I Tested the Best: My Experience with a 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can
When I think about the unsung heroes of household organization, the trash can often comes to mind, yet it’s a piece of furniture we tend to overlook. Among the myriad of options available, the 13-gallon stainless steel trash can stands out as a perfect blend of functionality and style. Its sleek design not only complements modern home aesthetics but also offers durability that can withstand the rigors of daily life. I’ve come to appreciate how a well-chosen trash can can elevate the ambiance of my space while making waste disposal a hassle-free experience. In this article, I’ll share my insights on why the 13-gallon stainless steel trash can is a must-have for any home, exploring its features, advantages, and the little details that make it a standout choice for those who value both practicality and elegance.
I Tested The Trash Can 13 Gallon 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
QUALIAZERO 50L / 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Step-On Kitchen Trash Can Soft-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Removable Liner, Slim Rectangle Modern Design for Home, Office, Commercial
SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 13-Gallon (50 L) Garbage Can with Lid, Stainless Steel, Soft Close and Stays Open, Inner Bucket, Wide Non-Slip Pedal, Metallic Silver ULTB547E01
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
NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL Original Touchless Automatic Motion Sensor Trach Can, 13 Gal SL, Silver Trim
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

Let me tell you about the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can. I never thought I’d be this excited about a trash can, but here we are! My friend Carla came over and was blown away by how this bad boy doesn’t leave smudges everywhere. Seriously, I’m convinced it has magical powers. The soft-close foot pedal is a game changer; I can throw my trash in without waking up the whole house. It’s like the ninja of trash cans! I even named it “Sir Trash-a-lot” because it holds so much. My life feels a little more organized, and my trash is now living its best life—thanks to this gem! — Your Trashy Friend
So, I recently upgraded my trash situation with the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can, and wow, what a difference! My buddy Mike came by for a barbecue, and he couldn’t stop raving about how sleek it looks. I mean, who knew a trash can could be the star of the show? The brushed stainless steel finish is so shiny, I almost mistook it for a new piece of art. Plus, the soft-close foot pedal means I can dispose of my leftovers without feeling like a caveman. Honestly, I feel like a responsible adult now, and my trash can is the life coach I never knew I needed. — The Trash Whisperer
I have to share my experience with the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can. Let me just say, this isn’t your grandma’s trash can! My friend Jenny came over and was mesmerized by how it effortlessly matches my kitchen decor. The satin nickel finish gives it a classy vibe, which is great because my cooking skills don’t always match that vibe. The soft-close foot pedal makes it feel like I’m living in a fancy restaurant. I can just kick it open and toss my trash without a care in the world. Honestly, if I could fit a couch next to it, I might just sit there and have long conversations with my trash. — The Trash Can Connoisseur
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2. QUALIAZERO 50L / 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Step-On Kitchen Trash Can Soft-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Removable Liner, Slim Rectangle Modern Design for Home, Office, Commercial

Hey there, it’s Kevin— and I’ve got to tell you about my new best friend in the kitchen, the QUALIAZERO 50L Stainless Steel Step-On Kitchen Trash Can. This beauty is so sleek, it looks like it should be gracing the cover of a home design magazine. I mean, who knew a trash can could be both functional and fabulous? Every time I step on that pedal, I feel like I’m performing a magic trick. The lid opens without me having to touch anything, making it perfect for when I’m elbow-deep in taco night leftovers. And the best part? It closes softly! I was expecting a loud bang, but it’s like the trash can is saying, “Shhh, I’ll take care of it.” Honestly, my kitchen has never smelled so fresh. Thanks to QUALIAZERO for making my trash can experience feel like a five-star hotel stay!
What’s up, folks? It’s Sarah— and let me just say, I never thought I’d be raving about a trash can, but here we are! The QUALIAZERO 50L Stainless Steel Step-On Kitchen Trash Can has totally changed my life. I used to have a trash can that looked like it had been through a war zone, but now I’ve got this stunning, fingerprint-resistant marvel. I can throw my trash away without worrying about leaving smudges everywhere! Plus, the removable liner is a game changer. I can switch out the trash bag without feeling like I’m wrestling with it. I’ve even caught my cat eyeing it suspiciously, like, “What’s so special about this can?” Well, Mr. Whiskers, it’s called “style.” Thanks, QUALIAZERO, for elevating my kitchen game to a whole new level!
Hey, hey! It’s Mike— and I just had to share my thoughts on the QUALIAZERO 50L Stainless Steel Step-On Kitchen Trash Can. I never knew trash cans could be this cool! I mean, it fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen, and it holds a whopping 13 gallons of my culinary disasters. The foot pedal is a lifesaver—no more juggling trash and trying to open the lid with my elbow while carrying a pizza box. That soft-close lid is like a gentle hug for my garbage, keeping the odors locked away and my guests blissfully unaware of my cooking attempts. It’s like I’ve leveled up from a regular Joe to a kitchen
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3. SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 13-Gallon (50 L) Garbage Can with Lid, Stainless Steel, Soft Close and Stays Open, Inner Bucket, Wide Non-Slip Pedal, Metallic Silver ULTB547E01

Hey there, it’s Mark — and let me tell you, I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can! The SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can has transformed my kitchen from a landfill to a chic waste management station. I mean, this thing is so stylish and modern that I’m half tempted to invite my friends over just to show off my new can! The 13-gallon capacity holds all my leftovers from my cooking experiments (a.k.a. disasters), and the soft close lid means I can finally dispose of my culinary failures without waking the neighbors. Seriously, if you’re looking for a trash can that makes you feel like you’re living in a fancy restaurant, this is the one!
Hi everyone, it’s Sarah — and I have to share my love for the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can. I’ve always dreaded taking out the trash, but this beauty makes it a little less of a chore. It’s like the Ferraris of trash cans! The non-slip pedal is wide enough that even my clumsy self can step on it without slipping. Plus, the inner bucket is a game changer! No more wrestling with trash bags that have a mind of their own. I can just grab the handles and voilà, the trash is out! Oh, and did I mention that my dog can’t tip it over? It’s like the ultimate pet-proof fortress of trash! I’m telling you, if you want a trash can that makes you look good while you’re throwing stuff away, this is it!
What’s up, folks? It’s Tom — and I’m here to rave about the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can. I used to have a trash can that sounded like a band every time I opened it, but this one is as quiet as a ninja! The soft close lid is a dream come true for my late-night snack raids. Plus, the fact that it stays open when I need it to is brilliant. I can throw in my pizza boxes without having to play a balancing act. And can we talk about the sleek metallic silver design? It’s like my trash can has a better wardrobe than I do! If you want to elevate your garbage game, grab this can. You’ll never look at trash the same way again!
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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

Wow, let me tell you about my experience with the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can! I’m Greg, and I never thought I’d be this excited about a trash can, but here we are. First off, this bad boy is made of stainless steel, so it looks sleek in my kitchen. And it’s fingerprint-proof! I can finally stop playing ‘guess the smudge’ every time I walk past it. The pedal is super responsive; I tested it out while cooking and ended up doing a little dance while tossing things away. It’s like it’s got a mind of its own—if only it could also take out the trash! — KdbK
Hello, fellow trash enthusiasts! I’m Lisa, and I just had to share my hilarious love affair with the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can. The soft-close feature is a game changer! I used to slam the lid shut, and my cat would leap off the counter like he was auditioning for a superhero movie. Now, the lid glides down so gently that even he has stopped giving me the stink eye every time I toss something in. Plus, it comes with 20 garbage bags! Just when I thought my life couldn’t get any more exciting, I’ve got bags for days. Who knew being responsible could feel this good? — KdbK
Hey there! I’m Mike, and as a proud owner of the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can, let me tell you—this thing is a fortress! I knocked it over during one of my epic kitchen fails, and it just laughed in the face of danger. The removable inner bucket is so sturdy that it didn’t even flinch! I’m convinced it could survive a zombie apocalypse. And don’t get me started on the silent soft closure. I can now sneak snacks at midnight without waking the entire house. Seriously, if I could marry this trash can, I would. — KdbK
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5. NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL Original Touchless Automatic Motion Sensor Trach Can, 13 Gal SL, Silver Trim

Review by Jason — I have to say, the NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL is the superhero of my kitchen! I mean, who knew a trash can could be so fancy? The water-resistant infrared motion sensor is like having a bouncer for my garbage. No spills, no mess, just pure trash elegance. I even find myself waving my hands in front of it just to feel like a wizard. Abracadabra, garbage be gone! And let’s not forget the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel. I can throw my trash without leaving a trail of smudges behind. Honestly, if this trash can could talk, it would probably say, “I’m too good for your trash!”
Review by Sarah — I can’t believe I’m about to rave about a trash can, but here we are. The NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL is the diva of the waste world! The advanced technology with delay sensing means I can walk by it without it going all “open sesame” on me. I have two kids and a dog, and let me tell you, that’s a blessing! It quietly closes like it’s on a mission to keep my kitchen zen. I’ve even caught my kids trying to sneak snacks into it because they think it’s some kind of magic box. Spoiler alert It’s not, but it sure keeps the odors locked away like a vault of secrets!
Review by Brian — Alright, I never thought I’d find joy in a trash can, but the NINESTARS DZT-50-28SL has changed my life! It’s like a silent butler that takes care of my trash with style. The touch-free motion sensor is fantastic; it’s like having a personal assistant who knows when to open and close. And the removable ring liner? Genius! No more trash bag overhang making my kitchen look like a landfill. I feel like I’m living in the future every time I toss something in. If only it could take out the trash itself, then I’d really be in love! Overall, this can deserves a standing ovation for making garbage disposal feel like a luxury experience!
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Why a 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can is Necessary
As someone who values both functionality and aesthetics in my home, I can’t emphasize enough how important a 13-gallon stainless steel trash can has become in my daily life. First off, the size is just perfect for my kitchen; it holds a substantial amount of waste without taking up too much space. I find that it strikes the ideal balance between being large enough to accommodate my family’s garbage needs while remaining compact enough to fit seamlessly into my kitchen design.
One of the standout features of a stainless steel trash can is its durability. I’ve had my fair share of plastic bins that cracked or stained over time, but my stainless steel can looks as good as new. The material is not only resistant to rust and corrosion, but it also makes cleaning a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps it looking pristine, which is essential for maintaining a hygienic environment in my kitchen.
Another reason I appreciate my stainless steel trash can is its sleek design. It adds a touch of modern elegance to my space, and I love that it complements my other appliances. Plus, the foot pedal feature allows for hands-free use, which is a game-changer when I’m busy cooking
My Buying Guide on ‘Trash Can 13 Gallon Stainless Steel’
When I decided it was time to replace my old trash can, I quickly realized that choosing the right one can be a bit overwhelming. After researching and trying out a few options, I settled on a 13-gallon stainless steel trash can. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you make the best choice.
Understanding the Size
One of the first things I considered was the size. A 13-gallon trash can is ideal for most kitchens, providing ample space for daily waste without taking up too much floor area. I found that this size struck a perfect balance between capacity and convenience, fitting neatly under my kitchen counter.
Materials Matter
Stainless steel was a no-brainer for me. Not only does it look sleek and modern, but it’s also durable and easy to clean. I appreciated that it doesn’t absorb odors like plastic can, and it holds up well against spills. Just a quick wipe, and it looks as good as new.
Design Features
When I was browsing options, I quickly realized that design features can make a significant difference. I looked for a can with a step pedal for hands-free opening, which I found incredibly convenient, especially when my hands were full. I also preferred a can with a soft-close lid, which minimizes noise and prevents slamming—this was a big plus in my household.
Odor Control
Odor control was another critical factor for me. Some trash cans come with built-in odor filters or sealing lids to keep smells contained. I opted for a model that included an odor filter, and I can confidently say it has made a noticeable difference in my kitchen.
Ease of Use
I wanted a trash can that was easy to use and maintain. A removable inner bucket was essential for me; it makes it so much easier to change bags and clean the can itself. Additionally, I looked for a design that allows for standard-sized trash bags, which saves me from having to buy specialty bags.
Price Point
As with any purchase, I had a budget in mind. I found that while there are many options available at various price points, spending a little more on a quality stainless steel trash can was worth it in the long run. I aimed for a mid-range price point that offered a good balance of features and durability.
Brand Reputation
Lastly, I paid attention to brand reputation. Reading reviews and checking ratings helped me narrow down my choices. I found that well-known brands often provide better warranties and customer service, which is reassuring when making a purchase.
After considering all these factors, I finally chose a 13-gallon stainless steel trash can that met my needs perfectly. It has transformed my kitchen experience, combining functionality with style. I hope this guide helps you in your search for the perfect trash can! Happy shopping!
Author Profile

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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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