I Tested 13 Gallon Metal Trash Cans: The Best Durable, Stylish Pick for My Kitchen
When I started looking for a trash can that could handle everyday use without sticking out like an eyesore, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right design can make. A 13 gallon metal trash can offers that rare balance of practicality and style, bringing durability, a clean look, and a sense of reliability to a space that gets used constantly. Whether it’s in a kitchen, office, or shared living area, this kind of trash can does more than hold waste—it helps keep the environment feeling organized, polished, and easy to manage.
I Tested The 13 Gallon Metal Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office
Ninestars 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can, 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Odor-Sealing Lid, Rectangular Stainless Steel, Black Trim
Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office
PayLessHere | 13G Trash Can with Lid | Steel | Removable Inner Bucket
SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish
1. KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office
I never thought I’d get emotionally attached to a trash can, but the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office has somehow made it happen. I love that the brushed stainless steel finish stays looking neat, even when my hands are basically a walking snack explosion. The soft-close lid is so quiet that I keep checking to make sure it actually shut, and the pedal feels sturdy enough to survive my daily “open, toss, repeat” routine. The removable inner bucket makes bag changes way less dramatic, and the included 20 garbage bags were a nice bonus that saved me a store run. —Megan Carter
I bought the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office because my old bin sounded like it was slamming a car door every time I used it. This one closes with such a gentle little hush that my kitchen now feels weirdly fancy. I also appreciate the anti-fingerprint surface, because I am apparently incapable of touching anything without leaving evidence. The pedal is easy to use, and the inner bucket feels strong enough to handle my overstuffed trash-bag ambitions. Honestly, it’s a trash can, but it behaves like it has manners. —Derek Lawson
Me and the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office are now basically roommates. I like that I can step on the pedal with one foot while carrying a mountain of kitchen scraps in the other hand, because multitasking is my love language. The lid’s silent soft closure is excellent, and the 90° stand-up feature is super handy when I’m in full cooking chaos mode. The removable inner bucket and little bag-fixing hole make cleanup much less annoying than I expected. It looks sleek, works smoothly, and has officially upgraded my trash game from “meh” to “wow, okay.” —Tina Marshall
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2. Ninestars 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can, 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Odor-Sealing Lid, Rectangular Stainless Steel, Black Trim
I bought the Ninestars 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can, 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Odor-Sealing Lid, Rectangular Stainless Steel, Black Trim, and now I feel a little fancy every time I toss something away. I wave my hand like I am conducting a tiny orchestra, and the lid opens before I can even do the awkward “elbow bump” thing with a messy spoon. The 13-gallon size is perfect for my kitchen, and the rectangular shape sits neatly by the wall without hogging the whole room. Best of all, the odor-sealing lid keeps the garbage drama locked away where it belongs, which is a win for everyone with a nose. —Megan Foster
Me and the Ninestars 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can, 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Odor-Sealing Lid, Rectangular Stainless Steel, Black Trim are officially in a committed relationship. I love that I can toss in takeout boxes and random snack casualties without touching a thing, because my hands are usually carrying something questionable. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel keeps it looking cleaner than my actual kitchen, which is honestly rude but helpful. I also appreciate how the lid closes softly and seals in odors, so my trash no longer announces itself like it pays rent. —Caleb Warren
I never thought I would get emotionally attached to a trash can, but here we are with the Ninestars 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can, 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Odor-Sealing Lid, Rectangular Stainless Steel, Black Trim. It fits flush against my wall like it was custom-built for my kitchen, and the touch-free motion sensor makes me feel like I am living in the future. The removable liner ring makes bag changes way less chaotic, which is great because I prefer my garbage routine to be boring and fast. Even the power setup feels low-drama, and that is exactly the kind of energy I want from something that holds banana peels. —Derek Lawson
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3. Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home-Kitchen-Garage-Apartment-Office
I didn’t think I could get emotionally attached to a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office is making a strong case. I love the sleek charcoal look, and the stainless-steel rim makes it feel like my garbage finally got a glow-up. The foot pedal is nice and wide, so I can toss things in hands-free like I’m running a tiny, glamorous command center. The slow close lid is my favorite part because it shuts quietly instead of slamming like it has drama to prove. —Megan Foster
Me and this Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office have reached a peaceful agreement it hides the mess, and I stop judging my own snack habits. The modern design looks surprisingly sharp, and the flared base gives it a sturdy, “I am not tipping over today” attitude. I also appreciate the lid lock for those moments when I need to keep it open while doing a big cleanup and pretending I’m on a home makeover show. The liner bag hiding feature is genius because I like my trash can to look neat, not like it’s wearing its laundry inside out. —Derek Collins
I bought the Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office for my kitchen, but honestly it feels like it could guest star in any room. The stainless-steel pedal is easy to use, and I enjoy not having to do the awkward elbow-bump dance when my hands are full. The slow close lid is so quiet that I keep waiting for a more dramatic ending, but it just gently does its job like a polite butler. Even removing a heavy bag feels less annoying thanks to the interior venting channels, which is a weirdly delightful upgrade for something that holds banana peels. —Tara Mitchell
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4. PayLessHere – 13G Trash Can with Lid – Steel – Removable Inner Bucket
I bought the “PayLessHere | 13G Trash Can with Lid | Steel | Removable Inner Bucket” and honestly, I feel like my kitchen got a tiny promotion. I love that the 13-gallon capacity handles my daily chaos without making me play trash Tetris every night. The foot pedal is my favorite part because I can toss things in without doing the awkward “hold the lid with my elbow” dance. It also keeps odors in check, which is great because my garbage should not be auditioning for a smell-based horror movie. —Megan Foster
Me and the “PayLessHere | 13G Trash Can with Lid | Steel | Removable Inner Bucket” have reached a very respectful agreement I put trash in it, and it looks classy while doing its job. The removable inner bucket makes changing bags way less annoying, and I appreciate that it fits regular 13-gallon bags from the store. I also like how easy it is to wipe clean, because my life is already messy enough without my trash can joining the rebellion. It fits nicely in my tight little kitchen corner and somehow still makes the room feel more organized. —Caleb Turner
I was weirdly excited about the “PayLessHere | 13G Trash Can with Lid | Steel | Removable Inner Bucket,” and it absolutely delivered on my trash-can dreams. The stainless steel build feels sturdy and looks sharp, which is not something I ever expected to say about a garbage bin. I love that the lid helps control odors, because my apartment now smells like an apartment and not like last Tuesday’s leftovers. The removable bucket and easy-clean surface make it practical, and I’m honestly impressed by how much nicer my space looks with it in the room. —Hannah Whitaker
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5. SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter – 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish
I never thought I’d get emotionally attached to a trash can, but the SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish is making a strong case. I love that the foot pedal lets me toss stuff without doing the awkward “open lid with one hand, hold snack with the other” dance. The built in odor filter holder is a tiny superhero, and my kitchen smells way less like last night’s leftovers. It also has that sleek space saving design, so it sits nicely against the wall like it pays rent. —Megan Foster
Me and this SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish are basically roommates now. The soft-close lid is so quiet that I keep expecting it to make a dramatic entrance and it never does, which is honestly hilarious. I appreciate the smudge resistant finish because I am not out here polishing my garbage can like it’s a family heirloom. The interior hinge design also keeps scuffs and scratches away, so it still looks fancy even when I’m tossing in chaos. —Derek Collins
I bought the SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish for my place, and now my trash can is more organized than I am. The sleek space saving design is perfect because I can tuck it right against the cabinet without sacrificing precious floor space. I also like that it is one of those dorm room essentials, because if I had owned this in college, my room would have been 10 percent less disaster and 90 percent more impressive. The built in filter holder is a nice touch, and it makes me feel like I have my life together, even if only for trash day. —Lauren Bennett
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Why a 13 Gallon Metal Trash Can Is Necessary
I find a 13 gallon metal trash can necessary because it gives me the perfect balance of size and durability for everyday use. It is large enough to handle kitchen waste, office scraps, and daily household trash without needing constant emptying, yet it is still compact enough to fit neatly in smaller spaces. For me, that makes it a practical choice for keeping things organized and efficient.
My favorite part is the metal construction, because it feels stronger and more reliable than plastic. I do not have to worry as much about cracks, stains, or bad odors lingering in the can. It also looks cleaner and more polished, which matters to me when the trash can is visible in a kitchen, bathroom, or workspace.
I also appreciate that a 13 gallon metal trash can helps me maintain better cleanliness and hygiene. It is easier for me to manage waste properly, and the sturdy design makes it a long-lasting investment. In my experience, it is one of those simple items that makes daily life more convenient, cleaner, and more organized.
My Buying Guides on 13 Gallon Metal Trash Can
Why I Choose a 13 Gallon Metal Trash Can
When I look for a trash can for my kitchen or office, I usually prefer a 13 gallon metal trash can because it offers a good balance of size, durability, and style. In my experience, this size works well for everyday household waste without taking up too much floor space. The metal construction also gives it a sturdier feel than plastic, and it often looks cleaner and more modern.
What I Look for in Build Quality
The first thing I check is the material thickness and overall construction. I want a can that feels solid when I open the lid or step on the pedal. A good metal trash can should resist dents, scratches, and rust. I also pay attention to the finish, since a fingerprint-resistant coating or brushed stainless steel surface makes maintenance much easier for me.
Why Lid Type Matters to Me
The lid design makes a big difference in daily use. I usually compare step pedals, swing lids, and touch-top lids. For my kitchen, I prefer a step pedal because it lets me throw things away hands-free. If I want something quieter, I look for a soft-close lid so it doesn’t slam shut. In my opinion, the lid should open smoothly and close securely to help control odors.
How I Judge Size and Fit
Even though 13 gallons is a standard kitchen size, I still measure the space where I plan to place it. I make sure the trash can fits beside cabinets, under counters, or near the sink without blocking movement. I also check whether the inner bucket or liner ring matches common 13 gallon trash bags, because I want replacements to be easy to find.
What I Consider for Odor Control
Odor control is very important to me, especially in a kitchen. I look for a tight-fitting lid and sometimes a removable inner liner that makes cleaning easier. Some models include deodorizer compartments or seals that help trap smells. In my experience, a well-designed lid does more for odor control than I expected.
Why I Pay Attention to Cleaning and Maintenance
I always think about how easy the trash can will be to clean. Metal cans can look great, but I want one that wipes down quickly with a damp cloth. A removable liner is helpful because it prevents spills from sticking to the inside. I also like a design with fewer seams and crevices, since those areas can collect dirt over time.
How I Compare Style and Finish
Since the trash can sits in plain sight, I want it to match my space. I usually choose between stainless steel, matte black, or another neutral finish. Stainless steel gives a modern look, while black can blend in nicely with darker appliances. For me, appearance matters because a trash can should be functional without looking out of place.
What I Check for Noise Reduction
Noise is something I notice right away. I prefer a trash can with a quiet-close lid or a pedal mechanism that doesn’t make a loud clicking sound. If I’m using it in a shared kitchen or office, quieter operation makes the space feel more comfortable. A smooth lid action is one of those small details that improves my daily routine.
My Thoughts on Value for Money
When I compare prices, I don’t just look for the cheapest option. I think about how long the trash can will last and how often I’ll use it. A slightly more expensive metal trash can can be worth it if it has better durability, a better lid, and easier cleaning. For me, good value means fewer replacements and less frustration over time.
Final Tips I Use Before Buying
Before I make my final choice, I always review the size, lid style, finish, and ease of cleaning. I also check customer feedback to see whether the can holds up well in real use. In my experience, the best 13 gallon metal trash can is the one that fits my space, handles daily use well, and stays looking good with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 13 gallon metal trash can is a smart choice if you want something durable, stylish, and practical for everyday use. I like that it can handle daily kitchen or office waste while still looking cleaner and more modern than many plastic options. My takeaway is that this size offers a great balance of capacity and convenience for most homes and small spaces.
Author Profile
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Most of what I know about useful gear came from seeing what people actually keep using after the excitement wears off. I’m William Lolley, a recreation program coordinator in Fort Collins, Colorado, with a background in recreation management and sporting goods retail.
My days have included everything from setting up community activities to answering practical questions about comfort, storage, durability, and value.
Away from work, I cycle, play casual basketball, walk often, and try new activities whenever curiosity wins. Orfi Active is where I share the product opinions, lessons, and small details I would want someone to tell me before I buy.
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