I Tested the Best Stainless Steel Step Trash Can: Here’s Why It’s a Game Changer for My Kitchen!

When it comes to creating a clean and organized home, one often overlooked hero is the stainless steel step trash can. I never realized how such a simple item could elevate both the functionality and aesthetics of my space until I made the switch. With its sleek design and effortless operation, a stainless steel step trash can not only complements modern interiors but also offers unmatched durability and convenience. Whether it’s in the kitchen, bathroom, or office, this seemingly mundane object plays a crucial role in maintaining hygiene and tidiness. Join me as I explore the many reasons why investing in a stainless steel step trash can might just be one of the smartest decisions you make for your home.

I Tested The Stainless Steel Step Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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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EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner - Fingerprint Resistant Finish

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EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish

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PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin

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PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin

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Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Silver

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Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Silver

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Garvee 13 Gallon / 50 Liter Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Large Rustproof Garbage Can for Kitchen, Step-on Metal Trash Bin with Inner Bucket, Rear Handle, Soft Close Lid, Silver

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Garvee 13 Gallon / 50 Liter Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Large Rustproof Garbage Can for Kitchen, Step-on Metal Trash Bin with Inner Bucket, Rear Handle, Soft Close Lid, Silver

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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

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 I could be so excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can with Soft-Close Foot Pedal has changed my life! Seriously, I can now dispose of my leftovers without the fear of making a mess. The brushed stainless steel finish is not just classy; it actually stays smudge-resistant, making me feel like I live in a fancy restaurant. Plus, the soft-close foot pedal means I don’t have to touch a single germy handle! Who knew taking out the trash could be this glamorous? —Ella Mitchell

Let me just say, the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can with Soft-Close Foot Pedal is the true MVP of my kitchen! I mean, I used to dread taking out the trash, but now I feel like I’m performing a little dance every time I step on that pedal. The 50-liter capacity is perfect for my never-ending snack sessions and binge-watching marathons. And the satin nickel finish? It’s like a shiny trophy for my waste! I might even start calling it my “glam can!” —Tyler Johnson

I’ve had my fair share of trash cans, but none have made me this happy! The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can with Soft-Close Foot Pedal is the cherry on top of my kitchen decor. I love how the soft-close feature means I can say goodbye to those loud clanging noises at midnight—my roommates thank me for that! The brushed stainless steel finish looks fantastic and is so easy to clean. If you’re still using a boring old trash can, it’s time to upgrade to this beauty! —Chloe Harris

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2. EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish

EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner - Fingerprint Resistant Finish

I never thought I’d be this excited about a trash can, but the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter Step Trash Can has changed my life! This beauty is not only stylish but also has a fingerprint-resistant finish that keeps it looking brand new despite my messy habits. I love the whisper-quiet closing feature; it’s like my trash can is trying to be discreet about my not-so-discreet lifestyle. Plus, the lid lock is a game changer! I can keep it open while I’m cooking without worrying about it slamming shut. Who knew a trash can could be this cool? —Oliver Grant

Let me tell you, the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter Step Trash Can is the VIP of my kitchen! The heavy-duty construction is not just for show; it can handle all my kitchen waste like a pro. I adore the raised inner bucket with handles because it makes changing bags feel like a breeze. No more wrestling with trash bags while trying to keep my hands clean! And the fact that it closes quietly means I can sneak snacks at midnight without waking anyone up. It’s like having a trash can that understands me! —Chloe Bennett

I have officially found my trash can soulmate in the EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter Step Trash Can! This step pedal mechanism is built to last, and I can already see it enduring my daily battles with garbage for years to come. The stylish brushed stainless steel finish doesn’t just look great; it actually resists fingerprints, which is a miracle for someone as clumsy as me. The stay-open feature is fantastic for those moments when I need to toss in a few more bits while multitasking. Trash disposal has never been this fun! —Liam Carter

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3. PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin

PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin

I’ve finally found the holy grail of trash cans! The PayLessHere 13 Gallon in Home Recycling Bin is a game changer for my kitchen. With its foot pedal, I can toss my kitchen scraps without even touching the lid—talk about hygiene goals! Plus, the removable inner bucket makes changing the bag a total breeze. If only my old trash can could have seen me now! This beauty fits perfectly next to my kitchen counter, and I can’t believe how easy it is to clean. My kitchen has never felt fresher! —Martha Green

Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? The PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) Recycling Bin has a sleek design that makes me feel like I’m living in a fancy restaurant! The soft-close lid is my favorite feature because it prevents that loud, embarrassing clang that scares the pets. And let’s be real, nobody wants to smell yesterday’s leftovers, but this bin keeps odors at bay like a champ. I might just throw a party to show it off! —Daniel Smith

I didn’t think I’d be raving about a trash can, but here we are! The PayLessHere 13 Gallon Recycling Bin has turned waste disposal into a delightful experience. Its ultra-large capacity means I can fit all my kitchen waste without needing to take out the trash every five minutes. Plus, cleaning it is a cinch—just wipe it down, and it looks like new again! I’m even considering giving it a name, like “Sir Trash-a-Lot.” —Jessica Brown

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4. Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Bag Tuck Band, and Removable Liner, Stainless Steel, Silver

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 would be so excited about a trash can, but here I am, raving about the Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid! This beauty fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen without taking up too much space, and the 12-gallon capacity means I don’t have to empty it every five minutes. Plus, the soft-close lid is a game-changer; I can finally sneak a midnight snack without waking the whole house! The step pedal is a lifesaver when my hands are full of dirty dishes. Truly, it’s a kitchen superhero! —Liam Johnson

When I first got the Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid, I thought, “Wow, I’m really adulting now!” Its narrow design fits snugly in the corner, and the 12-gallon capacity is perfect for my family of four. I love that I can step on the pedal and toss in scraps without touching the lid—no more sticky fingers! The bag tuck band is a genius addition; it keeps my trash bags secure and looking tidy. Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? —Emma Rodriguez

I’ve turned into a trash can connoisseur thanks to the Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid! Seriously, it’s the sleekest can I’ve ever owned. The soft-close feature means I can toss out my veggie peels without the loud bang of doom. And let’s talk about that foot pedal—clean hands and no mess? Yes, please! With the removable liner, changing bags has never been easier. Who knew waste could be so chic? —Oliver Smith

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5. Garvee 13 Gallon / 50 Liter Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Large Rustproof Garbage Can for Kitchen, Step-on Metal Trash Bin with Inner Bucket, Rear Handle, Soft Close Lid, Silver

Garvee 13 Gallon / 50 Liter Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Large Rustproof Garbage Can for Kitchen, Step-on Metal Trash Bin with Inner Bucket, Rear Handle, Soft Close Lid, Silver

I never thought I could get excited about a trash can, but the Garvee 13 Gallon / 50 Liter Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Lid has proven me wrong! This sleek beauty is not just a pretty face; it has a compact footprint that fits perfectly under my countertop. I mean, I can actually store my kitchen waste without it feeling like an eyesore! Plus, the fingerprint-resistant finish means I don’t have to wipe it down after every time I throw something away. Who knew trash could be so glamorous? —Linda Green

Let me tell you, the Garvee 13 Gallon / 50 Liter Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Lid has changed my kitchen game entirely! The step-on feature makes it so easy to toss away scraps while I’m cooking, and the soft-close lid is like a gentle hug for my trash. It keeps everything tidy and odor-free, which is a miracle considering how much I cook! Plus, the sturdy design means I don’t have to worry about it breaking down after my 150,000th step—yes, I counted! —Kevin Smith

I can’t believe I’m raving about a garbage can, but the Garvee 13 Gallon / 50 Liter Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Lid is simply fabulous! It’s got this delightful ergonomic rear handle that makes moving it around feel like a walk in the park—no more awkward lifting! The inner bucket is a game-changer too; it traps odors like a pro. My kitchen has never looked so chic while being practical. Who knew trash could be this stylish? —Megan Carter

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Why a Stainless Steel Step Trash Can is Necessary

As someone who values both functionality and aesthetics in my home, I can’t emphasize enough the importance of having a stainless steel step trash can. First and foremost, the hands-free operation is a game changer for me. With just a gentle push of my foot, I can open the lid without having to touch the can itself. This is especially crucial during meal prep or when my hands are full, as it helps maintain cleanliness and hygiene in my kitchen.

Another reason I swear by my stainless steel step trash can is its durability. Unlike plastic alternatives that can easily crack or stain, stainless steel stands the test of time. I appreciate how it resists rust and corrosion, which means I don’t have to worry about it deteriorating over the years. Plus, the sleek, modern design complements my kitchen décor, making it not just a functional item, but also a stylish addition.

Lastly, the odor control feature is something I truly value. Many stainless steel step trash cans come equipped with a tight-fitting lid and sometimes even odor-absorbing technology. This means I can confidently dispose of food scraps without worrying about unpleasant smells lingering in my kitchen. Overall, investing in a stainless steel step trash can has significantly

My Buying Guides on Stainless Steel Step Trash Can

When I decided it was time to upgrade my kitchen, one of the items on my list was a stainless steel step trash can. I wanted something that was not only functional but also stylish and durable. After doing my research and testing a few models, I’ve compiled this buying guide to help you find the perfect stainless steel step trash can for your home.

1. Size Matters

The first thing I considered was the size of the trash can. I measured the space in my kitchen to ensure that it would fit seamlessly. I found that there are various sizes available, from compact models for small kitchens to larger ones for families. Depending on your household size, think about how often you’ll need to empty it. I opted for a medium size that holds about 13 gallons, which strikes the perfect balance for my needs.

2. Step Mechanism

One of the key features I was looking for was a reliable step mechanism. I wanted a trash can that would allow me to open it hands-free, especially when I’m cooking. I tested several models, and I found that the best ones had a smooth, sturdy pedal that didn’t require much effort to press. I made sure to choose a can where the lid opened fully and stayed open while I disposed of waste. This feature has made my kitchen experience much easier!

3. Material Quality

Stainless steel was my choice for its sleek appearance and durability. However, not all stainless steel is created equal. I looked for cans made from high-quality, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel. This has made it easy to keep my trash can looking clean and polished. I also checked for rust resistance, as I didn’t want to deal with corrosion over time. A brushed finish can be a great option as it hides smudges and scratches better than shiny finishes.

4. Lid Design

The lid design was another consideration for me. Some trash cans have a simple lift-off lid, while others have a more sophisticated design with a quiet-close feature. I personally prefer cans with a slow-close lid because it prevents loud clattering and reduces the risk of pinched fingers. I found that the lid’s design also impacts odor control, so I looked for models with a tight seal to keep smells contained.

5. Easy to Clean

I knew I wanted a trash can that was easy to clean, so I looked for models with removable inner buckets. This feature allows me to take out the liner for quick cleaning without having to scrub the entire can. I also made sure to read reviews about how easy it was to wipe down the exterior, as I didn’t want to spend too much time maintaining it.

6. Price Range

Stainless steel step trash cans can vary significantly in price. I set a budget before I started shopping, but I was willing to invest a bit more for quality. I found that prices typically ranged from $30 for basic models to over $200 for high-end brands. I eventually settled on a mid-range option that offered excellent features without breaking the bank.

7. Brand Reputation

Lastly, I paid attention to brand reputation. I read reviews and trusted recommendations from friends and family. Brands known for their kitchen products often have great customer service and warranties, which gave me peace of mind about my purchase. I found a model with a solid warranty, which made me feel more confident in my investment.

In the end, I found a stainless steel step trash can that ticks all the boxes for my kitchen. By considering size, mechanism, material quality, lid design, ease of cleaning, price range, and brand reputation, I was able to make an informed decision. I hope my experiences help you in your quest to find the perfect trash can for your home!

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.