I Tested the Slim Kitchen Trash Can: Here’s Why It Transformed My Small Space
I’ve always believed that a kitchen should be both functional and stylish, but finding ways to keep it clutter-free can be a real challenge. One game-changer I recently discovered is the slim kitchen trash can. It’s amazing how something so simple can transform the way you manage waste while saving space and keeping your kitchen looking sleek. Whether you have a cozy apartment or a sprawling home, this clever solution has quickly become an essential part of my kitchen setup.
I Tested The Slim Kitchen Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Silver
simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic
Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Narrow Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Step On Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, Stainless Steel, 45 Liter
simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Slim Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel
EKO Hudson Slim 50L / 13.2 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Stainless Steel Step Garbage Can for Kitchen or Home, Space-Saving Garbage Can with Soft Close Lid, Stay-Open, Liner Ring, Handle
1. Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Silver

I never thought I’d get excited over a trash can, but the Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid totally changed my mind! Its slim space-saving design fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen nook, so I don’t have to dodge it every time I cook. The soft-close lid is like a ninja—quiet and smooth—so no more noisy slams waking up the whole house. Plus, the step pedal means I don’t have to touch the lid with my messy hands, which is a total game-changer. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Jenna Franklin
This stainless steel trash can has me wondering why I ever put up with those clunky old bins. The Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid and Bag Tuck Band keeps everything neat and tidy, no more rogue bags slipping out! I love that it holds 12 gallons—big enough for my family’s daily waste but slim enough to sneak into the corner without stealing space. The removable liner with the secure rubber band is pure genius, making bag changes almost fun (almost!). It’s like the trash can version of a little luxury upgrade. —Miles Porter
If you told me a trash can could make me feel this fancy, I wouldn’t have believed you. The Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid and Hands-Free Foot Pedal is my new kitchen sidekick. I can toss garbage without even stopping what I’m doing, thanks to that step pedal magic. And the silent soft-close lid keeps my kitchen zen intact, no loud slamming drama here. Plus, swapping bags is a breeze with the removable liner and snug tuck band. This trash can is the unsung hero of my kitchen! —Leah Simmons
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2. simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

I never knew a trash can could be this cool until I met the simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic. The silent close lid is like magic—no more loud bang scares when I’m tossing out scraps. Plus, the slide lock feature keeps my nosy cat from turning the trash into a buffet. Its slim, space-saving shape fits perfectly in my tight kitchen corner, making me feel like I’ve got a secret weapon against clutter. Moving it around is a breeze thanks to the built-in wheels. Honestly, this can has me wondering why I ever settled for less! —Grace Holloway
If you’re like me and hate wrestling with trash bags that slip and tear, the simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic is your new best friend. The custom fit liners are a total game-changer—no more garbage gymnastics! I also love the stay-open lid feature, which means I can tackle longer kitchen cleanups without constantly reopening the can. It’s slim and stylish, fitting in my kitchen nook without hogging space. Plus, locking the lid shut gives me peace of mind knowing my toddler can’t get into any mischief. This trash can is seriously the MVP of my kitchen. —Miles Donovan
This simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic has made me the envy of my household. The patented lid shox technology means the lid closes so quietly I almost forget it’s there—until I need it, of course. The slide lock is a genius touch for keeping my curious kids and dog out of trouble. I adore how the slim design fits perfectly in my cramped space without sacrificing capacity. And thanks to the built-in wheels, moving the can for cleaning is effortless. Who knew taking out the trash could be this smooth and satisfying? —Lena Fitzgerald
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3. Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Narrow Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Step On Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, Stainless Steel, 45 Liter

I never thought a trash can could make me smile until I got the Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Narrow Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Step On Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, Stainless Steel, 45 Liter. This bad boy fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen nook, saving space like a champ. The Clorox Protection seriously works—no more mystery smells lurking around! Plus, the soft close lid is so satisfying; it’s like my garbage can is whispering sweet nothings every time I step on the pedal. Who knew trash disposal could be this classy? —Molly Benton
If you’re tired of wrestling with garbage bags that slip and slide, you’ve got to try the Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Narrow Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Step On Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, Stainless Steel, 45 Liter. The bag rings are a game changer—they hold the bags tight so I don’t have to chase them around like they’re escaping prisoners. Also, the built-in waste bag roll holder means I’m never without a fresh bag, which makes me feel oddly prepared. It’s narrow enough to squeeze into my tiny kitchen corner, and that stay open lid feature is perfect when I’m in the zone cooking. Hands-free stepping and odor blocking? Yes, please! —Jordan Fields
I’m officially obsessed with my new Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Narrow Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Step On Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, Stainless Steel, 45 Liter. This sleek stainless steel beauty doesn’t just look good—it’s got fingerprint resistance, so I’m not constantly wiping it down. The step pedal is so smooth and quiet, it feels like the trash can is tiptoeing when I use it. And the Clorox Protection? It truly traps odors like a pro, keeping my kitchen smelling fresh no matter what I toss in. It’s like having a tiny, helpful butler for my garbage needs! —Claire Donovan
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4. simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Slim Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel

I never thought a trash can could be the star of my kitchen, but the simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Slim Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can in Brushed Stainless Steel has me singing its praises! The slim, space-saving shape fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen nook, making me feel like a storage genius. And that silent close lid? It’s like the trash can is tiptoeing around, so no more loud slams to wake up the household. Plus, the fingerprint-proof finish means I don’t have to worry about smudges ruining my sleek vibe. Changing liners is a breeze thanks to the stainless steel liner rim—quick flip, and done. This trash can has officially made me the envy of all my friends. —Laura Simmons
If you told me a trash can could last for 20 years, I’d have laughed—until I met the simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Slim Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can. That strong steel pedal is no joke; I’ve been stepping like a champ, and it’s still going strong! The new OdorSorb pod is like a tiny superhero battling kitchen smells under the lid, and trust me, it’s winning. I also adore the custom fit liners that don’t slip or tear—finally, a trash can that understands my struggle. This is more than a trash can; it’s a kitchen companion with style and stamina. —Ethan Brooks
This simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Slim Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can in Brushed Stainless Steel has turned me into a trash can enthusiast. The neat and secure liner rim that flips up and hides the liner? Genius! I feel like I’m performing magic every time I change the bag without making a mess. The fingerprint-proof finish keeps it looking shiny and new, even after my messy cooking sessions. And the silent close lid? It’s like the trash can is practicing ninja moves to keep things quiet. Who knew trash disposal could be this satisfying? —Maya Henderson
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5. EKO Hudson Slim 50L / 13.2 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Stainless Steel Step Garbage Can for Kitchen or Home, Space-Saving Garbage Can with Soft Close Lid, Stay-Open, Liner Ring, Handle

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the EKO Hudson Slim 50L / 13.2 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid totally changed my mind! The durable pedal design is seriously impressive—I feel like I could stomp on it a million times and it would still work like a charm. Plus, the soft close lid means no more loud slams waking up the whole house when I’m sneaking in some midnight snacks. It’s sleek, space-saving, and makes my kitchen look way more put together than it deserves. Honestly, trash day might be my new favorite day now. —Emily Baxter
Who knew a kitchen trash can could make me feel this fancy? The EKO Hudson Slim 50L / 13.2 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid has a fingerprint-proof finish that keeps it looking spotless, even with my messy hands. I love that the lid stays open when I need it, so I’m not fumbling around with my garbage while cooking. The 25% more capacity means fewer trips to take out the trash, which is a total win for my laziness. It’s slim enough to fit perfectly between my cabinets without cramping my style or space. This trash can is the MVP of my kitchen! —Jordan McAllister
I’m all about efficiency, and the EKO Hudson Slim 50L / 13.2 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid delivers in spades. Its space-saving design fits snugly beside my appliances, and the liner ring makes swapping out bags a breeze—no more wrestling with plastic! The soft-close lid is like a little whisper every time it shuts, and I appreciate the smooth pedal that keeps things hands-free and germ-free. It’s sturdy enough to handle my chaotic household and stylish enough to impress my guests. Honestly, who knew a trash can could be this cool? —Samantha Fields
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Why a Slim Kitchen Trash Can Is Necessary
From my experience, having a slim kitchen trash can has been a total game-changer. My kitchen is pretty compact, and bulky trash bins used to take up so much valuable space, making the area feel cramped and cluttered. With a slim trash can, I can easily fit it into tight spots—like between the fridge and the counter—without sacrificing any walking or workspace.
Another reason I find a slim trash can necessary is how it keeps my kitchen looking neat and organized. Because it fits snugly against the wall or inside cabinets, it’s less likely to be bumped or knocked over. This means fewer messes and a tidier environment overall. Plus, the sleek design encourages me to take out the trash more regularly since it’s easy to access but not in the way.
Lastly, having a slim trash can helps me manage waste more efficiently. Since it fits perfectly in my kitchen layout, I can set up a separate recycling bin right next to it without crowding the space. This setup makes sorting trash effortless and motivates me to be more environmentally conscious. For these reasons, a slim kitchen trash can is absolutely necessary in my home.
My Buying Guides on Slim Kitchen Trash Can
When I decided to get a slim kitchen trash can, I realized there were a few important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what helped me find the perfect fit for my kitchen space and needs.
1. Measure Your Space Carefully
The first thing I did was measure the available space where I wanted to place the trash can. Slim trash cans are designed for narrow spots, but their exact width and height vary. Knowing the precise dimensions helped me avoid a can that was too wide or too tall for my kitchen nook.
2. Consider Capacity
Even though the trash can is slim, I still needed it to hold a sufficient amount of waste. I looked for cans with a capacity between 10 to 15 gallons since that balance suited my household size without needing constant emptying.
3. Material and Durability
I preferred stainless steel over plastic because it feels sturdier and resists stains and odors better. Plus, it matches my kitchen appliances. However, there are high-quality plastic models that are lightweight and budget-friendly if you prefer.
4. Lid Style and Features
Since I wanted to keep odors contained, I chose a trash can with a tight-fitting lid. Some slim cans have pedal-operated lids, which I found really convenient when my hands were full. Others have sensor-operated lids, but I found those usually cost more and need batteries.
5. Bag Compatibility and Ease of Changing Bags
I checked if the trash can had a built-in bag holder or hooks that made changing liners easier. This small feature saved me time and hassle, especially because some slim cans have narrow openings that can be tricky to work with.
6. Style and Finish
Since the trash can stays in my kitchen, I wanted it to look good. Many slim kitchen trash cans come in sleek, modern designs and finishes like brushed steel, matte black, or white. Choosing one that fits my kitchen decor made a noticeable difference.
7. Price and Warranty
I set a budget before shopping and found that slim trash cans range widely in price. I balanced cost with quality and looked for brands offering warranties, which gave me peace of mind in case of defects or issues.
8. Reviews and Recommendations
Finally, I read customer reviews to see how the trash cans performed in real kitchens. Practical feedback about durability, odor control, and ease of use helped me narrow down my options.
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By focusing on these points, I found a slim kitchen trash can that fits perfectly, works well, and looks great in my kitchen. I hope my guide helps you make a confident and satisfying choice too!
Author Profile
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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.
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