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 13-gallon step-on trash can is the workhorse of a busy kitchen. You want a lid that opens with a light tap of your foot, closes without a slam, and keeps odors from drifting through the house. Read on for picks that deliver on all three, sorted by what real owners say.
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.
To help you narrow the field, this guide reviews the best 13 gallon step-on trash can options that owners consistently rate highest for quality, quiet lids, and hands-free ease.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Step-on Trash Can
Every can here holds a standard 13-gallon bag and works with a foot pedal. The differences come down to build, how the lid behaves, and how easy it is to keep clean.
Metal vs. Plastic Body
Stainless steel bodies resist fingerprints, wipe down easily, and hold up better against dents than basic plastic models. Plastic cans are lighter to move when full, but metal usually carries a longer warranty against rust and wear.
Soft-Close vs. Slam Lid
A soft-close lid uses a slow-descending hinge so it never slams shut. This matters if you toss trash near a sleeping baby or want to avoid startling pets, since the lid also traps odors better when it seals fully.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Capacity | Material | Lid Type | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 Gal Brushed Stainless (Haiput Wam)★ Best Overall | Overall Value & Quiet Use | 13 gal | Stainless Steel | Soft-Close | Amazon |
| ELPHECO 13 Gal Steel PedalSturdy Pick | Heavy-Duty Build | 13 gal 50L | Stainless Steel | Stay-Open & Soft-Close | Amazon |
| Dkeli 13 Gal Step CanQuiet Performer | Noise-Sensitive Rooms | 13 gal / 50 L | Stainless Steel | Slow-Close | Amazon |
| Glad 13 Gal w/ Clorox (2 Pack) | Multi-Room Budget Set | 13 gal (each) | Plastic | Step Pedal | Amazon |
| SONGMICS Soft-Close (B0F93X82T5) | Sleek Base Model | 13 gal / 50 L | Stainless Steel | Soft-Close | Amazon |
| SONGMICS Fluted (B0G56FQ71R) | Decorative Statement | 13 gal / 50 L | Stainless Steel | Soft-Close & 90° Hold | Amazon |
| Garvee 13.2 gal Steel (Black) | Scratch/Rust Resistance | 13.2 gal | Powder-Coated Metal | Soft-Close & 95° Lock | Amazon |
| Rubbermaid Streamline Front Step | Tight-Space & Commercial Use | 13 gal | Plastic | Quiet Step Lid | Amazon |
| iTouchless SoftStep 13.2 Gal | Odor Control & Longevity | 13.2 gal / 50 L | Stainless Steel | Soft-Close | Amazon |
In-Depth Reviews
1. 13 Gal Brushed Stainless Steel (Haiput Wam)
Our pick — over 4.5★ from 400+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
The brushed-steel can that wins people over with its quiet lid and no-smudge body.
If you want one can that nails the basics, this is it. The 13-gallon stainless body resists fingerprints and wipes clean easily, so it keeps looking sharp in a busy kitchen. Owners often buy two of these — one for trash, one for recycling — and report that the brushed finish matches stainless appliances well.
The soft-close lid is the standout feature here. It opens with a light step and then descends slowly on its own when you release the pedal, so there is no loud slam to startle anyone. A removable inner bucket slides out to lift the liner out, which makes changing the bag a job that does not involve wrestling with the can.
Longevity isn’t guaranteed, though. While most owners find the build solid, several report rust spots appearing after a year and a half of regular use — so this is a fantastic value, but not a buy-it-for-life appliance.
What Wins Owners Over
- Quiet, gentle soft-close lid that never slams
- Easy-to-clean, fingerprint-proof brushed surface
- Inner bucket lifts out for simple bag swaps
The Honest Trade-off
- Some units show rust after about 1.5 years
- Slides on smooth floors without rubber feet
The crowd favorite: Buy this for a quiet, good-looking kitchen workhorse that handles daily trash duty without fuss.
Think twice if: You need a can that will stand up to years of heavy moisture — plastic or powder-coated models hold up better over time.
2. ELPHECO 13 Gal Pedal Steel Can
A heavy steel bin that has survived moves without a dent — this is the sturdy one.
This pick is a real heavyweight. At 21.5 pounds, it is about 65% heavier than the Haiput Wam above, which is why owners say it feels planted and not flimsy. That solid build has gone through two household moves without picking up a dent, which is strong praise for a trash can.
The lid is the main thing to know about here. It offers a 90° stay-open position, so you can step once and keep both hands free for longer kitchen tasks like food prep. There is a trade-off though: several buyers report the lid can be finicky about closing properly on its own, and that the included 20 complimentary bags are thin and prone to tearing.
You may need to buy larger liners: some owners say standard 13-gallon bags run too small for this can’s interior, so budget for fetching bigger ones for a proper fit. Owners mention the lid stays open when you want it, but the closing action is not as simple to use as the soft-close models here.
Built Like a Tank
- Heavy 21.5-lb steel body resists tipping and dents
- 90° stay-open lid frees both hands
- Classy brushed look that owners love
Watch These Quirks
- Included bags are very thin and tear easily
- Some lids don’t close perfectly on their own
Who it’s for: Busy households that want a heavy, stable can that won’t tip over when full.
Look elsewhere if: You want a perfectly reliable auto-close lid every single time — that’s the one weak spot here.
3. Dkeli 13 Gal Step Trash Can
Designed with a deceleration hinge so it opens and closes without the noise of typical bins.
Place this one in a study or bedroom and you will notice the difference. Dkeli built this stainless steel can with a slowdown mechanism, so the lid does not slam — which is exactly what you want near a desk or a nursery. The brushed surface resists fingerprints, so it does not get grimy with frequent use.
A separate plastic inner bucket is a big reason owners praise this can. The liner sits inside a hard plastic bucket that lifts out, which means leaks do not touch the steel shell and the can itself stays cleaner for longer. Customers note the lid seal traps odors for weeks.
The body is 17.5 pounds and comes with a handle on the back, making it easier to relocate than heavier steel cans. The recurring note here is that budget store-brand bags can slip out of place, so a bag with a bit more grip or an elastic rim works best.
Why It’s a Favorite
- True quiet operation thanks to deceleration tech
- Removable hard-plastic liner prevents leaks
- Rear handle makes moving it easy
The Fine Print
- Store-brand bags can slip without a rim lock
- Lid feels thin and could bend with hard force
Buy it for: Noise-sensitive rooms where a slamming lid would be a daily annoyance.
skip it if: You want a lid that locks bags firmly in place — this one relies on bag quality.
4. Glad 13 Gal Trash Can with Clorox, 2 Pack
Two plastic cans for the price of one metal bin — ideal for covering multiple rooms.
If you need two bins, this is the value play. You get a pair of 13-gallon rectangular cans in a modern black finish, each with a step pedal for hands-free opening. The lids have built-in Clorox Odor Protection that lasts the can’s lifetime.
Owners like that the interior bag rings hold a trash bag in place so it does not fall in — a bigger deal than it sounds when you are trying to toss something one-handed. The cans are plastic, so they are much easier to move than steel ones when full, yet several reviewers point out these lasted longer than rubbermaid swing-top lids that cracked.
The catch is quality control on the pedal. Most work smoothly, but a few shoppers say one can opens fully while its twin only opens 80-90% and sticks unless you press hard.
The Perks
- Two cans — one for trash, one for recycling
- Bag rings prevent bags from slipping in
- Lighter than steel, easy to relocate
Worth Knowing
- Pedal action can be inconsistent between units
- Plastic body is not as dent-proof as steel
Reach for this if: You are outfitting a kitchen and a bathroom with one order.
Look elsewhere if: You need a bag holder that never slips or a pedal with perfect consistency.
5. SONGMICS Trash Can, 13 Gal (50 L)
A stainless steel bin with a soft-close lid that fits flush against walls and resists fingerprints.
SONGMICS nails the design brief here. The rectangular stainless body sits tight against walls and cabinets, which owners love for keeping a kitchen looking uncluttered. The finish resists both rust and fingerprints, so it stays presentable even in a high-traffic kitchen.
What wins people over is how easy it is to empty. The inner bucket comes with two side handles, so you lift the whole liner out in one motion without scraping your knuckles. The soft-close lid is consistently praised for being quiet and smooth, and it comes with 15 liners so you are ready to use it the day it arrives.
Owners also note this one is dog-proof — the lid design stops a curious snout from popping it open. The main risk is shipping damage, since a few units have arrived with a small dent despite decent packaging.
Compact & Capable: At 14.1 pounds and 16.4 x 14.7 x 25.5 inches, this is a lighter steel can that still feels sturdy. A couple buyers report dents on arrival, but the working parts — pedal, hinge, lid — draw steady praise.
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants a sleek, wall-hugging can that is painless to empty.
Think twice if: You have had bad luck with shipping dents on steel cans — this one arrives well-packed but not always flawlessly.
6. SONGMICS Trash Can, Fluted (B0G56FQ71R)
A fluted stainless steel can that looks like an accent piece, not an appliance.
This is the trash can you notice. The fluted surface shifts and shimmers as you walk past it, so owners say it looks more expensive than it is and draws compliments in the kitchen. The powder-coated finish adds a layer of protection against rust and wear that plain brushed steel does not have.
It opens two ways: step on the pedal for hands-free use, or lift the lid by hand to a 90° hold for longer tasks. The soft-close mechanism then lowers it slowly and quietly. It arrives with 15 matching liner bags (code K) so you can start using it immediately.
The quirks are worth knowing. Some owners say the lid occasionally does not close all the way on its own, and a handful received units with dents in transit. The hinge pin can also work its way out after many open-close cycles — an easy fix, but something to watch.
Form and Function: The detachable inner bucket makes liner swaps fast and clean, which is why owners pair this with daily cooking.
A Beauty with Quirks: Fits standard 13-gallon Glad or Hefty bags without overhang, but the lid seal is not universally perfect on every unit.
Buy it for: A kitchen where design matters and you want guests to do a double-take.
pass on it if: You need a 100% reliable auto-close — a few owners have to nudge the lid shut.
7. Garvee 13 gal / 50 L Metal Trash Can
The powder-coated metal body shrugs off rust and scratches better than raw steel.
Garvee took the stainless steel formula and made it tougher. The powder-coated metal shell resists rust and scratches while staying fingerprint-proof, so it holds up in a busy household better than bare brushed steel. The thick ABS lid with a powder-coat overlay is built to withstand dents and stains.
The specs are impressive on paper. The steel pedal is rated for 150,000+ steps, and the ABS hinge for 300,000+ open/close cycles. In practice, owners say the soft-close lid glides open to 80° and locks at 95° so it stays open for hands-free cooking sessions.
The complaint pattern here is physical, not mechanical. Some owners received units with a dented box or back panel, and a few report the bottom plastic can crack over time. The anti-slip rubber feet do help keep it planted on tile and hardwood.
What Makes It Special
- Rust and scratch-resistant powder coating
- Pedal and hinge rated for years of heavy use
- Liner ring grips standard bags firmly
The Reality Check
- Some units arrive with cosmetic damage
- Bottom plastic can crack under extreme weight
Who it’s for: Households that want a tough, low-maintenance can that resists rust and fingerprints.
Think twice if: You are unlucky with shipping dents — inspect it on arrival and file a claim fast.
8. Rubbermaid Streamline Front Step Can
A slim commercial-grade can built to fit tight spaces and handle constant professional use.
Rubbermaid built this for doctors’ offices and hospitals, which tells you a lot about its priorities. The slim profile and small footprint let it tuck into spaces where a wide steel can simply will not fit. The internal hinge design also prevents the lid from scraping and damaging your wall.
This one comes with serious safety credentials. It holds Factory Mutual, OSHA, and OBRA certifications for fire, worker, and environmental safety. The liner retainer band holds polyliners securely in place.
The body is plastic, which is lighter and easier to sanitize than steel. Owners who switched from cheaper plastic cans say the difference is night and day — reinforced handles do not deform, and the step mechanism is reliable. A few note it is pricey for a plastic bin, and that the lid only opens via the pedal, so you cannot lift it manually.
Built for the Long Haul
- Slim footprint fits tiny galley spaces
- Factory Mutual, OSHA, and OBRA certified
- Metal step components and bag support rods
Consider This
- Premium price for a plastic body
- Lid cannot be opened by hand, only by pedal
Reach for this if: You want commercial durability in a footprint that fits a tight corner.
Look elsewhere if: You prefer the look and weight of stainless steel in your kitchen.
9. iTouchless SoftStep 13.2 Gal Steel Can
The most-praised pick here for quality — a steel can that brings its own odor filter.
This is the top-rated can for build quality among the heavy hitters. The stainless steel body is fingerprint-proof, and the included AbsorbX odor filter actively neutralizes smells rather than just trapping them under a lid. A tight lid seal helps keep kitchen odors from drifting out.
The engineering is made to last. The steel pedal is rated for 200,000+ steps, which the maker equates to over 25 years of daily use. There is also a replaceable air damper, so when the soft-close mechanism finally wears out, you can swap in a new one instead of replacing the whole can.
Owners appreciate that the removable inner bucket hides the trash bag completely, keeping the look clean. The charcoal filter struggles with strong odors, and a determined 70-lb dog can push the lid open.
The Long Haul
- 200,000-step rated pedal for serious longevity
- AbsorbX filter neutralizes odors actively
- Replaceable damper extends the can’s life
Keep in Mind
- Filter is not fully effective on strong smells
- Not pet-proof against determined dogs
Buy it for: The highest-rated build quality here, backed by a replaceable damper for years of use.
it’s not for you if: You need to keep a curious dog out — this lid has no lock.
10. Garvee 13 gal / 50 L Metal Trash Can
The powder-coated metal body shrugs off rust and scratches better than raw steel.
Garvee took the stainless steel formula and made it tougher. The powder-coated metal shell resists rust and scratches while staying fingerprint-proof, so it holds up in a busy household better than bare brushed steel. The thick ABS lid with a powder-coat overlay is built to withstand dents and stains.
The specs are impressive on paper. The steel pedal is rated for 150,000+ steps, and the ABS hinge for 300,000+ open/close cycles. In practice, owners say the soft-close lid glides open to 80° and locks at 95° so it stays open for hands-free cooking sessions.
The complaint pattern here is physical, not mechanical. Some owners received units with a dented box or back panel, and a few report the bottom plastic can crack over time. The anti-slip rubber feet do help keep it planted on tile and hardwood.
What Makes It Special
- Rust and scratch-resistant powder coating
- Pedal and hinge rated for years of heavy use
- Liner ring grips standard bags firmly
The Reality Check
- Some units arrive with cosmetic damage
- Bottom plastic can crack under extreme weight
Who it’s for: Households that want a tough, low-maintenance can that resists rust and fingerprints.
Think twice if: You are unlucky with shipping dents — inspect it on arrival and file a claim fast.
11. Rubbermaid Streamline Front Step Can
A slim commercial-grade can built to fit tight spaces and handle constant professional use.
Rubbermaid built this for doctors’ offices and hospitals, which tells you a lot about its priorities. The slim profile and small footprint let it tuck into spaces where a wide steel can simply will not fit. The internal hinge design also prevents the lid from scraping and damaging your wall.
This one comes with serious safety credentials. It holds Factory Mutual, OSHA, and OBRA certifications for fire, worker, and environmental safety. The liner retainer band holds polyliners securely in place.
The body is plastic, which is lighter and easier to sanitize than steel. Owners who switched from cheaper plastic cans say the difference is night and day — reinforced handles do not deform, and the step mechanism is reliable. A few note it is pricey for a plastic bin, and that the lid only opens via the pedal, so you cannot lift it manually.
Built for the Long Haul
- Slim footprint fits tiny galley spaces
- Factory Mutual, OSHA, and OBRA certified
- Metal step components and bag support rods
Consider This
- Premium price for a plastic body
- Lid cannot be opened by hand, only by pedal
Reach for this if: You want commercial durability in a footprint that fits a tight corner.
Look elsewhere if: You prefer the look and weight of stainless steel in your kitchen.
12. iTouchless SoftStep 13.2 Gal Steel Can
The most-praised pick here for quality — a steel can that brings its own odor filter.
This is the top-rated can for build quality among the heavy hitters. The stainless steel body is fingerprint-proof, and the included AbsorbX odor filter actively neutralizes smells rather than just trapping them under a lid. A tight lid seal helps keep kitchen odors from drifting out.
The engineering is made to last. The steel pedal is rated for 200,000+ steps, which the maker equates to over 25 years of daily use. There is also a replaceable air damper, so when the soft-close mechanism finally wears out, you can swap in a new one instead of replacing the whole can.
Owners appreciate that the removable inner bucket hides the trash bag completely, keeping the look clean. The charcoal filter struggles with strong odors, and a determined 70-lb dog can push the lid open.
The Long Haul
- 200,000-step rated pedal for serious longevity
- AbsorbX filter neutralizes odors actively
- Replaceable damper extends the can’s life
Keep in Mind
- Filter is not fully effective on strong smells
- Not pet-proof against determined dogs
Buy it for: The highest-rated build quality here, backed by a replaceable damper for years of use.
it’s not for you if: You need to keep a curious dog out — this lid has no lock.
