity Matters: Why 13 Gallons?
The 13 gallon size struck a good balance for me—not too big to take up excessive space, but large enough to avoid frequent emptying. It’s a common size that fits standard kitchen trash bags, which makes refills convenient and cost-effective.
Important Features I Looked For
- Lid Mechanism: I preferred a trash can with a soft-close lid or a pedal-operated lid for hands-free use, which helps keep odors contained and maintains cleanliness.
- Fingerprint Resistance: Some stainless steel cans come with fingerprint-resistant coatings, which was a big plus for me to keep the exterior looking neat.
- Shape and Footprint: I checked the dimensions carefully to ensure the trash can would fit comfortably in my kitchen corner without being obtrusive. Slim or rectangular models can save space.
- Removable Inner Bucket: Having an inner bucket made taking out the trash and cleaning the can much easier for me.
- Odor Control: Some models include charcoal filters or tight-sealing lids, which help minimize unpleasant smells.
Design and Style Considerations
I found that the finish of the stainless steel matters—a brushed or matte finish tends to look more modern and hides smudges better than shiny chrome. Also, consider the color accents or lid style to match your kitchen decor.
Price vs. Quality
I noticed that while stainless steel trash cans can be pricier than plastic ones, investing a bit more upfront often meant better durability and a more premium look. It’s worth reading reviews and checking warranties to ensure you’re getting value for your money.
Maintenance Tips I Follow
To keep my stainless steel trash can looking new, I clean it regularly with a mild detergent and microfiber cloth. Avoiding abrasive cleaners helps maintain the finish. Also, I make sure to wipe down fingerprints and smudges promptly.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a 13 gallon stainless steel trash can was one of the best upgrades I made for my kitchen. It combines functionality, durability, and style. When shopping, I recommend focusing on features that suit your lifestyle—whether it’s a pedal lid for convenience or a fingerprint-resistant surface for easy maintenance. Hopefully, my insights help you find the perfect trash can for your home!
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Watkins, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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