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Greatest Appliances

Best Kitchen Trash Cans for Cleaner, Less Smelly Kitchens

Compare kitchen trash cans by capacity, lid type, odor control, and pet resistance.

Our 5 picks

Compare them side by side
  1. Home Zone Living 13-Gallon Slim Trash Can

    Top pickSlim Odor-Control Can

    Home Zone Living 13-Gallon Slim Trash Can

    The best balance of odor control, durability, and ease of use.

    Capacity
    13 gal
    Opening Type
    Step pedal
    Slow-Close Lid
    Yes

    Pros

    • Maintains a fresher kitchen atmosphere with built-in odor-neutralizing technology
    • Saves floor space by fitting into narrow gaps without sacrificing capacity
    • Step pedal tested to 200,000 cycles ensures long-term reliability for hands-free daily use

    Cons

    • Higher price point than basic plastic bins for shoppers on a tight budget
    • Stainless steel finish may show fingerprints and require occasional wiping
    View on AmazonRead the full review
  2. Amazon Basics LARGE Trash Can

    Pick 2Smudge-Resistant Can

    Amazon Basics LARGE Trash Can

    Capacity
    13.2 gal
    Opening Type
    Step pedal
    Slow-Close Lid
    Yes

    Pros

    • Keeps surfaces looking clean with a fingerprint-resistant finish
    • Quiet, hygienic operation thanks to the foot pedal and soft-close lid

    Cons

    • Relatively large footprint may not fit very tight or unusually shaped kitchens
    View on AmazonFull review
  3. simplehuman 50L Semi-Round Step Can

    Pick 3Great Pet-Safe Can

    simplehuman 50L Semi-Round Step Can

    Capacity
    13 gal
    Opening Type
    Step pedal
    Slow-Close Lid
    Yes

    Pros

    • Quiet operation reduces noise and wear for a more pleasant kitchen environment
    • Locking lid prevents pets and children from accessing trash, keeping home hygienic

    Cons

    • 13-gallon size may be too large for very small kitchens or single-person households
    View on AmazonFull review
  4. Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can

    Pick 4Dual-Compartment Recycling Can

    Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can

    Capacity
    16 gal
    Opening Type
    Step pedal
    Slow-Close Lid
    Yes

    Pros

    • Simplifies sorting at the source, reducing clutter and extra bins
    • Maintains a fresher kitchen by minimizing lingering odors

    Cons

    • Takes up more floor space than single-bin models, which may challenge very small kitchens
    View on AmazonFull review
  5. Povrgive Wood Trash Can Cabinet 13 Gallon

    Pick 5Concealed Dog-Proof Cabinet

    Povrgive Wood Trash Can Cabinet 13 Gallon

    Pros

    • Keeps garbage out of sight and reduces household odors for a cleaner-looking kitchen
    • Prevents pets from tipping cans or making a mess, protecting floors and food waste

    Cons

    • Made from MDF — not fully waterproof, so prolonged exposure to moisture can cause damage
    View on AmazonFull review

Compare the picks

Specs are the manufacturer's or listing's published figures, shown when most picks list them.

Side-by-side comparison of the picks in this guide
PickCapacityOpening TypeSlow-Close Lid

1. Top pick

Home Zone Living 13-Gallon Slim Trash CanView on Amazon
13 galStep pedalYes

2.

Amazon Basics LARGE Trash CanView on Amazon
13.2 galStep pedalYes

3.

simplehuman 50L Semi-Round Step CanView on Amazon
13 galStep pedalYes

4.

Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash CanView on Amazon
16 galStep pedalYes

5.

Povrgive Wood Trash Can Cabinet 13 GallonView on Amazon
Not listedNot listedNot listed

Find your kitchen trash can

I want the best odor control

Choose a can with a tight-sealing lid, a carbon filter compartment, and a smooth inner bucket that's easy to wipe or wash.

Odor control guide

I want hands-free opening

Motion-sensor or touchless cans open automatically without touching the lid — ideal when your hands are full while cooking.

Compare lid types

I have pets that get into the trash

Look for cans with a locking lid, a weighted or stable base, or a concealed/cabinet-mount design to block curious pets.

Pet-proof options

I want to sort trash and recycling

Dual-compartment cans combine a trash bin and a recycling bin in one unit. Convenient when floor space is limited.

Dual-bin guide

I have a small kitchen

Slim-profile step cans fit tight spaces and against walls. Under-sink pull-out organizers work in very small kitchens.

Capacity and bag guide

I want simple and reliable

A classic step-pedal can with a soft-close lid needs no batteries, is easy to maintain, and lasts for years with minimal upkeep.

Buying criteria

Capacity and bag size guide

Household sizeRecommended can sizeCommon liner bag
1 person / small apartment7–10 gal8-gallon or 10-gallon tall kitchen bags
2–3 people10–13 gal13-gallon tall kitchen bags (most common)
4+ people / heavy cooking13–16 gal13-gallon or large tall kitchen bags

Bags that are too large bunch at the top and make the lid harder to close. Check your can manufacturer's recommended liner size.

Trash can buying criteria

  1. Capacity: Match the can size to your household and emptying frequency. A too-small can needs constant emptying; a too-large can may let waste sit too long.
  2. Lid type: Step pedals are rugged and battery-free. Sensor lids are hands-free. Swing lids are simple but don't seal odors. Soft-close hinges reduce noise in all types.
  3. Seal quality: A tight lid seal is the most important odor-control feature. Look for a snug gasket or step-can lid that closes flat.
  4. Build material: Brushed stainless steel resists fingerprints and is more durable. Plastic is lighter, often cheaper, and available in more colors.
  5. Liner retention: Inner liner tabs, hooks, or a rim pocket keep the bag from sliding into the can when you pull out trash.

Should you buy kitchen trash cans?

A good fit if you need

  • Busy kitchens where hands are full — motion-sensor or step pedal lids keep things sanitary
  • Households with dogs or toddlers; locking lids end trash raids
  • Anyone tired of visible mess — a 13-gallon stainless can hides standard tall bags neatly

Look elsewhere if you need

  • Tight galley kitchens without 12+ inches of free floor space — consider an in-cabinet bin
  • Anyone who won't keep batteries charged on a sensor lid model; dead sensors mean stuck lids

How these picks were chosen

Will Henschell researches each category from manufacturer specifications, retailer listings, owner-feedback patterns and published performance data, then narrows the field of kitchen trash cans to a short list with a clear reason for each pick. Picks are labelled as research unless the page includes documented hands-on test notes. No brand pays to be included or ranked.

Whether you need a slim step can for a small kitchen or a dual-bin recycler for a busy household, this guide covers the practical details before you buy.

Will Henschell

Researched and written by

What decided the ranking

  • Lid mechanism reliability (sensor, step, swing)
  • Odor containment and seal quality
  • Capacity and standard liner bag compatibility
  • Build material durability (stainless vs. plastic)
  • Liner retention and bag-change ease

Sources reviewed

  • Manufacturer specifications and product pages
  • Retailer listing details and availability
  • Owner feedback patterns
  • Published expert or performance data, when it exists

Testing status

Sourced research. Nothing on this page is presented as hands-on tested unless test notes are shown.

Read the full methodology

The picks in detail

Home Zone Living 13-Gallon Slim Trash Can

Pick 1Top pickSlim Odor-Control Can

Home Zone Living 13-Gallon Slim Trash Can

By Home Zone Living. Full listing name: Home Zone Living 13 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can

The Home Zone Living 13 Gallon (50 Liter) Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can combines compact design and premium performance for modern kitchens. Engineered with a slow-close lid and a heavy-duty step pedal tested to 200,000 steps, this silver waste bin delivers quiet, reliable operation and long-lasting durability. The integrated CleanAura pod neutralizes odors to keep your kitchen smelling fresh, while the slim footprint fits neatly beside cabinets or in tight gaps to maximize floor space. A secure rubber band tucks excess bag material away for a neater disposal experience, and dedicated U.S.-based customer support ensures peace of mind. this stylish, functional can is ideal for households seeking an elegant stainless solution for everyday trash containment.

Pros

  • Maintains a fresher kitchen atmosphere with built-in odor-neutralizing technology
  • Saves floor space by fitting into narrow gaps without sacrificing capacity
  • Step pedal tested to 200,000 cycles ensures long-term reliability for hands-free daily use

Cons

  • Higher price point than basic plastic bins for shoppers on a tight budget
  • Stainless steel finish may show fingerprints and require occasional wiping

Published specs

Capacity
13 gal
Opening Type
Step pedal
Slow-Close Lid
Yes
Odor Control
Yes

Key features

  • 13 gallon / 50 liter capacity—ample volume for family kitchens
  • Brushed stainless steel finish in silver for modern aesthetic and durability
  • CleanAura odor control pod integrated to reduce unpleasant smells
  • Step-on pedal mechanism tested up to 200,000 cycles for long life
  • Slow-close lid for quiet, gentle closing
  • Slim profile fits narrow spaces between cabinets and appliances
  • Rubber band system secures excess bag material to prevent spills
  • U.S.-based customer support for product assistance and questions
View on Amazon
Amazon Basics LARGE Trash Can

Pick 2Smudge-Resistant Can

Amazon Basics LARGE Trash Can

By Amazon.

Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can combines durable brushed stainless steel construction with a finger-print resistant satin nickel finish for a clean, modern look in kitchens and offices. This 50 liter (13.2 gallon) rectangular pedal bin features a manual foot lever and soft-close lid for ultra-quiet operation, plus a stay-open lid option and a removable heavy-duty plastic inner bucket with carry handle for quick, no-mess emptying. Its compact, space-saving profile fits against counters or walls while the neutral satin nickel tone complements contemporary décor. At 16.7 x 14.7 x 25.9 inches (LxWxH) and it’s a practical, low-maintenance solution for everyday waste collection.

Pros

  • Keeps surfaces looking clean with a fingerprint-resistant finish
  • Quiet, hygienic operation thanks to the foot pedal and soft-close lid
  • Removable inner bucket with carry handle makes emptying and deep cleaning fast and mess-free

Cons

  • Relatively large footprint may not fit very tight or unusually shaped kitchens
  • 50 L capacity can be excessive for single-person households, requiring more space

Published specs

Capacity
13.2 gal
Opening Type
Step pedal
Slow-Close Lid
Yes
Fingerprint Resistant
Yes

Key features

  • 50 liter (13.2 gallon) capacity ideal for households and small offices
  • Brushed stainless steel exterior with smudge-resistant, satin nickel finish
  • Manual foot pedal with soft-close lid for quiet, controlled opening and closing
  • Stay-open lid option and removable inner bucket with carry handle for easy emptying
  • Heavy-duty plastic inner bucket compatible with standard trash liners
  • Rectangular, space-saving profile; product dimensions 16.7 x 14.7 x 25.9 inches (LxWxH)
View on Amazon
simplehuman 50L Semi-Round Step Can

Pick 3Great Pet-Safe Can

simplehuman 50L Semi-Round Step Can

By simplehuman. Full listing name: simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can

The simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can in black plastic blends professional performance with everyday convenience. A durable step pedal gives hands-free access while patented LidShox technology controls the lid for a slow, quiet close; a slide lock secures the lid against pets and curious children and also locks open for extended chores. The semi-round profile fits neatly against counters to save floor space, and the large 13‑gallon capacity suits families and high-use kitchens. Use simplehuman code P liners for a perfect, hidden fit—extra-thick plastic and double-seam construction resist rips and tears. this bin offers a practical, long-lasting solution for odor containment and tidy kitchen waste management.

Pros

  • Quiet operation reduces noise and wear for a more pleasant kitchen environment
  • Locking lid prevents pets and children from accessing trash, keeping home hygienic
  • Semi-round profile fits flush against cabinetry or walls to maximize usable floor space

Cons

  • 13-gallon size may be too large for very small kitchens or single-person households
  • Black plastic finish can show fingerprints and requires occasional wiping to look pristine

Published specs

Capacity
13 gal
Opening Type
Step pedal
Slow-Close Lid
Yes

Key features

  • Patented LidShox mechanism for controlled, slow lid motion
  • Slide-lock secures lid (locks shut or stays open) plus semi-round, space-saving design
View on Amazon
Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can

Pick 4Dual-Compartment Recycling Can

Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can

By Home Zone Living.

Keep your kitchen tidy and odor-free with the Home Zone Living 16-gallon (60 L) stainless steel trash solution. Engineered for efficient at-source sorting, this silver step-pedal bin features two internal compartments so you can separate disposables and recyclables without extra bins. A built-in bag-tuck system prevents overhang and messy spills, while the CleanAura scent pod neutralizes unpleasant smells for a fresher room. The slow-close lid reduces slams and noise, and the durable stainless finish resists fingerprints for an attractive, low-maintenance addition to modern kitchens. Ideal for busy homes looking for hands-free convenience, organized waste management, and reliable odor control.

Pros

  • Simplifies sorting at the source, reducing clutter and extra bins
  • Maintains a fresher kitchen by minimizing lingering odors
  • Step-pedal operation and slow-close lid allow completely hands-free, quiet waste disposal

Cons

  • Takes up more floor space than single-bin models, which may challenge very small kitchens
  • Higher price point than basic trash bins and requires occasional scent pod replacements

Published specs

Capacity
16 gal
Opening Type
Step pedal
Slow-Close Lid
Yes
Odor Control
Yes

Key features

  • Two internal compartments for simultaneous waste separation
  • CleanAura odor-control pod to neutralize kitchen smells
  • Built-in openings to tuck excess bag material and prevent spills
  • Slow-close lid for quiet, controlled closing
  • Stainless steel construction with silver finish and step-pedal operation
  • Total capacity: 16 gallons (60 liters)
View on Amazon
Povrgive Wood Trash Can Cabinet 13 Gallon

Pick 5Concealed Dog-Proof Cabinet

Povrgive Wood Trash Can Cabinet 13 Gallon

By Povrgive.

Keep kitchen clutter and odors out of sight with the Povrgive Wood Trash Can Cabinet — a freestanding, dog-proof 13-gallon waste solution in classic white farmhouse style. Built from durable MDF with a smooth polished coating, this laundry- and trash-hiding cabinet fits standard 13-gallon bags and features a top lid to seal in smells and stop pets from tipping cans. At 16" x 13" x 26.2" and 20.72 lbs, the lightweight-but-stable unit is easy to place beside counters, in bathrooms, bedrooms or laundry rooms. The simple antique-inspired design elevates decor while the wipe-clean surface and tool-free 15-minute assembly make setup and maintenance fast, ideal for busy households, parties and barbecues.

Pros

  • Keeps garbage out of sight and reduces household odors for a cleaner-looking kitchen
  • Prevents pets from tipping cans or making a mess, protecting floors and food waste
  • Attractive farmhouse finish improves room aesthetics while matching common home decor
  • Quick, tool-free setup and a surface that wipes clean for low-maintenance use

Cons

  • Made from MDF — not fully waterproof, so prolonged exposure to moisture can cause damage
  • Only accommodates a single 13-gallon liner; larger households may need more frequent emptying
  • Heavier than plastic bins, so moving the unit frequently can be less convenient

Key features

  • Designed for standard 13-gallon trash bags with internal space to conceal a liner
  • MDF wood construction with polished coating for a refined, easy-to-clean finish
  • Freestanding white farmhouse/antique-style design fits kitchen, bathroom, bedroom or laundry
  • Top lid for odor control and to prevent pets from accessing contents
  • Assembled dimensions: 16" W x 13" D x 26.2" H; product weight 20.72 lbs
  • Tool-free assembly with numbered parts and clear instructions; approx. 15 minutes to install
View on Amazon

Odor control comparison

  • Tight lid seal (most important): A lid that closes flat and snug is the primary defense against kitchen odors. Step and sensor cans with gaskets or close-fitting lids outperform swing-top designs.
  • Carbon filter compartment: Some lids include a small activated carbon filter that absorbs odors between empties. These filters need periodic replacement.
  • Easy-clean inner bucket: A smooth, easily removable inner bucket allows rinsing and washing, eliminating built-up odor from spills at the base of the liner.
  • Liner fit: A snug-fitting liner reduces direct contact between waste and the can interior. Ill-fitting bags that bunch or slip let liquids collect at the bottom.

Lid types: step, sensor, and swing

Step pedal

No batteries required. Rugged and reliable. Most common style. Look for soft-close hinges to reduce noise and extend lid life.

Best for: most households, anyone who prefers low-maintenance

Sensor / motion-activated

Opens hands-free when you wave your hand. Convenient when cooking or carrying food. Requires batteries or USB charging. May activate accidentally.

Best for: hands-free opening, cooking-heavy households

Swing / open top

Simple and inexpensive. Lid swings open easily. Least effective at sealing odors. Best for dry waste or very high-turnover trash.

Best for: low-odor waste, quick-change trash needs

Pet-proof trash can options

Dogs and cats commonly knock over or open trash cans. The most effective deterrents:

  • Locking lid: A physical lock or latch that requires a deliberate action to open. The most reliable option for large dogs.
  • Weighted or stable base: A heavy stainless steel or wide-base can is harder to knock over than tall, lightweight plastic cans.
  • Concealed or cabinet-mount design: Trash cans built into a cabinet drawer or pull-out system are completely inaccessible to pets and stay out of sight.
  • Step-pedal cans: While not pet-proof, most dogs cannot reliably operate a step pedal. Combined with a stable base, step cans deter many pets.

Dual-compartment trash and recycling cans

A dual-compartment can combines a trash bin and a recycling bin in one unit, saving floor space and simplifying sorting.

  • ✓ One footprint instead of two separate cans
  • ✓ Keeps sorting visible and convenient in the kitchen
  • ✓ Often available with separate lids for each compartment
  • ✗ Each compartment is smaller than a full single can — may need more frequent emptying
  • ✗ More complex liner management (two bags instead of one)
  • ✗ Heavier and larger when full

Consider how much recycling your household generates. If recycling volume exceeds trash volume, look for models with an unequal split that favors the recycling compartment.

Kitchen trash can FAQ

What size kitchen trash can should I buy?

For most households, 10–13 gallons (38–50 L) balances daily capacity with a manageable footprint. Small kitchens, apartments, or under-sink setups do well with 7–10 gallons. If you cook heavily or have a large family, 13–16 gallons reduces how often you empty it.

Step vs. sensor trash cans — which is better?

Step cans are simple, battery-free, and reliable. Sensor cans are hands-free and hygienic, especially when cooking — but they need batteries and the sensor can activate accidentally. Look for soft-close hinges in either style to reduce noise.

How do I keep my kitchen trash can from smelling?

Use a can with a tight-fitting lid that seals odors in. Carbon filter compartments (built into some lids) help absorb odors between empties. A fitted liner that sits snug in the bucket also reduces direct contact and odor spread. Empty frequently in warm weather.

What trash bag size fits a 13-gallon trash can?

Standard 13-gallon tall kitchen bags fit most 13-gallon cans. Flex-fit or stretchy bags handle slight size variations. Check your can's liner size recommendation if the bag tends to slip or not stay snug — overly large bags bunch at the top.

Are there pet-proof kitchen trash cans?

Yes. Look for cans with locking lids, heavy weighted bases, or designs meant for cabinet/concealed mounting. Step cans are often easier for pets to knock over than sensor cans or cans with weighted bodies. A locking lid adds the most security.

What is a dual-compartment trash can?

A dual-compartment can has two separate bins in one unit — typically one for trash and one for recycling. They're convenient for households that sort waste but don't want two separate cans taking up floor space. Verify compartment sizes match your actual recycling volume.