Top 5 Stainless Steel Trash Cans: Buyer’s Guide

What if your trash can could actually look good? Think about that tired, plastic bin taking up space in your kitchen. It gets smelly, cracks easily, and just looks plain ugly. You want something better, something that lasts and adds a touch of modern style to your home, right?

Choosing a stainless steel trash can seems simple, but it quickly becomes confusing. Do you need a step-on pedal or a motion sensor? What about fingerprints—will it look dirty the second you touch it? Finding the perfect blend of size, features, and durability for your space can feel like a chore.

Don’t worry! This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down exactly what makes a high-quality stainless steel can worth the investment. You will learn the key features to look for, how to keep it sparkling clean, and which styles fit your lifestyle best.

Ready to swap out that old plastic eyesore for a sleek, functional upgrade? Let’s dive into everything you need to know before you buy your next stainless steel trash can.

Top Stainless Steel Trash Can Recommendations

No. 1
PayLessHere Trash Can with Lid, 13 Gallon (50L) Stainless Steel Kitchen & Office Recycling Bin with Foot Pedal Soft Close & Inner Bucket
  • 13 Gallon Ultra-large Capacity: 13 gallons can absolutely meet your daily use, in the kitchen table next to a kitchen trash can, you will be more convenient to deal with kitchen waste. The regular 13-gallon garbage bag in the supermarket can be used in our stainless steel trash can, and it's kind of you to use a bigger bag. The lid of the garbage can is removable, it’s convenient for you to put in and take out the garbage bag.step trash can kitchen trash can bedroom trash can
  • Hand Free & Odor Control : Trash can with foot pedal allows you to dispose of trash without dirtying your hands or physically touching the trash can lid. The tight-fitting lid reduces odors, keeping your space fresh and the surrounding area smelling fresh and pleasant.
  • Easy to Clean : This trash can make of stainless metal often easy to clean with a damp cloth.It is resistant to bacteria and germs, making it a more sanitary option for waste disposal. Its smooth surface can be easily wiped down to maintain cleanliness.
  • Versatile Design : This trash bin designed fit for any tight space from under the kitchen counter to a dedicated recycling area.Suitable for various environments from kitchens to offices to outdoor spaces a stainless steel trash can fits seamlessly into any setting while remaining easy to maintain.
  • High Quality Materials & Customer Service : This 13-gallon trash can is made of sturdy stainless steel metal that is watertight, scratch-resistant, and long-lasting. Its non-toxic and nontoxic design provides safety for both home and restaurant use. Ideal for keeping your space clean and sanitary.We provide excellent customer service; please contact us if you have any questions.We will assist you as quickly as possible and do our best to resolve your concerns.
No. 2
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Foot Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Brushed Stainless Steel, Satin Nickel Finish
  • CONVENIENT SIZE: 50 liter / 13.2 gallon trash can for home or office
  • EVERYDAY USE: Stay-open lid, removable bucket, and carry handle ensure easy, convenient trash disposal
  • DURABLE: Stainless steel, smudge-resistant exterior and heavy duty plastic inner bucket for reliable strength
  • QUIET OPERATION: Manual foot lever and soft close lid for ultra-quiet opening and closing
  • PRODUCT DIMENSIONS: 14.7 x 16.7 x 25.9 inches (LxWxH)
No. 3
BestOffice | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Automatic Touchless Garbage Can | Odor Control | Modern Oval Design | Easy to Clean | Stainless Steel | Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home
  • AUTOMATIC & HYGIENIC – The touchless sensor lid opens and closes automatically, keeping your hands clean and ensuring a noiseless, sanitary trash experience.
  • MODERN & DURABLE DESIGN – Made of premium stainless steel with a fingerprint-resistant finish. The sleek oval body and sloping lid design fit seamlessly into kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and offices.
  • POWERED BY 4 C BATTERIES (NOT INCLUDED) – Uses 4× C-cell batteries for long performance: Supports 40,000+ openings for long-lasting use. Alkaline batteries are recommended for best performance. For best results, install with correct polarity, switch ON before use, and place the can in a cool, dry, ventilated area to protect electronic components.
  • ODOR CONTROL & EASY CARE – Keep the lid closed to minimize odor. The stainless steel surface is easy to maintain—just wipe with a dry towel for regular care.
  • LARGE CAPACITY & CLEAR GUIDANCE – Fits standard 13-gallon trash bags from any supermarket. Accurate size dimensions and internal images reduce confusion. Includes usage tips on bag sealing, odor control, and proper placement.
No. 4
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Foot Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, 30 Liter/7.9 Gallon, Brushed Stainless Steel, Satin Nickel Finish, 13.8"L x 11.8"W x 25"H
  • CONVENIENT SIZE: 30 liter / 7.9 gallon trash can for home or office
  • EVERYDAY USE: Stay-open lid, removable bucket, and carry handle ensure easy, convenient trash disposal
  • DURABLE: Stainless steel, smudge-resistant exterior and heavy duty plastic inner bucket for reliable strength
  • QUIET OPERATION: Manual foot lever and soft close lid for ultra-quiet opening and closing
  • PRODUCT DIMENSIONS: 11.8 x 13.8 x 25 inches (LxWxH)
No. 5
SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish
  • Quiet-Close Lid: Lid closes quietly and gently without slamming. Hands Free and Fingerprint Proof: Hands-free operation with durable a metal foot pedal and fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish leads to your trash can staying cleaner longer
  • Built in Odor Filter. Dorm Room Essentials: Keep your student's space clean while in college with Simpli-Magic step cans that are sleek and easy to match all dorm decor, great for girls and guys
  • 13 Gallon Step Trash Can: Ideal for kitchen use, this can fits most brands of trash bags
  • Easy to Use: Removable plastic liner and stay open lid lock make bag changes and cleaning easy.
  • Sleek Space Saving Design: Efficient footprint with clean lines and flush features allows the trash can to be placed against the wall or cabinet and interior hinge design protects from scuffs and scratches
No. 6
EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner - Fingerprint Resistant Finish
  • Superior Stainless Steel Build- This heavy-duty stainless steel garbage can boasts an ultimate fingerprint-resistant stainless steel construction that provides a versatile and stylish waste disposal solution perfect for the home, office or other spaces.
  • Whisper-quiet Closing - The rugged step pedal mechanism is built to withstand years of daily use, and the bi-force damper soft open and close lid prevents slamming and banging.
  • Stay Open and Do Your Thing - This kitchen garbage can boasts an easy-to-use lid lock, ensuring it stays open as long as needed.
  • Quality Construction Built to Endure - Our durable stainless steel foot pedal is built to last over 200,000 times, ensuring smooth and reliable operation for years to come!
  • Elevated Inner Bucket with Handles: The Madison stainless trash can features a raised inner bucket with convenient handles, ensuring swift and hassle-free bag replacement.
No. 7
EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish
  • Premium Motion Sensor Technology - Experience the smoothest, most seamless lid opening and closing technology with this EKO hands-free automatic trash can.
  • Ultimate Fingerprint Resistance - Say goodbye to smudges and hello to a clean flawless exterior that stays immaculate. The anti-fingerprint stainless steel finish keeps your space clean and stylish.
  • Sleek and Durable Finish - Meticulously crafted with a stainless steel finish, this stylish touchless trash can offers a cool and smooth texture that’s durable and visually appealing for any home decor style.
  • 25% More Capacity - No liner design maximizes capacity by offering 25% more room to dispose of the trash.
  • Long-lasting Power - Use with AA alkaline batteries and can last up to 8 months of use, making our kitchen garbage can eco-friendly and your wallet happy.
No. 8
DUMOS Kitchen Trash Can, 2×8-Gallon Garbage Can with Lid, Stainless Steel Trash Bin with 2 Removable Inner Buckets, Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Fingerprint-Resistant for Kitchen Home Office
  • MULTI-FUNCTIONAL -This waste bin with pedals can free your hands, so you don't have to open the lid of the garbage can with your hands while you’re eating. Meanwhile, this simple trashcan decorates your kitchen well.
  • USER-FRIENDLY-This garbage can includes 2 removable buckets with large capacity, helping you to sort garbage better. The stainless steel body of this trash bin is fingerprint-resistant and easily cleaned, making the trash bin still looked like new after prolonged use. And the soft-close lid ensures the peaceful environment, with no loud slamming to be heard.
  • STURDY & DURABLE-Made of stainless steel, this trash can’s smudge-resistant exterior and heavy duty plastic inner bucket provide reliable strength and withstand sustained use. At the same time, this garbage bin’ pedals combine stainless steel thread with plastic materials to ensure the firmness and make a lighter and more comfortable pedaling experience.
  • [Easy Sorting & Odor Control]Dual trash can includes two separate inner buckets make sorting trash and recycling simple and tidy.The sealed design of trash bin with lid effectively contains odors and helps keep pets from making a mess, supporting a cleaner and more organized living space.
  • [Heavy-Duty Pedal]Double garbage bin features an industrial-grade steel foot pedal tested to withstand over 150,000+ steps and 300,000+open-close cycles, built for long-term home use. Its sleek profile fits seamlessly into any space: beside the kitchen island, in the bathroom, hallway, or home office.

The Essential Buying Guide for Your Stainless Steel Trash Can

Choosing the right stainless steel trash can makes a big difference in your kitchen or office. These cans look great and last a long time. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.

Key Features to Look For

Good trash cans have features that make life easier. Think about how you use the can every day.

Lid Mechanism

  • Motion Sensor/Touchless: These cans open when you wave your hand over them. This keeps your hands clean. It’s very modern.
  • Step Pedal: A foot pedal opens the lid. This is reliable and you don’t need batteries.
  • Manual/Soft Close: Some lids just lift up or close slowly. Soft-close lids prevent loud slamming noises.

Capacity and Size

Measure the space where the can will sit. Kitchens usually need larger cans (13 gallons or more). Offices or bathrooms need smaller ones.

Liner Ring or Bag Tuck System

This feature hides the messy trash bag edges. It keeps the look neat and clean.

Important Materials Matter

Stainless steel is the main material, but not all steel is the same. Quality matters for durability and appearance.

Stainless Steel Grades

  • 304 Grade: This is high-quality stainless steel. It resists rust and corrosion very well. It is often used in kitchen appliances. It costs a bit more but lasts longer.
  • 430 Grade: This is a good, standard grade. It looks nice but might show fingerprints more easily than 304 grade.

Fingerprint Resistance

Look for cans labeled “Fingerprint-Proof” or “Smudge-Resistant.” This coating helps keep your shiny can looking new with less wiping.

Internal Components

Check what the inner bucket is made of. A sturdy plastic bucket is best. Metal buckets can sometimes rust near the bottom if water collects there.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Small details really change how good a trash can performs over time.

Durability and Construction

Thicker steel means the can will not dent easily. Check the hinges and the pedal mechanism. Simple, strong parts last longer. Cheap plastic parts break quickly.

Odor Control

Some high-quality cans include a charcoal filter holder. This filter absorbs bad smells. This is a huge plus for kitchen trash cans.

Ease of Cleaning

A removable inner bucket makes taking out the trash much simpler. Wide openings also help when scraping food waste into the can.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about where you will use the can most often.

Kitchen Use

Kitchens need large capacity and easy opening. A touchless lid is great when your hands are full of food scraps. Good odor control is essential here.

Office or Bathroom Use

Smaller, quieter cans work best here. A step pedal is often preferred because it is simple and doesn’t require electricity.

A well-chosen stainless steel trash can adds style and hygiene to any room. Make sure you match the features to your daily routine.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Stainless Steel Trash Cans

Q: Will my stainless steel trash can rust?

A: Good quality cans, especially those made with 304 grade stainless steel, resist rust very well. Lower grades might show spots if they stay wet often.

Q: How often should I clean my stainless steel can?

A: You should wipe down the outside weekly to remove fingerprints. Clean the inside bucket thoroughly every few weeks or when you change the bag.

Q: Are touchless cans better than pedal cans?

A: It depends on preference. Touchless cans are more hygienic, but pedal cans do not need batteries and are always ready to open.

Q: What is the best size for a kitchen trash can?

A: Most families need a can between 13 and 20 gallons. This size holds enough trash so you do not have to take it out multiple times a day.

Q: How do I remove stubborn fingerprints?

A: Use a soft cloth dampened with a little water and white vinegar. Wipe with the grain of the steel. Many cans come with a special cleaning cloth.

Q: Do I need a special type of trash bag?

A: For most standard cans, you use regular kitchen trash bags. Cans with custom shapes might need specific liners, so check the product details.

Q: What does “soft close” mean for a trash can lid?

A: Soft close means the lid lowers slowly and quietly after you lift it or after the sensor closes it. This stops loud banging.

Q: Can I use abrasive cleaners on stainless steel?

A: No, never use abrasive cleaners or steel wool. These materials scratch the surface and damage the protective coating.

Q: Are stainless steel cans heavy?

A: They are heavier than plastic cans, especially the larger ones. This weight actually helps keep the can stable so it does not tip over easily.

Q: What is the purpose of an inner bucket?

A: The inner bucket holds the trash bag and makes it easy to lift the heavy bag out without touching the can itself. It also catches any leaks.