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They’re functional, and they look good too.
Photo:Real Simple
This model has a durable stainless steel construction with a fingerprint-resistant finish thats easy to clean and maintain.
In testing, this trash can worked seamlessly with a simple step on the bottom pedal.
It was incredibly stable too, with no rocking or movement during pedal operation.
PHOTO: Amazon
Best yet, it contained odors very well.
Theres even a convenient section for storing extra bags, making the replacement process simple and swift.
If you need something larger for your households trash needs, it also comes in 14.5- and 15.3-gallon options.
PHOTO: Real Simple
Size:26 by 16 by 13 in.
The lid could bang against the wall with forceful pedal use, and it doesnt completely contain odors.
The FDW 13-gallon Kitchen Step Trash Can is a chic option that proved to be reliable during testing.
When not full, the can tipped forward ever so slightly when we stepped on the pedal.
To mitigate this, we placed a non-slip mat underneath.
This lightweight option has a removable black plastic bin inside, and it fits standard bags.
We also noticed that the bag snagged a little on the lid-raising mechanism when we removed it.
However, its still a great product for folks after a stylish and functional bin on a budget.
Size:26 by 16 by 14 in.
There were occasional sensor inconsistencies, and you cant open it if the batteries run out.
The lid opens quickly and quietly, and it closes softly after around three seconds.
During testing, we found this can to be fairly sturdy and well balanced.
The sensor is also so sensitive that it would sometimes initiate the lid when we simply walked by.
To avoid this, it would be better placed in an area that doesnt see much foot traffic.
Other than that, its a great choice for hands-free bin opening.
Size:25 by 15 by 11 in.
The foot pedal could be larger, and the plastic material may not appeal to all shoppers.
The Rubbermaid Premier Series II is impressively stylish for a plastic trash can.
PHOTO: Amazon
The foot pedal was very responsive too; no particular effort is required.
it opens with very little pressure applied and does not fly open uncontrollably if pressed hard.
The opening is nice and wide and allows for larger boxes to fit inside when folded.
PHOTO: Real Simple
This easily flips up when it’s time to remove it.
Taking out a full trash bag is painless, and the can is leakproof.
While this lightweight trash can did show a few smudges, its easy to wipe clean.
It didnt retain any odors once the trash had been removed, either.
Its incredibly sturdy and didnt tip over when we stepped on the pedal or otherwise.
Size:24 by 16 by 13 in.
There were a couple of downsides.
Size:24 by 10 by 21.5 in.
Its expensive, and theres limited space for larger items in the recycling compartment.
It has two compartmentsone for regular and the other for recyclingto simplify waste sorting and disposal.
If youre unable to hide your trash can, this one is definitely not an eyesore.
This allows for the trash bags to remain hidden for a neat and tidy appearance.
It’s very responsive and closes softly and slowly.
The blue recycling bin can be pulled out for easy emptying, and replacing bags was effortless.
Size:26 by 22 by 14 in.
Its not hands free.
We used the bin with Brabantias trash bags and found them to be completely leakproof.
Theyre also conveniently color coded, so you know exactly what size to get and where to put them.
This might be a pricey kitchen trash can, but its durable and looks fabulous.
Plus, the company offers an impressive 10-year full residential warranty.
Size:27 by 21 by 12 in.
We evaluated how effective each unit was at containing odors and how it handled particularly strong or pungent smells.
They usually range from 20 to 30 inches in height and 10 to 25 inches in width.
For capacity, they can hold anywhere from 3 to 30 gallons of waste.
The size you opt for will depend on your household needs, though.
Those with a lot of daily waste would need a larger trash can and a separate recycling bin.
Slim or smaller-volume kitchen trash cans are able to fit into narrower kitchen spaces and pretty much go unnoticed.
These can be tucked out of the way, or even put under the sink, Solomon says.
Shape
In addition to varying sizes, kitchen trash cans are also available in many different shapes.
These include square, rectangular, cylindrical, and slim.
PHOTO: Amazon
Both materials are easy to wipe down when they get dirty.
Stainless steel is great for reducing odors and the spreading of germs, Solomon says.
Plastic, on the other hand, will eventually absorb odor.
PHOTO: Real Simple
Stainless steel trash cans tend to be more expensive than plastic options, but they generally look nicer.
They can also visually blend in, match kitchen appliances, and almost disappear.
Opening Mechanism
Trash cans for kitchens are available with various different opening mechanisms to suit any need.
The most affordable options will be step-pedal options.
If they do, after repeated use they will leave marks or damage the wall long-term.
They also provide better security against toddlers and pets.
These include a soft-closing lid, odor absorbers, dual compartments, locking lids, and touchless technology.
you could also find bins with hidden trash bag storage or dispensers so bags are always within reach.
This eliminates the need for extra bins for each different punch in of waste.
It’s important to also consider the things that might bother you when using a trash can.
Questions You Might Ask
Why are kitchen trash cans so expensive?
I would attribute the high cost to the fact that everyone needs it, Solomon says.
No one wants their home to smell of trash, and no one wants to look at trash.
If the trash can has to be visible, it might as well look nice and function well.
For that, there is a premium cost.
PHOTO: Amazon
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PHOTO: Amazon
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