Photo credit: www.bonappetit.com
For most households, the kitchen trash can is an integral part of daily life. While it may not be the most glamorous item on your shopping list, a reliable and aesthetically pleasing trash can is essential, especially in smaller spaces where visibility is a concern.
The right choice can enhance your kitchen’s functionality and décor, making a quality purchase worthwhile. Here, we present our top recommendations for kitchen trash cans, highlighting features and performance based on extensive testing.
In this article…
The Top Kitchen Trash Can: Kohler 13-Gallon Step Can
Kohler 13-Gallon Step Can
Pros: Attractive design, soft-close feature, secure lid for easy bag changes
Cons: Lid may stick if not properly maintained
Highlights: Our testing revealed that the Kohler step-on trash can stood out as the best option. Its sleek brushed stainless steel finish, available in various colors, adds a touch of sophistication to any kitchen. The mechanism for opening and closing the lid operates smoothly, even under heavy use. Additionally, the lid has a lock feature to simplify bag changes, and the inner bucket’s design minimizes bag overhang, a common issue in many models.
Notably, the Kohler can has demonstrated durability, showing no signs of wear even after years of regular use.
Cautions: There have been instances where sticky residue on the rim caused the lid to detach suddenly, resulting in noise. Regular cleaning helps mitigate this issue.
Dimensions: 26.5″ x 16.75″ x 13″
Type: Step-on
Available Finishes: 8
Warranty: 10 years
Another Excellent Option: Simplehuman 50-Liter Rectangular Step Trash Can
Simplehuman 50-Liter Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can
Pros: Effective odor control, quiet operation, compatibility with standard bags
Cons: Lid does not lock automatically
Highlights: This Simplehuman can secured a solid second place in our evaluations. Its build quality and odor management are commendable. It opens and closes silently, making it a pleasant addition to any kitchen environment. While Simplehuman sells specific trash bags designed for their cans, it works well with common alternatives as well.
Cautions: Users must engage a small latch to keep the lid open while changing bags, which some may find less convenient than the Kohler’s automatic locking feature. The exterior of the can, despite claims of being fingerprint-resistant, can become marked easily.
Dimensions: 25.7″ x 19.8″ x 12.8″
Type: Step-on
Finish: Stainless steel
Warranty: 10 years
Why Investing in a Quality Trash Can Matters
After evaluating various models within different price ranges, it has become clear that a well-constructed kitchen trash can is worth the investment. Cheaper plastic options can feel flimsy and often fail to contain odors effectively. They also tend to struggle with securing trash bags properly, making daily use frustrating. Given that a trash can is an item utilized frequently throughout the day, the drawbacks associated with a low-quality can become apparent almost immediately.
Our Testing Approach
To determine the best kitchen trash cans, we assessed their overall construction and durability. We evaluated how the foot pedals performed under repeated use, ensuring that they could withstand heavy foot traffic without compromising functionality.
Source
www.bonappetit.com