5 Best Kitchen Step Trash Cans - May 2026

BEST OF THE BEST

Step N' Sort

2-Compartment Stainless Steel Trash and Recycling Bin

Sort trash from recycling with this sleek, durable trash can.

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PROS

6-liter, 16-gallon capacity.
Offered in color options.
Inner buckets can be removed for easy clean up.
Carry handle included on bins.
Inner bins are made from recycled plastic.
Bins can also be used to sort laundry, store pet food, and other household needs.

CONS

You'll pay for the sorting option as this is an expensive bin.

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

Home Zone

12-Liter Stainless Steel Oval Step Trash Can

High-quality, 12-liter can that is the most affordable option.

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PROS

12-liter can.
Uses 4-gallon bags.
Stainless-steel design stays clean and won't rust.
Interior plastic pale is removable for easy cleaning and sanitizing.
Stainless-steel exterior is easy to clean.

CONS

Smaller size is not suitable for your main kitchen trash can.

Simplehuman

Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can

Space-saving, secure-locking trash can designed fit into tight spots.

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PROS

A top Amazon choice.
Comes in 4 color choices.
Slide lock keeps contents from slipping out.
Slim design that fits into tight spots.
5-year warranty.
Lid shox technology provides a slow, silent close.
10.6 gallons.

CONS

Some customers found that the lid was difficult to attach.

iTouchless

Automatic Touchless Kitchen Trash Can

Technologically advanced trash can offers touch-free opening and closing.

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PROS

Brushed stainless steel is fingerprint- and smudge-proof.
Batteries last up to 18 months.
Extra-wide 12.5-inch opening.
Replaceable odor filter eliminates odors.
Touch-free, the motion of your hand opens the lid.

CONS

Between the batteries and the odor filter, there are items that need to be purchased separately and repeatedly.

Fortune Candy

Stainless Steel Step Trash Can

Smaller design is perfect for offices, bathrooms, or any place you need a small trash can.

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PROS

Carrying handle makes it easy to move around.
Removable inner bucket makes cleaning easy.
Double steel pedal is durable and lasts for more than 3,000 steps.
8-liter, 2.1-gallon capacity.
Dent-proof hinge lid.
Stainless steel.
Can be used with plastic grocery bags.

CONS

Small capacity.
Lightweight bin moves around when you step on the pedal.

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First Reviewed

September 26, 2021

Models
considered

Hours
researched

Written by Ade Hennis

Updated September 2021

It’s hard to beat the convenience of a hands-free trash can. Step trash cans offer a balance between hands-free access and low-tech solutions. Measure the height, width, and depth of the space you have available to narrow down your choices. These trash cans come in slim, round, oval, and rectangular designs. Flatback models take up less kitchen space as slim designs. If you like to keep your recycling separate, there are models with two or three compartments. Your material options include plastic, stainless steel, or rubber. Plastic is usually the least expensive, but both stainless steel and rubber have better durability. If the trash can will be visible, you may want to go with stainless steel, as it blends with modern kitchen appliances.

Best Kitchen Step Trash Cans

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

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