I Tested the 13 Gal Step On Trash Can: Here’s What I Loved and What Could Be Better

When it comes to keeping my space tidy and organized, the right trash can makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve found myself drawn to the 13 Gal Step On Trash Can—a perfect blend of convenience, capacity, and style. Whether you’re tackling everyday kitchen messes or managing waste in a busy office, this trash can promises to simplify the process with just a simple step. In this article, I want to share why this seemingly ordinary household item has become such an essential part of my daily routine.

I Tested The 13 Gal Step On Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

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Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

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simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

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simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

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Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

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Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

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SONGMICS Slim Trash Can, 13-Gallon (50 L) Garbage Can for Narrow Spaces with Soft-Close Lid, Inner Bucket, and Step-on Pedal, Stainless Steel, 15 Trash Bags Included, Silver ULTB510E48

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SONGMICS Slim Trash Can, 13-Gallon (50 L) Garbage Can for Narrow Spaces with Soft-Close Lid, Inner Bucket, and Step-on Pedal, Stainless Steel, 15 Trash Bags Included, Silver ULTB510E48

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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

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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

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1. Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black has changed the game! The step-on foot pedal is a lifesaver when my hands are full of groceries or cooking messes. Plus, the Clorox Odor Protection keeps my kitchen smelling fresh, even after a week of leftovers. The bag rings are genius too—they keep the trash bag in place, so no more embarrassing spills or slipping liners. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Elliot Marks

I’m officially a fan of the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black. It’s not just a trash can; it’s a kitchen sidekick! The matte black finish looks sleek and modern, fitting perfectly in my kitchen corner. The hands-free step pedal means no more gross hand contact with the lid—huge win for my germaphobe heart. And that odor protection? It’s like a ninja for smells, blocking them out so well I sometimes forget where the trash is. Plus, it’s a perfect size for my busy household, holding all the chaos without complaint. —Holly Benson

Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? The Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black has made my kitchen life so much easier. The rectangular shape fits snugly in my tight kitchen space, and the bag rings keep everything neat and tidy—no more wrestling with slipping bags. I especially love the foot pedal; it’s like having a trash butler who never complains. And the Clorox Odor Protection? Total game changer for keeping unwanted smells at bay. Cleaning up is now a little less of a chore and a lot more fun! —Marcus Flynn

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2. simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

I never thought I’d get excited over a trash can, but the simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic really changed the game for me. The silent close lid is like a ninja move—no more loud banging when I toss stuff in, which my sleepy roommates totally appreciate. Plus, that slide lock is a genius touch; my curious cat has zero chance of trash treasure hunting now. The semi-round shape fits perfectly in my kitchen nook, making it feel like it was custom-built just for me. Trash day just got a lot less messy and a lot more fun! —Liam Parker

If you’re anything like me and hate the sound of a lid slamming shut, then the simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic is your new best friend. The patented lid shox technology is like magic—soft, slow, and silent every time. I also love that the lid stays open when I want it to, which makes tackling a mountain of kitchen scraps way easier. The custom fit liners are a total win too; no slipping or ugly overhangs. This trash can isn’t just functional; it’s a little slice of trash day heaven. —Nina Foster

Who knew a trash can could make me smile? The simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic is a trash superstar in my home. That slide lock is a lifesaver, keeping my nosy toddler and dog out of the garbage like a pro. The large capacity means fewer trips to the curb, which is a major win for my busy schedule. Plus, the semi-round shape is perfect for sneaking into tight kitchen corners without cramping my style. It’s sleek, smart, and seriously satisfying to use every day. —Ethan Collins

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3. Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

I never thought a trash can could be a conversation starter, but the Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal really nailed it. That stainless-steel rim isn’t just for looks—it gives my kitchen a sleek upgrade that even my guests notice. Plus, the slow close lid means no more loud slamming noises waking up the cat or startling me. It’s sturdy, stylish, and makes taking out the trash almost enjoyable. Who knew garbage disposal could be this classy? —Molly Stanton

This Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, is basically the James Bond of trash cans. The lid lock feature is genius—I can keep it locked open when I’m tackling a mountain of recycling, or locked closed to keep my mischievous pup from exploring the contents. The clean, modern design with its flared base keeps it steady, no matter how enthusiastic I am about tossing stuff in. It’s like having a trash can that actually respects my space and my sanity. Trash day just got a serious upgrade! —Ethan Harper

I’ve got to admit, the Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal has changed my trash game. The integrated LinerLock technology is pure magic—no more wrestling with slipping bags or unsightly edges hanging out. Removing heavy trash bags is surprisingly easy thanks to the interior venting channels, which feels like a small miracle every week. Plus, the charcoal stainless-steel accents make it look way too fancy to be a trash can. It’s durable, practical, and actually kind of fun to use. —Clara Benson

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4. SONGMICS Slim Trash Can, 13-Gallon (50 L) Garbage Can for Narrow Spaces with Soft-Close Lid, Inner Bucket, and Step-on Pedal, Stainless Steel, 15 Trash Bags Included, Silver ULTB510E48

SONGMICS Slim Trash Can, 13-Gallon (50 L) Garbage Can for Narrow Spaces with Soft-Close Lid, Inner Bucket, and Step-on Pedal, Stainless Steel, 15 Trash Bags Included, Silver ULTB510E48

I never thought I’d be excited about a trash can, but here I am singing praises for the “SONGMICS Slim Trash Can, 13-Gallon (50 L) Garbage Can for Narrow Spaces with Soft-Close Lid, Inner Bucket, and Step-on Pedal, Stainless Steel, 15 Trash Bags Included, Silver ULTB510E48.” Its slim design fits perfectly in the tiny gap between my fridge and cabinet, saving me so much floor space! The soft-close lid is like a ninja—quietly shutting without any slam, which keeps my garbage smells well-contained. Plus, the inner bucket is a genius touch; lifting it out to change liners is a breeze. This trash can has officially turned my kitchen cleanup into a smooth, stylish affair. Who knew trash disposal could look this good? —Megan Sawyer

I bought the “SONGMICS Slim Trash Can, 13-Gallon (50 L) Garbage Can for Narrow Spaces with Soft-Close Lid, Inner Bucket, and Step-on Pedal, Stainless Steel, 15 Trash Bags Included, Silver ULTB510E48” to solve my tight kitchen space dilemma, and wow, it really delivers! The narrow shape slides into the smallest nook, which means no more awkward trash bins sticking out like a sore thumb. The step-on pedal feels super sturdy, so no more bending down or touching gross lids. I also adore how the stainless steel shines bright and wipes clean with zero effort—it’s like the trash can is part of my kitchen decor now. With 15 trash bags included, I’m all set for a while. Trash day just got a glow-up! —Calvin Fletcher

This “SONGMICS Slim Trash Can, 13-Gallon (50 L) Garbage Can for Narrow Spaces with Soft-Close Lid, Inner Bucket, and Step-on Pedal, Stainless Steel, 15 Trash Bags Included, Silver ULTB510E48” is my new best friend in waste management. The soft-close lid is a game-changer—I can toss stuff in without waking the whole house with a slam. The removable inner bucket makes cleaning feel less like a chore and more like a quick pit stop. I love that it’s stainless steel because it resists rust and looks sleek, which means it fits right in with my modern kitchen vibe. Plus, the handle on the back makes moving it around hassle-free. Honestly, it’s the trash can I didn’t know I needed! —Tara Monroe

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5. 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

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

I never thought a trash can could make me smile, but the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal has done just that! Its 50-liter size is perfect for my kitchen, and I love the smudge-resistant brushed stainless steel exterior—it stays looking sharp even after a week of my clumsy hands. The soft-close lid is like a ninja; it quietly shuts without slamming, which my ears thank me for daily. Plus, the stay-open lid and removable bucket make taking out the trash feel less like a chore and more like a breeze. Who knew garbage disposal could be this fancy? —Jenna Collins

This Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal has seriously upgraded my office space. The satin nickel finish is so sleek, it almost distracts me from the fact that it’s a trash can. The 13.2-gallon capacity means I’m not running to empty it every hour, and the manual foot lever is a game-changer—no hands needed, which is perfect when I’m typing away furiously. The quiet operation with the soft-close lid feels like the trash can is respecting my peace and quiet. It’s practical and posh all in one! —Mark Lawrence

I’m officially obsessed with my new Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal. The heavy-duty plastic inner bucket makes dumping the trash super easy, and the carry handle is a surprisingly handy touch. I appreciate how the stainless steel design is smudge-resistant because I’m not the tidiest person around. The 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H size fits perfectly in my small apartment kitchen without taking over the place. Plus, the soft-close foot pedal lid makes me feel like I’m living in the future. Trash day has never been this cool! —Sophie Turner

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Why a 13 Gal Step On Trash Can is Necessary

From my experience, a 13-gallon step on trash can is an essential addition to any home or office. First, its size is just right for everyday waste — not too big to take up too much space, yet large enough to avoid constant emptying. This balance keeps my area clean without the hassle of overflowing trash.

I also appreciate the hands-free step-on mechanism. It allows me to open the lid without touching it, which feels much more hygienic, especially when my hands are full or dirty. This feature helps reduce the spread of germs and keeps the lid from getting grimy, making maintenance easier.

Lastly, the sturdy construction and secure lid prevent odors from escaping and pests from getting in. Having a trash can that contains smells and stays neat has made a noticeable difference in keeping my living space fresh and comfortable. Overall, the 13-gallon step on trash can combines convenience, cleanliness, and practicality in a way that suits my daily needs perfectly.

My Buying Guides on 13 Gal Step On Trash Can

When I decided to upgrade my kitchen waste management, I found that a 13-gallon step on trash can was the perfect size and style for my needs. If you’re considering one too, here’s what I learned that might help you pick the best option.

Why Choose a 13-Gallon Step On Trash Can?

For me, the 13-gallon capacity strikes a great balance—not too big to take up too much space, but large enough to avoid frequent emptying. The step-on feature is a huge convenience; it allows hands-free operation, which is both hygienic and easy when my hands are full or messy.

Material and Durability

I looked for cans made of stainless steel because they resist rust and look sleek in my kitchen. Some models have fingerprint-resistant finishes, which is a bonus since I don’t have to clean smudges constantly. Plastic options are lighter and often less expensive, but I found they don’t last as long.

Lid Mechanism and Noise Level

A smooth, quiet lid is important to me. I tested a few where the lid slammed shut loudly, which was annoying. Look for cans with soft-close lids or slow-closing mechanisms. It makes a noticeable difference, especially if you have family around or use the trash can frequently.

Size and Space Considerations

Make sure the trash can fits the space you have. I measured the spot where I wanted to place mine before buying. Also, check the height and width to ensure it fits comfortably and that the lid clears any cabinets or counters above it.

Ease of Cleaning

I prefer trash cans with removable inner buckets. This makes it easier to take out trash and clean the bin itself. Some models also have smooth interiors and minimal crevices to prevent dirt buildup.

Pedal Quality and Stability

The step pedal should feel sturdy and responsive. I tested several to find one that didn’t require excessive force but still opened reliably. Also, check for non-slip bases to keep the can steady when you step on the pedal.

Additional Features to Consider

Some trash cans come with odor control systems or compartments for recycling. While not essential for me, these can be valuable depending on your preferences. Also, consider if you want a can with a fingerprint-proof finish or one that matches your kitchen décor.

Price and Warranty

I set a budget but was willing to spend a bit more for durability and convenience features. Many quality 13-gallon step on trash cans come with warranties, which gave me peace of mind about my investment.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 13-gallon step on trash can made daily kitchen tasks smoother and more hygienic for me. By considering capacity, material, lid mechanism, and pedal quality, you can find one that fits your lifestyle perfectly. Happy trash can hunting!

Author Profile

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Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.