Our readers keep the lights on and my morning glass full of iced black tea. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.9 Best Black 13 Gallon Trash Can | 50-Liter Step Cans, Ranked

Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.

A black 13-gallon trash can is the workhorse of a busy kitchen, but the real test is the lid: will it stay open when you are cooking, close quietly without slamming, and seal in odors overnight? Judge these bins by their lid mechanism and how well they hold a standard bag, not just by looks or capacity.

I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind KitchPrep. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.

We’ve ranked the top black 13-gallon step cans for durability, pedal feel, and odor control, and the winner is the Glad Series 2 Stainless Steel model, which pairs a soft-close lid with Clorox protection and a stay-open option. black 13 gallon trash can shoppers will find the full breakdown here.

Our Picks at a Glance

Glad All Stainless Steel Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection
Best OverallGlad All Stainless Steel Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection4.6★24,150 ratingsThe crowd favorite that combines a soft-close lid, stay-open option, and Clorox odor-blocking in one 13-pound steel bin.Check Price on Amazon
ELPHECO Kitchen Trash Can with Lid 13 Gal Stainless Steel Pedal
Best ValueELPHECO Kitchen Trash Can with Lid 13 Gal Stainless Steel Pedal4.4★471 ratingsA polished steel step can that arrives with 20 free liners and a swing-open lid for hands-free kitchen work.Check Price on Amazon
Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection, 13 Gallon, Black, 2 Pack
2-Pack PickGlad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection, 13 Gallon, Black, 2 Pack4.6★522 ratingsTwo lightweight plastic bins with foot pedals and Clorox odor-blocking lids — one for the kitchen, one for anywhere else. You get two 13-gallon bins in a modern black finish, each with a step pedal for hands-free use.Check Price on Amazon

How To Choose The Best Black 13 Gallon Trash Can

You will touch your trash can every day, so the lid, the foot pedal, and the bag fit matter most. Get the lid and bag fit right and the bin fades into your routine; get them wrong and you will fight it constantly. This guide helps you pick the black 13-gallon step can that fits your kitchen’s daily rhythm.

Lid type: soft-close vs. stay-open

A soft-close lid uses a damping hinge to descend slowly and quietly instead of slamming. A stay-open lid locks upright at about 90 degrees, which helps when you are chopping vegetables and tossing scraps repeatedly. Some bins offer both — step once to open, then push the lid back gently to lock it open — and that combination is the easiest for meal prep.

Material and finish

Stainless steel resists rust and looks cleaner longer, especially with a fingerprint-resistant finish; plastic is lighter and cheaper but can absorb odors. If your bin sits against a wall, look for an internal hinge design that keeps the lid from scuffing the wall when it opens.

Bag security and inner bucket

A bag ring or retainer band holds the liner in place so it does not slip down into the bin. A removable inner bucket makes emptying and cleaning far easier, and a liner ring that grips the bag prevents it from bunching or overhanging the rim.

Quick Comparison

Model Best For Material Lid Feature Weight Amazon
Glad Series 2 Stainless★ Best Overall Overall odor control Stainless Steel Soft-close + Stay-open 13 lb Amazon
ELPHECO KitchenBest Value Budget-friendly value Stainless Steel Soft-close + 90° stay-open Amazon
Glad Clorox 2-Pack2-Pack Pick Two bins, one kitchen Plastic Step pedal Amazon
SONGMICS Fluted Style-forward kitchens Stainless Steel Soft-close + 90° lift 5.7 kg Amazon
KUK Brushed Steel Fingerprint resistance Stainless Steel Soft-close + 90° stay-open Amazon
SONGMICS Soft-Close Pet-proof reliability Stainless Steel Soft-close 14.1 lb Amazon
Garvee Metal Heavy-duty longevity Powder-Coated Steel Soft-close + 80°/95° lock 18.1 lb Amazon
Home Zone Living Slim spaces Stainless Steel Slow-close 18.6 lb Amazon
Rubbermaid Streamline Commercial durability Plastic Quiet-close 3.86 kg Amazon

In‑Depth Reviews

★ Best Overall

1. Glad All Stainless Steel Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection

Our pick — over 4.5★ from 24,000+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.

Soft-close + stay-openClorox odor protection

The crowd favorite that combines a soft-close lid, stay-open option, and Clorox odor-blocking in one 13-pound steel bin.

What wins people over here is the size — owners describe a can that swallows a full week of kitchen waste while taking up roughly the same floor space as a smaller bin. The black stainless steel finish is the other standout, as buyers report it shrugs off fingerprints and water spots far better than traditional shiny steel, so it keeps looking clean in a high-traffic kitchen.

The lid gives you two ways to work: step on the wide foot pedal for hands-free tosses, or push the lid back gently to lock it upright for tasks like meal prepping and cleaning. A soft-close mechanism (a hinge that lowers the lid slowly instead of letting it drop) keeps operation silent, and the bag rings tuck slack away so the liner stays secure and never falls in.

The honest trade-off is the lid closure — most owners love it, but a fair number report it needs a firm step or occasional adjustment to seat perfectly. For a bin this well-reviewed, that is a minor rhythm to learn rather than a reason to pass.

What owners praise

  • Roomy — holds far more than a standard kitchen can with a compact footprint
  • Sleek black stainless resists fingerprints and looks sharp
  • Soft-close lid operates quietly and stays open when you need it
  • Bag rings keep the liner secure and easy to swap

Where it demands care

  • Lid closure gets mixed reviews — some need a firmer step
  • Occasional units show durability concerns over time

The pick if: you want a handsome, odor-blocking steel can that handles a busy family kitchen without constant bag changes.

Think twice if: you expect the lid to seal perfectly with the lightest tap — this one prefers a deliberate step.

Best Value

2. ELPHECO Kitchen Trash Can with Lid 13 Gal Stainless Steel Pedal

90° stay-open20 free bags included

A polished steel step can that arrives with 20 free liners and a swing-open lid for hands-free kitchen work.

This bin leads with build quality — owners call it sturdy and durable, with several noting it survived multiple moves without a dent, which is rare for a stainless can at this price. The polished titanium-black finish cleans up easily, so it holds its good looks between wipe-downs.

It pulls double duty on the lid: the foot pedal opens it hands-free, and a 90-degree stay-open function locks the lid upright when you need both hands for longer cleaning or food-prep sessions. The removable inner bucket lifts out for quick emptying, and the compact footprint fits neatly in kitchens, offices, or laundry rooms.

Owners mention the included 20 complimentary trash bags are on the thin side and prone to tearing, and a few note that standard 13-gallon bags run small for this bin’s generous interior. The lid closure also gets mixed feedback, so expect to give the can a proper nudge rather than a whisper-soft touch.

Why it earns its spot

  • Sturdy steel build that withstands moves and daily abuse
  • Elegant finish that pairs well with wood cabinetry
  • Lift-out inner bucket simplifies emptying
  • Lid locks at 90° for hands-free prep

Where it stumbles

  • Bundled bags are thin and tear easily
  • Some standard 13-gallon liners fit too snug

Reach for it if: you want a good-looking steel can for a busy kitchen without paying a premium.

Keep shopping if: you need a bin that seals tightly on the first step — the lid wants a deliberate close.

2-Pack Pick

3. Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection, 13 Gallon, Black, 2 Pack

Plastic buildClorox odor protection

Two lightweight plastic bins with foot pedals and Clorox odor-blocking lids — one for the kitchen, one for anywhere else.

You get two 13-gallon bins in a modern black finish, each with a step pedal for hands-free use. Owners say the built-in Clorox Odor Protection in the lid does real work keeping things fresh, and the classic rectangular shape fits standard kitchen layouts without sticking out awkwardly.

The bag rings are the practical highlight — they tuck slack neatly inside and stop the liner from sliding down into the can. Because these are plastic rather than steel, they are noticeably lighter to move between rooms, and several customers note the pair saves money on trash bags by maximizing each liner’s capacity.

The catch is consistency: as reviewers point out, one unit in the pair often opens perfectly while the other opens only 80-90% and sticks unless you press the pedal hard.

What you get

  • Two bins for the price of one — kitchen plus bathroom or office
  • Lid formulation blocks odors for the life of the can
  • Bag rings keep liners secure and easy to remove
  • Light plastic is easy to lift and relocate

What varies

  • One can in the pair may stick at 80-90% open without a hard push
  • Pedal and bag holders get mixed durability notes

Grab the pair if: you need two functional step cans at once and want odor control included.

skip it if: you demand identical performance from both units — a single can may arrive with a stiffer pedal.

Style Pick

4. SONGMICS Trash Can, 13 Gallon, Stainless Steel, Fluted Design with Lid

Fluted design15 starter bags included

A fluted stainless bin that looks far pricier than it is, with a soft-close lid and 15 matching liners in the box.

This can looks good enough to leave out in your kitchen, thanks to its fluted design (a ridged exterior that adds elegance most bins lack). Owners consistently call it attractive and sophisticated, and the ink-black finish draws compliments while blending into modern kitchens. It is built from premium stainless steel that resists rust, so it stands up to busy households.

You open it by stepping on the pedal for hands-free use or manually lifting the lid to 90 degrees to keep it open for longer tasks, and the lid closes slowly and quietly every time. The detachable inner bucket makes emptying and liner changes mess-free, and 15 matching trash bags come included so it is usable right from the start.

The recurring gripe is the lid closure — while many say it closes softly and easily, others report it does not always seat fully shut.

Where it shines

  • Fluted stainless design looks expensive and coordinates with décor
  • Quiet soft-close lid with 90° open position
  • Lift-out inner bucket for easy empty and clean
  • 15 liners included for instant use

Where it slips

  • Lid seal gets mixed reviews — not always a perfect close
  • Occasional bag slippage with slim liners

Buy it for: a really good-looking can in a visible spot where appearance matters as much as function.

Pass it by if: you need a guaranteed airtight seal every single close.

Fingerprint-Free Steel

5. KUK 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel, Black

150,000+ pedal cycles20 bonus bags

A brushed-steel can with fingerprint-proof surfaces and a pedal rated for 150,000+ uses — built for daily repetition.

The brushed stainless finish is the headline here — it resists fingerprints, water, and stains, so a spotless look holds up between cleanings. Owners praise the build quality and note the color coordinates well with kitchen decor, and the size reads as generous without dominating the room.

Under the hood, the lid uses quiet damping technology (a mechanism that prevents slamming) and stays open at 90 degrees for easy disposal or inner-bucket cleaning. The rust-resistant steel pedal is tested for 150,000+ uses, and the detachable plastic inner bucket has built-in bag hooks to keep liners secure. Twenty custom-fit garbage bags arrive in the box.

Lid closure draws the most mixed feedback — some owners say it closes tightly, while others report it will not close properly without adjustment. The pedal also pops up a little fast for some tastes, and value-for-money impressions split between those who find it a fair deal and those who do not.

What stands out

  • Fingerprint-proof brushed steel stays clean-looking
  • Pedal rated to 150,000+ uses for longevity
  • Lid locks open at 90° for prep work
  • 20 liners included

Where it wobbles

  • Lid may need adjustment to close properly for some owners
  • Pedal returns a bit quickly

Choose it when: a fingerprint-free surface and a pedal that should outlast years of stepping are your top priorities.

Look further if: you want a lid that seals with zero fuss from day one.

Pet-Proof Pick

6. SONGMICS Trash Can, 13 Gallon, Stainless Steel, Soft-Close Lid

2 side handles15 liners included

A heavy, sturdy steel can whose lid resists even a determined dog’s snout, with a soft-close action owners love.

The biggest compliment owners pay this can is that it is dog-proof — the lid cannot be opened by a snout, and the heavy, non-tippable build means a curious pet cannot knock it over. The soft-close lid (a hinge that lowers it slowly and silently) operates smoothly, and the brushed ink-black stainless resists both rust and fingerprints, so it keeps its looks near the wall.

Emptying is genuinely pleasant: the inner bucket has 2 side handles that make it easy to lift out, and shoppers say standard 13-gallon bags fit without sagging. It sits flush against walls, which saves space in tight kitchens, and the included 15 bin liners are described as strong and durable.

The design and ease of use earn near-universal praise, including how easy it is to pull out bags and swap them. The main risk is cosmetic — some units arrive with a small dent from shipping despite solid packaging, though buyers often keep it because the dent is minor and the can itself works beautifully.

Why owners stay loyal

  • Heavy and sturdy — pets cannot open or tip it
  • Soft-close lid is quiet and glides smoothly
  • Side handles on the inner bucket make emptying easy
  • Fits flush against walls to save floor space

What to watch

  • Some units ship with a small dent despite good packaging
  • Standard bags fit well but must be seated properly

Reach for it if: you share a kitchen with a curious dog or want a can that stays put and closes silently.

Hesitate if: an immaculate, dent-free arrival is non-negotiable — shipping mishaps happen occasionally.

Heavy-Duty Steel

7. Garvee 13 gal Metal Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, Large Rustproof

300,000+ hinge cyclesPowder-coated shell

An 18.1-pound powder-coated metal can engineered to outlast the average kitchen with a 300,000-cycle hinge.

This is the can built like a fortress. The powder-coated metal shell resists rust and scratches, the industrial-steel pedal is rated for 150,000+ steps, and the ABS hinge survives over 300,000 open/close cycles — numbers that translate to years of heavy daily use. Owners describe it as solid and heavy, and several note it is much better than all-plastic bins with fragile hinge pins.

The soft-close lid glides open to 80 degrees and locks at 95 degrees for hands-free stay-open use, which makes it a strong fit for meal prep at kitchen islands. A custom liner ring grips any standard bag to prevent slipping, bunching, or overhang, and the removable inner bucket keeps cleaning simple. The fingerprint-resistant finish wipes clean in seconds.

There are two honest caveats: bag stability gets mixed feedback — some owners say the bag never slips while others report sliding — and a few note the bottom plastic can crack over time. Some units also arrive with minor cosmetic dents from shipping, though they usually get kept anyway because the can works so well.

Built to last

  • Pedal rated for 150,000+ steps and hinge for 300,000+ cycles
  • Powder-coated shell resists rust, scratches, and fingerprints
  • Liner ring grips bags to prevent slips and overhang
  • Lid glides open to 80° and locks at 95°

Built to watch

  • Bag hold is mixed — some owners see slipping
  • Occasional report of bottom plastic cracking

Buy it for: a kitchen that runs nonstop and a can you want to install once and forget for years.

Weigh it against: lighter options if you frequently move your bin between rooms — at 18.1 pounds it is a commitment.

Slim Fit Design

8. Home Zone Living 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Slim Fit Design

CleanAura odor pod200,000-step pedal

A narrow stainless can that slides into tight gaps between appliances, with a CleanAura pod fighting odors at the source.

The slim footprint is the whole story here — at just 11.59 inches wide, this can fits neatly between appliances and cabinets where standard round bins never could. Owners love that the internal hinge design sits flush with the body, so the lid never scuffs the wall when it opens, and the full-width pedal is easy to hit without looking. It is 18.6 pounds, giving it a sturdy, planted feel.

Odor control comes from a CleanAura pod built into the can, which keeps the surrounding air fresh rather than just trapping smells under the lid. The step-on pedal is tested to withstand up to 200,000 steps, and the slow-close lid ensures a gentle, quiet descent every time. At 26.58 inches tall, it is high enough to deter counter-surfing dogs.

The recurring notes are minor: the can can slide on hard floors unless you set it deliberately, and standard 13-gallon bags need a bit of stretching to fit over the wider rim, though they stay put once seated. A few owners also mention it ships without the liner bags some listings imply, so expect to supply your own.

What makes it unique

  • Only 11.59 inches wide — fits slivers between cabinets
  • CleanAura pod actively freshens the air around it
  • Pedal rated to 200,000 steps
  • Flush hinge prevents wall scuffs

Where you adapt

  • Slides on hard floors without a mat
  • Standard bags need stretching to fit the wider rim

Pick it up if: your kitchen has a narrow dead zone between the fridge and counter that needs filling.

Move on if: you want a can that stays glued to one spot on smooth flooring.

Commercial Grade

9. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Streamline Slim Step-On Plastic Trash Can

OSHA & OBRA standardsLiner retainer band

A wide, wall-hugging plastic can built to commercial standards, with a liner band that locks bags in place.

This is the can that says “buy it once, buy it right.” It meets OSHA and OBRA standards (workplace safety and environmental regulations), so it is safe for commercial use. Its wide design with a small footprint hugs the wall to deliver maximum volume without stealing floor space. Owners describe it as heavy-duty with reinforced handles that support heavy loads without deformation, and the scuff-resistant surface is easy to sanitize — which is why it suits commercial settings as easily as a home kitchen.

The internal hinge design prevents wall damage, and a liner retainer band securely holds polyliners so they do not slip down mid-week. The tall pedal clearance makes it easy to step on even in clogs or slides, and the quiet, controlled lid closure cuts down on noise. At 28.3 inches tall and just 11.5 inches deep, it is generous in height while taking minimal floor depth.

The trade-offs are real: this is a plastic can priced like a premium steel one, and owners acknowledge it is pricey. A few note the advertised capacity can feel optimistic for certain bag sizes, with 33-gallon liners nearly touching the bottom, and the lid is light enough that it closes fast — though still near-silent.

Why it earns the premium

  • Meets OSHA and OBRA standards for safety compliance
  • Liner band holds bags securely and prevents slips
  • Reinforced handles survive heavy loads without bending
  • Hugs the wall with an internal hinge

What you accept

  • Premium price for a plastic build — durable though not fancy
  • Light lid closes quickly, though quietly

Invest here if: you need a near-indestructible, sanitary can for high-traffic use — home or commercial.

Look at steel instead if: appearance matters most in a visible kitchen spot, since this favors function over looks.

Understanding the Specs

Soft-close vs. stay-open lids

A soft-close lid lowers slowly and silently thanks to a damping hinge, so it never slams shut or catches your fingers. A stay-open lid locks upright, usually at 90 degrees, so you can toss scraps repeatedly during cooking without holding the pedal. The best bins offer both: step to open, push the lid back to lock it.

Bag rings and inner buckets

A bag ring or retainer band tucks slack inside and grips the liner so it never falls into the can mid-week. A removable inner bucket lifts out for mess-free emptying and cleaning. If a can has neither, you will wrestle with sagging bags and awkward liner swaps.

FAQ

Will standard 13-gallon kitchen bags fit these cans?
Mostly yes, but fit varies by bin. Some cans are advertised at 13 gallons yet run generous inside, making standard 13-gallon liners fit snug or small — owners of the ELPHECO note that 13-gallon bags run too small for its interior. Others, like the Home Zone Living slim can, require standard bags to be stretched a bit over the wider rim before they seat. If bag fit is critical, look for a model with a liner ring or retainer band, which holds the bag securely regardless.
What does a soft-close lid actually do?
A soft-close lid uses a damping mechanism to lower the lid slowly and quietly instead of letting it drop and slam. That means no loud bangs when you step away, no trapped fingers, and less disturbance in a quiet home. Several picks here, including the Glad Series 2 and both SONGMICS models, pair it with a stay-open option so you can lock the lid upright during cooking.
Is stainless steel or plastic better for a 13-gallon step can?
Steel resists rust, looks more premium, and holds up better against dents and odors, but it is heavier and pricier. Plastic is lighter, cheaper, and easier to move between rooms, but it can absorb smells over time and feels less sturdy. The Rubbermaid Streamline proves plastic can be built to commercial durability, while steel models like the Garvee are engineered for years of heavy daily use.
How do I keep the lid from scuffing my wall?
Look for a can with an internal hinge design, where the hinge mechanism sits inside the body so the lid opens without swinging back into the wall. Both the Home Zone Living slim can and the Rubbermaid Streamline feature this design. Owners of the Home Zone specifically praise the flush hinge for preventing wall marks.
What does Clorox odor protection in a trash can mean?
The Glad cans formulated with Clorox Odor Protection have the odor-blocking treatment built into the lid itself, designed to block smells for the life of the can rather than relying on a replaceable filter. It is a passive system — you do not need to buy refills — and buyers report it keeps the surrounding area smelling fresh.
How many trash bags come with these cans?
It varies by model. The ELPHECO includes 20 complimentary 13-gallon bags, the KUK ships with 20 custom-fit liners, and both SONGMICS models include 15 starter bags (liner code K). Owners mention the bundled bags are often thinner than store-bought brands, so treat them as a convenience for the first weeks rather than a long-term supply.
How long should a step-can pedal last?
Manufacturers rate pedals differently: the KUK is tested for 150,000+ uses, the Garvee pedal endures 150,000+ steps, and the Home Zone Living pedal is engineered to withstand up to 200,000 steps. Owners of heavier steel cans report the mechanism feels smooth and solid for years, while cheaper plastic pedals tend to wear faster. These ratings give a rough sense of pedal longevity before any slack develops.
Why do some owners say lids do not close properly?
Lid closure issues usually trace to a trash bag blocking the seal, the inner bucket not seated correctly, or a hinge needing a firm step. Owners of the SONGMICS fluted can note the lid closes fine once the can is replaced correctly and the bag is not blocking the hitch. Many mixed reviews on lid closure come down to positioning rather than a defective unit.
Can I use these cans for recycling or compost too?
Yes. The 13-gallon size works well for a second stream like recycling or compost, and several models are suited to multiple rooms. The ELPHECO is recommended for kitchen, office, living room, and bedroom use, while the Home Zone Living fits bedroom, home office, kitchen, and laundry room settings. Just pick a color or finish that distinguishes it from your main trash bin.
Is a 13-gallon can big enough for a family?
For most households, yes. A 13-gallon liner is the standard kitchen size, and owners of the larger-feeling models report fewer bag changes. Some cans, like the Glad Series 2, hold more than a traditional kitchen can with nearly the same footprint, so you get extra capacity without sacrificing floor space. Very large families may still prefer emptying it daily.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

Across the board, the black 13-gallon trash can winner is the Glad Series 2 Stainless because it pairs a soft-close, stay-open lid with Clorox odor protection and a finish that shrugs off fingerprints. If you want two functional bins at once, grab the Glad Clorox 2-Pack. And for narrow spaces between cabinets, the Home Zone Living slim can at 11.59 inches wide is the one to reach for. Every pick here earned its place through real owner experience, so match the lid behavior and bag fit to your kitchen rhythm.

How We Picked

We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.

Sources & Methodology

Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of September 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.

As an Amazon Associate, KitchPrep earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.

Related Guides

Please use a real email you check. If it's fake or mistyped, your message won't reach us and we can't reply — wrong addresses are rejected automatically.

Mo Maruf

Mo Maruf

Founder

I am a dedicated home cook and appliance enthusiast. I spend hours in my kitchen testing real-world storage methods, reheating techniques, and kitchen gear performance. My goal is to provide you with safe, tested advice to help you run a more efficient kitchen.